While residing in Orange County, California, they had envisioned owning a central coast vineyard and creating exceptional wines that would reflect the rich and unique terroir of the appellation. As longtime admirers of Paso Robles wines and winemakers, they frequently visited the renowned region. Each trip was an adventure, further fueling their desire for a permanent residence in Paso Robles, an area known for its culture, warmth, and diversity. They sought a healthy environment to raise their toddler, Spencer, and welcome their newborn, Alec.

Their dream became a reality in 2006 when they discovered and purchased Emboscada Ranch, situated high above Highway 46 West in the historic El Paso de Robles (the passage of the oaks). Planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon, this stunning property provided them with a desirable location, top-notch vines, and a wonderful place to make their home.

They renamed the ranch Sharp’s Hill Vineyards, honoring Rob Sharp and Pamela (Hill) Sharp, thus making it a family vineyard. The four grape leaves on their label symbolize their four family members, keeping “family” close to their hearts and establishing a new and lasting tradition. In addition to their hilltop location, they acquired several acres of superb vines on the west side of Paso Robles to include in their “estate grown” selection. Their focus is on the sumptuousness of Bordeaux varietals.

It all started back in 1988 when Eric’s parents purchased the land where the winery and vineyard sit today. Eric was still attending Cal Poly earning his BS in Ecology and Systematic Biology at the time but helped his dad by designing and planting the vineyard. After getting the vineyard planted and producing, Eric began to expand his wine knowledge. Biologist as his day job, Eric went back to school, attending UC Davis’s enology extension courses. Eventually, landing his first wine job with Ken Volk at Wild Horse Winery in Templeton and then moving into a position with Kendal-Jackson Winery. Eventually in 1998, Eric made the first official vintage of Zenaida Cellars and has been working on developing the wines ever since.

Pinot Noir is the driving passion of Marc Goldberg and Maggie D'Ambrosia, the husband and wife team who own Windward Vineyard. This vineyard is exclusively devoted to producing Burgundian-style Pinot Noir, reflecting the couple's deep commitment to creating a "Great American Pinot Noir" that can rival those from Burgundy.

Marc and Maggie acquired and planted the vineyard in 1989, drawn by the terroir and microclimate of Paso Robles' Westside. The unique combination of cooling Pacific breezes, calcareous soil, and a significant daily temperature drop of 50 degrees contributes to the production of exceptional Pinot Noir.

Embracing the Burgundian French concept of "Monopole," which signifies total control over both the vineyard and the winemaking process, the 15-acre property is planted with four notable French clones.

Windward Vineyard aims to re-establish Paso Robles' reputation for Pinot Noir, following in the footsteps of two influential figures in California wine history. In the late 1960s, consultant André Tchelistcheff managed the Paso Robles Hoffman Mountain Ranch property for Dr. Stanley Hoffman. During the 1970s, Hoffman's Pinot Noirs gained international acclaim and continued to impress even after 20 years.

Since their debut in 1995, each vintage from Windward Vineyard has been sold out and received significant acclaim, particularly from wine enthusiasts who value the layered complexity of Burgundian-style Pinot Noir. Marc notes, "The vineyard consistently produces formidable fruit. It is meeting our expectations as it matures and develops its intricate complexity."

The history of Hidden Oak Winery is a unique story shaped by a deep love of the land, family values, hard work, and tradition. The name "Hidden Oak Winery" reflects this heritage; before grapes were planted, almond trees grew on the property. During the clearing process, a small oak tree was discovered hidden among them, and it was nurtured to thrive alongside the vines. Today, this oak stands over 50 feet tall, a testament to the winery's commitment to the land.

Owners Mike and Martha James may be relatively new to winemaking, but their label has quickly garnered attention in the industry, resulting in numerous awards and reviews that are remarkable for such an emerging winery.

The James family toiled in the vineyard, celebrating their first harvest in 1997. “We learned that it goes beyond just picking the grapes at peak ripeness,” Mike explains. Together, they meticulously monitor the pH and acid levels, ensuring consistency, but they also take the time to taste the grapes, searching for that perfect flavor that indicates readiness for harvest. It’s not uncommon to see them strolling through the vineyard, sampling the fruit directly from the vines.

Their journey into winemaking began with a modest inaugural release intended solely for friends and family. However, encouragement from those who tasted their wines led them to offer their creations commercially. Starting with Merlot, the Jameses soon expanded their portfolio to include Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Zinfandel, and blends crafted from the diverse varietals grown on their property.

For wine lovers visiting California's wineries, Hidden Oak Winery promises a heartfelt experience rooted in tradition and dedication, along with a delightful selection of wines that capture the essence of the land.