Winery by the Creek is nestled amongst the pine and oak forests of the Sierra Foothills in the small village of Fair Play, California. Centuries ago, it was home to native Northern Sierra Miwok tribes and later became a thriving mining camp, trading center and agricultural outpost during the Gold Rush. Today, Fair Play is an established American Viticultural Area where world class wines are handcr
afted. In this new century, more than twenty wineries in the area carry on the agricultural tradition that began long ago. We welcome you to visit and celebrate the richness of our history and the richness of this terroir, where the story really begins; where the wine is born. Grapevines grace the slopes of rolling hills at elevations between 2,000 and 3,000 feet, making it California’s highest elevation within an AVA. The growing season brings warm days and cool nights. Deeply rooted vines in the granitic soils create distinct and intense wines. When it comes to the art of winemaking, every winemaker brings their own style or touch to the process—from harvest and crush, to press, fermentation and aging. Winemaker Charles B. Mitchell has a background in French winemaking and culture. He is heavily influenced by French tradition, producing wines in the Bordeaux style. The Bordeaux Style
Bordeaux, historically the most famous wine producing region in the world, has a rich and deeply rooted history that intrigued Charles during his many travels through France. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot make up the ćepage used in Bordeaux and create wines known for their complexity, age-ability and prestige. The bordeaux style wines at Winery By the Creek pay tribute to the left bank and Medoc region of Bordeaux, featuring a heavy influence of Cabernet Sauvignon, the king of wines, while other varietals play a more supporting role adding complexity and balance.
