Paul Lato began his career as a sommelier at some of Toronto’s finest restaurants. His journey into winemaking started when Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat invited him to help with the 1996 harvest in California’s Central Coast. Although Lato returned to Toronto, he became captivated by the idea of making wine. In 2002, he made the move to the Central Coast permanently. There, he worked as a cellar rat while crafting small batches of his own wine on the side.

Lato’s initial vintages received acclaim from Robert M. Parker Jr. and other critics. Since then, he has continued producing limited quantities of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Chardonnay in Santa Maria, using grapes sourced from Santa Rita, Santa Ynez Valley, and Santa Maria Valley. Though he only produces around 500 cases each year, Lato has built a reputation for excellence. Parker consistently rates Lato’s wines between 90 and 95 points, noting that “Lato’s passion and impeccable attention to detail have resulted in some outstanding wines.” His wines are typically available only through a mailing list.

Learn more about Paul Lato Wines here or visit the Paul Lato website here.