Wine

More than a dozen wineries have made the foothills of Nevada County their home, joining Amador, El Dorado, Napa and Sonoma counties. Even Truckee chimes in on the oenophile options with the Truckee River Winery, which has taken advantage of the high elevation and colder temps for more than 20 years. While many wineries keep their doors open for those exploring the countryside, local tasting rooms have been thriving in downtown Grass Valley and Nevada City.  Sierra Starr Vineyard was one of the first wineries to open their doors on Main Street, Grass Valley. It has been followed by Lucchesi Winery, Smith Vineyard and Avanguardia. Downtown Nevada City is home to Clavey Vineyards, Nevada City Winery and Szabo Vineyards.

For a chance to sample wines on site or potentially tour facilities, head out Highway 174 towards Colfax where you’ll find Solune Winery with shady picnic areas and Montoliva Vineyard’s Tuscan-inspired fountains and herb gardens. North of Nevada City is where the Double Oak Vineyard’s family farm features the water colors and photography of local artists. Pilot Peak, located in Penn Valley, offers one of the area’s most picturesque tasting locations and Sierra Knolls, just south of Grass Valley, sits upon scenic acres with overlooks and picnic areas. Its Bear River Tasting Room is on Hwy. 49 between Auburn and Grass Valley.