Steinbeck Vineyards & Winery: A Legacy of California Farming

Rooted in History, Grounded in Faith

140 Years, 7 Generations, 1 Family

Steinbeck Vineyards & Winery is a boutique, family-owned and -operated winery nestled in the heart of California's Paso Robles wine country. Our story begins in 1884, when the Ernst family - pioneers in grape growing and winemaking - settled in the Geneseo region, just east of present-day Paso Robles. Over the next century, the land and legacy were passed down through seven generations, each leaving an indelible mark on the family's farming heritage.

The Steinbeck Legacy

In 1921, Frank and Rosetta Ernst purchased the property that is now home to our 500-acre estate vineyard. They built the ranch house, barn, and the historic blacksmith shop that today serves as our tasting room. Howie Steinbeck, Rosetta's grandson, grew up on this land, learning the art of viticulture from his grandfather.

Howie's passion for farming took root at a young age, and in the 1970s, he began selling grapes to local wineries, including the renowned Eberle Winery. In 1982, Howie and Eberle's founder, Gary Eberle, went into partnership, establishing the Steinbeck Vineyards label. This marked the beginning of our family's journey into winemaking.

A Vineyard with a Storied Past

Our estate vineyard is steeped in history. In 1956, a tragic military plane crash occurred just 200 yards from the family's ranch house, leaving one airman dead and the others injured. This event, known as "The Crash," is commemorated each year with the release of our signature red blend, honoring the bravery of those who serve.

Howie's daughter, Cindy, joined the family business in 1997, bringing her expertise in Christian ministry and a deep appreciation for the land. Cindy's vision was to create an educational and spiritual connection between the vineyard and her guests, leading to the development of our renowned "Crash Course" tours.

Sustainable Stewardship

At Steinbeck Vineyards, we are committed to sustainable farming practices that honor the land and its history. We use cover crops, minimal tillage, and integrated pest management to nurture the soil and promote biodiversity. Our irrigation system is designed to conserve water, and we employ renewable energy sources to power our winery.

But sustainability at Steinbeck extends beyond the vineyard. We are dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Paso Robles, supporting local charities, and fostering a sense of community. Our tasting room, housed in the historic blacksmith shop, serves as a gathering place for visitors to learn about our family's story and experience the unique terroir of our wines.

A Vineyard Rooted in Faith

Throughout our history, faith has been the foundation upon which the Steinbeck family has built its legacy. Cindy's deep connection to the land and her passion for sharing the parallels between viticulture and Scripture have inspired her to author several books, including "The Vine Speaks" and "Grapes of Grace."

As you stroll through our vineyards, you'll discover that each row, each vine, and each cluster of grapes tells a story - a story of perseverance, faith, and a deep reverence for the land. We invite you to join us on this journey, to taste the fruits of our labor, and to experience the rich tapestry of history, sustainability, and spirituality that is Steinbeck Vineyards & Winery.