You don’t have to leave town to sip something special. Rancho Cordova is home to local mead, small-batch wines, and vibrant food pairings that give you a taste of our own craft beverage scene.
Get ready for something unexpected! Mead, the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage, is made right here in Rancho Cordova's Barrel District! At Strad Meadery, honey is transformed into a golden elixir bursting with seasonal flavors like pomegranate, yuzu, and blackberry. A sweet delight for lovers of Renaissance Fairs and Dungeons & Dragons, mead is a must-try for anyone curious about this ancient craft. Pick up a bottle for the perfect picnic.
If you love Italian, put Il Forno Classico on your must-try list when you come to visit Rancho Cordova. Tantalizing pastas, risottos, seafood, and meat dishes are perfectly paired with an extensive collection of 300-400 types of wine. Your waiter will help you find the perfect glass for your preference. Enjoy soft, fresh bread and dipping oil and calm, dim lighting for a romantic vibe as you sip and savor the night away.
For a true local pairing, head to The Hangry Herd (formerly known as Drink Eezy), where bold, smoky BBQ flavors meet crisp, flavorful pours from Drink Eezy Wines, a Rancho Cordova-based label that keeps things fun and approachable. Whether you’re sipping a rosé with your ribs or a bold red with your brisket, it’s the perfect way to enjoy local craftsmanship with a casual twist. Beer is also on tap to round out the menu.
Even more flavor awaits you at Mimosa House. As its name suggests, Mimosa House is famous for its all-day mimosa flights. Take your pick of dozens of mimosa varieties or enjoy sparkling and still wine options paired with lunch and dinner. Other cocktails and mocktails are available too. Choose your favorite!
We know that wine isn't everyone's thing. If you're traveling with someone who would rather sip an IPA, porter, lager, or something on the rocks, take a pit stop at Rancho Cordova's Barrel District for award-winning local libations. This collection of craft breweries and a distillery has something for everyone.
Just a scenic drive east of Rancho Cordova, El Dorado County offers stunning vistas and boutique wineries nestled in the Sierra foothills. Known for its elevation-driven flavor, volcanic soil, and adventurous varietals like Zinfandel, Barbera, and Rhône-style blends, El Dorado is a dream for explorers who like their tastings paired with fresh mountain air. During the fall season, El Dorado County is also home to regional fan-favorite, Apple Hill, a collection of orchards and ranches offering fresh fruit, ciders, artisan vendors, and delicious bites, making it a perfect stop on your El Dorado wine tour.
DON'T MISS: Boeger Winery, Lava Cap Winery, and Starfield Vineyards for breathtaking views, charcuterie bites, and unforgettable sips. We recommend looking up Boeger's event calendar for concert dates!
Head south to Amador County, where Shenandoah Valley Road winds through more than 40 boutique wineries known for world-class Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and Barbera wines. The region’s roots date back to the Gold Rush, and that rich history adds even more character to each tasting room experience. After a day of wine, stroll through Sutter Creek, a charming historic town full of art galleries, gift shops, and local eats.
DON'T MISS: Scott Harvey Wines, Andis Wines, Helwig Winery, Karmere Vineyards & Winery, and Vino Noceto Wines for unique, bold flavors. Look for the giant Dachshund statue greeting you at Vino Noceto Wines!
Just 25 minutes from Rancho Cordova, Elk Grove has quietly blossomed into a charming, accessible wine destination. With tasting rooms set amid farmland and small-town charm, this region blends rural roots with modern style. Elk Grove’s close-knit winery community offers the perfect mix of hospitality and sophistication, ideal for a laid-back afternoon or a romantic evening close to your Rancho Cordova stay.
DON'T MISS: Family-owned wineries like Adkins Family Vineyards, Christopher Cellars, or McConnell Estates Winery for classics like Zinfandel and Chardonnay to lesser known Cinsault and Carignan varietals. Christopher Cellars offers live music and food trucks every Friday!
An hour south of Rancho Cordova, Lodi offers relaxed tasting experiences and over 80 family-owned wineries. Known for old-vine Zinfandel and approachable blends, this region celebrates authenticity over formality. Sip under the oaks, enjoy farm-to-fork dining, and meet the makers who define Lodi’s easygoing wine culture.
DON'T MISS: Jessie's Grove Winery, Bokisch Vineyards, Heritage Oak Winery, and m2 Wines. m2 Wines offers a unique indoor-outdoor tasting room experience with sweeping views of their vineyards!
Before you head out for a day of wine tasting, start your Saturday morning with an antioxidant-rich, farm-to-table brunch at Soil Born Farms. At Soil Born, fresh, seasonal produce takes center stage as you enjoy local coffee, handcrafted pastries, and a relaxing garden vibe to set the tone for your day of exploration. You'll hear live music drifting from the outdoor stage and chatter from Milly's Mercantile as people shop for artisanal goods, fresh fruits and veggies, and hand-picked bouquets of flowers.
Round out your wine weekend with a little treasure hunting at Bliss Marketplace, one of Rancho Cordova’s most beloved vintage stores. With dozens of local vendors who refresh their displays of wares every few weeks, it’s the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir, like that rustic wine rack you didn’t know you needed. Something unique about Bliss: each vendor takes a turn running the register during the week, so you'll meet friendly faces who know every display like the back of their hand. Vintage goods are themed seasonally.
PICTURED: Soil Born Farms
With so many wine regions nearby, why choose just one? Rancho Cordova is the ideal home base for wine travelers, offering affordable hotels, great dining, and easy freeway access to El Dorado, Amador, Elk Grove, and Lodi, all less than 90 minutes away. After a full day of tastings, return to comfort, convenience, and a good night’s sleep before your next adventure.
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