Mr. William “Bill” Shinkle grew up in the San Fernando Valley. He has been in Hemet since 1972 where he and his family started the nursery here in town. When he was 15 and saw the property of the vineyard the first time, he said to his parents “I’m gonna own that place one day.” In 2009,  he was able to make that dream come true and begin the long journey of restoration.  Eight years later he has transformed it into Tranquil Heart.

He has been working with and mixing soils, growing and cultivating a wide variety of plants and flowers for over 40 years. His horticultural prowess is well known and respected inside and outside the agricultural industry across the United States. Numerous elite companies and people have chosen him to provide plants and flowers for them including multiple Las Vegas hotels, dozens of country clubs, and golf courses.

He has also planted a vineyard at Green Valley Casino for the Fertattis, owners of the Station Casinos, the UFC and other MMA organizations.Bill has been the recipient of too many awards to list, in addition to providing plants and flowers to thousands of customers over the years; he has also been involved in many landscaping and beautifying projects.

“Creating exceptional quality wines involves a lot of considerations; there are so many factors to consider when growing and producing one wine, we offer six. After repeatedly testing the soil, considering the weather and numerous other factors, the obvious choice to grow these types of grapes is very clear. Once the grapes have been cultivated, the process of making the wines is also a serious experience”

A significant amount of his own personal capital has been placed into the development of the land, design, and equipment necessary for the vineyard and winery. Being a small vineyard really allows him to have full control over growing, harvesting, crushing, and winemaking. At this time, the wines are made off-site while Bill learns the delicate art of winemaking. He is an excellent student and we hope to have our own onsite winemaking facility soon.

“It is my goal- to be in complete control over all aspects of the wine, from the vine to the barrel and at the same time allow our members to have the opportunity to also be part of the winemaking experience.”