Just a decade ago, Michelle and Sherman Thacher drove down from Santa Cruz to attend a wedding at the historic Kentucky Ranch in Westside Paso Robles, California. Already in love with the area, they were taken with the charm of this classic country horse ranch, and when it went up for sale several months later they promptly sealed their destiny. Today, Kentucky Ranch is home to the couple’s young family and Thacher Winery.

Sherman, who began his career as a brewmaster in 1993, was intent on capturing the distinctive flavors of Westside Paso Robles terroir. In 2004, the Thacher Winery label with the grasshopper was launched. Since then, total production has increased to 2,000 cases with a focus on Zinfandel and a pleasing list of single Rhône varietals and blends. Handcrafted in a big, bold style, the 2009 GSM (48 percent Grenache, 36 percent Syrah, 16 percent Mourvèdre) is very approachable now and highly recommended by several wine judges.

In fact, the 2009 GSM won double gold at the 2012 San Francisco International Wine competition, and Gold at the 2012 Sunset International Wine competition. A second big blend, the 2009 Controlled Chaos (39 percent Mourvèdre, 37 percent Zinfandel, 16 percent Grenache, 8 percent Petite Sirah) displays a good deal of Zinfandel on the nose, but balance on the palate. It garnered a double gold medal at the 2012 San Francisco International Wine competition, and Silver at the 2012 Sunset International Wine competition.

It only seems appropriate that small weddings take place frequently on the Thachers’ authentic ranch. Michelle is a detail-oriented planner and events like the wine club’s Kentucky Derby Pick-up party are enthusiastically attended. On the weekends, Michelle and Sherman open their tasting room doors to guests anxious to taste great Westside Paso Robles wines and perhaps have a picnic. "We love it here," Michelle beams, "and everyone else will too."

WHAT TO BUY
'09 GSM - $38
Dark cherry, blackberry, hints of black pepper, mocha

'09 Controlled Chaos - $36
Spicy, black cherry, crushed peppercorn, earthy blend

’08 Syrah - $28
Smoky black and blue fruits, olive tapenade, violet, Indian spices, hint of licorice

CONTACT
805-237-0087
info@thacherwinery.com
thacherwinery.com

TASTING
Tasting Room Open Thu–Mon 11–5
8355 Vineyard Dr.
Paso Robles, CA 93446

SPECIAL NOTES
Shaded picnic tables, wine club, weddings and receptions, private tastings by appointment

Touring & Tasting is a media company that produces a wine and travel magazine and is also partner in the Hitched Wine Club.