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Jim SmootViticulturalist
The Paso Robles wine world lost a legend when Jim Smoot died in January, 2007. Jim was a huge part of the success at Niner Wine Estates and will be remembered by all of us as a pioneer, professional and friend.
A name synonymous with Paso Robles viticulture, Jim Smoot had developed over 40 vineyards within this distinctive appellation. His influence and know-how were instrumental in putting Paso Robles on the map of world class grape growing regions.
A graduate of Fresno State University, Jim began his vineyard management career in Paso Robles in 1978, five years prior to the official establishment of the region as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). Over the course of almost three decades, he had worked with nearly every microclimate and soil type in the entire Paso Robles appellation, and had focused on the classic art of matching grape variety to vineyard site. He was a grower consultant to many of the most highly regarded wineries in the region.
In 2001, Smoot and Dick Niner met at Bootjack Ranch to discuss grape varieties and clonal selections best suited to this 224-acre property on the eastside of the Salinas River in Paso Robles. Today, Bootjack Ranch produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Sangiovese and Barbera for varietal bottlings and proprietary blends under the Niner Wine Estates label. Under the watchful eye of Jerry Grant, the vineyard uses site specific trellising systems, crop management and irrigation techniques.
In 2006, the Heart Hill Vineyard was planted on the west side of Paso Robles. Smoot had identified grape varieties including Syrah, Malbec and Petit Verdot to best utilize the location’s cool maritime influences from the Pacific Ocean.
A testament to his dedication, Jim was recognized as Grower of the Year in 1994 and again in 2004, by the Central Coast Winegrape Growers Association. He served as a board member for the Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association and the California Association of Winegrape Growers.
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