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W
I N E R Y & V I N E Y A R D |
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For
other wineries, their visions rested to Italy ís west in
the rich tradition of France. Rhone wines require limestone soil
that is very rocky. Bordeaux soil is composed of gravel, sandy
stone, and clay, but the extraordinary terroire of Paso Robles
west side offers both sets of conditions. Halter Ranch is one
vineyard taking advantage of the soils to bring a bit of France
to California with Rhone and Bordeaux style wines. The ranch sits
on a 900-acre parcel of land with a history dating back to the
1880's. Vines take up 245 acres, while a tourist site consisting
of a wine tasting room, barnyards, and another tasting room in
the back. While the winery is a fairly new addition, they still
strive to keep the spirit of old California alive on this historic
ranch with historic buildings. Their 100+ year old ancient oak
tree recognized by the American Forestry Association stands as
the pride of their vineyard, and a testimony to their sustainable
practices employed on their vineyard. "We have 19 grape varieties
planted in 48 separate vineyard blocks delineated primarily based
on soil types, which range from calcareous clay to clay loam with
shale and sandstone deposits. Sixty percent are Bordeaux varieties
and 40% Rhone varieties, plus Zinfandel and Tannat." Says
Leslie Wyss, general manager of the winery. "Our emphasis
on quality in the vineyard is complemented by our commitment to
environmentally responsible grape-growing practices. Farming sustainably
means relying whenever possible on organic methods of fertilization,
weed removal, pest control and mildew protection. Sustainable
farming not only respects and protects the land and the people
who work it, it also results in wines that more eloquently express
their provenance."
Thereís
a spirit here that people can feel.
Amenities:
- Tasting Room
- Gift store
- Tours
- Wine reviews
- www.halterranch.com
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F
E A T U R E D -W
I N E ,S |
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2005
Cabernet Sauvignon / Paso
Robles
A laid back nose with a strong body, this dark, complex
cabernet has a sophisticated nose of currants and ripe
blackberries. Overtones of chocolate, olives, and hints
of oak help to integrate all the flavors in a rich mouth
fill with deep tannins. The long finish keeps you coming
back for more. Designed to age well, this wine is perfect
for aging over the next decade.
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2004
Ancestor
/ Paso
Robles
Drink this Estate Reserve Cabernet blended with Petit
Verdot, Merlot, Malbec and Syrah and feel the connection
to a rich history with hints of mellow old vines. This
vintage Bordeaux style blend has already been softened
by two years in the bottle. Ancestor is a complex and
sophisticated nose of rich cassis and blackberry fruit.
Combine that further with the legacy of its wide open
surroundings: bark of the cedar tree, tobacco leaf,
surrounding berry bushes. The almost jammy intensity
of the blackberries is balanced by the young tannins.
Don't be afraid to hold on to a bottle for at least
a decade, as this wine was made with a respect for aging.
Named after the ancient Coast Live Oak tree that sits
center stage on the Halter Ranch Estate, this venerable
tree represents all that is sacred to them. It is their
ancestor. Only 400 cases produced.
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2005
Syrah
/ Paso Robles
Close your eyes and picture the steep cliffs of the
Northern Rhone, and then swirl your first glass of Halter
Ranch Syrah, blended ever-so-lightly with the Mourvedre
and Malbec grapes. Your first sip shall transport you
to an out-of-California experience, yet everything is
grown right here in the Paso Robles region, by winemakers
specializing in the Rhone Valley experience. Smokey
plums and cassis aromas are accented with rich mocha
and hints of licorice. A lush mouth feel is enhanced
by just enough acidity to bring out brightness and zest.
A very hearty red with lots of tannins, pair with your
boldest barbeque and grilled fare. Guaranteed to age
well over time.
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Halter Ranch Vineyard
8910 Adelaida Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: 805-226-9455
Toll Free: 888-367-9977
Fax: 805-226-9668
www.halterranch.com
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