23 Under-the-Radar Small-Production Wineries in Paso Robles

Paso Robles is home to some of California’s most innovative and exciting names in wine, but sometimes it’s fun to go off-the-beaten track to discover the less mainstream, smaller production wineries.

These small-production wineries are driven by passion, not mass production. Each one has a story to tell, a family behind the label, and a hands-on approach that rewards visitors with memorable wine and often, a personal connection. While some are hidden in plain sight, others are found by turning off a paved road and following a gravel trail lined with vines.

These wineries offer welcoming hospitality, intimate tasting experiences (sometimes held with the winemaker or owners themselves), and limited-releases not easily found outside the winery.

So, the next time you’re looking to visit a small producer you may not have heard of, or simply want to add a bottle of something delicious you can’t find anywhere else, be sure to check out these 23 under-the-radar wineries in Paso Robles.

They may produce less wine than the bigger names, but rest assured these wineries don’t disappoint when it comes to offering memorable Wine Country experiences.

Willow Creek District

Écluse Wines

Écluse Wines is a family-owned, boutique winery located in Paso Robles’ sought-after Westside, specifically the Willow Creek District. They are dedicated to producing limited production, handcrafted, and award-winning wines from their very own Lock Vineyard (the name Écluse, meaning “locks” in French, was chosen because the previous owners’ last name is Lock). 

Their focus is on Bordeaux and Rhône varietals, with a special nod going to their award-winning Zinfandel. Visitors can sip outstanding boutique chardonnay, rose, cabernet sauvignon, petite sirah, syrah, and zinfandel offerings, as well as a collection of popular red blends, all while enjoying sweeping vineyard views.

Insider Tip: Ask about their San Francisco Chronicle Sweepstakes-winning Best Red Wine.

Visit: 1520 Kiler Canyon Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 238-4999

Pelletiere Estate Vineyard

This female-owned winery, founded by the mother-daughter team of Janis Pelletiere and Morgan Stepp, brings a taste of Italy to California’s Central Coast. Located in the Willow Creek District, Pelletiere Estate champions lesser-known Italian varieties like Montepulciano and Lagrein, which often sell out each year. 

Their focus is on sustainably-crafted Italian varietals including Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Aglianico, Cannonau, and Primitivo. These estate-grown wines showcase the limestone-rich soil of the region, giving them a distinctive character. Visitors can even choose from two vineyard stays: the two-bedroom Farmhouse or the one-bedroom Eastwood Casita.

Insider Tip: Ask about the 2021 Tievoli, a Sangiovese, Aglianico, and Primitivo blend. Their Italian-style wines are only available at the estate—worth the trip. 

Visit: 3280 Township Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 239-9432

Lone Madrone

Lone Madrone reflects the personality of winemaker Neil Collins (also the winemaker at Tablas Creek). Since 1996, they have partnered with historic Paso Robles growing operations, many of which are still family-owned. They source grapes from coveted growers like Klau Mine Vineyards (farmed by the Dodd family for over 140 years) and Osgood Vineyards (ground zero for iconic head-pruned Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Cabernet Sauvignon). Located in the Willow Creek District, Lone Madrone offers an more laid back tasting experience for those seeking authentic, terroir-driven wines that tell the story of West Paso Robles’ unique landscape.

Insider Tip: Attend “Burger Sundays” for a laid back food and wine experience on their patio. If you want some more intimate, we recommend the Roots Wine & Food Pairing which thoughtfully highlights their dry-farmed wines, each paired with small culinary bites by Chef Jeffery Scott.

Visit: 3750 Hwy 46 West, Templeton, CA 93465
Contact: (805) 238-0845

Adelaida District

Brecon Estate

Brecon Estate offers a boutique experience with small-lot, high-quality wines. Located in the Adelaida District in Westside Paso Robles, visitors are immediately struck by the sense of discovering something special. The winery, accessible only by a charming footbridge, invites guests to slow down and transition from the hurried pace of everyday life into a more contemplative experience.

Founded by Welsh Winemaker Damian Grindley, Brecon Estate highlights its award-winning wines with an “Australian-esque” tasting experience, that stands in contrast to the sometimes formal atmosphere found at other wineries. Here, the focus is on creating a space where visitors can truly connect with both the wines and the spectacular natural setting.

