It's official. The 2019 Paso Robles Wine Industry Person of the Year has been named.
Neil Collins, Winemaker and Owner at Lone Madrone, Winemaker and Vineyard Manager at Tablas Creek, and Proprietor of Bristols Cider, was honored Thursday evening for his outstanding leadership and vision.
The prestigious award was presented to Collins at the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance’s Annual Gala.
Collins has been an advocate for the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area (AVA) for more than 20 years. Collins often speaks about biodynamic and dry farming. The Alliance says his winemaking has played an important role in introducing wines of balance and elegance from Paso Robles to a global audience.
"To be nominated for this award and then to be chosen by my peers as the 2019 Wine Industry Person of the Year, is at once, surprising, humbling and a great honor,” said Neil Collins. “The Paso Robles wine community has always been good to me and to my family. I have been able to achieve successes far beyond my expectations, a few healthy failures along the way also! All with the support and encouragement of this community. I have strived to repay this by promoting and championing this great region before all else. I look forward to watching the continued growth in the reputation of our appellation as the very best in California and beyond. Thank you all so very much, my friends and neighbors."
Collins was nominated and named the 2019 Paso Robles Wine Industry Person by the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance membership which represents 450+ companies including wineries, vineyards, and associated businesses.
Thursday evening also featured the installation of the Alliance’s 2020 Board of Directors, executive committee, and recognition of departing board members.
