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Don Burns

Don Burns

Don Burns, a distinguished winemaker and proud alumnus of Cal Poly's Agriculture Business program, has left an indelible mark on California's wine industry. With a rich background spanning over 15 years as the Assistant Winemaker at Saxum Winery, Don honed his craft and garnered invaluable experience.

door to tasting room at turtle rock

In a bold move, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing Turtle Rock Vineyards and Tin City Distillery in the heart of Paso Robles, CA. This entrepreneurial leap showcased his visionary approach and unwavering commitment to quality.

Don's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his numerous accolades, including impressive 92-100 point scores from esteemed critics such as Jeb Dunnuck, Vinous, The Wine Advocate, and Wine Spectator. His wines and spirits stand as a testament to his mastery of the craft and his relentless pursuit of perfection.