Irish Vineyards Winery

Owned and operated by Russell and Joan Irish, the Irish Vineyards Winery features a selection of wines made from estate-grown grapes and varietals grown to exacting specifications. They include not only serious table wines such as Alacant Bouchet, Chenin Blanc, and Petite Sirah, but also several novelties, as represented by Blarney Red and a saucy Pog Mo Thoin, the name of which is taken from a common Gaelic phrase that translates into English as "Kiss My Ass!"

The winery occupies what was once known as the Batten Farmhouse, built in 1867. The vineyards are set on 8.3 acres with fertile soil that is well suited to grape growing. The Irish family began making wine here in 2003, and by 2009 they had won a major award the California State Fair's prize for the "Best Cabernet Franc in the State of California." The vineyard's products may be purchased at the winery or with discounts via mail order through membership in the Irish Vineyards Wine Club.

The Irish Vineyards Winery is located in Calaveras County wine country at 2849 California Highway 4, Vallecito, California 95251-9705. The tasting room is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 2pm to 5pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 5pm; closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Large groups or other hours are by appointment only.