“Every wine in the Blackbird collection is a true expression of the Napa Valley, with each possessing extraordinary structure and finesse. These limited production wines display the complexity extracted from the highest quality fruit and devoted winemaking techniques.”
–Aaron Pott, Winemaker

Dover Canyon Winery: A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Dover Canyon Winery is nestled on Vineyard Drive in the Willow Creek appellation of Paso Robles. Owner and winemaker Dan Panico has long believed that the calcareous soil along Vineyard Drive is ideal for cultivating Zinfandel and Rhône varieties. The estate vineyard showcases Organic, Dry-Farmed Zinfandel and Syrah, reflecting the winery's dedication to sustainable practices.

Focusing on small lots of artisanal wines, Dover Canyon often produces vineyard-designated selections that highlight the unique characteristics of each site. With a passion for the heritage grape of Paso Robles, the winery actively seeks out Dry-Farmed, Mountain Grown, and Old Vine Zinfandel from local vineyards, ensuring a commitment to quality and tradition in every bottle.

people enjoying wine - wine artist Agata Zaborowski

In 1989, well ahead of the Paso Robles vineyard boom Bob and Jan decided to plant a small vineyard. Pebble Smith, wine and vineyard expert and the father of world-famous winemaker Justin Smith, owner of Saxum, selected an entirely south-facing rocky hillside situated 1800 feet above sea level. Ten acres were ripped to four feet, yielding large calcareous rocks laden with whalebones and other marine mammal fossils – thus the origin of the vineyard and winery's name. The calcareous treasures trapped in the vineyard's broken shale and limestone were left behind after the underwater canyons and basins retreated, and when the earth shifted and folded during the Miocene some six million years ago. On this hillside reminiscent of a moonscape, the Simpson Family planted this distinctive property exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon. Our friend, noted cattleman Rex Swan, has an entire baby whale thorax and vertebrae intact in a rock now centered over his fireplace. The graphic on the back label was produced from that specimen. It became apparent to the Simpson’s that they had a very special vineyard. For over a decade, grape buyers have raved about the vineyard and its fruit. The terrain and coastal influence create a synergy that yields fruit that is crafted into rich and substantial wine. This distinctive area is no longer a secret, as evidenced by the purchase of an adjacent ranch by the Perrin Brothers of Château de Beaucastel and Robert Hass, after two years of combing California for the perfect spot to grow Rhone varietals.

Lori Silkey are doing something different in Red Bluff, and it appears to be working. In addition to producing some extraordinary, "Old World" style wines, Tuscan Ridge Estate Winery in Red Bluff California is a place where you can participate in special events or enjoy time with friends watching a game on the big screen while Lori and Jeff pour the fruits of their labor into your glass. Savor a quality wine and for a moment be transported to a little corner of Italy as you sip a glass of Zinfandel or Sangiovese. While its is clear that Lori ha been accepted by many of the locals, and it is a fun and friendly winery to visit, Lori take her wine making seriously. The Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cab Franc were very nice as was the Merlot. I decided to bring home the Sangiovese, which is very nice and I did not have any other Sangiovese in my collection. I am looking forward to trying the Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel next visit. If you find yourself driving through Red Bluff, take a little break and visit Tuscan Ridged Estate Winery you will be glad you did. 

Hours:
Mon - Thurs - closed
Fri  -   3:00 pm to 8:00 pm*
Sat -  12:00 pm to 7:00 pm*
Sun - 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm*

* Friday and Saturday are is wine and pizza nights (reservations suggested for Friday evening).  Sunday is wine and antipasti. ~