Murrieta’s Well

During the California Gold Rush, an infamous vaquero named Joaquin Murrieta roamed the gold fields as the “Robin Hood of the El Dorado.” It is said that he often stopped to water his horses at the artesian well that now marks the entrance to this historic winery.

In the 1880s, Louis Mel arrived with cuttings of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon from the famous estate of Chateau d’Yquem and red Bordeaux cuttings from Margaux. In the 1930s the winery was sold to Ernest Wente, and in 1990 it was passed on to Ernest’s grandson, Philip Wente, who brought it back to life and named it after its notorious historic visitor. With Sergio Traverso, the chief winemaker at nearby Concannon, the winery creates “old-world” style blends. These include its flagship Meritage White as well as red wines, including an old-vine Zinfandel, a classic Bordeaux blend, and their Zauzuela, a Tempranillo-based Rioja-style wine. Also produced is a Semillon Chardonnay blend.

Murrieta’s Well is back off of Mines Road. You cross two bridges as you drive among the sycamore trees to the rock-walled fountain that is the historic artesian well. The winery is built into the hillside and backed up against their vineyard. The secluded property is landscaped with roses, lavender and rosemary. The downstairs portion of the 100-year-old structure is their barrel room and event space. Upstairs is the spacious and lively tasting room, with an outside deck and a balcony overlooking the oak-studded valley. The hardwood floors, leather couches, and heavy-beamed ceilings give a warm rustic feel to the place. There is a separate wine library to explore, and numerous nooks and crannies with historic displays and winery art.