Calaveras County

Forlorn Hope

Matthew Rorick, who took over the old Stevenot property, goes his own way with Vermentino, skin-contact Pinot Gris, Mataro (Mourvèdre), Sangiovese, Granache—even Riesling—along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.

Lavender Ridge and Coppermine

Under the Lavender Ridge label, Rich and Siri Gilpin produce Rhône varieties, and for Coppermine, they make Bordeaux-style wines. 

Milliare and Black Sheep

For their Milliare Selections, Steve and Liz Millier focus on old vine Zinfandel as well as a wider range, from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to Touriga; Black Sheep Winery also produces Zinfandel, as well as Chardonnay and Sémillon.

Newsome Harlow Wines

Scott Klann is known for his numerous Zinfandels, but he shows off the region with Barbera, Carignane, and Petite Sirah too.

Twisted Oak

With a great deal of humor, Jeff Stai concentrates on Spanish varieties.