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Jim SmootViticulturalist
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jim
Smoot. Jim was a huge part of the success at Niner Wine Estates
and will be remembered
A name synonymous with Paso Robles viticulture, Jim Smoot has developed over 40 vineyards within this distinctive appellation. His influence and know-how have been instrumental in putting Paso Robles on the map of world class grapegrowing 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 has worked with nearly every microclimate and soil type in the entire Paso Robles appellation, and has focused on the classic art of matching grape variety to vineyard site. He has been grower consultant to many of the most highly regarded wineries in the region.
In 2001, Smoot and Dick Niner met at Bootjack Vineyard 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, in its fourth leaf, Bootjack produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Sangiovese and Barbera for varietal bottlings and proprietary blends under the Niner Estates label. Under the watchful eye of Jerry Grant, the vineyard uses site specific trellising systems, crop management and irrigation techniques.
In 2005, Niner’s Heart Hill Vineyard will be planted on the west side of Paso Robles. Smoot has 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 has served as a board member for the Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association and the California Association of Winegrape Growers.
Jim and his wife Treana live in Paso Robles and tend their own Smoot’s Vineyard.
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