Our Wine-Maker

The “Wine Doctor”

Harold Osborne

Our Wine-Maker, Harold Osborne

BIO DI MORTE

Winemaker Harold Osborne has a long and rich history in the winemaking industry.After graduating from Fresno State in 1972 Harold worked for Napa Valley’s Schramsberg Champagne Cellars as a winemaker from 1973 until 1981.When asked why he left, Harold replied,” after 8 ½ years working in a cave, I needed to work on my tan”.


Being one of the first “flying” winemaker consultants, this entailed Harold  being flown to various parts of the world as numerous wineries utilized his expertise. In Australia for Capementelle Winery, in France for Chateau Coutet Barsac and in New Zealand as Pelorus Winemaker for Cloudy Bay Winery.


Having been one of the first winemakers to recognize the vast potential of the Central Coast area, Harold relocated here from Napa Valley in 1982 and went to work for Maison Deutz, now known as Latetia until 1987. He settled with Kendall-Jackson in Cambria for the next 12 years. The Kelsey Family was fortunate enough to acquire him as their winemaker in 2001.

 

The love of a good wine runs through Harold’s blood. His reputation continues to grow as his unique winemaking methods churn out consistent, extraordinary award winning wines. A true artist in his field, it becomes apparent once you sample the depth and intensity of his winemaking talent.


Experimenting with unique blends, he produced Kelsey’s best selling award winning Apple Chardonnay. Utilizing the fresh, home- grown apples at the Kelsey See Canyon family ranch he also blended the juice with Paso Robles Merlot grapes in the ever popular Apple Merlot.


From Bronze to Gold Medal awards for our Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel, Port, etc., Harold is a true master at his trade. You’ll not find a better glass of wine than one created by him.