The LXV Wine STORY
LXV Wine is our connection to India. Paso Robles reminds us of India. Roblans have a deep relationship with the earth. With each other. There is an intimacy in the ecosystem in Paso. And that expresses itself in the grapes, in the winemaking, and ultimately, in the wines.
Rooted in Indian Tradition
It all started in a small town south of Mumbai…
…where my mother lives and regularly visits the local spice market to purchase the fragrant herbs and spices that go into our handmade Tandoori Masala.
LXV is a space where we bring the flavors from around the world to our tasting table—through wines and through pairings. We have opened up the restrained jargon of pH and acidity of wine, to a more inclusive and experiential conversation of flavors and senses.
Being one of the first Indian women to own a winery in the US, and being named in the Top-10 tasting experiences in America by USA Today, comes with a lot of responsibility! I have to answer more questions on culture than vintages, on food than wine, on inspirations than medals.
The ultimate goal is to create a movement that inspires and heightens moments, and that transcends the personal, business and community. —Neeta Mittal—
An Unexpected Detour & The Birth LXV Wine
Paso was love at first sight.
Fog at Oceano’s county airport led to an unexpected landing in nearby Paso Robles. Neeta and I took the detour in stride, as we always do with our travels, and decided to visit some of the region’s local wineries.
The experience felt warm and inviting and we both felt an immediate connection to Paso’s wine, people, and its culture. There was something about it that reminded both of us of India…
Ten years later, we are part of this magnificent culture that we now get to share with you… just like our first time. —Kunal Mittal
Consulting Winemaker, Jeff Strekas
With experience at leading Napa Valley estates and a foundation in Bordeaux-inspired winemaking, Jeffrey Strekas brings both rigor and creativity to LXV. Originally from Connecticut, he trained as a chemical engineer before turning to wine as a pursuit that married science with artistry, completing his studies in viticulture and enology at UC Davis.
Jeff’s career includes time at Merryvale, Franciscan, and Round Pond in Napa, as well as a harvest with Australia’s renowned Mollydooker. His style is rooted in balance and freshness, with a focus on letting each vineyard speak.
At LXV, Jeff thrives on collaboration—crafting wines that reflect Neeta’s love for Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Semillon, while honoring Kunal’s passion for Cabernet Franc. Highlights include a White Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc Rosé from the 2021 vintage, with Blanc de Sangiovese and Blanc de Franc sparklings soon to come.
Consulting Winemaker, Frederick Ammons
With more than 25 vintages at some of the world’s most celebrated estates, Frederick Ammons is recognized as one of the foremost interpreters of vineyard-driven wine. His pursuit of excellence carried him from his Colorado farm roots to Bordeaux, where he became only the sixth American to earn the prestigious Diplôme National d’Œnologue.
His career spans Château Pape Clément in France, Opus One in Napa, nearly a decade at Harlan Estate’s Napa Valley Reserve, and eight vintages as winegrower at Rudd Estate. Blending Old World tradition with New World innovation, Frederick brings both technical mastery and a long-term vision for the land.
In 2020, he founded VinCru to guide producers who share his belief that great wine begins in the vineyard. Alongside his wife, Marie-Laure, he also crafts wines under their personal label, Nid Tissé. For Frederick, winegrowing is the ongoing marriage of culture, science, and taste—an exploration that deepens with every vintage.
“I first met Kunal and Neeta several years ago and they had a dream and goal of making great small lot releases of their own wines. Well their dream is being realized and I love their wines but even more importantly I love them as friends. Try their wines and you will not be disappointed."
"Neeta is very much like her father - there is the engineering acumen of always wanting to create, analyze and understand things followed by the innate urge to include and connect with everyone around. The flavors from the spices are that connection back to India. To be able to help source these herbs and to be a part of her incredible journey has been a pure joy for me. And I am so glad that she has finally found her new home in Armaa.N "
"We await the precious words from our beloved friend"
