OUR STORY
A lifetime of appreciation. Orinda Hayes values lasting relationships and sustainable farming. Here we create wines that transmit a sense of place and time.
WINEMAKER NOTES
The Orinda Hayes portfolio is a commitment to quality, distinction and wines that exhibit fantastic harmony. All the reds showcase an inviting rich fruit rusticity and the whites a seamless opulent freshness. Wines that meet the demands of the most discerning enthusiast.WINEMAKING
This distinctive portfolio of wines is focused around growers that meet our demands for sustainability. Vineyards span the California coastline from Paso Robles to the Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco appellation.WINEMAKER
Chad Alexander has overseen the production since inception and uses modern cutting edge equipment to produce non-interventionist wines that are naturally fermented and bottled un-fined and un-filtered.APPELLATION
Paso Robles: Known for its extreme growing conditions and well-drained, gravelly and sometimes chalky limestone soils, Paso Robles is one of three California appellations producing Bordeaux and Rhône varietals worthy of international acclaim.Central Coast: Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco appellation has proved ideal for growing layered, complex Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Brisk winds and fog off Monterey Bay, stony, well-drained soils, and a lack of damaging fall rains all combine to produce grapes with fruit intensity and bright balancing acidity.
2023 Paso Robles Proprietary RedWINEMAKING NOTES
At Orinda Hayes we prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly winemaking practices. Careful pruning, canopy management and irrigation techniques are used to ensure our grapes are of the highest quality. Harvested by hand from our finest vineyards we use open-top fermentation practices then blend to perfection.TASTING NOTES
An inviting bouquet of dark cherry, blackberry, and cassis opens with refined notes of graphite, cedar, and subtle dried herbs — a reflection of the 2023 vintage's natural precision. On the palate, the wine is focused and expressive, with a concentrated core of dark and red fruit layered with hints of mocha, warm spice, and a whisper of cocoa. The tannins are polished and well-integrated, delivering a balanced medium-to-full body with the added freshness and natural acidity that defines this vintage. The finish is long and composed, with lingering dark chocolate and subtle oak that speaks to the quality and care that the 2023 growing season made possible.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
The 2023 vintage in Paso Robles delivered a welcome return to balance after several years of climatic extremes.The 2023 vintage in Paso Robles delivered a welcome return to balance after several years of climatic extremes. A wet winter replenished water tables and provided strong vine development heading into the growing season. Mild summer temperatures and a gradual, even ripening period allowed fruit to develop exceptional concentration while naturally preserving acidity and structure. With harvest arriving on an unhurried timeline, our winemaker had the luxury of precision — picking each block at optimal maturity and crafting wines that reflect the best of what Paso Robles can offer.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot
Fermentation: 14 months in 100% French Oak$35 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2023 Paso Robles Cabernet SauvignonWINEMAKING NOTES
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most noble grapes on the planet and creates a wine of incredible depth and longevity. It is grown under ideal conditions and has the perfect climatic and soil conditions in Paso Robles to produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.TASTING NOTES
Our 2023 Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with a touch of Merlot, opens with refined aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and dried herbs, with the 2023 vintage's natural precision adding a lifted floral note and subtle graphite minerality. On the palate, concentrated layers of dark plum, blackberry, and a hint of dark chocolate unfold with the added freshness and focus that defines this growing season, while Merlot's influence lends its signature rounded texture and depth. The tannins are firm yet polished, balancing the wine's medium-to-full body and leading into a long, composed finish with lingering notes of cedar, warm spice, and a whisper of sweet tobacco.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
The 2023 vintage in Paso Robles delivered a welcome return to balance after several years of climatic extremes.The 2023 vintage in Paso Robles delivered a welcome return to balance after several years of climatic extremes. A wet winter replenished water tables and provided strong vine development heading into the growing season. Mild summer temperatures and a gradual, even ripening period allowed fruit to develop exceptional concentration while naturally preserving acidity and structure. With harvest arriving on an unhurried timeline, our winemaker had the luxury of precision — picking each block at optimal maturity and crafting wines that reflect the best of what Paso Robles can offer.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
Fermentation: 14 months in 100% French Oak$48 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2021 Central Coast ChardonnayWINEMAKING NOTES
Our Central Coast Chardonnay displays the complexity and poise we have come to expect from the deep, sandy soils of our growers' vineyards. Our winemaker employs traditional, natural techniques - native yeast fermentation, native malolactic conversion and sur lie aging. Practices that elevate and enhance the distinctive character of this region, accenting its fine balance between richness and vivacity.TASTING NOTES
The wine dances across the palate delivering everything promised by the bouquet including layers of ripe peach, granny smith apples and candied cedar notes. As you enjoy this wine, it continues to evolve beautifully, finishing with silky tones and refreshing minerality; notes of citrus zest, toasted brioche and limestone.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Winemakers across California predict that the 2021 vintage will be one of the best in recent memory, while the California winegrowers enjoyed a smooth harvest following a moderate and consistent growing season.Picking began early in many regions, including the North Coast — ranging from a week to several weeks ahead of average. Central Coast appellations experienced a cool year that prompted a later-than-average start.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 100% Chardonnay
Fermentation: 11 months in French Oak (5% New), 6 months in stainless steel$32 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
2018 Paso Robles MerlotWINEMAKING NOTES
Our 2018 Paso Robles Merlot exhibits the classic bold Paso Robles spirit, resulting in a great concentration of not only color but taste proven by the low yields of 2018. Dark berry fruits intermingle with pepper and spice to create a really delicious treat. This wine is really coming into its own right now.TASTING NOTES
We absolutely love this wine. It’s a polished well-made Merlot that time will always be kind to, with mellow fruit and fresh characteristics keeping things lively. Dried boysenberry, plum, leather and dried earth aromas show on the nose. Tangy plum skin flavors show on the palate. It’s an easy-drinking, soft and approachable red with a cascade of exuberant fruit.VINTAGE & VITICULTURE
Bud break occurred two weeks earlier than normal in 2018. Cooler conditions during fruit set resulted in lower yields than normal; mother nature thereby ensuring the vines were in good balance with no need to drop fruit to achieve ripening. Throughout the rest of the season, growing conditions were near perfect; the very small crop produced more concentrated flavors and achieved ripeness earlier than any previous vintage.Winemaker: Chad Alexander
Varietals: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon
Fermentation: 12 months in oak (20%)$25 - BUY NOW
