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

At Brick Barn Wine Estate, a winemaking philosophy is embraced that is deeply rooted in the character of the estate vineyard and the unique attributes of its location. Guided by the essence of the vineyard, the estate follows non-invasive farming practices, allowing the fruit to express its inherent qualities, resulting in wines of remarkable personality and distinction.

The commitment to the "will of the vineyard" is reflected in the estate’s approach, with minimal interventions, purposeful inputs, and a dedication to showcasing terroir clarity. This philosophy demands constant vigilance both in the vineyard and the cellar, where winemaking practices are adapted to the nuances of each variety and vineyard lot.

Under the discerning guidance of Winemaker Adrian Bolshoi, a diverse array of fermentation and maturation vessels, including neutral oak barrels, new oak barrels, oak puncheons, stainless steel, and concrete, are employed. Each wine undergoes a tailored maceration and fermentation process to accentuate and celebrate its unique characteristics.

Brick Barn Wine Estate’s pursuit of excellence remains unwavering. The team is steadfast in their quest to amplify the voice of each vineyard block, continuously exploring new techniques to honor the terroir’s intention and unlock its boundless potential for greatness.

Adrian Bolshoi, Winemaker

Adrian Bolshoi, the winemaker at Brick Barn Wine Estate, brings a wealth of experience and a global perspective to his craft. Growing up in Moldova, a region known for its wine production, Adrian learned the art of winemaking from his family. Inspired by this heritage, he pursued enology studies at the Polytechnical University of Moldova.

After completing his education, Adrian sought to expand his knowledge of winemaking methods and technologies, immersing himself in New World practices in 2011. Since joining Brick Barn Wine Estate in 2019, Adrian has risen to the position of winemaker. His focus on crafting wines that reflect the essence of each varietal has earned him recognition for his exceptional skill and dedication. For Adrian, winemaking is not just a profession, but a passion deeply rooted in family and tradition.