Folsom may be famous for its historic gold rush roots and scenic lakes, but it’s also a surprisingly good base for exploring California’s renowned wine country. While Folsom itself isn’t home to sprawling vineyards, the surrounding regions offer rich opportunities for tasting some of California’s best wines. One of our favorite ways to experience this is through digital wine tasting passes, which let you explore multiple wineries at your own pace — perfect if you enjoy flexibility and discovering hidden gems. If you’re into sampling wines without the hassle of organizing multiple visits, the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport stands out as a top pick. It combines the scenic beauty of California Wine Country with the convenience of a digital pass, making it easy to enjoy Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel at your leisure.
Beyond digital experiences, Folsom is also close to regions like Calaveras/Tuolumne and Placer County, where wine lovers can indulge in more traditional wine tasting tours. These options offer a more guided approach, often including visits to specific wineries and sometimes additional amenities like food or scenic stops. Whether you prefer a self-paced digital pass or an organized tour with a driver, there’s something for all.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we review three top digital wine tasting passes in California, each offering flexible access to regional wineries without the need for multiple bookings. The first is the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport, which covers the scenic Apple Hill and Carson Road areas. The second is the Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport, offering access to wineries in the picturesque Calaveras and Tuolumne regions. Lastly, the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport focuses on the diverse wineries in Placer County. All three passes are priced at $19 per person, with options to enjoy tastings over 1, 2, or 60 days. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport
At number one, the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport offers an excellent way to explore California Wine Country from the comfort of your home or hotel. This pass grants access to tastings at top wineries along Carson Road and around Apple Hill — an area better known for its apple orchards but also home to several excellent wineries. For just $19, you can select a 1-day, 2-day, or 60-day pass, giving you plenty of flexibility.
The pass unlocks discounted tastings and custom experiences at multiple wineries, making it ideal for those wanting to try a variety of wines without committing to a full tour. Expect to sample Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel — some of California’s most popular varietals — and enjoy stunning Instagram-worthy scenery as you go. Many wineries in this region are family-run and focus on crafting quality wines in a friendly, approachable atmosphere. The digital format makes it easy to plan your tasting route, especially if you want to avoid crowds or fit it into a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: This pass is perfect for flexible, budget-friendly wine tasting, especially for those who want to explore at their own pace in a scenic setting.
$19 per person
2. Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport
Coming in at number two, the Calaveras/Tuolumne Digital Wine Tasting Passport provides an alternative way to explore some of California’s less-visited but equally charming wine regions. For $19, this pass allows you to enjoy tastings, discounts, and custom experiences at wineries in Calaveras and Tuolumne counties. With options for 1-day, 2-day, or 60-day passes, you can tailor your tasting adventure to fit your schedule.
These regions boast a variety of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel wines, reflecting the diversity of California’s terroir. The wineries here are often smaller and less commercial, giving you a more intimate experience. Many reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the area, with rolling hills and historic towns adding charm to your tasting journey. The digital pass simplifies planning, allowing you to visit multiple wineries without the logistical headache of bookings.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to discover wines in a more relaxed setting and enjoy the discounted prices. The regions are less crowded than more famous spots, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter wine tasting experience.
Bottom Line: This pass offers good value for travelers looking for an authentic, uncrowded experience deep in California’s wine country.
$19 per person
3. Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport
Finally, the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport rounds out our list with a focus on the diverse wineries in Placer County, a short drive from Folsom. At only $19, this pass provides access to tastings across multiple wineries over a flexible period. Like the others, you can choose 1, 2, or 60 days to best match your schedule.
Placer County is known for high-quality Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel wines, many from family-owned vineyards that emphasize craftsmanship and terroir. The region offers a mix of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it suitable for both casual tasters and dedicated wine enthusiasts. The digital format allows you to explore the region’s wineries at your own pace, with the added benefit of discounted tasting fees and exclusive experiences.
Reviews note that the wineries are set in beautiful scenery, often with outdoor tasting areas perfect for social distancing or enjoying a picnic. Whether you’re an experienced wine lover or just discovering your palate, this pass makes it easy to sample a variety of wines in a relaxed environment.
Bottom Line: For those seeking variety and the convenience of a self-guided experience close to Folsom, Placer County’s digital pass delivers good value and a chance to explore lesser-known but quality wineries.
$19 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. If you prefer flexible, self-paced tasting with a focus on scenic and approachable wineries, the Apple Hill/Carson Road Digital Wine Tasting Passport is a great pick. For a quieter, more intimate experience in less crowded regions, the Calaveras/Tuolumne digital pass is ideal. If you want to explore a broader variety of wineries in a convenient, all-in-one package near Folsom, the Placer County Digital Wine Tasting Passport works well.
Booking early is always a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during busy weekends or holidays. These digital passes are especially practical because they allow you to plan your schedule flexibly, whether you want to dedicate a single afternoon or spread out your tasting over weeks.
Final Thoughts
Folsom’s proximity to numerous California wine regions makes it an excellent base for wine tasting adventures. Whether you opt for the scenic, flexible digital passes in Apple Hill, Calaveras, or Placer County, each offers a different experience suited to various tastes and schedules. For those looking for an easy way to sample a variety of high-quality wines without the hassle of multiple reservations, the digital wine tasting passports are hard to beat — especially at just $19.
If you’re a casual wine drinker, the Apple Hill/Carson Road pass provides a delightful, scenic introduction. For those wanting a quieter, more personalized experience, Calaveras/Tuolumne offers a more intimate journey. And if you’re eager to explore multiple regions with minimal fuss, Placer County’s pass is a smart choice. Whichever you pick, booking early will ensure you get the most out of your wine country adventure close to Folsom.