Venteux Vineyards (pronounced "Vin 2") is suitably named as this ten acre estate is nestled in the renowned "windy" Templeton Gap in the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country. Known for hot dry days and cool damp nights this growing region is ideal for dry-farmed, head-trained vines which produce intensely bold and flavorful Rhone varietals. Experience life on a working winery and vineyard with luxurious stays at the winery's Bed & Breakfast inn.
Kiamie WIne Cellars blends grapes from the distictive Westside of Paso Robles vineryards into wines of expression and uncompromising quality. Kiamie: key ah' mee.
Kiamie Wine Cellars is a collaboration between two guys with diverse, yet complementary backgrounds. While living in New York City, Aram Deirmenjian and Greg Johnson always shared a history and enthusiasm for wine.
Aram grew up working in his family's vineyards, spending every summer helping with the harvest.
Greg, an heir to the Kiamie Real Estate throne in New York, spent his lifetime drinking fine wines and working over a decade retailing wine at one of New York's top-selling wine shops.
Together, Aram and Greg compliment one another's backgrounds and realized their dream of developing a fine California winery.... named after Greg's mother's maiden name, Kiamie.
A family owned seven acres estate winery commited to making the best possible Cabernet Sauvignon based wines. Personal care and attention in every bottle.
Chateau Margene, now celebrating its 26th year, is the realization of a dream brought to life by Michael and Margene Mooney. Back in 1997, they envisioned planting a vineyard, crafting a winery, and establishing their home in the beautiful Paso Robles area. By the summer of 1998, the family settled into their property, where they still reside, and kicked off their adventure by planting the estate vineyard that fall.
With annual production ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 cases—thanks to the whims of Mother Nature—Chateau Margene embraces a "quality over quantity" mantra. The estate boasts two charming vineyard blocks: Stella’s Vineyard, named in honor of Margene's mother and their granddaughter, Jon's daughter, showcases two clones of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, planted in 2014. Meanwhile, the front vineyard, Michael's Vineyard, pays tribute to Michael and Margene's older son and grandson, featuring a delightful mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Sangiovese.
Their farming practices are all about being organic and sustainable, with Michael taking the reins on vineyard management and winemaking alongside his son Jon. Meanwhile, Margene steers the day-to-day operations and works her magic as the winemaker for their exquisite Cabernet Franc. Cheers to this vibrant family legacy in the heart of Paso Robles!
Painting by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski
Hunt Cellars is all about crafting wines that elevate every moment—whether it’s cozying up by the fireplace or pairing perfectly with your favorite meals. These wines are designed to enhance those special occasions and create lasting memories.
When the Hunt Family set out to chase their winemaking dream, they embarked on an adventurous journey, exploring premium wine regions in Oregon, Washington, and California. After extensive travels, they landed in San Luis Obispo County, drawn to Paso Robles for its diverse soils, exceptional growing climate, and unique winemaking styles, all infused with a spirit of graciousness and traditional American values.
After scouring numerous properties, they discovered a stunning 550-acre gem on Highway 41 in Creston. This picturesque land met all their criteria, featuring varied elevations and soil compositions that echo the world’s greatest wine regions—perfect for growing exceptional, intense fruit for their wines.
The Hunts decided to name their vineyard “Destiny Vineyards” in honor of their baby girl, Destiny, who arrived in 1996. And if you ask her today, she’ll proudly tell you which wines reign supreme!
The vineyard’s inaugural planting included an impressive lineup: Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Viognier, and Zinfandel. To showcase their premium wines, the Hunts opened a charming tasting room in October 1999.
In 1997, they began producing their first memorable wine releases. The Hunt family quickly learned that great wines start with exceptional fruit. At Hunt Cellars, they pour passion and hard work into every bottle, ensuring that each wine embodies the varietal character, flavor, and velvety finish that has become their trademark.
So, whether you’re planning a celebration or just want to unwind, Hunt Cellars invites wine lovers to explore their delightful offerings and enjoy a taste of their journey!
people enjoying wine outdoors by wine artist Agata Zaborowski
Winemaker Chris Ferrara is deeply influenced by his Sicilian heritage, Chris creates Italian varietals that are old-world, iconic, and elegant. Tucked in between the rolling hills of the Templeton Gap AVA and surrounded by vegetable gardens and roaming chickens, Clesi Winery is open Thursday through Sunday in their Tasting Room at 1873 Templeton Road in Templeton. After more than a decade in San Luis Obispo, Adrienne and Chris Ferrara of Clesi bought 30 acres in 2015 to return to the Templeton AVA.
Willow Creek Wine Co. is a boutique winery located on the west side of Paso Robles, owned and operated by Natalie and Brian Brown. The winery specializes in old-vine Chenin Blanc, estate Syrah, and Rhône-style blends.
