Welcome to the ultimate guide for exploring the Madera Wine Trail, a hidden gem nestled in California’s scenic Central Valley, just a stone’s throw from the majestic Yosemite National Park. This region offers an exceptional escape for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike, inviting you to discover a vibrant viticultural landscape rich in history and award-winning wines.
Discover the Madera Wine Trail: A Central Valley Treasure
For many travelers, few experiences rival the pleasure of wine tasting. It’s an opportunity not just to sample exquisite wines, but also to connect with the local culture and the passionate individuals who shape it. The Madera Wine Trail, in partnership with Visit Yosemite Madera County, offers precisely that: an immersive journey into the heart of a historic grape-growing region, where family-owned wineries share their stories and their craft.
If your travels bring you to Yosemite National Park and you’re seeking a delightful day trip beyond the park’s boundaries, the Madera Wine Trail presents an ideal itinerary. This guide provides an alphabetical listing of the wineries, making your planning straightforward, whether they are located in Madera, Oakhurst, or Friant. Be sure to visit the Visit Yosemite Madera County Website for the latest wine events and happenings.
A visit to the Madera Wine Trail is more than just an afternoon of tasting; it’s an exploration of one of America’s oldest grape-growing regions. With a rich history stretching back over a century, this area has cultivated a legacy of exceptional winemaking. Despite the challenges of Prohibition in the 1920s, a few resilient vines survived, paving the way for the thriving wine community you see today.
The unique climate of Madera County, characterized by warm summer temperatures and refreshingly cool nights, creates ideal conditions for viticulture. This distinctive terroir, officially designated an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1985, is particularly renowned for producing grapes with high sugar content, which allows winemakers to craft luscious port wines and delightful dessert wines.
The quality of Madera wines is consistently recognized, with many local wineries earning prestigious accolades. Notably, several have achieved distinction at the Sunset International Wine Competition, with recent highlights including two Madera County wineries bringing home Double Gold honors. For instance, San Joaquin Winery’s 2021 Toschi Vineyards Red Moscato received Double Gold, marking their highest award to date, alongside silver medals for other notable blends. Westbrook Wine Farm also celebrated a Double Gold and Best of Class for their NV Malmsey Dearest, underscoring the region’s commitment to excellence.
One of the most enriching aspects of a Madera Wine Trail visit is the opportunity to meet the innovative winemakers themselves. These passionate individuals are often on-site, eager to share their knowledge, their wines, and the stories behind their family legacies. Their dedication and enthusiasm are palpable, turning each tasting into a personalized and memorable experience.
To help you navigate this wonderful region, the Yosemite Sierra Wine Road offers a curated path connecting three distinct wineries: Dorval Estate Winery, Idle Hour Winery, and Westbrook Wine Farm, providing a focused exploration of their unique offerings.
Birdstone Winery
Birdstone Winery embodies the spirit of family ownership, meticulously sourcing its grapes from a network of esteemed local growers. This dedication allows them to produce a diverse range of varietals, including popular choices like Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, as well as unique Port wines and selections crafted from lesser-known grape varieties, offering a delightful surprise for every palate.
Beyond their exceptional wines, Birdstone Winery is committed to community support, releasing two special “Alegria Reserve by Birdstone Winery” wines annually, with proceeds benefiting the Alegria Guild of Children’s Hospital Central California. It’s important for visitors to note that Birdstone Winery is open exclusively from Friday through Sunday, so plan your visit accordingly to experience their distinctive offerings.
Address: 9400 Road 36, Madera
Phone: 559-645-1825
Website
Dorval Estate Winery
Under new ownership as of January 2024, the former Fasi Estate Winery has been reborn as Dorval Estate Winery, promising an exciting new chapter for this revered location. The winery plans to specialize in exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon and, in the near future, introduce a line of premium olive oils. Whispers of an intriguing underground wine cave also hint at future explorations for guests, adding to the allure.
Nestled conveniently off Highway 41, Dorval Estate Winery boasts breathtaking grounds, a sophisticated tasting room, and a collection of truly epic wines. The expansive outdoor patio serves as an idyllic retreat, perfect for unwinding with a glass of high-end wine while soaking in the panoramic views of the verdant vineyards.
