Amador Cellars - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Shenandoah Vineyards is the 2nd oldest active winery in Virginia, founded in 1976. Housed in a red barn dating to the Civil War, the winery sits atop an old stone foundation which serves as the aging cellar. The winery features a picnic area with breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. The tasting room has knowledgeable, friendly staff and an art gallery featuring contemporary art and ceramics.

D'Agostini Winery refers to both a winery in Healdsburg, California owned by Armagan Champagne Cellars as well as the original vineyard, winery, and wine cellar located in Plymouth, Amador County, which are owned by Sobon Estate Winery. The original winery is registered as a California Historical Landmark.

The Amador Whitney Museum exists to promote an interest in the history and culture of the Mother Lode region among both residents and visitors.This building, originally the Kling Building is probably the oldest commercial building in town. It dates back to 1860. Throughout the years, it has housed many types of businesses including the Wells Fargo Drayage Company.

The Knight Foundry, set in the heart of Sutter Creek, is America's last water-powered foundry and machine shop. It was established in 1873 to supply heavy equipment and repair facilities to the gold mines and timber industry of the Mother Lode. Samuel N. Knight developed a high speed, cast iron impulse water turbine which was a forerunner of the Pelton wheel design. Knight Wheels were used in some of the first hydroelectric plants in California, Utah, and Oregon.

The Kennedy Gold Mine is a gold mine in Jackson, California, one of the deepest mines on the Mother Lode. It closed in 1942 and together with nearby Argonaut Mine. It has since been re-opened as a tourist attraction.

Kennedy Tailing Wheels Park is located at the transition point between Jackson Gate Road and North Main Street. This park preserves two of the remaining Kennedy Mine Tailing Wheels, the iconic symbols of the City of Jackson that were environmental pioneers during the hard rock mining era of the early 20th century.The park around these historical structures includes a kiosk with historical photographs and information about the engineering and operation of the wheels.