Insider Tip: Be on the lookout for the Brecon Estate Albariño and Reserve Cabernet Franc. Their wines are produced in limited quantities and are in high demand, often selling out quickly. The shady native garden and picnic area offer a relaxing spot to enjoy these exceptional wines while taking in the beauty of the Adelaida District.

Visit: 7450 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 239-2200

Dubost Wines

Dubost Wines takes a family-run approach to winemaking that spans five generations. Located in the Adelaida District, they view their wines as a reflection of their way of life and mission. They have strived to be good stewards of the land they have been blessed with, developing their family vineyards and winery with the goal of producing wines that carry the family name with pride while allowing them to keep their family ranch for future generations. Dubost is noted for producing unique varietals, with an impressive portfolio that includes Bordeaux-Style blends, Rhône varieties, and lesser-known gems like Carménère, Nebbiolo, and Touriga Nacional.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss their regular pizza and wine pairing events. Enjoy Dubost wines by the flight, glass or bottle while overlooking the Adelaida country hills.

Visit: 9988 Chimney Rock Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 226-8463

Kiamie Wine Cellars

Kiamie Wine Cellars crafts brilliant, unique blends that stand out in Paso Robles’ innovative wine scene. Their grapes are sourced from coveted westside mountain vineyards like Starr Ranch, Halter Vineyard, Rolph Family Vineyard, Hearthstone Vineyard, and La Vista Vineyard, allowing them to create wines of exceptional complexity and depth. Located in the Adelaida District, Kiamie focuses on these distinctive blends and has also developed popular sparkling wines that have become favorites among visitors. The tasting room offers a cozy, intimate setting that’s particularly inviting during the winter months.

Insider Tip: Explore their brilliant, unique blends crafted from grapes sourced from specific coveted westside mountain vineyards.

Visit: 9750 Adelaida Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 226-8333 

Copia Vineyards

Copia Vineyards, founded by Varinder Sahi and Anita Kothari, has carved a niche for themselves with exceptional Rhône-style wines. Located in the prestigious Adelaida District, Copia offers an intimate, elevated tasting experience for wine lovers seeking both exceptional wines and stunning views. Grapes for their boutique bottles come from their own Copia Estate Vineyard, established in 2019, as well as from some of the area’s top grape-growing properties. Visitors can savor thoughtfully curated wine flights on their panoramic patio overlooking 50 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards, with views that are a must-see.

Insider Tip: Elevate your visit by booking their signature “Culinary Experience” to enjoy a guided tasting expertly paired with gourmet small plates on their panoramic patio.

Visit: 5076 Mustard Creek Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 296-3000

Templeton Gap District

Seven Oxen Estate Wines

Seven Oxen is a family-owned, estate winery producing small-batch Rhône and Zinfandel wines. Their estate vineyard is located in the Templeton Gap of Paso Robles’ Westside, but you can find their tasting room in Ramada Row, just outside downtown Paso Robles. This district allows visitors to explore Paso Robles’ vibrant urban wine culture, housing more than 20 wineries run by innovative winemakers

Seven Oxen take a minimalist approach at the winery to produce wines reflecting the unique character of the estate. 

Insider Tip: Seven Oxen offers a 2 for 1 wine tasting coupon that can be redeemed by showing the relevant page at the tasting room, making this hidden gem even more accessible to wine enthusiasts looking to explore Paso’s smaller producers.

Visit: 3440 Ramada Dr Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 369-2710

ONX Wines

ONX Wines (pronounced “onyx”) is known for bold and distinctive blends that capture the essence of the region. Founded by Steve and Brenda Olson in 2004, they recognized the potential of an idyllic property in the Templeton Gap, establishing the 127-acre ONX Estate Vineyard.

Their estate vineyards care for 20 historic varietals, each possessing a unique character and attitude. They have earned certifications for their estates with the California Sustainable Wine Growing Alliance and offer three distinct ways to experience their wines: visiting the Tin City Tasting Room & Winery, taking the ONX Vineyard Tour Experience at the Estate, or booking their Briarwood Cottage on the Estate vineyard for lodging.

Insider Tip: Opt for the ONX Vineyard Tour Experience at the estate vineyard to truly “sink your boots into authentic wine country soil”. If you’re staying overnight, guests at the Clark House receive a free wine, tour, or tasting.