For those dreaming of an immersive winery experience, Dorval Estate Winery offers the unique opportunity to book their luxurious residence. This spacious home, set amidst 40 acres of vineyard, provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation, family gatherings, and deep dives into the winery lifestyle. Featuring four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a game room, a gourmet kitchen, and a 14-person dining table, it accommodates groups comfortably, with a minimum two-night stay required.
Address: 42415 Rd 208, Friant, CA 93626
Phone: 559-822-2111
Website
Ficklin Vineyards
Ficklin Vineyards offers an exceptional port wine experience that is truly worth the journey. The estate’s grounds are simply magnificent; as you approach the tasting room, keep an eye out for local wildlife—we often spot charming bunnies and a variety of birds flitting between the vines. The drive itself is picturesque, lined with ancient olive trees and hundreds of rows of thriving grapevines, leading you to a stunning tasting room nestled within the barrel room itself.
As a third-generation winery, Ficklin Vineyards proudly upholds its family traditions, offering over 50 varieties of exquisite Port Wine. A unique feature we absolutely adore is their port growler system. Imagine a growler, just like for beer, but filled with their exclusive small-batch port wines, ready for refills! These small batches are incredibly popular, often lasting only 2 to 3 weeks, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to discover and enjoy at home with each visit.
Ficklin Vineyards’ commitment to tradition extends to their aging process, where they still utilize casks dating back to the 1880s, imparting a deep history into every sip. We highly recommend their award-winning Tinta Port, a testament to the family’s mission: to make award-winning port accessible without breaking the bank. The Old Vine Tinta Port, crafted using an age-old solera process, is a magnificent blend of every vintage since 1948, creating a complex and timeless flavor profile.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sign up for their weekly newsletter, where you’ll receive updates on their latest releases and a treasure trove of port wine recipes, many expertly crafted by Denise. Her culinary creations are truly not to be missed!
Here are a few delectable recipes we’ve created using Ficklin Vineyards’ Tinta Port:
- Port Wine Carrot Cake
- Port Wine Banana Bread
- Port Braised Beef Short Ribs
Our experience at Ficklin Vineyards stands out as one of our favorite wine tasting adventures, largely due to the knowledgeable hosts who shared invaluable insights into the world of port wine.
Address: 30246 Ave 7 ½, Madera
Phone: 559-661-0075
Website
Idle Hour Winery
Nestled in Oakhurst, California, conveniently close to the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park, Idle Hour Winery is dedicated to producing handcrafted, small-lot, single-vineyard wines sourced from some of California’s most esteemed vineyards. Winemaker and owner Anna Marie Dos Remedios champions a philosophy of gentle winemaking, focusing on sustainably grown grapes, native yeast fermentations, gravity flow techniques, and other traditional methods that honor the fruit’s natural expression.
Anna Marie’s expertise shines through in her use of aromatic single varietals, which, combined with native yeasts and neutral French Oak barrels, yield truly unbelievable wines. Idle Hour Winery specializes in an impressive array of varietals, including Viognier, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, drawing from renowned AVAs such as Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, San Benito County, Clarksburg, and Madera.
For an extended and immersive experience, consider a stay at the Queen’s Inn by the River, where you can unwind in modern luxury with the convenience of an on-site wine bar. During the warmer months, the wine and beer garden comes alive with live music on weekends, creating a vibrant atmosphere. While visiting, be sure to explore the Idle Hour restaurant and market; a personal recommendation: you absolutely must purchase at least two bottles of their incredibly spiced honey!
Current releases from Idle Hour Winery feature exquisite single-vineyard designated Viognier, Petit Noir, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, and Petite Sirah. They also proudly produce Rhone Varieties, including Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne, all cultivated in Madera County. Their Pinot Noir and Syrah hail from the prestigious Santa Lucia Highlands on the Central Coast, while the Cabernet Franc, Petit Sirah, and Tempranillo originate from Clarksburg on the Sacramento Delta, each reflecting the distinct character of its vineyard. The winemaker’s primary focus is always on allowing the unique flavors of the vineyards to authentically express themselves in every bottle.
