A Toast to Our WINE CLUB Members

Recently, Hawks Hill Ranch hosted an event that perfectly embodied our estate’s unique mix of nature, fine wine, and community. On July 13th, under the sprawling canopy of our 200-year-old Manzanita grove, we welcomed our valued members to an exclusive dinner that was more than just a meal. The event celebrated the bond shared with our supporters and showcased the passion and dedication behind every bottle of wine we create.

The Manzanita grove, perched high at nearly 1,900 feet, offered the perfect setting for this gathering. With its panoramic views of the western mountain range and our vineyards nestled below, the grove is a place of serene beauty, untouched by time. The ancient, red-barked Manzanita trees stood as silent witnesses to the evening’s events, adding a touch of rustic elegance to the atmosphere. This was the first time hosting a Member Appreciation Dinner this year, and we wanted to make it memorable and special.

The Magical Setting of the Manzanita Grove

The Manzanita Grove at Hawks Hill Ranch is not just any grove; it is a place that embodies the soul of our estate. The grove’s elevated location offers breathtaking views that stretch across the Adelaide region, capturing the beauty of the natural landscape that has inspired our wines. The trees themselves, some over 200 years old, have become iconic symbols of the ranch, representing both resilience and timelessness.

However, hosting an event in such a remote and rustic location came with its challenges. The grove, with all its natural charm, lacked modern conveniences such as electricity and running water. But rather than seeing this as a limitation, our amazing team embraced the opportunity to create a truly unique and intimate experience for our members.

We used two electric trucks as generators to power the evening, ensuring that the grove was bathed in a warm, inviting glow as the sun set. The lighting, carefully strung among the trees, highlighted the grove’s natural beauty, while also providing the perfect ambiance for an evening of fine dining. The culinary setup was equally impressive, with Chef Mack Kuyper of Les Petite Canailles at the helm. Known for his innovative approach to cooking, Chef Kuyper brought his legendary “Voltron” BBQ rig—a multifunctional setup that includes a wood-fired grill, pizza oven, plancha, smoker, and sink—to create a feast that perfectly matched the evening’s rustic elegance.

Despite the day’s challenging weather—temperatures soared above 100 degrees, and gale-force winds threatened to disrupt our plans—the skies cleared just in time. As the evening approached, the winds calmed, and the temperature dropped, providing the ideal conditions for our guests to enjoy an unforgettable experience under the stars.

An Evening of Wine, Food, and Fellowship

As the clock struck 6:30 pm, our guests began arriving via shuttle, courtesy of Grand Cru Limo. They were greeted with a refreshing splash of our Rosé and Moth to Flame Chardonnay—wines that set the tone for the evening ahead. Guests mingled under the ancient branches of the Manzanitas, reconnecting with fellow members who share a deep appreciation for winemaking.

The dinner began with a few heartfelt words from our founder, Kit Kuyper, who expressed our deep gratitude to the members of our Insider Trading Club. This club is the beating heart of Hawks Hill Ranch, comprising individuals who have not only supported our wines but have also become part of our extended family. Their continued patronage has been instrumental in our success, and this evening was our way of saying thank you.

The Culinary Experience

The meal that followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Mack Kuyper, renowned for his ability to transform local ingredients into culinary masterpieces, delivered a family-style feast that celebrated the flavors of the Adelaide region. The bread service was amazing, with Wayward Sourdough and Focaccia accompanied by a variety of delicious butters. It could have been a meal on its own! Guests enjoyed a variety of flavorful butters, such as the HHR Wine Reduction Butter, Nori & Black Sesame Butter, and the Shallot & Fines Herb Butter, each offering a unique flavor profile that paired perfectly with our wines.

The main courses were equally impressive. Balancing the earthy richness of the perfectly cooked Porcini Rack of Lamb, the paired wines showcased a bright acidity. The Grilled Branzino, with its delicate texture and flavors enhanced by Lemon and Caper, was a highlight of the evening. The meal showcased Chef Kuyper’s culinary expertise with dishes like asparagus dressed with Kombu Beurre Blanc and Trout Roe, and a flavorful Lamb Dirty Rice made with various lamb cuts and veal broth.

As the night progressed, the conversation flowed as freely as the wine and laughter echoed through the grove as old friendships rekindled and new connections formed. The sense of community at Hawks Hill Ranch was evident during this gathering of like-minded individuals who shared passions and created lasting memories.

A Sweet Conclusion to an Unforgettable Evening

No meal is complete without dessert, and Chef Kuyper’s “Manzanitas” Apple Delight provided the perfect finale to an already remarkable evening. This dessert was a celebration of the simple pleasures that make life at Hawks Hill Ranch special, crafted with the same attention to detail as the rest of the meal. We considered the Manzanitas Apple Delight the ideal conclusion to a night that will be remembered for years to come.

But beyond the food and wine, what truly made this evening special was the sense of belonging that filled the air. As we toasted to our members under the star-studded sky, this was just the beginning of a tradition that we hope will continue. The Manzanita Grove, with its ancient trees and sweeping views, provided the perfect backdrop for our inaugural Member Appreciation Party. The night was filled with magic and celebration.

Become a Part of the Hawks Hill Ranch Family

Events like this are just one of the many perks of being a member of the Hawks Hill Ranch Wine Club. Our Paso Robles wine club memberships offer a range of benefits designed to bring you closer to the heart of our vineyard. Members enjoy two shipments of our wines each year, with the option to choose between the 3-bottle or 6-bottle club. As a member, you’ll have first access to our limited release wines and the option to add additional wines based on availability.

But the benefits go beyond just the wine. Membership also includes complimentary tastings for up to four guests, invitations to exclusive parties and special events at the estate, and one complimentary estate ranch tour per year. By joining our wine club, you not only gain access to our finest wines but also the opportunity to take part in unforgettable experiences like the Member Appreciation Dinner.

Looking Ahead: Join Us for the Harvest Dinner

As we look back on this unforgettable evening, Hawks Hill Ranch is already planning the next celebration. We are thrilled to announce that our first annual Harvest Dinner will take place on Saturday, October 19th. This event will be another opportunity to gather, enjoy the finest wines and cuisine, and celebrate the spirit of Hawks Hill Ranch. We can’t wait to share another magical evening with you and encourage all our members to save the date. Details will hit your inboxes soon, so keep an eye out!