about US
Hearst Ranch Winery is built on a friendship, a family legacy, and a deep respect for the land that continues to guide everything we do.
hearst ranch winery
Our Story
From Friendship to Family Legacy
Founded in 2010 by longtime friends Jim Saunders and Steve Hearst, Hearst Ranch Winery is rooted in a shared vision and a deep respect for the land. While the winery bears the Hearst name—an homage to the enduring friendship between the two families—it is proudly owned and operated by Jim and Debi Saunders, whose hands-on stewardship—alongside their son, Scott—continues to guide every aspect of the business today.
At its core is Saunders Vineyard, established by the Saunders family in 1994 in the eastern Paso Robles meso-climate. The vineyard serves as the source of the winery’s estate fruit and is home to its Paso Robles tasting room and production facility.
Under the direction of winemaker Soren Christensen, each wine is thoughtfully crafted with a focus on quality, balance, and sustainable farming practices—reflecting the Saunders family’s long-standing commitment to the land.
In addition to the estate, Hearst Ranch Winery welcomes guests to its coastal tasting room in San Simeon, set along iconic Highway 1 just across from Hearst Castle—where the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic backdrop to the tasting experience.
Today, the Saunders family continues to honor a legacy built on friendship, agriculture, and a passion for sharing exceptional wines.
Jim and Debi Saunders, Owners
estate grown in Paso
Rooted in the Estrella District, Saunders Vineyard is the foundation of our estate wines and the heart of our winemaking.
crafted with intention
Under winemaker Soren Christensen, each wine is guided by balance, structure, and a deep respect for sustainable farming.
from vineyard to coast
From our estate in Paso Robles to our coastal tasting room in San Simeon, every visit reflects the landscape that defines us.
San Simeon
Coastal tasting experience
Experience Hearst Ranch Winery along Highway 1, where coastal views and ocean air shape a quiet, relaxed tasting. A coastal expression of our wines, steps from the Pacific.
paso robles
saunders vineyard experience
Experience our estate in the Estrella District, where Saunders Vineyard is the foundation of our winemaking. A tasting rooted in place, offered at the source.
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Wine club
Our membership tiers are designed to elevate your experience with exceptional wines, exclusive events, and meaningful perks—like preferred pricing, special savings, and insider access.
