Holgate Hill Winery: Where Passion Meets Tradition in Every Bottle

Hello, dear wine enthusiasts and adventurers,

If there’s one place in the Sierra Foothills where the wine tells not just the story of the grape, but the heart and soul of the vintner, it’s Holgate Hill Winery.

Behind the enchanting sips of every Holgate Hill wine lies the genuine passion and traditional craftsmanship of a husband and wife duo – Rob and Cassidy Holgate. Their mission? To offer exquisite wines crafted using traditional methods, with minimal intervention, making sure that with every glass, you’re not just sipping wine, but an experience — an authentic Sierra Foothills experience.

Rob Holgate’s journey into wine-making isn’t one you hear every day. While his peers at UC Davis were buried in their books, Rob discovered his love for wine in the picturesque vineyards of Sonoma Mountain. As the sun set, casting a warm hue over rows of Chardonnay vines, Rob savored his freshly produced wine and thought, “Wait, people get paid to do this?” From that moment, a promising lawyer-to-be took a turn towards the wine realm.

His journey in wine began at Benchmark Wine Group, where he had the privilege of tasting some of the world’s most exceptional wines. It didn’t just stop at tasting; he delved deep into Viticulture courses, learned the nitty-gritty of grape and wine production, and even dabbled in wine marketing. Yet, his most valuable lesson was simple but profound: D.F.I.U – “Don’t (Muck) it Up!”

Life, with its twists and turns, led Rob to the heart of Amador Wine Country in the Sierra Foothills. It was here, amidst the serene beauty of Amador Cellars, that fate introduced him to Cassidy. A wine tasting, a wine club membership, and voila, a match made in wine heaven.

Today, the couple stands proud at the helm of Holgate Hill Winery, in historic Amador City. The wines here are a result of over a decade of Rob’s experience, tales, passion, and an unwavering commitment to bring out the best in every grape. Calling himself the “Wine-Shepherd,” Rob believes in the magic of wine-making. As he often says, “Wine can make itself, but it takes a true connoisseur to elevate it to its zenith.”

Details for Your Visit:

• Location: 14204 Main St Old, CA-49 Ste 5 Amador City, CA
• Timings: Open for tastings Friday through Sunday, Noon until 6ish
• Contact: (209) 259-4449/ rob@holgatehill.com

In essence, a visit to Holgate Hill isn’t just about savoring a drink; it’s about embracing the rich tapestry of experiences, love stories, and the unwavering dedication of the Holgates. And as Rob and Cassidy put it, “Leave the snobbery behind, grab a glass, and get a little more sophisticated with every sip.”

Dive deeper into the Sierra Foothills tales, from its rich history to the promising future, with Sierra Foothills Living. Subscribe to our weekly magazine here and let’s revel in the grandeur of Sierra Foothills, one story at a time.

Until our next story, raise your glasses high and celebrate the art that is wine. Cheers!