Back in 2013, Maggie and I had an idea. A 21-acre defunct Christmas tree farm on Carson Road sat on the market. With its shallow soils and copious amounts of frontage along the road, we were fearful that someone would purchase the property with little interest in doing agriculture and instead just put more crafter stands out for the busy season (more Disneyland in Apple Hill).
Our thought was to plant vineyards, build a small winery, and continue the traditions of family farming in the area. And thus the inception of Rucksack Cellars with our outdoor tastings starting in the fall of 2015 (although Maggie gets credit for the vineyards as she planted them with Carolina and Jose while I was in France (working, I might add)). The premise was always to embrace the fact that we live in one of the most beautiful places on earth; the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. We are very proud of what we’ve built and the feeling the winery has. Throw on your Rucksack (backpack) and come enjoy!
Now some 12 years later and Maggie and I are getting a bit older, it is time to pass the baton on to the next passionate and energetic owners of Rucksack Cellars, Douglas and Mary Giorgis. We would introduce you all to our friends, but if you’ve enjoyed Rucksack’s hospitality over the last couple of years, you’ve already met Douglas. He has been managing the winery for some time and providing input on the winemaking as well.
Douglas and Mary have planted 6 acres of vineyards of their own in the El Dorado appellation and have shown the excitement and interest in actively engaging in and preserving agriculture in our county. Their beliefs in farming naturally and organically also fit into our philosophy of investing in our resources that make us all successful.
Maggie and I will continue to take part in the farming of the Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc vines at Rucksack (as that’s where Maggie’s ‘M’-Series Cab Franc comes from), and Douglas will take over the winemaking of the Rucksack Cellars wines, combining the best of both worlds!
We couldn’t be more excited for them, and it will free up a bit more time for Maggie and me as well. (Remember, there’s nothing more stupid than owning a winery, except owning two wineries!)
Now to the logistics that impact you. For Rucksack wines, you’ll have to visit Rucksack Cellars (as we won’t have the wines at Madroña), and vice versa. But as wine club members from either winery, you will still enjoy your wine club benefits (complimentary tastings, discounts, etc.) for the entire 2026 year as Mary, Douglas, Maggie and I have all agreed this is very important for a smooth transition. Even though you will have to purchase your Madroña and Rucksack wines separately, Douglas and I will continue to collaborate on winemaking style and quality of your favorite Rucksack Wines.
From Maggie and me, we thank you all for your support of Rucksack Cellars over the last decade. And we look forward to Mary and Douglas’ success going forward!