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Heart HillThe Heart Hill property is named for a large grove of oak trees growing in the shape of a heart on one of its rolling hillsides, facing the road. Heart Hill is located on route 46, near the western edge of the Paso Robles AVA.
Its proximity to the ocean, only about 12 miles, creates temperatures a few degrees lower than in other parts of the region. This small difference allows for a longer growing season, resulting in highly concentrated fruit flavors and intense color at harvest. The longer hang time, coupled with the easy-draining clay loam soils on the property, presents the potential for outstanding fruit.
Dick and Pam Niner purchased Heart Hill with the intention to plant vines and build a winery and tasting room. Of the 58 plant-able acres on the property, 20 were planted in the spring of 2007. Varietals include Grenache blanc, along with some of the varieties they have at Bootjack Ranch, including Syrah, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Plans are in the works to build a state-of-the-art winery, and an inviting tasting room including a demonstration kitchen for visiting chefs, a private wine club lounge and patio facilities. An exact completion date is difficult to predict, but a grand opening is tentatively planned for harvest, 2009.
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