From almonds to wine, 100 years of local history

In the early 1920s, Paso Robles was the heart of a thriving almond industry, and the historic Farmers’ Alliance Building, constructed in 1922 in just five months, served as the hub for the California Almond Growers Exchange. As the almond business declined, the building became a grain brokerage for nearly four decades until it closed and remained vacant from 1975 to 1985. In 2010, Ray and Pam Derby purchased the historic building and spent four years carefully restoring it. Ray, an engineer by profession, applied those skills, and with meticulous construction, it became Derby Wine Estates in 2014.

Once again, this historic symbol of Paso Robles agriculture is standing proudly, overlooking the entire town, representing the area’s commercial center. Instead of almonds or grains, it now celebrates wine. What took a few months to build a century ago took four years to restore. Today, you can enjoy Derby wine in this historic building, tour the tower, and take in the views of Paso Robles, the town, hills, and vineyards that surround the area.

Three estate vineyards yield 25 different varietals

Derby wines are an enticing mix of varietals and terroir from three estate vineyards, each growing grapes that reflect the different terroirs:

• Derbyshire Vineyard, on the San Simeon Coast, reflects the cool coastal terroir and is mainly planted with Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.
• Derby Vineyard in the Templeton Gap mainly grows Rhone Varietals, as this area experiences large temperature swings that are ideal for growing a range of grapes. Usually, there is about a 50°F difference between the day’s high and low.
• Laura’s Vineyard, on the 46 East, grows predominantly warmer-weather varietals, focusing on Bordeaux varietals, especially cabernet sauvignon.

Because of the three vineyards, located in different terroirs, micro-climates, and weather patterns, Debry has the advantage of growing about 25 different varietals. A tasting experience at Derby Wine Estates is the opportunity to enjoy your favorite varietals and be introduced to less familiar, but enjoyable, wines.

Tasting experiences

Derby wine tasting experiences rotate regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Tastings usually include five different wines selected from each vineyard. Expect to enjoy wines from the Rhone, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and other notable regions. Add some sweetness to your tasting by pairing it with chocolates from Mama Ganache Artisan Chocolates in San Luis Obispo.

For a truly Elevated Experience, reserve your spot for a premier tasting at the top of the tower. Here, in a cozy library with an aerial view of Paso Robles, sip and observe from the highest point in the area. During your tasting, accompanied by cheese and small bites, learn more about the history—not only of winemaking and Derby but also of Paso Robles and the historic building you are sitting in. One could say, you will literally be sipping in 100 years of history, from almonds to grains to wine.

Historical tour and special events

Be certain to ask for a tour of the facility. The history of the building, including original photographs and documents, is fascinating. It is literally a trip back in time.

Summertime brings lively gatherings for the Friday Night Music Series. Along with Derby wines, vendors offer a variety of foods, including barbecue, Mexican, pizza, and more. And, of course, there is music by local bands. No reservations necessary!

Also, check out the featured wine of the month. Always something unique, the Wine of the Month offers a 15% discount, and if you are a Derby Wine Club Member, this is an additional 15% off the club price.

The passion of Derby

When the Derbys purchased the property, their intent extended beyond building a winery. Ray, an engineer, had a vision for restoring this historic, iconic building while retaining its original feel and atmosphere. Then, producing wines that could be enjoyed while immersed in Paso Robles’ history. Tasting the wines of Derby in a historic building with a relaxed atmosphere, hosted by staff who exude personality, knowledge, and friendliness, is an experience every visitor to Paso Robles should enjoy.

And, with estate grapes grown in three distinct regions, winemaker Sean Geoghegan is like a kid in a candy store, creating liquid delights for everyone to enjoy.

Step back in history, but look forward to the future, when you sit and sip at Derby, whether down in the tasting area or in the tower, with a 360-degree view of Paso Robles and the serene hills and vineyards.

Cheers! Come visit, you’ll be back!

Derby Wine Estates is located at 526 Riverside Ave. in Paso Robles. Open daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tastings $20 until 4 p.m. Elevated Experience $70 from noon-3 p.m. For reservations and more information visit derbywineestates.com, or call (805) 238-6911.

—Don Sonderling

Don Sonderling is a freelance writer covering California’s unique lifestyle of wine, food, and adventure, from Southern California up to the Napa Valley and beyond. He may be reached at: donsonderling@gmail.com