WINE GROWING

Shimmin Canyon Vineyard is located in the Paso Robles American Viticultural Appellation (AVA), halfway between Monterey and Santa Barbara. The warm, temperate climate lends itself to growing a multitude of winegrapes. Almost half the ranch, 203 acres, is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, there are 105 acres of Merlot, and 52 acres of Chardonnay. The rest is a patchwork of smaller blocks of Viognier, Pinot Gris, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, and Grenache. The newer plantings of Rhone varieties such as Viognier, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache were planted in response to the wine industry’s recognition of Paso Robles’ ability to grow world class Rhone-style wines.

With a pioneering spirit and a can-do attitude, Ric Fuller and his team at Shimmin Canyon are consistently among the first to embrace change, and the last to shy away from a challenge. They were early adopters of sustainable farming practices – protecting water quality and other eco-friendly activities – not because they were en vogue but because they made good business sense. They were also among the first to use technological advances – ranging from overhead irrigation for frost control to sophisticated weather stations to carefully monitor growing conditions and insect population dynamics – as methods by which to maintain economic viability and optimal fruit quality.

As Ric works personally with each purchaser of Shimmin Canyon winegrapes, he customizes his farming techniques to fit the personal requirements of each.