The name “Idle Hour” holds a special place in Anna Marie’s heart, a tribute to her paternal grandfather and the Chinese Junko boat they enjoyed together in Hong Kong. Idle Hour proudly holds the distinction of being the very first winery established in Oakhurst!
Address: 41139 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Phone: 559-760-9090
Website
Papagni Wines
The legacy of Papagni Wines is a tale of generations, with the art of grape growing and winemaking meticulously passed down from the sun-drenched vineyards of Bari, Italy, to the fertile soils of Central California. The family’s dream of crafting fine wines in the San Joaquin Valley began in 1912, and since then, they have harmoniously blended ancient traditions with cutting-edge technical advancements in cultivation and irrigation to produce truly premium wines.
Papagni Winery holds a pioneering spirit in the region, being the first to introduce stainless steel tanks to the San Joaquin Valley and the first to masterfully craft top-rated varietal wines from specific grape varieties, rather than relying on blends. Their impressive portfolio includes a rich selection of varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Alicante Bouschet, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nero D’Avola, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and Chardonnay, each reflecting their commitment to quality and distinct character.
These exquisite, small-lot, hand-crafted, and award-winning wines are exclusively available at their tasting room and in a select few local restaurants, ensuring a unique and intimate experience for every visitor. Guests are encouraged to call ahead and reserve a private tour of the winery’s modern winemaking facility, which can be complemented by a special barrel room tasting, offering a deeper insight into their craft. The tasting room welcomes visitors from 12 noon to 5:00 pm every Saturday and Sunday, with weekday appointments also available for a more personalized visit.
Address: 9505 Road 30 ½, Madera
Phone: 559-673-5754
Website
Quady Winery
Quady Winery stands as a beacon for lovers of sweet and aperitif wines, with a primary focus on exquisite muscats and moscatos that are, quite simply, dangerously good! While they do offer a select few Syrahs and red blends, their true mastery lies in crafting captivatingly sweet varietals.
Founded in 1975 by Andrew and Laurel Quady, this winery is proudly certified Sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and holds the unique distinction of being the only winery in California to specialize exclusively in sweet and aperitif wines derived from Black Muscat, Orange Muscat, and Muscat Canelli varietals.
Wines not to miss on your visit:
- Essensia – California Orange Muscat Dessert Wine: This wine is a revelation, tasting like a sophisticated, boozy sweet orange juice that immediately captivates the palate. Upon our first sip, it earned an instant nod of approval. Despite its definite sweetness, its balance and delightful character shine through. With an alcohol by volume of 15%, Essensia offers a pleasant kick and is the quintessential chilled wine for leisurely warm summer evenings on the porch.
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Electra Moscatos – Quady presents two varieties of Electra Moscato, both equally delicious.
- Electra Moscato is a harmonious blend of 75% Orange Muscat and Muscat Canelli, offering a light, tropical escape for your taste buds. Bursting with bright citrus, juicy melon, and sweet peach flavors, complemented by a hint of pineapple, this is the perfect chilled summer wine. And with a modest 4.5% alcohol content, you can easily enjoy a glass or two without compromising your barbecue readiness.
- Red Electra Moscato combines Orange and Black Muscat grapes, fermented slowly and at low temperatures to fully extract the rich, full-bodied flavors of these Muscat varietals. This delightful wine is vibrant with notes of cherry, pomegranate, and various berries, making it a truly enchanting experience.
A must-try in the tasting room are Quady’s Moscato slushies – they are refreshingly good and an absolute treat on a hot summer day.
Vya – America’s Original Craft Vermouth: Quady Winery is also celebrated for Vya Vermouth, released at a time when premium vermouths were scarce in the U.S. Created by fortified winemaking expert and winery founder Andrew Quady in the mid-1990s, Vya quickly established a new standard. Designed to evoke imagination and enliven the senses, Vya Vermouths range from the crisp mountain air of a blooming spring meadow (Vya Extra Dry) to the comforting warmth of holiday baking in a glass (Vya Sweet), perfect in cocktails or enjoyed on their own.
