Paso Robles – other grape varieties

Following Prohibition, Zinfandel became the workhorse grape for the extended Paso Robles area. The variety had characteristics suitable for the rather arid climate. One of the important figures to help establish a sense of wine country in Paso during those early years was the Polish concert pianist Ignace Paderewski, who had a love for both Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. Today Paderewski’s influence remains valued by locals, with Epoch winery and Saxum now farming some of his original vineyards (see the image with yesterday's article on Rhône varieties in Paso)...