b'California:Sierra Foothills Wine CountryGold Rush Roots & Contemporary WinemakingExperience an exclusive blend of Californias world-class wine country, Gold Rush heritage, and innovative cuisine in the Sierra Foothills.Stretching along the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, the Sierra Foothills is one of Californias largest American Viticultural Areas, encompassing more than 2.6 million acres across eight counties. Vineyards here trace their origins to the Gold Rush era, thriving today alongside a new generation of innovative, sustainability-minded winemakers.Our weekend focuses on El Dorado and Amador Counties, regions shaped by diverse microclimates, high-elevation vineyards, and a long tradition of producing bold, expressive wines. Each thoughtfully curated tasting experience showcases a different facet of the regions viticulturefrom historic estates that helped define Gold Countrys wine heritage to family-run wineries producing distinctive small-lot varietals, and modern properties embracing sustainability.In El Dorado Countys Apple Hill, cooler mountain conditions yield expressive Rhne varietalsSyrah, Grenache, and Mourvdrealongside mountain-grown Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, and bright whites. Amador Countys Shenandoah Valley offers some of Californias oldest Zinfandel vines alongside impressive Barbera, Sangiovese, and Tempranillo.Throughout the weekend, meet winemakers, participate in a hands-on blending experience, and savor seasonal cuisine paired with premium wines. Explore Historic Sutter Creek and Placerville, where preserved Gold Rush storefronts and 19th-century architecture offer authentic glimpses into Californias past.Stay at The Murieta Inn & Spa, a family-owned retreat featuring equestrian- inspired art, a full-service spa, and farm-to-table dining at The Gate restaurant.ITINERARY3 nights| Arrival in Sacramento; Sierra Foothills, 3 nights; departure from SMFHIGHLIGHTSExplore Californias Sierra Foothills, one of the states most distinctive and under-the-radar wine regionsEnjoy curated tastings at historic, family-owned, and modern wineries inEl Dorado and Amador CountiesVisit Boeger Winery, a pioneer of Gold Countrys modern wine renaissance, featuring an original 1872 stone cellar Prices Starting From Savor wines through a variety of curated food pairings, from savory bites to$2,999 per personwine-and-chocolate tastings Group Size: 16 travelers Taste olive oil and individual varietals, then blend your own wine at a family-Season: April - May; September - October owned estate Activity Level: ModerateStroll historic Gold Rush towns including Placerville, Sutter Creek, and Folsom Accommodations: Four-star and boutique Enjoy two Winemaker Dinners paired with regional wines, designed to fosterhotelsconnections with local vintners and community membersCulture | Wine &Regional GastronomyCulinary Discovery18 Conservancy Travel|conservancytravel.org'