The country roads of western Paso Robles, California are winding, but one never has trouble finding HammerSky Vineyards. In fact, it’s nearly impossible not to stop at HammerSky’s singular property. HammerSky is distinguished by a strikingly beautiful century-old farmhouse, which sits regally alongside the entrance driveway. The majestic building is the first indication to visitors that they’ve found a special spot. Beyond the gates lie several more: a panorama of rolling Paso Robles vineyards, a New England-style barn, and an ultra-modern tasting room where intriguing HammerSky Vineyards’ wine awaits.
HammerSky’s portfolio is focused and very compelling. One just needs to look at HammerSky’s estate vineyards through the tasting room window to understand why. Owned by Dr. Doug Hauck and his wife, Kim, HammerSky Vineyards’ 50 acres of rolling hills provide an exceptional spot to grow grapes. The undulating 23 acres of Paso Robles vineyards enjoy an optimal range of elevation and sun orientation—at one point, the land even flattens into a small valley. This wonderful diversity leads to California wines that are surprisingly complex in aroma and flavor.
Although much of HammerSky’s program is dedicated to elegant Bordeaux varietals, its ever-popular Estate Zinfandel delivers a power punch of fruit to the nose and mouth. It’s a fine example of Paso Robles Zin. There’s a dreamy, complex Merlot, and the Cabernet Sauvignon is exceptional. Winemaker Rich Hartenberger’s blending talent is evident in HammerSky Vineyards’ Open Invitation, a Meritage blend of the best of the harvest; and The Party of Four, a fun, complex mélange of four wines. HammerSky wines have an enthusiastic following and sell out every year.
The HammerSky Vineyards tasting room is a modern juxtaposition from the old farmhouse and barn, where many weddings and family gatherings take place. Guests can stay overnight in the renovated four-room farmhouse, and wine club members earn a complimentary night with a three-night stay each year. Chances like this are precious—to sleep alongside the vineyards where grapes silently grow.
WHAT TO BUY
’07 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – $44
Ripe plum, black cherry, black olives, black raspberry, anise, leather
’08 Party of Four – $44
Ripe plum, cassis, black cherry, earth, leather
’09 Viognier – $26
Honeysuckle, pear, tropical fruit, honey, ginger spice, citrus
CONTACT
805-239-0930
info@hammersky.com
hammersky.com
TASTING
Tasting Room Open Thur–Sun 11–5
7725 Vineyard Dr.
Paso Robles, CA 93446
SPECIAL NOTES
Wine club discounts and events, owner and winemaker on site, beautiful views, estate-grown wine, private parties and events.
Touring & Tasting is a media company that produces a wine and travel magazine and is also partner in the Hitched Wine Club.
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Steve Cooper is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Hitched. You can follow him on Twitter at @hitchedmedia.
