This Winery Is Permanently Closed.
Winery Rating
Located at:
8950 Union Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Wine Club Rating
Price Range For Tasting
The story of Tobin James Cellars sounds like something out of a wine-country tall tale. It all began in the mid-1980s when a local grape grower showed up with six tons of extra Zinfandel grapes. Tobin “Toby” James, then an assistant winemaker, seized the opportunity and asked if he could use the fruit to make his own wine. The grower shrugged and said, “Sure kid, knock yourself out.”
What followed was a bit of winemaking magic. Toby’s first wine, the 1985 Blue Moon Zinfandel, went on to win double gold medals and snag a spot on Wine Spectator’s “Top 100 Wines of the Year.” Encouraged by the success, Toby kept crafting wines on the side while working for various Paso Robles wineries. Eventually, in 1993, he bought 41 acres on Union Road, where Tobin James Cellars officially came to life.
Toby didn’t stop there. In 1996, he teamed up with Lance and Claire Silver, who brought fresh energy and helped the winery grow. The trio launched the “James Gang” Wine Club and expanded the property. Today, Tobin James Cellars is known not only for its bold, fruit-forward wines but also for its laid-back, fun-loving atmosphere. The tasting room, styled like a Wild West saloon, has become a must-visit destination in Paso Robles wine country.
Winemaker David Romag joined the Tobin James crew in 2021, bringing with him more than a decade of industry experience. A Cal Poly graduate with a degree in fruit science, David also studied under renowned viticulturist Keith Patterson. His approach to winemaking blends technical know-how with a creative, hands-on style.
David’s passion for wine began during his time working in a tasting room, where he discovered the exciting intersection of science, agriculture, and artistry. At Tobin James, he’s found a perfect fit—a well-established winery known for its adventurous spirit and collaborative team. Under David’s guidance, the winery continues to produce the robust Zinfandels and approachable blends that fans have come to love while also exploring new styles and techniques.
Of course, Toby James himself remains a significant influence on the winery’s style. His early experiences working summers in his family’s vineyard in Indiana, followed by years of hard-earned experience in Paso Robles, laid the foundation for Tobin James Cellars’ signature bold, fruit-forward wines.
Pulling into Tobin James Cellars feels a little like stepping onto a movie set for an Old West film—minus the tumbleweeds. The tasting room is designed like a vintage saloon, complete with an antique 1860s mahogany bar that originally hailed from Blue Eye, Missouri. The warm wood tones, brass foot rails, and lively conversations give the place an inviting, nostalgic charm.
The winery sits about eight miles east of downtown Paso Robles, along the scenic stretch of Highway 46. The property spans 71 acres of rolling vineyards and oak-studded hills, providing plenty of picturesque views from the outdoor seating areas. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic, grab a bottle of wine, and soak in the surroundings.
Beyond the tasting room, there’s a cozy grotto area featuring a wood-fired pizza oven—a favorite spot during the winery’s legendary parties. The combination of rustic charm and laid-back hospitality makes Tobin James Cellars more than just a tasting stop; it’s a place to linger, laugh, and enjoy the Paso Robles sunshine.
Tobin James Cellars runs one of California’s most popular wine clubs: The James Gang. Membership comes with perks like complimentary tastings and invitations to exclusive events, including their famously fun wine parties.
The club sends out shipments of wine throughout the year, with options to receive reds, whites, or a mix of both. However, there’s one quirk that might give some wine lovers pause: you can’t customize or swap out selections. If you’re the adventurous type, this can be a fun way to discover new favorites. But if you’re picky about your wine, it might feel like a gamble.
Still, for fans of Tobin James’ signature bold style, the James Gang offers good value and a direct line to the winery’s most popular releases.
Tasting OptionsWine tasting at Tobin James Cellars is refreshingly straightforward. Walk-ins are welcome, though reservations are encouraged, especially on weekends or for larger groups. Tastings cost $20 per person—a fee that’s waived with a $20 wine purchase. If you’re a James Gang member, your tasting is complimentary.
Tastings take place both indoors at the saloon bar and outside on the patio, weather permitting. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable but never pretentious. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or someone who just likes a good glass of Zin, they’ll guide you through the lineup with enthusiasm and a touch of humor.
The winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the lively, welcoming vibe makes it easy to lose track of time.
Tobin James Cellars isn’t just about the wine—though the bold, fruit-forward Zinfandels and approachable blends are definitely the main attraction. It’s about the experience: a step into a fun, relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a traditional tasting room.
Whether you’re drawn by the Wild West saloon aesthetic, the friendly staff, or the opportunity to sip a glass of wine while taking in the Paso Robles scenery, Tobin James Cellars delivers. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying longer than planned. After all, it’s hard to rush through a place that’s mastered the art of laid-back wine country hospitality.
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