'80 Hidden Mountain Ranch (HMR)

[Randy Caparoso]

I don't think Tchelistcheff was consulting at that time, either. But if anything, it goes to show how underrated Paso Robles is as a grape growing region. The Cabernet Sauvignons from the hillside/chalky soils of this region are some of the most elegant -- i.e. balanced, compact, deep and harmonious -- in the world. Perhaps better yet are their Cabernet Francs and Merlots. Justin Vineyards, in my opinion, is the reigning king in this area.