Hamilton Oaks Vineyard is a small family owned winery owned by Ron his wife Connie and their daughter Courtney.  Nestled in the hills of Trabuco Canyon California, the hillside was planted in 1989 behind the family home, with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the dream of one day opening and operating a small winery. The area's climate is ideal for growing quality grapes. Proof of this is the outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon wine which has won medals at many local and countrywide wine competitions.

Today, Hamilton Oaks is recognized as the first commercial winery licensed in Orange County in almost 150 years and is producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Syrah, Barbera, Merlot, Port, and Melange de Sud (the vineyard's current signature wine, made from exotic varietals).

The winemaking takes place adjacent to the vineyard in Trabuco Canyon. The process from harvesting the grapes to final bottling all happens at this family-owned winery. The barrel room houses an assortment of French oak barrels which are used to age the wines from 20 to 34 months. Samples from these barrels are sometimes offered during wine tasting, which is by appointment only.

Each fall during harvest time, a group of 25 friends - the majority of which have been involved since the first crush - volunteer the help pick, sort, and crush the grapes. A few weeks later, after the grapes ferment, the friends return to help with the pressing and processing. To show their appreciation, the Tamez family has an annual harvest party which has grown from a group of 15 people to no over 140.

Hamilton Oaks wines are now available at several of the best restaurants and farmers markets in Orange County. Purchases can also be made during wine tastings or from the winery's website, www.hamiltonoaksvineyard.com.

Ron, the winemaker, is especially proud that his winers are generating a lot of name recognition within the wine industry and the community.

But for him, the best part of running Hamilton Oaks Vineyard is the he can make a living in his own backyard. "people tell me that we're going to go down in Orange County history for reviving its wine industry", says Ron. "But I never thought of it that way. I was just following a dream."

To make an appointment for a wine tasting, call (949) 459-6913. Catering available for parties of 10 or more.