If you’re seeking a blend of historical significance and exceptional wines, Epoch Estate Wines (pronounced “epic”) offers an immersive tasting experience in the prestigious Paso Robles AVA. Founded by Liz and Bill Armstrong in 2004, this boutique winery showcases the best of Paso’s terroir through their masterfully crafted Rhône and Bordeaux varietals.
The Experience:
Stepping into Epoch Estate Wines feels like entering a perfect marriage of history and innovation. Their historically-storied tasting room on York Mountain provides an intimate setting to experience their renowned portfolio of 100% estate-grown wines. The space beautifully preserves historic elements from the original York Mountain Winery, including redwood beams, 1906-fired bricks, and cellar stones, while a restored basket press from the York brothers stands in its original position.
Visitors can choose between their Signature Tasting, which offers a well-rounded view of Epoch’s diverse offerings, or indulge in a Library Tasting featuring their highly-rated vintages. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the exclusive weekend Winery Tour provides a behind-the-scenes journey through their production facility, culminating with a premium tasting and artisanal cheese board in their elegant Skybox.
Their facility, recognized as the #2 Best Winery Design around the World by Architectural Digest in 2018, beautifully blends rustic charm with modern design, much of it hidden underground to preserve the natural landscape and provide ideal conditions for their aging wines.
What Makes It Special:
Their award-winning portfolio showcases 100% estate-grown wines crafted by renowned female winemaker Jordan Fiorentini, with their first vintage dating back to 2007. The 2021 Veracity was recently selected as #3 on Wine Enthusiast’s list of the 100 Best Wines of 2024.
Epoch Estate is dedicated to preserving the legacies of Ignacy Jan Paderewski and York Mountain Winery, combining rich history with innovative winemaking techniques across their three distinct estate vineyards: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Their commitment to quality extends to their farming practices, with a focus on biodynamic and organic methods that respect the land and produce exceptional fruit.
Visitor Tips:
- Open seven days a week with both indoor and outdoor seating available
- Reservations recommended for all tastings, especially weekend Winery Tours
- Large group tasting experiences available with advance booking
- Dog-friendly outdoor spaces with water bowls provided
- Consider joining their wine club for exclusive access to limited releases and special events
Perfect For:
Visitors seeking a blend of historical immersion and premium wine tasting in Paso Robles. Ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate exceptional estate-grown wines, history buffs interested in the history of York Mountain and the legacy of Polish pianist and Prime Minister Ignacy Jan Paderewski, and those looking to experience award-winning architectural design while enjoying some of Paso Robles’ finest wines.
