to grape From
A look at how wines of character are made
Story by Stacey Vreeken • Photos by Fred Greaves
A vineyard is in every glass of wine you drink. So, too, are a thousand decisions that result in wines showing not only the character of the vineyard but the people who create them. What to plant where in the vineyard, when to pick and how to barrel and age the wine all contribute and reflect the preferences of the winery owner and the winemaker tasked with interpreting that vision. At Miraflores Winery in El Dorado County, owner Dr. Victor Alvarez has
established a winery and custom- crush facility that reflects the beauty of his agricultural heritage from Colombia and a focus on precision and quality obtained from his career as a pathologist. “The property was bought for its beauty and serenity,” Alvarez says. “Miraflores is very distinctive. Its wines are unique—the product of terroir, good growing techniques and excellent winemaking.”
Country estate setting The winery is set back on country roads outside Placerville, surrounded by vineyards, presenting an Italianate façade outside and marble counters in the tasting room. Touches of whimsy remind visitors they’re in Gold Country, including a stagecoach on a shelf behind the bar. Patrons enjoy tasting at the bar or at a seated tasting on the expansive patio. Recommendations and explanations are
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Summer 2024
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