Halter Ranch Vineyard has announced the retirement of Mitch Wyss, Director of Viticulture/Winegrower, who has devoted the last 12 years managing this exceptional property in west Paso, with 1,000+ acres and 275 acres now under vine.
Although Wyss is stepping down from day-to-day operations, he will continue to be involved at Halter Ranch, overseeing a number of vineyard projects, expanding the tour programs he developed over the years and representing Halter Ranch at wine events on the road.
“We are indebted to Mitch for the legacy he’s created at Halter Ranch, says GM Skylar Stuck, adding, “rarely are a man and a property so intertwined.” According to Stuck, “the excellent quality of the wines we see today are a testament to Mitch’s hard work and viticultural acumen.”
After graduating from California State University, Chico, with a degree in business, Wyss pursued a number of careers that appealed to his love of the outdoors, including working as a commercial salmon fisherman, a whitewater outfitter and a canoe guide in the Everglades – eventually settling down in the northern Sacramento Valley to manage a fruit farming operation. In 2000, Halter Ranch owner, Hansjörg Wyss (ironically, no relation) offered him the opportunity to create Halter Ranch Vineyard. Mitch Wyss knew it was a perfect fit – he could apply his love of the outdoors, past experience and belief in sustainability – all in the creation of a great bottle of wine!
In his expanded free time, Wyss looks forward to taking road trips, camping and visiting his favorite spots of Baja and Montana.
About Halter Ranch
Halter Ranch Vineyard, a historic property on the west side of Paso Robles in the heart of California’s Central Coast, draws on both innovative and traditional winemaking. The winery produces 100% estate-grown wines, specializing in Bordeaux and Rhône Valley varietals and blends. It has earned California’s prestigious SIP Certification (Sustainability in Practice) for its environmentally responsible viticultural and winemaking practices.
