Booker Wines: Crafting Impactful Wines with Purpose

At Booker Wines, the mission is clear: to thoughtfully farm and craft world-class wines that leave a small ecological footprint while making a significant impact. Their estate vineyard, which proudly achieved Regenerative Organic Certified® (ROC™) status in 2023, produces a diverse range of wines, with a particular emphasis on Rhône varietals. These wines are produced in limited quantities and often sell out to the winery's wine club upon release, with select offerings from the current vintage available for purchase.

The name "Booker" honors two orphan brothers, Claude and Dick Booker, who acquired the land in the late 1920s. By the turn of the century, the Booker brothers had amassed over 1,200 acres on Paso Robles' Westside, dedicating their lives to exceptional farming and humanitarian efforts. When they passed away—Dick in 1990 and Claude in 2000—they generously left 100% of their estate to charity.

In 2001, Eric and Lisa Jensen purchased 100 acres of the property, aiming to cultivate the best fruit for the region's top wineries. After gaining invaluable experience making wine with renowned winemakers Justin Smith of Saxum and Stephan Asseo of L'Aventure Wines, the Jensens decided to create their own expression with Booker Vineyard. The 2005 vintage marked Booker Vineyard's first release, crafted by founder Eric Jensen. The vineyard achieved organic certification in April 2021, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable practices.

Booker Wines continues to honor its legacy while producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Paso Robles.

women enjoying wine - wine artist Agarta Zaborowski 

Quality wine begins in the vineyard, and the estate's vineyards are a constant source of pride, concern, and inspiration. Ponte Family Estate Winery cultivates 21 varieties across nearly 300 acres, making their vineyards among the largest in Temecula. The vineyard team diligently stays informed about the latest viticulture techniques and works tirelessly to ensure the grapes thrive year after year, allowing them to deliver the exceptional wines that their guests cherish.

Discover the Rich Heritage of Saucelito Canyon Vineyard

Nestled in the picturesque hills just five miles east of Arroyo Grande, Saucelito Canyon Vineyard invites California wine lovers to explore its storied legacy. Established in 1880, this vineyard faced abandonment during Prohibition, only to be lovingly revived in 1974 by visionary Bill Greenough, who poured his heart and soul into restoring these historic vines.

As you journey along the winding roads past Lopez Lake and deeper into the serene canyon, you’ll be greeted by a charming Zinfandel vineyard that has flourished amidst the chaparral for over 130 years. Once a pioneer of the Central Coast’s wine scene, this hidden gem has reclaimed its place in California's rich viticultural tapestry.

Bill Greenough saw potential in the gnarled, overgrown vines, and his intuition bore fruit—literally! Today, Saucelito Canyon Vineyard is celebrated for its exceptional Zinfandel, crafted with a deep respect for tradition.

This family-owned winery is now a labor of love spanning two generations, dedicated to producing a diverse range of limited-production wines. Join us in savoring the unique character of our estate-grown Zinfandels, each bottle a testament to our vineyard's remarkable journey and the passion that continues to drive us forward. Come and taste the history!

Saucelito specializes in Zinfandel, and has some really nice ones. Great place to enjoy a picnic and a bottle of wine. The history of Zin presentation on the outside wall should not be missed by lovers of the grape.