Hearst Ranch Winery

Jim Saunders dream of owning and farming his own vineyard became a reality with the acquisition of the ranch in 1992 with his wife, Debi Saunders. Soil testing and site evaluation began within a year of purchasing the Saunders ranch. The arbuckle clay loam and sandy soils of these South and West facing hills were discovered to be ideal for farming wine grapes. The meso-climate of Eastern Paso Robles combining with the diversity in soil types and elevations made a perfect site to grow Bordeaux, Rhone and Spanish varietals, with the initial planting starting in 1993. In 2010 Steve Hearst and Jim Saunders began their business and personal relationship after Jim purchased a Hearst Ranch tour at a Hearst Cancer Resource Center fundraiser. As the saying goes, “a meeting of the minds” developed into this benevolent project – Hearst Ranch Winery. Independently, Steve Hearst and Jim Saunders are accomplished businessmen that have the talent, imagination and integrity to create great things. Collectively, their shared vision on sustainable agriculture, resource protection and historical preservation brought Hearst Ranch Winery to fruition.