ep·och [ep–uhk or, especially Brit., ee-pok]
Noun: a particular period of time marked by distinctive features, events, etc.
Epoch Estate Wines is one of the newer tasting rooms that’s opened in the glorious Paso Robles wine region. They’ve taken up residence in the historical old York Mountain Winery location, out Hwy 46 West. York Mountain is rumored to be one of, if not the oldest wineries in the country, and there’s evidence of that everywhere you look out at the property. From the crumbling brick walls that made up the original facility, to the winding vines all over the outbuildings. All this is a great contrast to the shiny, new Epoch Tasting Room which is a single-wide that’s been expertly transformed into a very cool, modern and comfortable place to sip their delicious wines. Like they say at Epoch, this is a new period in history, that happens to be marked by distinctive features and wines.
Speaking of the wines…they had a nice list, including a delicious Grenache Blanc, and refreshing Rose, and some really nice reds blends. It’s not surprising that the wines are great, considering that their consulting winemaker is Justin Smith of Saxum. The Epoch wines are all estate (hence, the name) and they’ve planted their vineyards according to the Paso Robles terrior…focusing on Rhone varieties like Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Grenache, and Roussane. They’ve also got some Tempranillo vines in the ground, the grapes used for their 100% Tempranillo that they pour in the tasting room (damn good stuff). Their first planted property was at the very renowned and historical Paderewski property, which resulted in their first vintage of 2007.
Overall, this is just a neat spot. When you are looking around the property, you truly do feel like you are looking at something historic…almost like going back in time. Maybe it’s the known history of the property…maybe it’s the vibe…but you feel like you are off away from all the day to day hustle, and it is awesome. In fact, we think it could become a new place for us to go hang out and have a glass of wine. Watch out, Epoch…we’re on our way!!!
Just wanted to give a HUGE HnA shout out to the lovely ladies at Epoch, Addie and Kristen, you were incredible!!!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSPKo43iPsE[/youtube]
Leave a Reply