The vineyard of Chatom Vineyards is nestled in the breathtaking
Esmeralda Valley of the Sierra Foothills in Calaveras County. The
valley was originally planted with low field crops, fruits and nut
trees. When Gay Callan, owner and native San Franciscan, purchased the
property in 1980, her vision was to plant a vineyard. Her first
varietals were then planted in 1981, totaling 21 acres of Chardonnay
and Chenin Blanc.
Today, the vineyard boasts 13 varietals planted on 65 acres,
including Chardonnay, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah, Sangiovese and 5 Portuguese varietals. The
Esmeralda Valley's warm days and cool evenings create the perfect
climate for cultivating premium selections planted in the vineyard. The
variable soils, from clay and sandy loam to shallow, rocky strata, have
all proven to produce award-winning grapes for Chatom Vineyards, as
well as other select California wineries.
Gay decided to build the Winery and Tasting Room facility 1990
in order to accommodate a growing customer base. The winery location is
just two miles west of historic Murphys, off scenic Highway 4. After
several years of utilizing custom-crush settings, it was time to bring
the award winning wines under her own roof. The vision has resulted in
an open Mediterranean style setting, surrounded by beautiful gardens,
picnic area and a warm friendly staff who welcomes the visitor with a
relaxed and unhurried pace.
Since the inception of Chatom Vineyards in 1981, many have
viewed Chatom as the "jewel" of the Sierra Foothills. Accrediting both
the "noteworthy" Sierra Foothills and Chatom Vineyards for the
superior, hand crafted wines and the highest quality recognition for
grape growing. It therefore became a natural progression for Chatom to
nurture award-winning fruit and make award-winning wines from its
vineyard location. Everything that Chatom makes is from the vineyard
and offered in Tasting Room. The wines can be enjoyed daily from 11am
to 5pm, from a professional and friendly staff.
Gay Callan and the entire Chatom Family invite you to enjoy the
beautiful scenery, wonderful award- winning wines and the relaxing
atmosphere of Calaveras County and the Sierra Foothills. It is an easy
drive from the Bay Area, Valley or Tahoe region. We look forward to
meeting you and sharing our adventure.
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