What makes Calaveras wines stand out? It’s a combination of soil, climate, talent, expertise and sometimes luck. But innovation is also a huge part of the winemaking process in Calaveras County, with local winemakers showing a fearlessness about trying new varietals, techniques and ideas. You’ll also discover a low key, laid-back zone; a lack of pretension, and just a genuine love of excellent wine and the desire to share that love. You’ll experience a friendly, helpful, down-to-earth attitude from our local wine makers, growers, and tasting room staff.
But don’t let our laid-back attitude fool you. Calaveras wineries win big, prestigious awards. Despite the fact that some of our wineries never enter a contest, we still get excellent results for our region.
Oh, and don’t forget this unique fact about wine tasting in Calaveras: Not only can you visit individual vineyards, many also have their own tasting rooms in historic downtown Murphys. In fact, there are upwards of 23 wine tasting rooms in this charming Gold Rush town, named one of the top 10 small towns in America by Frommer’s. Combine your wine tasting with shopping our boutique retail stores, dining at our quality restaurants and enjoying the history and architecture of the town. Catch some Shakespeare or a modern theater production at the Murphys Creek Theatre, and enjoy live music and special events around town and in the adorable Murphys Community Park.
Check out these great additional resources published by the Calaveras Winegrape Alliance
- Want to know which wineries produce which varietals? Download this handy CWA varietals brochure.
- Get a map of Calaveras Winegrape Alliance members, including vineyards and tasting rooms: CWA wine map
- Get your tasting notes booklet free of charge from any CWA member winery and keep track of which Calaveras wines you love!
This Calaveras Winegrape Alliance video will give a little taste of what’s on offer for all the wine lovers out there: