1999 Beckmen Atelier

Beckmen Vineyards was founded in 1994 by Tom and Judy Beckmen and their son Steve. The family had built a highly successful business in the production of keyboards and synthesizers, but for their encore venture they wanted to make wine. They purchased a winery near Los Olivos and a few years later purchased a large nearby ranch. Today they have 150 acres of vineyards and make their wine at the Los Olivos winery. Like many Central Coast producers, Beckmen specializes in Rhône-style grapes and blends. They grow Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Mourvedre and Counoise. They have also started growing smaller amounts of Bordeaux-style grapes. Beckmen makes a large portfolio of reds, whites and rosés. The wines are consistently well reviewed and have been served at the White House.

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.