Black Sheep Winery was opened in 1984 by Janis Olson and David Olson.  They specialize in zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc, and a special wine in celebration of the Frog Jumps in Calaveras county known as “True Frogs Lily Pad Red”.  The Black Sheep Winery is open daily from 11am to 5pm in the charming yellow historic farmhouse on Main Street.  Enjoy a glass of wine and then wander down the charming main street of Murphys.  For more information, check out their website at: Black Sheep Winery Black Sheep Winery [...]

Chatom Vineyards is a Vineyard located close to Twain Harte in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra Nevada’s. More specifically, Chatom Vineyards are located in Esmeralda Valley of Calaveras County about 2 miles from Murphys.  The great climate and nutrient rich soil has given this Vineyard a plethora of award winning plants and wines, most notably Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah, Sangiovese and 5 Portuguese varietals. While the Chatom Vineyard isn’t that old, it was opened in 1980 by Gay Callan, it has a sophisticated elegance [...]

Ironstone Vineyards is located in the beautiful and historical Sierra Foothills.  Come to the Ironstone Vineyards in winter or summer.  In the winter, enjoy a wine tasting in front of the 42-foot stone fireplace and oak bar.  The Ironstone Vineyards is decorated with treasures from the height of American Frontierism.  The style is based off a 19th century gold stamp mill and features a Culinary Exhibition Center, an Outdoor Amphitheater, Wine Aging Caverns, Meeting and Banquet Facilities, and fourteen acres of Spectacular Lakeside Gardens. Ironstone Vineyards is only 45 minutes [...]

Dodge Ridge Ski Area is a great place to go skiing and snowboarding for the whole family! Dodge Ridge Ski Area has 832 acres of land, 1,600 feet of vertical and 59 runs for every age level and experience level. They offer rentals and lesson for both skiing and snowboarding. Just 150 miles from the East Bay and San Jose, Dodge Ridge Ski area is the closest snow you will get to the Bay Area. Lift tickets start at just $59 dollars for adults for all day. That drops down [...]

Dodge Ridge Lodging is hard to find especially during the winter months when the slopes are packed with vacationers. A much more quiet, relaxed alternative to Dodge Ridge lodging is to rent a Twain Harte vacation rental. Twain Harte is located about 23 miles from Dodge Ridge. Here you will escape the hustle and bustle of the slopes and come relax in a spacious cabin with a cozy fireplace. With enough room for 10 people comfortably, this is a great place for your family to stay while enjoying the beautiful [...]