Paso Robles Wine: Pelletiere Estate Vineyard

We recently had the opportunity (which means we had someone babysit Sammy) to get over to one of the newer wineries in town, Pelletiere Estate. This new spot is the vision of Janis Denner, and I must say, it is quite the vision.

AJB Vineyards used to own this spot but Janis recently purchased the property and did what I would call a rather extensive overhaul of the tasting room and farm house. Janis was there when we stopped in and gave us a tour of the farm house which is also one of Paso’s newest vacation rentals. It’s absolutely gorgeous inside and the views from every window are quintessential Paso Robles. You can check out some photos of the place here.

Now let’s talk wine. Amy Butler is the winemaker here and if you have followed us for any amount of time you know we are big fans of her projects. In fact, that’s why we put this spot on the list of places to check out. So, here’s what we tasted:

2013 Viognier – $28/bottle

2010 Sangiovese – $46/bottle

2012 Montepulciano – $32/bottle

2013 Zinfandel – $32/bottle

2012 Lagrein – $36/bottle

We truly did enjoy each of the wines. As big white wine fans the Viognier was fantastic and as wine adventurers it was fun to taste unique grapes like the Montepulciano and Lagrein. These are quite rare in the Paso area and were very nice. Sangiovese is slightly more common in the area and this one did not disappoint. Generally speaking we are not big Zin fans but this one was lighter, silkier, and less punch-you-in-the-face than many Zins are. You can check the wines out here.

Good job Amy and well done Janis for getting someone like her in there to put these wines together. We appreciate the time Janis gave us and congratulate her on the great work she’s done to spruce up that property. We look forward to going out there again.

Below you will find a short Q&A I did with Janis via email. You can also read more about the Pelletiere story here.

Matt: How long have you been in the wine business and what made you want to do so?

Janis: I love the wine lifestyle and I was intrigued by all the business structures of a vineyard/winery operation, which range from agriculture & manufacturing to retail. I find it both fascinating and challenging.

Matt: How would you describe Pelletiere wines?

Janis: Estate Grown Classic Italian varietals.  This isn’t Italy, it’s Willow Creek so, we also grow Syrah and Viognier. We are focused on the fruit quality coming out of our estate vineyards, and we feel that the wines show the diversity of the Willow Creek district. The wines are balanced and delicious with food.

Matt: Favorite wine on your current tasting list?

Janis: Sangiovese Riserva. But, I love them all.  I especially enjoy the Montepulciano. It’s so unique!

Matt: Total current acres of vines on your property?

Janis: 10 acres.

Matt: Do you have a favorite food and wine pairing?

Janis: My favorite dish is from Naples where my family originated, it’s Parmigiana di Melenzane, (Eggplant Parmesan), paired with our Sangiovese Riserva.

Thank you again for your interest and your support!!

Cheers!
Janis