Kevin Willenborg

Kevin Willenborg is a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in the winemaking industry, particularly known for his expertise with Cabernet Sauvignon at Vina Robles in Paso Robles. With a career spanning over three decades, Kevin has etched his name among the elite winemakers globally, having honed his skills in some of the world’s most prestigious vineyards and wineries, including the renowned Château Petrus in Bordeaux and Rubicon Estate in Napa Valley.

Kevin’s journey into the world of winemaking was serendipitous. Initially enrolling at UC Davis with aspirations of becoming an engineer, he found his true calling in viticulture just after his freshman year. This pivotal “left turn” in his career path led him to an illustrious journey through the vines of renowned wineries. From the historic cellars of Château Petrus under the mentorship of Jean-Claude Berrouet to pivotal roles at Louis M. Martini, Cedar Creek Estate, Firestone Vineyard, and Rubicon Estate, Kevin’s path has been nothing short of remarkable.

In 2012, Kevin’s winemaking odyssey brought him to Vina Robles, drawn by the Nef family’s dedication to the Paso Robles terroir and their all-estate approach to wine crafting. Here, Kevin’s philosophy of letting the terroir express itself through the wine has flourished. He approaches winemaking with the precision and delicacy of an artist, believing that the essence of wine begins in the vineyard and is carefully nurtured through every step of the process—from the soil to the bottle. Kevin views his role as a steward, guiding this essence with a meticulous eye for detail, ensuring that each wine truly represents its origins.

Kevin’s winemaking approach is deeply rooted in the belief that the complexity of wine is a reflection of the symbiosis between the vineyard and the cellar. This philosophy is evident in his relentless pursuit of knowledge and improvement, constantly exploring new techniques and innovations to enhance the intrinsic qualities of each grape varietal. His passion for winemaking is driven by the endless learning opportunities the field offers, from the nuances of soil composition to the intricate dance of chemistry and artistry that defines the craft.

Under Kevin’s guidance, Vina Robles wines have garnered acclaim for their distinctive character, embodying the unique attributes of the Paso Robles terroir. His preference for the Mountain Road Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, underscores his commitment to producing wines that not only showcase the region’s ripe fruit tones and rich textures but also possess the structure and acidity to age gracefully.

Beyond the vineyards and cellars, Kevin finds solace and inspiration in the natural beauty of the Central Coast, exploring its beaches with his wife. This connection to the land and his surrounding environment further informs his holistic approach to winemaking, where respect for nature and the subtle interplay of elements culminate in the creation of wines that speak of their place of origin.

Kevin Willenborg’s impact on the wine industry, particularly at Vina Robles, is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and visionary approach to winemaking. Through his efforts, Vina Robles continues to produce wines that not only captivate the palate but also tell the story of Paso Robles’ rich terroir, ensuring each bottle is a journey worth savoring.