Vya Sweet Vermouth, produced by Quady Winery, recently earned Best of Class accolades at the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC), North America’s largest wine competition. This honor was awarded in the Distilled/Fortified category, alongside eight additional Quady wines receiving medals in their respective classes. Quady wines have consistently garnered Best of Class honors at the SFCWC in recent years, including Elysium Black Muscat (2023), Red Electra Moscato (2022), and Starboard Batch 88 (2021, 2020). The 2024 competition also saw Double Gold medals for Quady Elysium Black Muscat and Starboard Batch 88, and Gold medals for Quady Essensia Orange Muscat and Electra Moscato Rosé, solidifying Quady’s reputation for consistent excellence.
The tasting room is open from Wednesday through Saturday, from 11 am to 4 pm, by reservation.
Address: 13181 Road 24, Madera
Phone: 800-733-8068
Website
San Joaquin Wine Company
The San Joaquin Wine Company is deeply rooted in the fertile lands of Madera, California, where it cultivates an impressive array of 12 distinct wine varietals. Their diverse portfolio includes beloved classics such as Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, and Grenache, all grown with meticulous care.
The winery’s steadfast mission is “to produce the highest quality wines possible at affordable prices from select local grape varieties,” a commitment they have upheld with distinction since their inception. Since 2008, every step of the winemaking process, from grape to bottle, takes place on-site at their state-of-the-art facility, ensuring unparalleled quality control and a true expression of the Madera terroir.
Address: 21821 Ave 16, Madera
Phone: 559-673-0066
Website
Toca Madera Winery
Toca Madera Winery is a truly breathtaking destination that demands a visit. From the moment you arrive, its sheer beauty will captivate you, encouraging you to pause and savor the magnificent vineyard views. During our first wine tasting, we found ourselves constantly drawn to the windows and open doors, gazing out over the sprawling vineyards that were first planted in 2011.
Their impressive selection of red wines includes vibrant Tempranillo, robust Zinfandel, rich Malbec, and the sweet Dulce Rojo, alongside intriguing blends such as Mourvedre/Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet/Syrah, and Grenache/Tempranillo. For white wine enthusiasts, they offer a crisp Moscato, the elegant Mirame Rose, the refreshing Conmigo, and the aromatic Moscato Giallo.
Their dessert wines are a highlight: Dulce Vida, a unique blend of 59% Moscato and 41% Viognier, is stored for 40 months outdoors in the Madera heat, developing extraordinary depth. Dulce Rojo is a luscious sweet red blend of Malbec and Zinfandel, perfect for a sweet finish. Toca Madera also champions a wildlife conservation series, featuring a 2018 Cabernet/Syrah and a 2021 Moscato, with proceeds directly benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
Sundays at the winery are particularly delightful, with live music filling the air from 1 to 4 pm. We thoroughly enjoyed a relaxing Sunday afternoon, sampling new wines and soaking in the ambiance. The winery also boasts an amazing outdoor space, ideal for celebrating special occasions and hosting unforgettable weddings. Please note that reservations are currently required for wine tasting to ensure a personalized experience.
Address: 36140 Ave 9, Madera
Phone: 559-474-8286
Website
Westbrook Wine Farm
Westbrook Wine Farm operates strictly by reservation only, and trust us, securing an appointment is an absolute must! A visit here means experiencing the unparalleled charm and wisdom of Ray Krause, the vineyard’s proprietor. Prepare for an engaging, often humorous, tasting journey where you’ll sample extraordinary wines and undoubtedly leave with a few bottles to savor at home.
Ray’s passion for wine is truly infectious and deeply evident in every aspect of Westbrook Wine Farm. His extensive knowledge of viticulture, the unique advantages of the region for grape growing, and his unwavering dedication to producing excellent wine are apparent from the moment you step onto the property.
The winery specializes in Bordeaux grape varieties, resulting in a superb collection of rich-bodied red wines. You absolutely cannot leave without trying their Fait Accompli! This flagship wine for Westbrook Wines is celebrated for a reason: an exceptional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere, it represents the pinnacle of their craft. Westbrook Wine Farm proudly cultivates all eight historically approved red Bordeaux grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Gros Verdot, and Saint Macaire, a testament to their authentic winemaking philosophy.
