Oso Libre, which means “Free Bear” in Spanish, was founded by Chris and Linda Behr who purchased the 90-acres in the Adelaida District of West Side Paso Robles in 1996. Fifteen acres of grape vines were planted on the Estate in the year 2000 and three years later was the first harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon. That is when winegrowers Chris and Linda met their winemaking partner and his wife, Michael and Joey Barreto, creating a team that has created many highly awarded vintages for nearly 20 years. As a complement to the wines, the property is also a working cattle ranch that raises Angus cattle and sells the premium beef through its tasting room.

Vines and Wines

Visit Oso Libre to taste and experience their award-winning wines. They have consistently been recognized with high scores, ratings and awards by the most distinguished publications and competitions (SF Chronicle Wine Competition, SF International Wine Competition, Critics Challenge International, and The Wine Enthusiast, to name just a few). But there is so much more to this winery/ranch than “just” the wine - because there is no “just” about the wines.

Vineyard Management: You can’t help but notice the Vineyard Management Team as you drive up to and arrive at the tasting room. The team, comprised of Dorper Sheep, Alpacas and Black Angus Cattle, are constantly at work throughout the vineyard and farm. Grazing continuously, they promote effective (and ecologically responsible) weed control, fertilization and soil management - helping keep the earth healthy and well balanced. Occasionally you will see humans in the vineyards, performing some of the tasks these four-legged workers are unable to.

Oso Libre takes no shortcuts in wine production. The winemaking team of Behr, Barreto and Cellarmaster Luis Fernandez let the wines speak for themselves. Minimalizing manipulation, the wines age naturally in barrel. Famed director, Orson Wells, made the following phrase popular many years ago, “We will sell no wine before its time. “Following this proclamation, you will find that Oso Libre ages their wines an average of 36 months, allowing a depth and complexity that can only be developed with time and patience. Current releases are from the 2018 vintage. These are wines that can be enjoyed now without the need for any additional cellar time. “At Oso Libre, we age the wines, so that you don’t have to,” says Chris Behr.

Today’s Practices Protecting Tomorrow’s Future: There has always been a firm commitment to the farming and winemaking practices. OSO LIBRE is a SIP Certified (Sustainability in Practice*) vineyard. Briefly described, this commitment is “a life choice, focusing on habitat conservation, energy efficiency, pest management, water conservation, economic stability and human resources.” As far as energy conservation is concerned, with their use of wind and solar power, OSO LIBRE WINERY has a 0% carbon footprint. This creates an eco-system that protects the future, while producing exquisite wines for you to enjoy.
*Click here for more information.

Por Vida (For Life)

Por Vida, their charitable foundation, is one of the most important components of OSO LIBRE WINERY. It inspires them to work even harder every day. Commitment to the community, both local and far reaching goes hand in hand with a commitment to the environment. Proceeds from Por Vida go to four main causes: Cancer research, Child abuse prevention, Veteran support groups, and Animal protection.           

Visit Oso Libre Winery for a memorable experience of sipping exquisite wines in a location that is surrounded by nature’s beauty. The hospitality staff includes Jeanine Madson Ellis, Wine Club Manager, Zuridia Garcia, Marketing Manager and Quintin Ruiz, the Tasting Room Manager along with the Behr and Barreto families. OSO LIBRE is a leader and role-model for respecting people and the planet. Be a part of their journey. Cheers!

SOME OSO LIBRE FACTS
• EVERY “like” on Oso Libre’s Facebook page will raise $5.00 for Por Vida. like now*

• 15 planted acres of vines, for: Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo, Mourvèdre, Grenache Blanc, Viognier

• In addition to many awards and scores received since 2009, OSO LIBRE is particularly proud of their recognition by the Grand Harvest Awards International Wine Competition. This is the only North American Wine Competition based on terroir and viticulture.

• Black Angus. Oso Libre is a fully functional, traditional San Luis Obispo County Cattle Ranch. Three to six steers are harvested annually. Grass fed, free range, there are: “No hormones, no feedlot, no corn, no stress.” Check out beef for purchase in the tasting room.

• Tastings: Visitors are welcome seven days a week. Parties of six or more need to call ahead. For a truly elevated experience, check out the Reserve Tasting, which includes a library selection, a cheese & charcuterie board, and a tour of the Estate.

RESERVATIONS