Jeff Runquist’s eponymous label and tasting room showcases wine produced from grapes grown in the Sierra Foothills as well as other parts of California. In some years this can be as many as two dozen different varieties from as many as a dozen distinct grape growing regions. Their wines are known for their balance and ability to be enjoyed in their youth, but also becoming more complex with time. The winery is known for producing wines that have a theme of fresh fruit reflective of the varietal flavors inherent in the grape. The grapes are sourced from vineyards that provide rich full flavors without loads of astringent tannins. Jeff’s four principle wines that the winery strives to have available throughout the year are Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, and Petit Verdot. While they mostly produce red wines, there are also some whites, rose, and dessert wines. The winery is based in Amador County’s Shenandoah Valley and opened its tasting room in 2008.
Jeff Runquist Wines is well-known and well-liked in the area, and received recognition as “Winery of the Year” for 2021 in Dan Berger’s International Wine Competition. Its popularity means reservations are usually recommended, especially for weekends in the spring and summer. Several times per year, weekends are only available to wine club members. There are also special events for wine club members such as a catered picnic usually in May of each year.