Address: 49610 House Ranch Road, O’Neals, Ca
Phone: 559-868-3499
Website
The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar
While not a winery itself, The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar in Madera is an essential stop on your culinary journey through the region. This local gem boasts an extensive wine list that perfectly complements its exceptional food offerings. Take our word for it: you absolutely must try their olive tapenade – it’s simply divine!
Address: 605 S I St, Madera, CA 93637
Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Wine Tasting Experience
To fully appreciate the nuanced aromas and flavors of the wines on the Madera Wine Trail, consider these helpful tips:
- Skip the Scents: Refrain from wearing perfume or cologne. Strong fragrances can interfere with your ability to detect the subtle notes in the wines.
- Pure Palate: Avoid rinsing your glass with water between tastings, as it can dilute the next wine.
- Taste with a Clean Palate: Steer clear of gum, coffee, and smoking before and during your tasting, as these can significantly alter your perception of wine flavors.
- Engage and Enjoy: Don’t hesitate to ask questions! The hosts are eager to share their knowledge. Most importantly, have fun and embrace the experience.
- Keep an Open Mind: Approach each tasting without preconceived notions. Allow yourself to be surprised by new tastes and flavors; you might discover a new favorite.
- Pace Yourself: Good wine tasting is not a race. Allocate at least 25 minutes, if not more, to truly savor three wines. Plan your visits to avoid rushing, allowing ample time to enjoy each winery’s unique atmosphere.
- Choose Your Vibe: For a more intimate, one-on-one conversation with a wine specialist, consider visiting Monday through Thursday. If you prefer a livelier, more social atmosphere, Friday and Saturday are ideal.
- Respect the Setting: Remember that tasting rooms are designed for appreciating wine, not for party scenes. Maintain a respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
- Safe Journeys: If you plan to visit multiple wineries in a single day, consider booking a limo, party bus, shuttle, or luxury transportation service. This allows everyone in your group to relax and enjoy the tastings without the worry of driving.
Oakhurst Spirits
Beyond the vineyards, Oakhurst Spirits, located in the vibrant heart of Oakhurst, California, offers a distinct craft beverage experience. This artisanal distillery prides itself on producing small batches of high-quality spirits, including Whiskey, Rum, Vodka, Gin, Brandy, and Bourbon, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. It’s an excellent stop for those looking to diversify their tasting journey.
Address: 40300 Greenwood Way, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: 559-641-5400
Website
South Gate Brewing Company (Brewery and Pub)
For those who appreciate fine craft beer, South Gate Brewing Company is an absolute must-visit in Oakhurst, standing out as one of our favorite local restaurants. This exceptional craft brewery offers a fantastic selection of house-made beers, alongside their delightful house-made root beer.
Their impressive lineup includes a seasonal rotation of innovative craft beers in addition to their beloved regular selections. You might discover:
- Eureka Hazy Double IPA: Boasting the juicy intensity of Eureka, Citra, and Mosaic hops, beautifully amplified by Helio Gazer yeast (8% ABV).
- Blood Tang Sour: A perfect balance of sweet and tart, expertly brewed with vibrant Blood Orange Purée (5% ABV).
- Easy Ryder IPA: An intensely tropical, unfiltered West Coast Rye IPA, crafted with Citra, Mosaic, and Bitter Gold Hops, and featuring a generous 25% Rye Malt in the grain bill (7.2% ABV).
Address: 40233 Enterprise Dr, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: 559-69-2739
Website
We sincerely hope this guide helps you have an amazing and memorable time exploring the Madera Wine Trail! Please note that while individual wineries are open, the organized “Wine Trail Weekend” events are currently on hold as the wineries adapt to new operational landscapes. We recommend checking individual winery websites for the most current event schedules.
Additional Resources for Your Central Valley Adventure
Expand your exploration of the region with these helpful guides:
- Oakhurst Restaurant Guide
- Things to do in Oakhurst
- Epic Guide to North Fork, CA
- Yosemite National Park Guide