New Website is Here!!

March 28, 2013

As I’m sure you have noticed, over the past few months we have been introducing our new and updated labels and logos etc. This project has been very exciting and has also been a tremendous amount of work! After months of staring at my screen and adjusting this and that I am very proud to announce the launch of our new website! Not only is it a beautiful site, it is state of the art and will provide all users with a great online experience.

The site features very intuitive navigation, an online store, galleries, employee bios, events and much more. Most importantly it will provide a great online shopping experience that is safe and secure. The safety of your personal information is of utmost importance to us and that is why we have spent a lot of time making this site as safe and secure as possible. Once of you have logged into the site and created a profile, ordering wine, event tickets or anything else becomes a seamless process from start to finish.

The products on the new site have also undergone a serious makeover with detailed descriptions, bottle images and downloadable spec sheets for each wine. This gives you the opportunity to see what you will be receiving, learn about the wine and feel confident about your purchase. I will constantly be working to improve this experience and will gladly take any suggestions, ideas or thoughts.

When you get a chance visit our new site at www.castorocellars.com and do some exploring. If you feel up to it, log in and create your own personal account and please let me know any feedback you may have. You can contact me anytime at luke@castorocellars.com

Cheers and happy surfing!

Luke

Zinfest 2013 Recap

March 19, 2013

Once again we had a successful Zinfest weekend and we thank all of you who came out to support us and the spirit of Zin! The weather could not have been better and as we all know, great weather can make almost anything blissful. Our patrons were enjoying wine, music and food while sitting out in the sun with friends and family.

We kicked off the festival on Friday night and we had a great crowd and great food! Unfortunately the lead singer of the band had laryngitis but they were still fun and offered to come back and play for us anytime! The crowd was very understanding as well which was really awesome.

This year the weekend was not overly packed as it has been at times in the past, but that is ok because lighter crowds allow for a more personal experience and make you feel as though it is your little secret. The music was great as well, with Sweetwater the Trio playing all the classic old time tunes from Country Western to folk and Rock and Roll. Jim Sweetwater even got his son and daughters on stage for a couple tunes.

In our barrel samples we were pouring Whale Rock Primitivo, Late Harvest Zin and our upcoming Ventinove blend. All of the barrel samples were great but the Ventinove was something special. Keep your eyes peeled for the release of this wine because it is to die for! It had great fruit and was extremely balanced and smooth on the palate. I can’t wait to stash a few bottles!

Thanks again for all the support and please continue to come by and keep the spirit of Zinfest alive for years to come.

Cheers,

Luke

2013 Zinfest is Approaching!

March 5, 2013

It’s that time of year again, and by that time of year I am referring to Zinfest time! It always seems to sneak up on us but our ducks are in a row and we are ready to celebrate! This year’s festivities are second to none and you won’t want to miss out.

The festivities will kick off on the night of Friday March 15th with live music by local favorites the JD Project and catered food by Haute Skillet Gourmet. We will be tenting off the event room patio to ensure a party rain or shine! Tickets to Friday night’s dinner are $15.00 ($10.00 for wine clubbbers) and include a glass of wine from our famous keg barrel. Food will include delicious tacos and sides with your choice of ancho pulled chicken, carne asada or grilled veggie. Tacos will be available both a la carte and as a plate. Sides will include rice & beans, chips, salsa and guacamole. Plates are only $12.00. It is also important to note that this is not a sit down concert so plan to bring your best moves and your dancing shoes!

If Friday night’s event won’t fit in your schedule or just simply isn’t your thing, don’t worry, as Saturday and Sunday have plenty in store. As we do every year, we will be hosting an open house over the weekend with barrel tastings, food vendors, art exhibits and live music by Sweetwater the Trio both days! I have been attending this festival since I was wee lad and there really isn’t anything more relaxing than being outside (weather permitting), listening to music and enjoying great food and wine (or grape juice if you’re a wee lad)! When everyone around you is relaxed and having fun you can’t help but get in the mood and let the good times roll.

If you haven’t already, mark your calendars and plan to come celebrate Zinfandel, the wine that put Paso Robles on the map!

For tickets or more details visit our website at www.castorocellars.com or call 1-888- DAM-FINE

See you there!

Cheers,

Luke