Gray Hartley

The Path

Commercial fishing set the first discipline. Gray Hartley spent 28 years as a salmon fisherman, including time as captain of a commercial fishing boat in Alaska, before wine became central to the work. That shift shows up in the structure of the wines he makes at Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery, where Pinot Noir has become a defining focus.

The Work Today

At Hitching Post Wines in the Santa Ynez Valley, Gray Hartley works as winemaker and co-owner, building wines around flavor, handwork, and balance. The house aim is plainspoken: wines of character that stay poised and balanced.

Career - winemaker and co-owner — Hartley-Ostini Hitching Post Winery, Santa Ynez Valley, California (1979–present) - salmon fisherman; captain of a commercial fishing boat — commercial fishing in Alaska

Signature

Gray Hartley’s signature wines include Highliner, Hometown, Cork Dancer, Kick On, and Sanford & Benedict.

In Their Words “The idea of making wine began as a bit of a lark in 1979.”

Acclaim

Highliner is Hitching Post Wines’ flagship in Santa Barbara County, built as a thoughtful blend from the best Pinot lots each vintage.

FAQ What is Gray Hartley's current role? As of 2026, Gray Hartley is Winemaker and Co-owner. Where did Gray Hartley work before? Gray Hartley's earlier career included commercial fishing in Alaska. What is Gray Hartley known for? Pinot Noir.