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We've compiled the best of the best in Sacramento and the Gold Country - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Winemaker Scott Harvey describes the Sierra Foothills appellation as similar to Italy's Piemonte region, where Barbera originated, but with one additional benefit: it's sunnier here, which this grape loves. Barbera, Zinfandel (one from vines planted in 1869), and Syrah are his winery's focus, but you'll also find Cabernet Sauvignon and other reds along with Sauvignon Blanc, a rosé of Barbera, and sparkling wine.
You can sip fruity, robust Zinfandels—old vine and new—and learn about wine making and Shenandoah Valley pioneer life at the museum here. This winery was established in 1856 and has been run since 1989 by the owners of nearby Shenandoah Vineyards, which is open daily. To sample the best Zins, pay the modest fee for the reserve tasting.
Adjacent to Sutter's Fort but run separately, this small but engaging museum explores the lives and history of California's indigenous peoples. Arts-and-crafts displays and other exhibits portray the state's earliest inhabitants.
Nearby office buildings tower over Sacramento's earliest Euro-American settlement, founded in 1839 by German-born Swiss immigrant John Augustus Sutter. A self-guided tour includes a blacksmith's shop, bakery, jail, living quarters, and livestock areas. Staff and docents sometimes demonstrate crafts, food preparation, and other circa-1840s activities.
Third-generation farmer Chris Turkovich and his wife, Luciana, whose parents in her native Argentina are both involved in the wine business, founded this winery known for bold, balanced reds. Luciana crafts many of the wines from Spanish varietals, though Petite Sirah dominates the robust blend The Boss. Albariño and rosé of Grenache are among the lighter wines. The storefront tasting space's sidewalk seating is good for people-watching. The rear patio is quieter.
A top research university, UC Davis educates many Wine Country vintners and grape growers. Top majors include psychology, biological science, and economics. Campus tours depart from the welcome center, near the Mondavi Center, a striking modern glass structure that presents top-tier performing artists. Other worthy stops include the Arboretum and the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art.
Shaded by ancient oak trees, an 1870s farm building houses the tasting room of this winery whose vineyards and horse ranch have been in the same family since 1863. In addition to producing old-vine Zinfandels, it presents blues, country, and rock concerts on some summer Saturdays. A second tasting room, open on weekends, is downtown at 27 East Locust Street.
