Jodar Vineyards And Winery Review

Address: 3405 Carson Court Camino,California 95709.
Phone Number: 530-644-3474
Tasting Hours: 11:00-5:00

Region: Sierra Foothills AVA, El Dorado County, El Dorado AVA, California
Reviewer: Yvonne Kochanowski
Review Date: 12/13/2012
Reviewer: Yvonne Kochanowski
Rating: 4

The Review

Tucked two quick turns off the freeway, Jodar offers easy access to fine quality wine tasting. The actually vineyards are about ten minutes away in Swansboro in the midst of this agricultural area, featuring vineyards, orchards and Christmas tree farms. Lower case size production allows for handcrafted quality that spans varietals and blends.

The Place: &nbspThe tasting room is a compact building set next to Hwy. 50 in the heart of the Apple Hill region. Seating outside is limited and there is no view to speak of, but a picnic on the lawn wouldn’t be out of the question. Just expect to hear the vehicle nose from the freeway next door. The interior space is generous and a number of tasting groups can be accommodated at the tasting bar. Décor is simple and modern, with some food product offerings like mustards and vinegars that represent the region.

The Experience: &nbspTasting here is low-key, with a short list offered for sampling. If you are serious about buying, begin to make your selections early on. Tasting room staff will then be more likely to offer you behind the counter wines that are not on the regular list. Make sure to ask about the wine club if you’re interested because the staff does not push the offering.

The Wines: &nbspThis winery is known for its Barbera and its blends. Particular favorites were a Cab blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc and Merlot) that was smooth and balanced, and a very rich Merlot that provides a solid example of the styling appropriate for the grape. The Chardonnay (the only white offered) is also celebrated and recognized. Their Port would be a tasty accompaniment to cheese or chocolates after dinner.

The People: &nbspThis family-owned winery has been well known in the region for decades, and the maturity of their wine processes is evident in every sip. Limiting their production to estate-grown grapes means that they control every step in the process, and they focus on a few varietals and do those very well. Because the vineyards and winery are not co-located with the tasting room, you will be less likely to run into the winemaker or other family members during your visit.

Insider’s Tip: &nbspIt’s easy to make this a fast stop for tasting and purchases, as it’s literally fifteen seconds off the freeway. The winery has a number of wine club events that provided added benefits to joining. Food pairings to complement their wines are offered on most weekends. The tasting room is open daily, and on weekdays, you might very likely have the place to yourself. Check their website to learn more about their events, as there is a major happening at least one weekend a month throughout the year.