VOLATUS

Former Navy fighter pilot and 2-time TOPGUN Instructor turned winemaker.

  • About
  • Wines Produced
  • Events
  • Press & Accolades
  • About
    As a former Navy Fighter Pilot, I like to work hard and fly hard but I also like to have a good time. For me, wine has always been fun; a social beverage to enjoy with good food and great conversation. At Volatus, my mission is simple- create delicious wines to share with friends and family. In 2004, Hal Schmitt, a former naval aviator and TOPGUN instructor, decided to follow his dream of becoming a winemaker. With more than nine years of experience as a wine enthusiast who gave his free time and assistance to a friend’s vineyard in Paso Robles, he made the decision to begin his own wine venture. With the initial purchase of a ton of syrah grapes, Hal began the transition from enjoying wine as a hobby to enjoying wine as a profession. The year 2006 saw the launch of the Volatus brand with its 2004 Reserve Red Wine, a blend of Paso Robles syrah and malbec grapes. Volatus’ first offering was a great combination of quality fruit, the finest French oak and expert winemaking. As a member of one of the world’s most exclusive clubs, TOPGUN, Hal thrives on meeting every challenge with nothing but complete dedication and a perfectionist spirit. It is with this spirit that he offers Volatus, which means “to take flight” in Latin, hoping to bring his passion for flying to the consumer via this premium wine.

  • Wines Produced
    Bordeaux-Style Blend
    Cabernet Franc
    Cabernet Sauvignon
    Carignane
    Chardonnay
    Dolcetto
    Graciano
    Grenache
    Malbec
    Merlot
    Other
    Petit Verdot
    Petite Sirah
    Pinot Noir
    Red Blend
    Red Rhône-Style Blend
    Rosé
    Roussanne
    Syrah
    Tannat
    Tempranillo
    Viognier
    White Rhône-Style Blend
    Zinfandel
  • Events

    Sip and Shop at Volatus

    Sat | Dec 14, 2024
    Visit our gorgeous tasting room (rain or shine) on December 14th from 1-4pm and enjoy sipping on Volatus wines while shopping for last minute gifts from local vendors. From olive oils to custom handmade... View Event Details >
  • Press & Accolades

    Press

  • Military, Veteran and First Responders

    We offer 2 for 1 tastings to active Military, Veteran, and first responders. Tastings are waived with a bottle purchase and Military, Veteran and First responders receive 10% off wine purchases.