Visit: 2910 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 434-5607

El Pomar District

Still Waters Vineyards

Nestled among the rolling hills in the south-east of Paso Robles, Still Waters Vineyards is located in the El Pomar District. This family-owned vineyard is dedicated to producing small lots of premium estate wines. The district has rolling hills and cooling breezes that create ideal conditions for distinctive wines. Still Waters offers a vast outdoor tasting space where visitors are invited to relax and taste in their acres of lush gardens for an exceptional outdoor wine tasting experience.

Insider Tip: Take advantage of the lush gardens for an outdoor tasting. The serene setting makes this an ideal spot to truly appreciate the nuances of their Bordeaux and Rhône style wines.

Visit: 2750 Old Grove Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 237-9231

Bovino Vineyards

Bovino Vineyards offers diverse tasting options and some of the best views in the El Pomar AVA. This winery is known for its meticulous approach to winemaking and vineyard management, producing expressive wines that capture the essence of the region. Located in Templeton, the property spans 83.5 acres with about 45 acres planted to grapes. 

They grow 16 different grape varieties with varying clones and rootstocks, selected based on the characteristics each brings to the finished wine and alignment with soil type. There are three primary soil types (loam, silt loam, clay loam) and the elevation ranges from 1,020 to 1,125 feet above sea level, adding complexity to the vineyard.

Insider Tip: Ask about the adventurous 4-wheel vineyard tours for a unique experience that truly showcases the complexity of this El Pomar District treasure.

Visit: 5685 El Pomar Drive, Templeton, CA 93465
Contact: (805) 238-2007

Geneseo District

Bella Luna Estate Winery

Bella Luna Estate Winery is a small family-owned winery that has been producing terroir-driven wines with a minimalistic approach from dry-farmed Central Coast vineyards for the past 25 years. Started by two life-long friends, Sherman Smoot and Kevin Healey, this small-yet-mighty winery specializes in dry-farmed, hand-picked vineyards. They’re known for the acclaimed “Fighter Pilot Red” Zinfandel and other character-driven wines including Italian varietals like Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Barbera. Their focus on single-vineyard, small batch production using indigenous yeasts and unfined/unfiltered techniques creates wines that truly express the terroir of their Templeton vineyard in the Geneseo District.

Insider Tip: Taste the dry-farmed difference that goes a very long way in terms of quality. Consider the Vineyard Walk and Tasting experience, which includes a stroll through the vineyard and lunch upon request.

Visit: 1850 Templeton Rd, Templeton, CA 93465
Contact: (805) 434-5477

Pear Valley

Pear Valley Estate Winery has a refined tasting room with sweeping views of lush estate vineyards, providing a dreamy setting for wine tasting. Located in the Geneseo District, the story of Pear Valley began with founder Tom Maas, whose love for wine blossomed while stationed in Germany in the late ’60s. This dream came to fruition in 1999 with the acquisition of 20 acres in Paso Robles. 

Today, under Kathleen’s stewardship, the winery has expanded to 113 acres dedicated to the cultivation of premium grapes, guided by sustainable farming practices. They offer heavy-hitting Bordeaux-inspired wines, including complex cabernet sauvignon and full-bodied chardonnay, alongside an impressive portfolio of 28 varietals.

Insider Tip: With an impressive portfolio of 28 varietals, ask their staff about some of their lesser-known or unique offerings beyond the common Paso Robles grapes. Utilize the epic grounds for a picnic amidst flowers, lush greenery, and panoramic views.

Visit: 4900 Union Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 237-2861

Estrella District

Four Sisters Ranch Vineyards & Winery

Four Sisters Ranch Vineyards & Winery is located in the Estrella District, where family togetherness and pristine growing conditions converge. Established in 1989, this family-owned estate winery spans 230 magnificent acres along the Estrella River, crafting premium Paso Robles wines that showcase the region’s distinctive terroir. Their Estrella District vineyard benefits from the morning fog and afternoon warmth typical of this area, producing wines that reflect the place and tradition, with a touch of sisterly love. They feature an extensive portfolio from whites and rosés to robust reds and dessert wines, including their double gold medal-winning Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, exceptional Tempranillo, and Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines.

Insider Tip: Inquire about their double gold medal-winning Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon or their Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines, both are standouts in their extensive portfolio.

