In 2018, the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance called for nominations for our first ever Wine Awards from our membership. Meant to recognize individuals and organizations that excel among our membership, these awards will be announced throughout the year.

Today, we are happy to announce our recipient for 2019 Raising the Bar Award. This award spotlights an individual or organization that has been successful in developing something new and unique in Paso Robles which elevates the Paso Robles wine country experience. And, best of all, chosen by their peers.

Drum roll please… congratulations to this year’s winner – Brian Terrizzi

Even with so many fantastic wineries, a cider house, and other businesses centered in Tin City, there existed a need to introduce something new and innovative to add variety to the popular Paso Robles wine tasting destination. Already a resident in Tin City with Giornata, which he co-owns with his wife Stephanie, Brian saw an opportunity and decided to capitalize on it. First, by opening Etto Pastaficio, a specialty shop focused on making and selling fresh pasta, along with wine and other distinctive foods. This business proved successful and was followed by Brian collaborating to open the Tin Canteen restaurant next door. Tin Canteen offers Italian food favorites like pizza and pasta dishes, and so much more. Brian’s combined success in these businesses highlights his position in the vanguard of Paso Robles. His work has only helped to further improve the experience of both locals and visiting consumers coming to Paso Robles in hopes of finding a wine country unlike any other.

“My wife and I love the community here and it’s a huge honor that we have been recognized for adding to the fabric of it. Our greatest hope was that Etto and Tin Canteen would be places that locals would want to visit on a regular basis and it’s been gratifying to see this happen. We thank everyone for their vote of confidence and we hope to see you soon as we continue trying to raise the bar,” said Brian.

Congratulations again to Brian Terrizzi and all the nominees in the Raising the Bar Award category. Please look out in the coming months for the Educator of the Year Award, Community/Good Neighbor Award and more!