Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon

Black Hand Cellars

glass of wine

We have enjoyed visiting Black Hand Cellars tasting room on several occasions and while communicating with Tom Banish the owner and winemaker we have yet to actual talk face to face.  The name Black Hand Cellars, evolved through many stories of the owners great Grandmother on the banished-side of the family would tell about the great wines her husband would make and how the Black Hand Mafia found a liking to his wine and would seek him out for it. With such an intriguing history the name for the winery was chosen and the roaring 20's theme set in motion along with hands stained from the harvest of their rich red wine varietals. Tom and his wife have done a great job with their wines and make it a fun experience all at the same time. Tom and his wife are very much into the entire experience and they have been known to stay a little longer even while closing to share the fruits of their labor and the Black Hand Cellar experience.~

Hours:

Mon-Sun - 12:00pm to 5:00pm

Blacksmith Cellars

painting women with wine

In 2003, winemaker Matt Smith embarked on his journey with Blacksmith Cellars, debuting his 2001 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. This elegant wine quickly captured the attention of wine enthusiasts, showcasing the artistry, craftsmanship, and tradition of exceptional independent winemaking.

By 2005, Smith expanded his repertoire with the release of his first white wine, the 2004 Monterey Chenin Blanc, which earned a prestigious 4 Star Gold Medal at the Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition.

While Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc remain the flagship offerings of Blacksmith Cellars, Smith’s passion for exploration is evident in his diverse portfolio. Over the years, he has introduced classic varietals like Syrah and Chardonnay, alongside lesser-known treasures such as Torrontés and Verdelho. Wine lovers can also savor his exceptional proprietary blends, “Adamantine” and “Hephaestus,” making a visit to Blacksmith Cellars a must for those seeking unique and high-quality wines in California's vibrant wine country.

In 2003, winemaker Matt Smith launched Blacksmith Cellars with the release of his 2001 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, an elegant wine that celebrated the artistry, craftsmanship, and tradition of great independent winemaking. Rock Wall Wine Company represents a new chapter in the East Bay urban winemaking scene. Founded and operated by a group of industry veterans, including Kent Rosenblum and his daughter, winemaker Shauna Rosenblum. Rock Wall wines are founded on the philosophy of the right grape in the right place and are the result of many long-term relationships with acclaimed vineyards. Grapes are sourced from all over California.

Image-painting women with wine by wine artist Agata Zamborowski

Omega Vineyards & Winery

Old Vine Zinfandel - photographer Randy Caparoso

Established in 2006, Alpha Omega is a gem for California wine lovers, dedicated to crafting artisanal, handcrafted wines that beautifully blend Old World vineyard traditions with New World innovation. Their mission focuses on capturing the unique terroir of Napa Valley, allowing each bottle to express a true sense of place.

Nestled on the Rutherford Bench in the heart of Napa Valley, Alpha Omega welcomes visitors with a warm and inviting atmosphere, mirroring the authentic spirit of the Napa Valley farming community. The winery's founders, Robin and Michelle Baggett, have always prioritized creating world-class wines in a convivial setting, a commitment that has remained strong since they first opened their doors on July 1, 2006.

The picturesque surroundings at Alpha Omega are nothing short of breathtaking, featuring charming water fountains, a serene reflecting pond, and stunning views of the Mayacamas Mountains. This stunning backdrop provides the perfect ambiance for savoring the handcrafted wines produced from grapes sourced from prestigious, historic vineyards, all expertly managed by Alpha Omega’s talented winemaking team.

Visitors are greeted by a friendly staff of knowledgeable wine educators, eager to share their passion for wine in a setting that feels like a postcard from paradise. The winery’s modern farm-style architecture, located along the famous Highway 29, enhances the experience, making it a delightful destination for those seeking beautiful wines and a memorable visit.

When Robin and Michelle first toured the valley in 2005, they envisioned creating an estate that rivaled the finest in Napa. Drawing on their diverse backgrounds—Robin as a seasoned attorney and grape grower, and Michelle as an international hotel interior designer turned hospitality marketing expert—they brought their ambitious vision to life. The name Alpha Omega, conceived in 2005, reflects their commitment to delivering the ultimate winery experience from start to finish. Today, Alpha Omega proudly stands as one of the top wineries in the region, inviting all to indulge in its extraordinary offerings.

Image - Old Vine Zinfandel - photographer Randy Caparoso

Derby Wine Estates

Pouring wine - Pixabay

They are a boutique, family-owned winery with three estate vineyards across the central coast and a tasting room and production facility on the outskirts of downtown Paso Robles. With a passion for good wine and good company, they strive to share both with everyone who walks through their door. Still want to know more? Take a look!

Rock Canyon Vineyards

picture of recued donkey at the estate

Located in Alpine, CA at an altitude of 3,000 feet is Rock Canyon Vineyards. Hot summer days and cool nights contribute the some wonderful handcrafted and unfiltered wines with delightful unique earthy falvor. Think of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and some red blends.

Barton Family Estate

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - woman with wine

The Barton Family Estate is the only site on the 46 West corridor in Paso Robles that offers Wine, Food, and Spirits all in one location. What more could you ask for when looking for a genuine Paso Robles tasting experience like no other. 

Today, Barton and his wife Jenny run the family business as a husband and wife-team. Joe’s mom, Shirlene, is also an integral part of the day-to-day operations still and they are a completely owned and operated family business to this day. Together they have modernized their family brand and added a beautiful urban farmhouse tasting room to the property. They added Barton’s Kitchen in 2013, offering farm-to-table, casual cuisine, and in 2022, Grain+Vine Craft Distillery was born. 

Big Basin Vineyards

pouring a glass of wine - Pixabay

Big Basin Vineyards was founded in 1998 on an historic site in the Santa Cruz Mountains next to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The old ranch property was first settled in the late 1800s. Wine grape cultivation had been started by French immigrants by the early 1900s and continued until 1965 when the property was sold by Justin Lacau, who had named the property "Frenchy's Ranch", to a timber company. By the 1990s, all that remained of the vineyards were redwood stakes and scattered vines hidden by brush and poison oak bushes. The mission has been to restore this historic vineyard site using modern, organic viticultural methods. The winery building was completed in December 2003 on the same site as the original 1890s house/winery structure which burned down in the 1970s. It is a 'Monitor'-style barn with a timber frame construction built using redwood selectively harvested from the estate.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards

Grape cluster - art - Pixabay

Ken Volk has been making Santa Barbara and Central Coast wines for more than a quarter century. Perhaps best known as the founder of Wild Horse Winery, Ken has earned a reputation for crafting world-class wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Santa Maria Valley.

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