El Dorado

23 appellations — a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Appellation Details

Translated from Spanish as <I>golden</I> or <I>gilded</I>, El Dorado was originally a common destination for miners during the gold rush of 1849. It is now host to California's highest vineyards, which can be found above 2,400 feet. Precipitation here is commonplace, and with its relatively low temperatures snow is not infrequent. Zinfandel, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are widely planted in El Dorago. The thin soils produce relatively light wines, but Riesling as well as Rhône and Italian varietals are beginning to show some promise. El Dorado hosts one sub-appellation, Fairplay, and a portion of another, Shenandoah Valley.