Turley Wine Cellars

Where California's oldest Zinfandel vines tell stories spanning nearly two centuries, Turley Wine Cellars stands as the definitive guardian of the Golden State's viticultural heritage. From the historic Pesenti winery site in Templeton, this legendary estate transforms century-old vines into some of America's most coveted single-vineyard expressions.

Founded by Larry Turley in 1993 with a revolutionary mission to preserve California's endangered old-vine vineyards, the winery has become synonymous with authentic terroir expression. Under the masterful direction of winemaker Tegan Passalacqua, Turley has elevated Zinfandel and Petite Syrah from rustic curiosities to world-class collectibles. Passalacqua's philosophy centers on minimal intervention winemaking, allowing these ancient vines—some dating to the 1850s—to speak with unfiltered authenticity. The estate's commitment extends beyond winemaking to active vineyard preservation, rescuing historic sites from development and maintaining them through organic, dry-farming practices.

Turley's portfolio reads like a California viticulture museum, featuring legendary single-vineyard bottlings from Hayne Vineyard (1902 plantings), Ueberroth Vineyard (1885), and the estate's own 1923 Zinfandel block. Each wine represents a distinct terroir story, from Napa Valley's volcanic soils to Paso Robles' calcareous hillsides. The flagship Estate Zinfandel and Petite Syrah showcase the intensity achievable from century-old, head-trained vines, while limited-production library releases command investment-grade prices among collectors. These ultra-premium wines consistently earn critical acclaim for their concentration, complexity, and authentic expression of California's winemaking heritage.

The Templeton estate offers intimate tastings by appointment only, providing exclusive access to current releases and rare library selections. Visitors experience the working winery atmosphere within the restored Pesenti facility, where massive concrete fermentation tanks and traditional basket presses honor old-world techniques. Private tastings include vineyard walks through the historic 1923 Zinfandel block, offering insight into head-trained vine cultivation and organic farming practices. The experience emphasizes education and preservation, with Passalacqua often personally conducting sessions for serious collectors and wine professionals.

For connoisseurs seeking authentic California wine history in liquid form, Turley Wine Cellars represents an essential pilgrimage. Reserve your exclusive tasting experience to discover why these old-vine treasures have become the benchmark for American Zinfandel excellence.