The Fords are renowned for their passion for family, friends, travel, and, of course, wine. John and his wife, Kimiko, have journeyed extensively throughout California, often favoring cozy bed-and-breakfast inns as they explore the local wine scene. With a degree in geology, John’s fascination with science and soil laid the groundwork for his deep interest in the history and technology of winemaking. As their appreciation for wine blossomed, John and Kimiko shared their enthusiasm with family and friends, who became regular companions on wine excursions to Northern and Central California.

By the early 1980s, John and Kimiko began dreaming of creating their own estate winery destination, complete with an elegant Tuscan-style bed-and-breakfast inn. This vision soon attracted the involvement of John’s brothers, Steve and Lance, who also embraced the dream. Captivated by the stunning landscapes of the Central Coast, the brothers were drawn to the rapidly growing wine region.

In 1999, the Ford brothers took a significant step by purchasing a 24-acre parcel of land in Templeton, California, which would become Moss Lane Estates and John Alan Winery. This picturesque property now features an 11-acre vineyard and a beautiful cut flower garden, providing a serene setting for wine lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich viticultural heritage of the area.

For those exploring California’s wineries, John Alan Winery offers a unique experience that reflects the Fords’ love of wine, family, and the enchanting landscapes of the Central Coast.

When in wine country, some enjoy a Disneyland experience -- fake castles & dungeons, tram rides, huge gift shops, docents, buses, limos, and a million things to distract you from the wine. And then, there's Coturri. The production is tiny. The facility is a garage. Check out the Syrah, Zin, or anything that they might happen to have on hand to share...and you'll get a great bottle of hand-made wine with little intervention of any sort.

Bankers by profession, Jim and Mary are no newcomers to wine. They've owned one of America's oldest wineries, Hermannhof, since 1974. It's located in their home state of Missouri, where Jim was raised in a farming tradition.The wines at Hermannhof are good, but the Missouri climate is not conducive to growing the European varietals that have made France and California famous. This winemaking couple are constructing their dream winery on the Star Lane property. It's dug into the hillside for efficient use of energy and will host some 26,000 square feet of caves for barrel aging.

The Peachy Canyon "Old Schoolhouse" tasting room, situated in the heart of Paso Robles' wine country along Highway 46 West, is a landmark attraction. The historic Old Bethel Schoolhouse, dating back to 1886, is a must-visit destination. Guests can enjoy tasting the world-famous Estate Zinfandels, along with over 15 other handcrafted small-batch Rhone and Bordeaux varietals that are exclusive to this location.

The last available guided-tasting session is at 4:00 PM, with a by-the-glass option offered until 4:30 PM.

Please note that while reservations are recommended, they are not required. Walk-ins are welcome as long as a team member is available. There is also a new dog policy: while dogs are beloved, they are not allowed inside the tasting room. Well-behaved and properly socialized dogs on a leash are permitted in the designated "dog area" with their owners. However, dogs that bark, growl, or are off-leash will be asked to leave. Tasting service in the dog area is limited to flight service, or one person from the group can come inside to receive the next wine pour.