When people talk about “granite soils” in El Dorado County, it can sound like technical wine language—but it has a direct impact on what you taste.
Much of El Dorado’s vineyards are planted in decomposed granite, a coarse, well-draining soil that doesn’t hold much water. Because of this, vines are forced to grow deeper root systems and naturally limit their vigor. The result is typically smaller berries with a higher skin-to-juice ratio, which can lead to more concentrated flavors and added structure in the finished wine.