Folsom might be best known for its historic gold rush roots and outdoor activities, but it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine lovers. While the city itself isn’t dotted with vineyards, nearby regions like Apple Hill, Calaveras, and Placer County offer some excellent wine-tasting options. We particularly like the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport for its flexibility and access to top wineries, and the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport for its broad regional coverage. These digital passes let you sample California’s best Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon without the hassle of driving from winery to winery—making them perfect for a relaxed, immersive experience.
What makes these digital experiences stand out is their flexibility—you can pick from 1-day to 60-day tasting passes—plus the opportunity to enjoy discounted tastings and custom experiences at top local wineries. These passes are especially good if you want to explore a region at your own pace, whether you’re in Folsom for a weekend or planning a longer trip. For those who prefer a known quantity, these digital options provide a taste of California wine country without the need for extensive planning.
Quick Overview
The list below covers three of the best digital wine tasting passes around Folsom, each offering its own unique appeal:
– Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport – perfect for exploring Apple Hill’s vineyards and Carson Road’s wineries, with options up to 60 days. Learn more here
– Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport – combines two wine regions with flexible passes, ideal for a regional approach. Check it out here
– Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport – broad regional coverage, suitable for those who want variety in their tasting experience. Find out more here
Now, let’s dig into what each of these tours offers and what makes them worth considering.
1. Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport
At number one, we have the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport, a flexible digital pass that opens doors to some of California’s most scenic wineries. For just $19 per person, this pass grants access to tasting experiences across Apple Hill’s vineyards and Carson Road’s wineries, with options to buy a 1-day, 2-day, or an extended 60-day pass. Learn more about this experience here.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of convenience and quality. You can sample delicious Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel wines from top wineries while enjoying some of the best Instagram-worthy scenery in California Wine Country. The pass also includes discount prices on tastings, which adds great value if you’re planning multiple visits. The flexibility of a 60-day window is perfect for those who want to take their time, maybe even visiting different wineries across different weekends.
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts who prefer to plan their tasting adventures at their own pace. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a cost-effective way to sample California’s best wines without multiple booking hassles. The only potential downside is that some might prefer a guided experience, but for those who enjoy independence, this is a winner.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, affordable way to enjoy high-quality tastings from Apple Hill and Carson Road, this pass offers outstanding value and scenic variety.
$19 per person
2. Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport
Coming in at number two, the Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport offers a regional tasting experience in two lesser-known but charming California wine areas. For $19 per person, you can pick a 1-day, 2-day, or 60-day pass, giving you plenty of time to explore what these regions have to offer. Explore this option here.
This tour offers access to top wineries in both Calaveras and Tuolumne, where you’ll enjoy tastings of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel, among others. The emphasis on custom experiences and discounts at participating wineries makes it especially appealing for those who like to tailor their wine journey. What makes the Calaveras/Tuolumne pass stand out is its regional diversity, giving you a taste of different soils, climates, and wine styles—perfect for those who want more than just one vineyard experience.
While reviews are limited, the value is clear: for under $20, you receive a multi-region taste of California wine, with the flexibility to schedule as you like. It’s suited for travelers who want to explore less touristy wineries and enjoy a more authentic regional experience.
Bottom Line: For those interested in discovering California’s lesser-known wine regions, this digital pass offers regional variety and good value for a flexible tasting schedule.
$19 per person
3. Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport
Rounding out our list, the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport provides access to vineyards right in the heart of California Wine Country. This pass, also priced at $19 per person, offers 1-day, 2-day, and 60-day options. Find out more here.
This experience shines in its regional scope, covering top wineries in Placer County, which is nearby Folsom. It includes tastings of Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon from some of the area’s best wineries. The pass also offers discounted tasting prices and the chance for custom experiences, making it a good fit for those who want to sample a variety of wines without traveling far.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy California wine in a beautiful setting with the flexibility of choosing how long to indulge. The pass is especially suited for visitors who wish to explore local wineries without committing to a fixed schedule or guided tour.
Bottom Line: For travelers based in or near Folsom wanting an easy, regional wine experience, this digital pass offers great value and variety.
$19 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best wine tour in Folsom for your needs, consider these factors:
– Budget: All three passes are priced equally at $19, but your choice depends on how much region you want to explore and the length of your trip.
– Region of Interest: If you want to stick close to Folsom, the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport is ideal. For a broader regional experience, the Calaveras/Tuolumne pass adds variety. If scenic drives through Apple Hill and Carson Road appeal, then the Apple Hill/Carson Road pass is perfect.
– Travel Style: Do you prefer self-guided flexibility or a guided tour? These digital passes are best for independent travelers who enjoy crafting their own itinerary.
– Timing: With options up to 60 days, you can pick a pass that matches your schedule. Booking early helps secure the best prices and availability.
For more structured choices, consider combining these digital options with local winery visits or special events.
Final Thoughts
Folsom offers an unexpectedly rich selection of wine experiences when you look beyond the city itself. The Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport stands out for its scenic variety and flexibility, especially if you want to explore at your own pace. Meanwhile, the Calaveras/Tuolumne pass offers regional diversity for adventurous wine lovers, and the Placer County option keeps things convenient and local.
If you’re planning a wine-tasting trip, these digital passes are a smart way to experience California’s wine country without the hassle of booking multiple appointments. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, booking early and choosing the pass that fits your schedule will ensure a rewarding wine journey. Cheers to discovering some of California’s finest wines—right from the comfort of your own schedule.