In a recent blog post I went over a wine tasting we did with Nick Elliott of Nicora Wines. This time I’d like to cover a bit of the back story on Nick and Nicora.
The name Nicora is a combination of his name, Nick (minus the K) and his great grandfather, Ora.
Nick would have been 4th generation in the family construction business but his pull to the wine industry was just too strong.
He’s at about 1,300 cases per year right now.
In 2009 he started with 100 cases and it was gone in 90 days.
In 2010 he did 200 cases and it was gone in 30 days.
He would like to get up to 2,000 cases.
Matt: What moment did you know that wine was a passion for you?
Nick: That moment came when I was driving down the road at 1:00am. I was just getting off of a very long day at work, soaking wet, making $11.00hr, and for some odd reason I was very excited to come back the next day. I couldn’t believe I actually loved a job!
Matt: What is your philosophy on winemaking?
Nick: My philosophy has always been on the minimalist side of things. My thoughts are that if you need to manipulate your grapes in the cellar then you should have just bought better grapes in the beginning. I believe that in order to make great wine you must first start in the vineyard.
Matt: Do you have a favorite food and wine pairing?
Nick: Brisket & Syrah!
Matt: What is your favorite thing about the wine industry in Paso Robles?
Nick: The comradery in Paso Robles is immense and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. I believe Paso Robles knows that we are all in this together and that we are still learning what’s “best”. Here we are afforded the opportunity to carve our own way in the wine world with very little restrictions or regulations. Come one, come all!
Matt: Who are some of the people in the wine business that you look up to or have mentored you?
Nick: I look up to several people in the industry for various reasons. Many people have worked extremely hard to get Paso where it is today and without them Paso would not have such a robust and welcoming community. I was mentored by Scott Hawley of Torrin for 6 years and during that time I was able to work for various projects that he was involved in. I’ve worked harvest for Alta Colina, Villicana, and Law Estate. I also worked a summer out at Booker Vineyards.
Thanks again to Nick for tasting us through his wines and answering the above questions. Cheers!
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