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3 Seven Oxen Estate Wines PASO ROBLES An industrial enclave is an unlikely place for star-gazing at Seven Oxen Estate's winery and tasting room. However, it's the vineyard located a few miles west that offers the spectacular experience. The estate is named after septem triones (seven plow ox), a Latin term for the seven stars of the Big Dipper constellation, which rotates around the North Star throughout the year like oxen on a threshing floor. Seven Oxen founders Stephen, Anneke, Patrick, and Adriana Neal were interested in putting down roots on the Central Coast, and finding a piece of land that would remain in the family for generations to come. Their interest in the wine business was sparked by a meeting with Bastien Leduc, who was introduced to the Neals through his wife's family connection. Bastien grew up on his father's organic vineyard in southwest France and experienced winemaking in his homeland and in Australia. His approach to vineyard practices and organic farming aligned with the family's philosophy, and with Bastien on the team, the Neals were assured they had a partner who shared their vision. In 2012, the Neals acquired the property perched atop the rolling hills of Paso Robles' west side, and Bastien came on board as Seven Oxen's Vineyard Manager and Winemaker. Between 2013 and 2016, the Seven Oxen team sold half of their fruit and kept the remainder for their own label. The first four vintages averaged an annual production of 600 cases. The philosophy at Seven Oxen is to produce small lots of artisanal wines from the organically farmed vineyard that bridges the Willow Creek and Templeton Gap appellations. FACING PAGE: Seven Oxen Winery is located in a cluster of industrial buildings just south of Paso Robles. Guests can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the patio while they taste wine. ABOVE: Seven Oxen shares the industrial building it calls home with a distillery, a brewery, and another winery. Located right off of Highway 101, it's got excellent visibility and is easily accessible for visitors. Photographs by Bastien Leduc

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