Barbieri Wine Company was founded in 2005 by Master Sommelier Paolo Barbieri. Paolo's exposure to the world's wine inspired him to start making small (experimental) lots from Santa Barbara County in his garage in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2003. The small wine press used in his initial batches can still be found in his tasting room today. During the early development of Barbieri Wine Company, Paolo used his experience and expertise to master his own wine making process. Paolo always loved the central coast for its wines, and soon began crafting them in Buellton, CA, while commuting back to Las Vegas.
Erin Kempe's career in the culinary world started back in her home state of Texas where she worked in several restaurants, which helped to develop her love for food and wine. A move to Las Vegas brought her to work with culinary masters and James Beard winners like Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys, Rick Moonen of RM Seafood, Wolfgang Puck of Cut and Spago and Shawn McClain of Sage. Together with Paolo, she created a new label under her name, KEMPE which focuses on Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, some Bordeaux Blends, with a Rose' and white blend as well.
In 2014, Paolo and Erin decided "roll the dice" and go "all in" to pursue wine making full-time, and left Las Vegas to open their tasting room in Los Olivos.