Winery Details

From its start in 1981, Lava Cap Winery has been owned and run by the Jones family. David Jones was a professional geologist at U.S. Geological Survey and University of California, Berkeley, when he began searching with his wife, Jeanne, for a special place to grow premium vines. Their quest ended in the Sierra Nevada foothills in the charming gold rush town of Placerville, CA, where they found an old farm situated on volcanic soil. This special land featured everything needed to grow fine wine grapes with smooth character and elegant textures. 
 
David and Jeanne recruited their sons Tom and Charlie to join in their dream of turning the old pear orchard into a vibrant new winery. With the help of the brothers’ wives, Beth and Noreen, the Jones family cleared out the 90 acres of old trees and planted new vines. Their hard work was rewarded in 1986 when their dream became reality, with their first harvest and their first wine vintage. 
 
Encouraged by the fruits of their labor, the Jones family has worked industriously to expand their bustling enterprise. Using sustainable practices, Charlie meticulously manages the growth of fine wine grapes with distinct, authentic flavors. Tom continues to advance as a vintner, having earned a Masters degree from UC Davis in Enology and Viticulture in 1989. His expertise, combined with his gentle, attentive nature, make him an artisan winemaker who produces elegant wines with full flavor and depth.  
 
Three decades later, the Jones family’s winery remains their passion. Their wines consistently win dozens of awards each year and share the special story of this place with Lava Cap wine lovers across the country and the globe. 

• Naming: The name "Lava Cap" reflects the unique topography of the property situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

• Proprietors: The winery is owned and run by brothers Tom and Charlie Jones and their families.

• History: David, a professional geologist at USGS and U.C. Berkeley, discovered the site in the Gold Rush town of Placerville, California in 1981.

• Family: After clearing 90 acres of an old pear orchard and planting new vines, they enjoyed their first harvest, and vintage, in 1986.