Paso Robles, California: Alta Colina Winery
A family success story
My June 2023 visit to Alta Colina Winery, located in the scenic Paso Robles, California area, made a lasting impression. Embarking on a drive through the Adelaida Road wine corridor, I was treated to picturesque vineyards and breathtaking vistas that showcased the beauty of this part of the Paso Robles.
The winery itself is a labor of love and a true family project. Bob Tillman, a former home winemaker turned professional, founded Alta Colina in the early 2000s with a fervent passion for all things Rhone-related. While considering various wine regions across the West Coast, Tillman ultimately decided on this high-altitude site west of Paso Robles, captivated by its unique qualities.
Situated on hillsides, the vineyards of Alta Colina predominantly feature siliceous shale soil, contributing to the distinct character of their wines. The high altitude, reaching over 1,700 feet, brings about substantial diurnal temperature variations, contributing to a better flavor-acid balance of the grapes grown.
The vineyard composition is exclusively dedicated to Rhone varietals, with Syrah taking center stage. Grenache, Mourvedre, and Petite Sirah complete the red blend, while Marsanne, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, and the recent addition of Picpoul make up the white varietals.
UNCOMMON NOTE: The inclusion of Picpoul is a particularly noteworthy trend amid Californian Rhone varietal specialists, as it lends higher acidity and freshness to the wines.
Alta Colina's farming practices prioritize minimal intervention and strive to be as close to organic as possible. This commitment to sustainable viticulture ensures that the true essence of the terroir is preserved in every bottle.
Recently, the winemaking team expanded with the addition of Molly Lonborg as the winemaker. In line with their vineyard practices, the team adopts a minimalist approach in the cellar, allowing the wine to express itself fully. Over time, the use of new oak barrels has been minimized. This conscious decision ensures that the flavors imparted by new oak do not overshadow the meticulous work done in the vineyards.
During my visit, I had the pleasure of conversing with Maggie Tillman, the director of marketing and sales. She explained the efforts that the family made to develop their vineyards. It took them over two decades to build everything, from the vineyards to the winery and hospitality building.
While the whites were unfortunately sold out at the time of my visit, I had the opportunity to sample their red wines and a remarkable rosé. One surprising wine was their Grenache made using carbonic fermentation, a technique typically associated with Gamay grapes in the wine region of Beaujolais. The Grenache displayed delightful fruitiness and a soft, balanced palate—an intriguing departure from convention, best enjoyed slightly chilled on a warm day.
CONTACT:
Website: Alta Colina Winery
Location: 2825 Adelaida Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: 1-805-227-4191
Alta Colina Winery tasting Room
Maggie Tillman with the Old 900 Syrah
NOTABLE WINES TASTED:
Syrah, Old 900 (2020): Sourced from their finest Syrah parcels, this wine exuded a beautifully focused nose of dark berries with a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it showcased a rich and well-balanced profile, with tannic structure and refreshing acidity that bodes well for aging.
Grenache Rosé(2022): Growing up in Provence, France where dry rosé is a regional specialty, I have developed a real love for this wine style. Alta Colina's rosé delivered precisely what I sought, with defined aromas of citrus and stone fruit, a clean and luscious palate, and a refreshing acidity that provided excellent balance. This rosé is undoubtedly a winner, and it will undoubtedly be a delightful companion to various summer dishes. Personally, I can't help but envision it paired with my beloved Provencal ratatouille, a combination that transports me back to my upbringing in Provence.