Visit: 2995 Pleasant Road, San Miguel, CA 93451
Contact: (805) 467-2046

Graveyard Vineyards

Graveyard Vineyards is a “cozy must-visit” in nearby San Miguel, perched atop an oak-studded hill overlooking a historic graveyard dating back to 1865. Founded by Rob and Paula Campbell-Taylor in 2003, this family-owned winery showcases the best of Paso Robles terroir through their award-winning wines. Despite the name, it’s a casual family-owned winery with lakeside views and an impressive two-story stone fireplace, perfect for sharing stories. The name pays homage to the landmark cemetery that has been on the property since the 1860s. Their offerings include robust reds, elegant whites, enticing dessert wines, and winter bubbles, with “The Ascender” (a French Colombard-Chenin Blanc blend) highlighted as overflowing with white peach and ripe apple goodness.

Insider Tip: Ask about the history of the Pleasant Valley Cemetery on their property, which gives the winery its unique name and rich local heritage. Also, don’t forget your fishing rod and take advantage of their catch and release lake.

Visit: 6990 Estrella Road, San Miguel, CA 93451
Contact: (805) 467-2043

Tackitt Family Vineyards

Tackitt Family Vineyards is nestled along the Pleasant Valley Wine Trail in the Estrella District. This veteran-owned boutique winery was founded by Leon Tackitt, a retired U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, and his wife Cindy. What began with Leon’s grandfather’s 29 Gewürztraminer vines from Germany has grown into one of Paso Robles’ heartfelt wine destinations. They blend military heritage with generations of family winemaking tradition, providing an authentic winery experience combining exceptional wines, family heritage, and meaningful philanthropy.

Insider Tip: Ask Leon Tackitt, a retired U.S. Navy EOD technician, about thier philanthropic mission. This personal connection adds a meaningful dimension to the excellent wines and warm hospitality.

Visit: 6640 Von Dollen Road, San Miguel, CA 93451
Contact: (805) 286-4266

Creston District

Defiance Vineyard

Defiance Vineyard is a distinguished boutique vineyard established in 2012. Located in the eastern expanses of Paso Robles, specifically in the Creston District, Defiance Vineyard offers a unique, hands-on experience. The rugged beauty of the landscape here mirrors the boldness of their wines. In September 2020, Defiance Vineyard introduced its own estate wines, showcasing the quality of its grapes. The estate’s offerings are known for their depth, richness, and natural equilibrium. Operated by the dedicated Faulkner family, this vineyard stands out for its premium Petite Sirah and Bordeaux varieties, which are cultivated with meticulous care.

Insider Tip: Since visits are by appointment only, be sure to book ahead, and ask the Faulkner family about their journey from grape growers to estate wine producers. Appreciate the stories told through each vintage and the hands-on experience the vineyard offers in this less-explored eastern region of Paso Robles.

Visit: 5650 Calle Las Colinas, Creston, CA 93432
Contact: (805) 591-4557

Downtown Paso Robles and Morro Bay

Hayseed & Housdon

Hayseed & Housdon allows visitors to dive into the art of garagiste winemaking from their tasting garage location on Railroad Street. This fabulous stop for anyone looking to sample modern and classic interpretations of Paso Robles terroir operates with a unique approach – they do not use concentrates or other additives intended to enhance the flavor, texture, or aroma of their wine. 

Perhaps most distinctive about their operation is that they split half the profit from wine sales with one of several local non-profit organizations, including Paso Cares, Wine4Paws, RISE, and others. They also recently began offering Metronome Brut Cuvee, a sparkling wine made in the traditional champagne method.

Insider Tip: Purchase a bottle of wine to directly support one of their local non-profit partners, and ask which organizations are currently benefiting from sales. Plus, this downtown tasting room is open late! 

Visit: 1122 Railroad Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Contact: (805) 674-4700

Absolution Cellars

Absolution Cellars is one of Paso Robles’ hidden gems, specializing in limited-production, handcrafted, single-vineyard wines. Established in 2012, this boutique producer sources their grapes from select vineyards throughout the beautiful Central Coast. 

They offer an impressive variety of over 20 different varietals, including unique options like Aglianico, Albariño, Nebbiolo, and Tinta Cao alongside more familiar favorites. What makes Absolution Cellars particularly distinctive is their coastal tasting room location – unlike most Paso Robles wineries, their tasting space is located on the Embarcadero in Morro Bay, offering a unique seaside complement to their inland-grown wines.

Insider Tip: Morro Bay is the perfect stop in the warmer summer months. They also host seafood tastings mid week which pair 3 of their wines with locally farmed oysters and local seafood and sushi. Keep and eye on their events to see what’s planned.

Visit: 845 Embarcadero, Suite H, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Contact: (805) 225-1183