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Appellation:
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Fair Play Viticultural Area
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Location:
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4244 Rooster Court
Somerset, California 95684
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Phone:
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(530)620-1609
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Winemaker:
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Ted Bechard
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Tasting Room:
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N/A
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Days/Hours:
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By Appointment
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Parking:
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N/A
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Picnic Facilities:
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N/A
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Red Wines:
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Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Red Rhone Blend
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White Wines:
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Viognier, Grenache Rose
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Production:
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N/A
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Map
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The Winery
Ted and Andrea Bechard purchased their estate in 2001. The winery site is in the Somerset area, near the North fork of Cosumnes River. Although the facilities are still under construction, the winery will arrange tours and tastings upon request.
The Vineyards
The first vineyards were planted in 2003 at the 2400’ elevation. The first varietals were Viognier, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Tempranillo, and Petite Sirah grapes. The Bechard’s also purchase Zinfandel, Syrah, Grenache and Viognier from the Herbert vineyards and others in the Somerset area. They purchase additional grapes from neighboring Amador County including Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Sauvignon Blanc and Petite Sirah.
The Wines
Bechard produces a number of Rhone style wines, including two separate Syrahs and a Grenache that have been quite successful in local wine competitions. Their first wines from estate grapes were produced from the 2005 vintage, and consisted of Syrah, Zinfandel, Grenache Rose and Viognier.
The Winemaker
While working and traveling in France and Spain, the Bechard’s developed a love of wine and winemaking. After they returned to the States, they spent time working in the Napa Valley, obtaining valuable experience. This started the quest for land to build their own winery, which eventually led them to the Fair Play AVA.