The Vineyards:
The vineyards are planted exclusively to varieties originaly from the Rhone Valley at 2700 feet in the Sierra Foothills' El Dorado Wine Country

The first vineyard, fifteen acres of Syrah, was planted in 1998.  The vines are trained on a quadrilateral trellising system to obtain maximum fruit quality by limiting vigor and maximizing light penetration. The vines line steep terraced slopes with 360 degrees of exposure due to the circular lay of the land. The first crop was harvested in October of 2000.  In 2006, parts of this vineyard have been grafted over to other varieties so that the winery can fully utilize all of the production.  An acre of Counoise was added as well as a bit of Grenache Blanc and a little Mourvedre.  Two and half acres of Mourvedre and  one and a half acres of Petite Sirah were added in 2007.

The second vineyard was planted in 2000 on the adjacent hill. Due to the family's love of Rhone wines and the fact that Rhone grapes grow so well in El Dorado, they planted Counoise, Grenache, and Mourvedre (all red Rhones) and Roussanne and Viognier (Rhone whites). The reds are head trained to allow close spacing which will force the vines to compete for nutrients and result in maximum flavors. The whites are trained using Vertical Shoot Positioning for ideal sun exposure. This vineyard is laid out on steep terraces, like the Syrah, and is south-facing.

Map of the Varieties Planted

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About Holly's Hill Vineyards
Nestled in the beautiful Sierra Foothills in El Dorado County and Pleasant Valley, Holly's Hill Winery specializes in producing Rhone varietal wines. In fact, the estate vineyards are composed entirely of Rhone varieties including Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, and Counoise. The winery produces both varietal wines, a dry Rosé, and red and white blends. The enthusiasm for Rhone varieties at Holly's Hill started when Tom and Holly Cooper (owners) shared their first bottle of Chateauneuf du Pape on their honeymoon. It's been a love affair ever since.

• Relax in our wine tasting room with exceptional valley views.
• Sample over 15 Rhone style wines, including these varietals: Viognier, Roussanne, Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, and Counoise.
• Find out about our popular wine club and events.