2018 Indian Creek California Shenandoah Valley Sangiovese

But Prohibition devastated the industry there, and it wasn’t until the 1970s that vineyards were replanted, with an emphasis on Zinfandel and Italian varieties such as Sangiovese. The valley, northeast of Plymouth, is located primarily in Amador County, with the northern portion of the AVA extending into El Dorado County.

The Shenandoah Valley is the least elevated and, thus, the warmest region within the Sierra Foothills. The high temperatures produce ripe fruit and full-bodied (mostly red) wines. Including “California” in the appellation’s name clearly differentiates it from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, which has its own, long-established wine history.

California Shenandoah Valley Sangiovese routinely receives excellent reviews and ratings, and after tasting the 2018 vintage from Indian Creek — which showcases an abundance of red fruit flavor framed by smoke, vanilla and tobacco notes — you’ll understand why.