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Amador County's history is closely tied to the California Gold Rush, particularly the Mother Lode region. The county was named after Jose Maria Amador, a wealthy ranchero who mined gold in the area in the 1840s. Amador County was formed in 1854, and became a hub for gold mining operations, including the Keystone Mine and the Argonaut Mine. Amador County's wine history began with the California Gold Rush in the 1850s when gold miners, seeking sustenance, planted vineyards. By the 1800s, the area, known as the Mother Lode, had more wineries than any other region in California, many of which have survived until today. While Zinfandel is Amador's signature grape, other varieties, especially Italian and Southern French, have gained popularity.