Winery Story
Paul Lato
Polish-born sommelier-turned-winemaker Paul Lato has established one of California’s most committed small wineries, producing creatively named, expressive Chardonnays, Pinots, and Rhône reds. Influenced by mentors like Jim Clendenen and inspired by Henri Jayer, Lato focuses on flavor without excess, stating, “We have a philosophy but not a recipe.”
The Wine Chef
Paul Lato never planned to become a winemaker. “I started out wanting to be a chef,” he recalls. “I had the chance to leave Poland to go to Toronto, and I went. I worked there as a waiter for three years, then I went on a sommelier course and worked as a somm for four...
Winery Information
Region: USA, California, Central Coast
Address: 5250 Tepusquet Rd Santa Maria, CA, 93454
Open for Tastings: Yes
Major Grapes: Chardonnay, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Syrah
Vineyard Size: NA
Own Winery: No
DTC Mailing List: Yes
Vineyard Sustainability: NA
Year Established: 2002
Owner: Paul Lato
Winemaker: Paul Lato
Website: https://www.paullatowines.com/
Most Recent Reviews for this Winery
Published: October 2025