Shenandoah Valley

The most concentrated Gold Country wine-touring area lies in the hills of the Shenandoah Valley, east of Plymouth—you could easily spend two or three days just hitting the highlights. Zinfandel is the primary grape grown here, but area vineyards produce many other varietals, from Rhônes like Syrah and Mourvèdre to Spanish Tempranillo and Italian Barbera and Sangiovese. Most wineries are open for tastings at least on Friday and weekends, and some of the top ones are open daily; many welcome picnickers.