Sacramento offers a surprisingly rich wine scene, with experiences that cater to casual sippers and wine enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re hopping aboard a vintage train with a flight of five wines or exploring the vineyards with a digital pass, this city is a gateway to California’s diverse wine landscape. The region’s proximity to renowned wine areas like Placer County and the Sierra Foothills means you can enjoy a range of tasting options without spending hours on the road.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of three standout wine tours. From a scenic train ride through West Sacramento’s vineyards to a flexible digital wine tasting pass covering foothill wineries, each offers a different way to enjoy California’s grape bounty. We’ll help you compare these options for price, experience, and convenience so you can choose the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Sacramento: Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting
This scenic train ride takes you through West Sacramento’s wine country aboard the charming Old Vine Express. For $174 per person, the 2-hour journey combines comfort, views, and four-star wine tasting. You start with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, which sets a celebratory tone, then settle into pre-arranged tables to enjoy a flight of five carefully selected wines and a seasonal canapé tray.
What makes this tour special is its combination of leisure and education. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to offer insights into each wine and the region’s history. The train’s large windows provide sweeping views of vineyards and rolling hills—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. The reviews praise the friendly hosts and smooth experience, with one reviewer noting, “Tessa was a great host to our group. It was a great experience.”
This tour is ideal if you prefer a relaxed, all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing with tasting. The 2-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The only downside might be its higher price point, but considering the comfort, scenery, and included tastings, many find it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A refined, scenic way to sample West Sacramento’s wines with all the comfort of a vintage train ride—a good pick for couples or small groups seeking a memorable outing.
2. Placer County Wine Tasting Pass
This digital wine tasting pass offers a flexible, budget-friendly way to explore Placer County’s wineries. Priced at just $19, it’s a self-guided experience that can stretch over 1 to 2 days, making it perfect for travelers with a loose schedule or those wanting to sample at their own pace. Your pass provides access to tastings at multiple participating wineries, with the first stop being José Wine Caves, where you’ll receive a complimentary wine tasting flight.
The digital pass simplifies the logistics—no need to carry around paper tickets, as everything is delivered via email or text. Participating wineries are subject to change, but many have outdoor or picnic areas, creating a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Guests can sample a variety of wines, from classic varietals like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to more experimental blends—ideal for those eager to discover new favorites.
While this option offers the most flexibility, it also has its limitations. With only one review rating it 1 out of 5 stars, some travelers may find the experience inconsistent or lacking guidance. It’s best suited for independent wine lovers comfortable navigating wineries solo and seeking a budget-friendly introduction to foothill wines.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy creating your own wine-tasting itinerary and want a low-cost way to explore multiple vineyards, this pass offers a simple, flexible option—keep in mind that the experience can vary depending on the wineries’ hospitality.
3. Apple Hill and Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting with Pass
This Apple Hill and Carson Road digital pass provides access to the Sierra Foothill Wineries just a short drive from Folsom. For $19 per person, the pass is a convenient way to enjoy tastings from multiple wineries at your own pace, with experiences available from 1 to 60 days after purchase. It features a range of wines, from well-known varietals like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to more experimental and unique blends.
Once you buy the pass, it’s delivered instantly via email or text, and you simply show it at participating wineries. Many of these wineries have outdoor and picnic areas, making the experience more relaxed and social. The wineries often feature outdoor seating, perfect for lingering over your tastings and soaking in the scenery.
Since this is a digital pass, there’s no guide or group component—it’s all about independent tasting. Some users might find the experience’s flexibility a plus, while others may miss guided insights. Because the wineries can change their offerings, it’s wise to check availability ahead of time. This tour is a good choice for anyone wanting a low-cost, low-pressure way to explore foothill wines at their own pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for independent wine fans who want to explore Sierra Foothill wineries without the fuss of guided tours, albeit with variable winery experiences.
How to Choose
Picking between these options depends on your priorities. If you’re craving a scenic, all-inclusive experience with a touch of luxury, the Old Vine Express Train Ride offers a memorable journey with wine, views, and atmosphere rolled into one. For those on a budget or wanting to craft their own wine adventure, the Placer County Tasting Pass provides flexibility and affordability, though you’ll need to navigate wineries on your own. Meanwhile, the Apple Hill and Carson Road digital pass strikes a balance, giving you access to a variety of wineries at your own pace and budget.
Consider your time constraints—if you have just a few hours, the train ride fits well. For a full day or more, the digital passes let you spread out tastings over multiple days. Think about your comfort with self-guided experiences; if you prefer guided tours with educational commentary, the train may be best. For a casual, independent vibe, the digital passes work well.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the train ride, which can fill up during peak seasons. Check availability ahead of time and consider visiting during spring or fall, when the weather is ideal for winery visits and scenic views.
Final Thoughts
Sacramento’s wine scene is surprisingly varied, offering everything from elegant train rides to flexible digital tasting experiences. The Old Vine Express Train Ride stands out for its blend of scenery, comfort, and guided tastings, making it a top choice for a special outing. If you prefer a self-directed adventure and are exploring on a budget, the Placer County Tasting Pass is a practical option. Meanwhile, the Apple Hill and Carson Road digital pass offers the most flexibility for those who like to take their time.
No matter your style, these tours give you a taste of California’s rich wine culture right from Sacramento. To make the most of your trip, book early and plan around the best weather seasons—spring or fall—when the vineyards are at their most photogenic. Cheers to discovering your new favorite wine in California’s capital!