THE VOLATUS STORY
In 2004, Hal Schmitt, a former naval aviator and TOPGUN instructor, decided to follow his dream of becoming a winemaker. With more than nine years of experience as a wine enthusiast who gave his free time and assistance to a friend’s vineyard in Paso Robles, he made the decision to begin his own wine venture. With the initial purchase of a ton of Syrah grapes, Hal began the transition from enjoying wine as a hobby to enjoying wine as a profession. The year 2006 saw the launch of the Volatus brand with its 2004 Reserve Red Wine, a blend of Paso Robles Syrah and Malbec grapes. Volatus’ first offering was a great combination of quality fruit, the finest French oak and expert winemaking. As a member of one of the world’s most exclusive clubs, TOPGUN, Hal thrives on meeting every challenge with nothing but complete dedication and a perfectionist spirit. It is with this spirit that he offers Volatus, which means “to take flight” in Latin, hoping to bring his passion for flying to the consumer via this premium wine.
As a former Navy Fighter Pilot, I like to work hard and fly hard but I also like to have a good time. For me, wine has always been fun; a social beverage to enjoy with good food and great conversation. At Volatus, my mission is simple- create delicious wines to share with friends and family.
The Crew
HAL “BULL” SCHMITT
Owner, Winemaker
A graduate of Notre Dame and a 2-time TOPGUN instructor Hal has a serious demeanor and a wonderful smile behind the tasting room bar. He loves to make wine and he loves to make incredible food that pairs deliciously with Volatus and Midnight Cellars' wines.
VICTORIA SCHMITT
Owner, Design and Marketing
A California girl from the start, Victoria met Hal at Midnight Cellars when he was just starting his new wine label. Unable to resist his charm she fell for his stable personality and similar passion for wine and food. She also introduced him to photography and art which has been incorporated into the lifestyle of Volatus.
Victoria is the head of marketing and design and the manager of their up and coming tasting room on the west side of Paso Robles. When they aren't conducting quality control they are photographing the beauty of the Paso Robles wine country, teaching clients photographic techniques, or traveling the county with their wine and photography tours.
DAN SZENTESI
Head of Hospitality
I'm a surfer, swimmer, and Morro Bay native that joined the team in the fall of 2024 after 6+ years in all parts the Paso wine industry. I also coach swimming at Morro Bay High School and have spent 10 years as a surf instructor, specializing in adaptive surf training for wounded military and veterans. I love wine and its ability to bring people together through shared experiences. My favorite Volatus wines are the Charlie Chardonnay and Bloody Well Right Tannat.
Ella Mesmer
TASTING ROOM
I’m Ella, and I love sharing our amazing wines and creating meaningful connections with everyone I meet at Volatus Winery! I’m dedicated to giving every guest the best experience possible. A cat is my spirit animal—independent, curious, a little mysterious, and affectionate on my own terms.
So far, my favorite Volatus Wine is the Fox-2!
BAILEY KELLEY
Tasting Room
Bailey has a green thumb and an incredible work ethic. She is an avid duck hunter assisted by her cute lab puppy known to make an appearance at the tasting room.
After seven years of active duty in the United States Navy, including service aboard two aircraft carriers, Merlyn has found her home on the Central Coast. She is currently pursuing her education in Early Childhood Education while expanding her knowledge and appreciation of wine.
