The Story of Blind Dog Wines

Everyone Loves a Story so Here is Our "Tale" Behind Blind Dog Wines

The Saga began in 1996 when our 30 acre vineyard on the Westside of the Paso Robles appellation was planted. Our property caretaker, Duane Robinson, lived on the property with Bingo, his longtime, faithful companion who, due to glaucoma, was blind. They were simpatico companions as Bingo would bark to alert Duane, who was very hard of hearing, and Duane would be Bingo's eyes. In 1998 Bingo had aged. We searched for a true assist dog for Duane and found Dogs for the Deaf (now known as Dogs for Better Lives) in Oregon.

They are a terrific organization that rescues dogs and trains them as assist dogs. After passing the application process, Duane was matched with Topaz, a spunky little lab/terrier mix. Topaz became Toby to Duane and all of us here at the Vineyard. She was a great help to Duane as his hearing assist dog and a wonderful addition to the vineyard. As Toby aged we discovered she was a Diabetic. In the summer of 2008 Toby lost her sight - a true irony to have two blind dogs on the property and especially for Toby, since she, herself was an assist dog. But as with Bingo, nothing deters Toby from enjoying life amongst the vines!

We were inspired by these two special vineyard dogs and our Blind Dog Midnight Run Cuvee is a Tribute to them. Their happy wagging tails exuded their love of life and a determined spirit showing everyone that they would not be deterred by their handicap.

In their honor, a percentage of our proceeds will be donated to Dogs for Better Lives, formerly known as Dogs for the Deaf, in Central Point, Oregon. Visit their website at Dogs for Better Lives to find out more about this worthwhile organization that rescues shelter dogs and trains them as hearing assist dogs.

The Wine

An eclectic blend of some of the best Paso Robles reds, Blind Dog Midnight Run Cuvee is delicious, approachable and affordable, making it a doggone great wine! Barrel aged from 14 to 30 months, this complex wine is a perfect "companion" with meals. Or just enjoy it on its own after a brisk walk or playtime with your very own 4 legged best friend!

Double Gold - San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition!