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The Amador Vintners Association (AVA) is the voice of Amador Wine Country, representing more than 50 member wineries spread across one of California’s oldest and most storied grape-growing regions. Based in Plymouth, the organization works to promote the wines, vineyards, and tasting experiences that make Amador County a premier wine destination in the Sierra Foothills.
Amador County’s winemaking tradition stretches back more than 170 years to the California Gold Rush, when European immigrants — particularly Italian and Portuguese settlers — planted the first vineyards in the 1850s. Some of those original old-vine Zinfandel plantings still produce fruit today, making Amador home to some of the oldest continuously producing vineyards in the state. The region earned official AVA (American Viticultural Area) recognition with the Shenandoah Valley and Fiddletown appellations, cementing its place among California’s distinguished wine regions.
The association’s member wineries span several distinct growing areas across Amador County, including the Shenandoah Valley, Fiddletown, Sutter Creek, Willow Creek, and Ione. The warm days and cool Sierra nights at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 feet create ideal conditions for bold, full-flavored wines. The region’s volcanic and granitic soils contribute mineral complexity that sets Amador wines apart from their coastal counterparts.
While Zinfandel remains the flagship grape — particularly old-vine Zinfandel from heritage plantings — Amador County wineries have expanded into an impressive range of varietals. Syrah and other Rhône varieties thrive in the warm climate, as do Italian varietals like Barbera, Sangiovese, and Primitivo. Spanish and Portuguese grape varieties including Tempranillo and Touriga Nacional have found a welcoming home in the region’s Mediterranean-like conditions.
The Amador Vintners Association organizes several signature events throughout the year that draw wine enthusiasts from across Northern California:
The association is led by Executive Director Megan Van Hook, with Jeanine Halloran serving as Executive Assistant. Together they coordinate marketing initiatives, event planning, and advocacy efforts on behalf of the member wineries.
The Amador Vintners Association provides a range of services to help visitors plan their wine country experience. Printed wine trail maps are available at the Plymouth office and at member wineries, and an online winery locator helps guests find tasting rooms by area or varietal. The organization also coordinates with wine tour transportation partners to offer safe, convenient options for groups exploring the region’s tasting rooms.
Events at Amador Vintners Association.