The vision for Willow Creek Wine Co. began in 2016 when the Brown family purchased a small ten-acre parcel on Vineyard Drive in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles. Upon moving to the property, Brian and Natalie Brown embarked on the task of rehabilitating the land, which had been overrun with underbrush and weeds. As professional winemakers, their dream was to cultivate their own piece of land and establish a winery to house their various brands. At the time, they were already producing their own projects—Emerson Brown and Rococo—and began creating wines together under the brand that would eventually become Willow Creek Wine Co. In 2019, they harvested their first crop from the property, which contributed to the development of their wine label, In Medias Res.
In 2020, they opened the doors to the estate’s brand-new production facility and tasting room, now showcasing all four of their brands for visitors to enjoy.
Clara and Steve’s journey into winemaking began after retiring from their long careers in construction management and law enforcement. Eager to leave the hustle and bustle of Southern California behind, they set their sights on Paso Robles, seeking a slower pace where they could enjoy each other’s company. In 2012, they moved into a beautiful home on a 5-acre property, an ideal setting for a peaceful vineyard with breathtaking views.
Their first half-acre of 600 head-trained Grenache vines was planted in June 2012, marking the beginning of their adventure. With 3 ½ acres still untouched, they expanded in 2014, planting Tempranillo, Grenache, Carignane, and Tannat vines to complete their vision. Initially, they believed they would sell most of the grapes, make a small amount of wine, and enjoy the country life. However, they soon realized they had "retired" to an even more demanding job—farming! Managing four acres with 3,900 vines required patience, stamina, scientific know-how, and instinct.
The next logical step was to learn how to make wine and communicate with potential grape buyers. They quickly sourced grapes from friends, producing Circle B’s first wines, which went on to win home winemaking awards. In 2016, Circle B Vineyards & Cellars officially entered the market with their first releases: the 2013 Petite Sirah, 2013 Syrah, and 2015 Rosé de Garnacha, officially becoming a licensed vineyard and winery.
Almond Hill Vineyard is a small family owned and operated Estate Vineyard located on a hillside previously planted in almond trees on the West side of the Paso Robles appellation, mid-way between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Proprietors Dennis Van Westerhuyzen and his wife Nicole Cavier searched for many years, up and down the California Coast, for some land to plant a small vineyard to keep themselves busy during their retirement years, and also because they both enjoy wine. They bought the property in 1997 The first 2 1/2 acres of Syrah vines were planted in 2000. They were very fortunate to find a buyer for their first harvest in 2002, a great little boutique winery right next door. In 2004 they planted another 4 acres of Syrah and 1 acre of Petite Sirah grafted with budwood from the acclaimed Richard Sauret Vineyard near by.
Meet the Winemaker: Aaron Baer
Aaron Baer didn’t grow up in the vineyards, but he certainly learned the value of hard work. As the son of a general contractor and finish carpenter, his childhood was filled with the scents of sawdust and the rhythm of construction. While most kids were playing after school, Aaron was busy planning raw materials and sanding finishes, understanding early on that in a family business, a sick day meant heading to work.
His wine journey began serendipitously during high school, when his parents took on a project to build a condo atop a barn on a vineyard. There, Aaron got his hands dirty shoveling Petite Sirah grapes into a destemmer, igniting a newfound passion for winemaking. As they produced more wine in that makeshift winery, Aaron realized this wasn’t just a hobby—it was a calling.
With his family becoming shareholders in the vineyard, wine officially became part of their family business. Fueled by enthusiasm, he applied to Fresno State and Cal Poly, eventually choosing Cal Poly for its proximity to Paso Robles and its robust winemaking program. Graduating with a degree in Enology and a minor in Agricultural Business, he stepped into the world of wine with a ticket to Australia in hand.
In early 2015, Aaron found himself at Elderton Winery, working with 100-year-old Shiraz vines in the Barossa Valley. This eye-opening experience led him to a collaboration with Guillaume Fabre of Clos Solene, where he honed his skills further in the cellar. By spring 2016, Aaron was off to Bordeaux to work in the vineyards of Petrus, followed by a stint at Domaine La Barroche in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, soaking in the rich history and techniques of winemaking.
After returning to the Central Coast and spending time as a filtration technician, Aaron was eager to dive back into winemaking. He landed at Realm Cellars during a tumultuous harvest marked by wildfires, an experience that shifted his perspective and ultimately drew him back to Paso Robles to work closer to his family.
In 2018, he seized an opportunity at Sine Qua Non, applying techniques he had learned abroad. When his father sent encouraging reports about their family vineyard, Solana, Aaron couldn’t resist the urge to create a small batch of wine, which he named Un Petit Début.
By 2019, Aaron had fully returned home, producing a wine he aptly named Le Retour as a tribute to his journey. Each release is a nod to his French mentors, reflecting his appreciation for those who guided him along the way.
Aaron’s brand, ALLBAER, honors the unwavering support of his family, who have been his greatest cheerleaders. With every bottle, he not only shares his passion for California wine but also a heartfelt tribute to those who helped him along the way. New beginnings and the adventures that await in every glass!
Photo courtesy of photographer Randy Caparoso
