Chateau Davell Boutique Winery is located within the foothills of the Sierra and very near the famed Apple Hill. This region of El Dorado County, Northern California, is surrounded by native oaks and pine trees. Don’t let the word “Chateau” fool you into thinking this is a fancy hoity-toity winery.
In fact, this venue is homey, comfortable, approachable, rustic and relaxing.
The owners are Eric & Emily Hays and they are hands-on in creating this lovely location. They designed the cool spaces, make the wines, serve their guests… and even make the delicious wood-fired pizza. Being eco-friendly, a lot of the building’s wood, beams, supports, etc. are upcycled and repurposed from old barns, sheds or fallen trees.
Weddings are perfect on the Vista Lawn with a circular wine stave “arch.” And, the views are lovely from this hilltop location. Steps away are the walk-up patio bar, the colorful tasting room and the fun and homey Love Shack. Any of these work well for cocktail hour while the Vista Lawn is prepped for dinner al fresco under the romantic market lighting. Also, adjacent is the elevated stage which is great for live music, DJ, or the cake.
Additionally, there is an intimate Barrel Room for a dinner for up to 60 guests. We envision, a long family-style table down the center with barrels on either side. Chateau Davell provides a bartender, as well. “Nellie”, a vintage horse trailer bar, is also available if you desire.
Photography in the vineyard is an easy walk. This venue is family friendly AND dog friendly. The Hays are happy to host birthday celebrations, bridal showers, business meetings, holiday parties, and weddings,… you name it, they will celebrate it with you!
To check out this cool venue, take a short drive up Highway 50 and partake in their daily tastings. Six current vintages of unique varietals and blends are showcased, each paired with a local or farmstead cheese. Relax, play some lawn games, and enjoy the scenery at this unique winery. Awesome!
Thank you to Vixen Vendor, Courtland Wilson of Courtland Photography, for capturing these images!
~”Vixen” Lora
