Wine Column: Two Bottles for the Road – A Journey Through Flavors

When you’re just a short drive from Paso Robles and have a couple of free days, taking a road trip to explore new wineries can be a delightful escape. Recently, during a two-day expedition, we discovered two exceptional wineries that should be on your tasting list:

Truss Wines is a new venture established by Kyle Jury and his wife, Brittany. After spending nine years as the winemaker at Booker Vineyards, Kyle seized the opportunity in mid-2024 to fulfill his dream of owning an estate winery by purchasing the Terry Hoage estate with the support of local partners. Currently, Truss Wines offers tastings featuring a selection of pinot noir and chardonnay sourced from the SLO Coast. They are also in the process of bottling their inaugural 2024 Estate vintage, which will include syrah, grenache, and a GSM. A special blend called “Beyond Reason” will also be available, showcasing Kyle’s select craftsmanship. The tasting room renovations will be completed in time for the April release of their estate wines. If you want to meet the Jurys and be among the first to sample their new wines, visit their website to sign up for the wine club and secure a spot at the inaugural Wine Club Dinner on March 28th.

Nix Cellars opened its Tin City tasting room toward the end of 2024, founded by Chris Haisma and his wife, Nicole, who also own the In Bloom restaurant at the Paso Market Walk. Chris, now a winemaker after a longstanding career in the restaurant industry, began producing wines in 2022 without prior experience – a leap that resulted in quick success. He was mentored by Don Burns of Turtle Rock and now makes a variety of wines at Don’s facility. Nix Cellars currently offers seven different wines, including whites and reds, and has quickly garnered impressive ratings from respected wine critics. The tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere with a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying wines while listening to music.

Both wineries are wonderful additions to the Paso Robles wine scene, and each offers a unique tasting experience that should not be missed.

For more information and to book your tasting:

• Truss Wines – 870 Arbor Road, Paso Robles
• Nix Cellars – 3075 Blue Rock Road, Paso Robles (Tin City)
• In Bloom Restaurant – 1845 Spring Street, Paso Robles

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!