When you have spent your life making wine from one of the most famous estates in the valley, a side project has to mean something. For Eli Parker, the founding winemaker of his family’s well-known winery, Epiphany is exactly that: a chance to chase the Rhone grapes he loves, on his own terms.

A winemaker’s other passion

Epiphany Cellars is the Rhone-focused label of Eli Parker, of the Santa Ynez Valley’s Parker winemaking family. Where the family’s main estate spans many styles, Epiphany narrows in on the Rhone Valley grapes that thrive in the warm eastern Santa Ynez Valley, made in a bolder, more personal register. It is a winemaker indulging his own taste, and the wines have the confidence that comes with it.

The wines

Epiphany works the Rhone family, with rich, peppery Syrah at its core, alongside Grenache, the occasional Petite Sirah, and aromatic Rhone whites. These are generous, sun-filled wines built for the warm side of the valley and for hearty food.

What to drink it with

The Syrah is built for the grill: Santa Maria tri-tip, grilled lamb, or braised short ribs, where the wine’s pepper and dark fruit lock into the smoke and char. The Grenache, softer and red-fruited, loves roast pork or duck, and the bigger Petite Sirah wants a serious steak, where its firm tannin meets the fat.

Plan your visit

Epiphany pours in the walkable village of Los Olivos, an easy stop among the town’s many tasting rooms. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

Frequently asked questions