Kynsi Winery

Arroyo Grande, Ca.

So far, the only San Luis Obispo County wineries we’ve been to were Tally Vineyards and Laetitia Vineyard & Winery, so we were very excited to venture into this area again.

After having enjoyed a great stay at The Cliffs Resort in Pismo Beach and after having a delicious breakfast from Penny’s All American Cafe, we headed out east on Price Canyon Road into Edna Valley, destination…Kynsi Winery.

What a gorgeous drive in! The back country roads are filled with rolling hills and vast panoramic vineyard views. Stunning!

When we arrived at Kynsi, we were greeted at their outdoor patio wine bar. From here you can enjoy your tasting under the gazebo or at one of the stone tables that offer unbelievable views of the surroundings, including the picturesque old dairy barn. There is also an intimite indoor tasting area as well.

We asked about the picture of the owl on their wine label. We were told Kynsi means owl claw in Finnish (the owners Don & Gwen Othman are part Finnish). When the land was first purchased, they couldn’t grow vineyards on it because it was highly infested with gophers. They decided to breed some barn owls (who currently live in the dairy barn) and the gopher problem was solved. The green light was given to plant their estate Stone Corral Vineyard.

We really enjoyed their refreshing 2010 (Santa Maria) Pinot Blanc Bien Nacido Vineyard and their estate 2009 (Edna Valley) Pinot Noir Stone Corral Vineyard, offering hints of flowers and spice on the nose and rich raspberry/cherry fruit in the mouth.

If you’re in the San Luis Obispo area, stop by Kynsi Winery and get a true sense of what the special region of Edna Valley has to offer! We can’t wait to go back!

Cheers!