Stephen and Carol Hoyt planted their first vineyard in 2001 in Malibu, and made the first wine in our kitchen in 2003. We started producing wine in 2004. Stephen handles farming and Carol the winemaking for Hoyt Family Vineyards.

From whom or where did you learn the most about making wine?

I have worked with many great winemakers, and learned from all them. When I first started making wine we were at a custom crush and I helped out there. I learned about chemistry, bottling and
even how to drive a fork lift.

Hoyt Family Vineyards

What about winemaking drives you to get up in the morning?

I love the creative process. I have always loved to cook and was an artist too. For me wine making combines the two. I love creating a wine that people truly enjoy. The process from start to finish is thrilling.

Which three of your wines are currently crowd favorites?

Our Malibu chardonnay is what put us on the map. Right now I am absolutely loving our petite sirah, which I like to call sex in a bottle. Our 2012 cabernet won best of class by San Fransisco Wine Chronicle.

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What wine is your winery most know for? What is its specialty?

We are also known not only for our fabulous wines, but a great place to hang out. Our
new tasting room in downtown Paso Robles is warm and friendly.

Newest releases?

We are very excited to be bottling soon a rosé from our estate-grown pinot noir.