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MEET THE INDUSTRIOUS VINTNERS PIONEERING A BETTER TOMORROW

“It’s the epitome of the American dream: coming here with nothing and building something.” Edgar Torres, Owner & Winemaker, Bodega de Edgar

Edgar Torres came to the U.S. at age 8, smuggled over the Mexican border to Cambria in a stranger’s van, following his parents who had made the trek earlier.

He spent most of his life in the United States illegally, going to school, working odd jobs, getting into the restaurant industry as a waiter, and eventually worked his way into winemaking.

He honors his wine industry friends for opening doors for him when they saw his dedication and passion for vino. Starting as a Cellar Rat, he moved up to learn the many different facets of the wine industry.

Now Torres has permanent resident status and is working toward citizenship. He is owner and winemaker of two brands — his own Bodega de Edgar and Hug Cellars, which he acquired when the founders decided to retire. And he’s considered Paso Robles’ first Mexican-American winemaker, a designation he’s learning to embrace.

Bodega is the Spaniard term for a winery or cellar. Considering his Hispanic heritage and passion for Spanish wines, the brand name seemed a natural fit.

Starting at just 250 cases in 2007, Bodega de Edgar is now approaching 2,500 cases with the 2014 vintage. As always, Edgar’s focus is on sourcing the highest quality fruit to produce the best wines, while still maintaining an affordable price point. 

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