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Bootjack RanchBootjack Ranch is currently comprised of 125 planted acres. Varietals include Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera, Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, there are smaller blocks of blenders Malbec, Carmenère, and Petit Verdot.
Purchased in 1999 by Dick and Pam Niner, the property is located nine miles east of the town of Paso Robles, on route 46. At the time of purchase, 54 acres were already planted to Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a varietal called “Chancellor.” Chancellor is a lesser-known hybrid grape that makes a simple, less-structured wine. As this was not their aim, the Niners decided to graft these vines over to something that made more sense for them and the region.
In searching for advice, they came to know and eventually employ Paso Robles grapegrowing guru Jim Smoot. He suggested they graft the Chancellor vines over to Barbera and Cabernet Franc, and convinced them that Sauvignon Blanc would be a good choice for Bootjack. As in Bordeaux, it thrives next to its red counterparts here in Paso Robles. Smoot knows full well the potential of Sauvignon Blanc in this region, as he produces high-quality Sauvignon Blanc grapes in his own nearby vineyard.
In 2001 the Niners more than doubled the size of the planted area of Bootjack Ranch by adding another 61 acres of vines. They expanded their plantings of Sauvignon Blanc, Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and chose Petite Sirah as a new varietal. In 2005 another ten acres were planted, this time of traditional Bordeaux blending varietals Malbec, Carmenère and Petit Verdot. When these vineyard blocks mature, the grapes will provide additional options for winemaker Amanda Cramer to craft into blends.
In addition to winegrapes, Smoot and Niner vineyard manager Jerry Grant have planted a grove of about 50 olive trees. They plan to add another two acres (about 200 more trees) next year. Just as grapes thrive in the Mediterranean-like climate, so do olive trees. The trees add a beautiful element to the landscape, and Dick and Pam intend to eventually press the olives to make their own Niner olive oil.
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