Nestled in the Adelaida District, this newly certified “Historic” vineyard has been quietly collecting accolades while offering one of the most authentic and relaxed tasting experiences in the region. With a perfect 100-point wine, a historic vineyard designation, and a commitment to showcasing the unique characteristics of Paso Robles’ calcareous soils, Brecon Estate represents both the rich heritage and exciting future of this celebrated wine region.
A Historic Vineyard with a Storied Past
What many visitors to Brecon Estate might not immediately realize is that they’re walking among some of California’s most historically significant vines. Recently, Brecon Estates Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc Vineyards earned the prestigious recognition of being officially certified as “Historic” by the Historic Vineyard Society (HVS), an exclusive designation that aims to preserve California’s oldest vines
This achievement places Brecon in the company of renowned vineyards such as Chalone, Dusi, HMR, and Pesenti on the Central Coast, along with iconic northern California sites like Macdonald, Ridge, and Monte Bello. It’s a remarkable testament to the property’s significance in California’s viticultural history.
The vineyard’s story begins in 1971, when wine pioneer Art Norman established what is now recognized as a visionary planting. Located along the renowned Vineyard Drive, it was one of the original vineyards planted in Paso Robles and helped establish what would later become the sought-after Adelaida District. These now 53-year-old vines have witnessed the complete transformation of Paso Robles from an unknown region to one of California’s premier wine destinations.
When owners Damian and Amanda Grindley first toured the property in 2012, they recognized something special about the site. After acquiring it, Damian produced Brecon Estate’s first vintage from these historic grapes. When that inaugural wine earned Best of Class in Jerry Mead’s “New World International Wine Competition,” his instincts were confirmed.
Brecon is wholeheartedly a Westside Paso Robles Winery and is committed to elucidate what varieties produce world class offerings on these enigmatic Calcareous soils
Welsh Roots, California Dreams
Behind Brecon Estate stands Welsh Founding Winemaker Damian Grindley and his partner Amanda. With over 30 years of global viticultural experience, Damian brings extensive knowledge to the craft, while Amanda contributes creativity and business acumen that shapes the winery’s distinctive branding and visitor experience.
The couple’s commitment to excellence is evident in their approach to winemaking. Rather than following a single tradition, they’re dedicated to discovering which varieties produce world-class offerings on the region’s unique calcareous soils. This exploration has led them to plant Tannat, Petit Verdot, Malbec (including an exciting new clone from Cahors), Syrah, and Cabernet Franc – all selected for their ability to thrive in this particular terroir.
“Brecon is wholeheartedly a Westside Paso Robles Winery and is committed to elucidate what varieties produce world class offerings on these enigmatic Calcareous soils,” explains Damian. “This may not, of course, fit easily into one traditional old world genre or another. However, it absolutely lets Paso Robles and Brecon Estate separate itself stylistically from other regions.”
A Garden Oasis: The Brecon Estate Experience
Approaching Brecon Estate, visitors are immediately struck by the sense of discovering something special beyond its historical significance. The winery, accessible only by a charming footbridge, invites guests to slow down and transition from the hurried pace of everyday life into a more contemplative experience. This intentional design element sets the tone for what awaits beyond.
This “Australian-esque” tasting experience, stands in contrast to the sometimes formal atmosphere found at other wineries. Here, the focus is on creating a space where visitors can truly connect with both the wines and the spectacular natural setting. Amanda Grindley’s creative influence is evident in the warm, inviting tasting room design that offers scenic vineyard views while maintaining an unpretentious atmosphere.
Escape from the city, hang out under the shady oaks with vistas of golden rolling hills and gnarly old vines alongside a babbling seasonal stream. The warm, earthy yet modern winery nestles perfectly in this almost hidden garden.
Brecon Estate Wines started out from the get-go as being super food friendly. Focusing on known culinary varieties such as Cabernet Franc and Albarino.
Award-Winning Wines: A Perfect Score and Beyond
For wine enthusiasts, Brecon Estate’s recent achievements are nothing short of remarkable. The winery just had its most successful year on record from an accolade perspective, entering six international shows and winning four outright, plus earning its first perfect 100-point rating.
