Changala Winery is the culmination of a dream for co-owners Heidi and Jean Changala. Both have been involved in the wine industry for a number of years, beginning with growing grapes and winemaking at their Templeton home in San Luis Obispo County in the 1980s.

Heidi and Jean became co-owners of HMR Winery in Paso Robles in 1997 and ventured out to start the tiny Changala Winery in 2001. During the course of these experiences, they expanded their knowledge of the industry by taking technical courses at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and the University of California, Davis, as well as by gaining practical experience and support from local growers and winemakers.

Using Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon from their home vineyard and grapes from a few quality-oriented growers, the Changalas craft wines that emphasize the fruit of the vineyard.