Bill & Liz Armstrong, Vintners
Liz and I are pictured above in the Paderewski vineyard looking south. Both geologists, we share a similar spirit, one that is dedicated to the purity of science, but with the heart of an explorer. I am a self diagnosed "cork dork" who is a huge believer in the fun and "truth" that is wine. One day I woke up and realized I wanted to be more than just a wine lover; I wanted to also be a wine producer, thus I set about a deliberate search for land that would produce wine that I would love to make, drink, and share with my friends. Not being married to any particular wine region, I went about my search for the ultimate American terroir that could produce a world class wine. This mission led me to the small pocket of land between Paso Robles and the Pacific Ocean. The weather, the unique soils, the hilliness, and the extreme temperature swings, were all perfect to accomplish this goal. It is well known that wines are first and most importantly made in the vineyard, and picking the right land was the first crucial test in making Epoch a preeminent wine. Our bonus is that Paso Robles is a beautiful town with a relaxing, down to earth, "Rodeo" feel. The word "lagniappe" comes to mind - New Orleans jargon for a little something extra that you didn't expect. Liz and I love our Paso life and the wide network of wonderful wine friends and peers dedicated to this region....