The crown jewel in their collection is undoubtedly the 2020 Malbec (Adelaida District), which earned that perfect 100-point score at the prestigious 2023 L.A. International Wine Competition. This accomplishment places Brecon Estate among an elite group of wineries worldwide to receive such recognition. Notably, their 2019 Reserve Cabernet Franc received 99 points at the same competition the previous year, demonstrating their consistent excellence.
The accolades continue to accumulate. Their recently released 2022 Mourvèdre just received 99 Points and Double Gold in the April 2025 California State Fair Wine Competition. Sourced from neighboring Templeton Gap AVA, this limited production of only 217 cases is currently featured on their tasting flight, offering visitors a chance to experience one of their newest award-winning creations. They’ve released a limited-edition 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from their historic vines which should not be missed.
Food-Friendly Philosophy
What sets Brecon’s wines apart is their intentional food-friendly approach. “Brecon Estate Wines started out from the get-go as being super food friendly,” Damien explains. “Focusing on known culinary varieties such as Cabernet Franc and Albarino on the naturally acid enhancing Calcareous bedrock that permeates the soils in these parts.”
This philosophy extends throughout their lineup, with blends crafted to complement rather than dominate food. Even their Zinfandel breaks the mold of high-alcohol fruit bombs typical of the variety, instead offering balanced acidity and structure that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes.
Yet the winery also acknowledges that their wines transcend simple food pairings: “Brecon Wines have proved to be more experiential. Not just for pairing at that romantic dinner but with perhaps a serengeti sunset, a snowed-in winter cabin, a breaching whale, even the northern lights while sleeping with wolves! The list seems endless.”
Sustainability Without Showmanship
Their commitment to small-batch production ensures quality control at every step, while their focus remains squarely on crafting exceptional wines rather than chasing trends.
In an era where sustainability credentials often feature prominently in marketing materials, Brecon Estate takes a refreshingly understated approach. “Brecon has always done things right but like many of us it can be a little shy when it comes to the paperwork,” they candidly share. While they may have farmed sustainably since inception and many of their vineyards are in fact organic and even have expansive riparian areas and flocks of grazing herbivores, you won’t see a plethora of placards, posters or symbols cluttering up your tasting experience.
This philosophy of substance over showmanship extends throughout the operation. Their commitment to small-batch production ensures quality control at every step, while their focus remains squarely on crafting exceptional wines rather than chasing trends.
Planning Your Visit: A Taste of History
The tasting room at Brecon Estate offers guided tastings that provide insight into both the wines and the unique terroir of the Adelaida District. As a club member (join here), you can also explore the cellars for a deeper understanding of the winemaking process.
For the optimal experience, wine enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to taste their Cabernet Franc and Albariño, both considered among the best expressions of these varieties in the region. The 2022 Malbec and their newly released 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon are also essential tastings for those seeking to understand what makes Brecon Estate special.
This Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon deserves special attention, as it represents a celebration of the vineyard’s historic designation. Produced from the property’s 53-year-old vines that qualified for HVS recognition after crossing the 50-year mark, only 235 cases of this limited-edition wine were made. It’s available exclusively at Brecon’s Paso Robles tasting room, through their wine club, or via their website – offering visitors a rare opportunity to taste a piece of California wine history.
Many visitors choose to bring a picnic to enjoy under the property’s magnificent oak trees, taking in the views of the rolling hills and vineyards while savoring these exceptional wines. The winery’s relaxed atmosphere encourages guests to linger and fully appreciate both the wines and their stunning setting.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
Brecon Estate exemplifies what makes Paso Robles special: a commitment to quality over quantity, a deep connection to the land, and a willingness to chart its own course rather than following established norms. The combination of historic vineyards, innovative winemaking, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere creates an experience that appeals to both casual wine drinkers and serious connoisseurs.
What perhaps best captures the essence of Brecon Estate is their unpretentious approach to excellence. While they’ve quietly amassed impressive accolades, including that coveted 100-point score, the focus remains on creating wines that reflect their unique sense of place and providing a tasting experience that feels authentic and memorable.
For anyone exploring the diverse wine landscape of Paso Robles, Brecon Estate offers something truly special – a chance to discover exceptional wines in a setting of natural beauty, guided by passionate experts who are writing an important chapter in the region’s evolving story. Whether you’re drawn by the historic vineyards, the award-winning wines, or the promise of a relaxed afternoon under the oak trees, Brecon Estate delivers an experience that remains long after the last sip.
