New Harvest, New You! Shake off the summer doldrums and rejoice in fun fall flavors that reflect the best that Paso Robles Wine Country has to offer. Winemakers may be busy as beavers picking and processing fruit, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait around forever to jump into new experiences. Indulge your anticipation and grab a friend for a pre-crush wine country romp to remember. These 4 fresh fall wine experiences are sure to prime your palette for yet another astounding vintage!
1. Enjoy a Cool Climate Take on Paso
Say hi to the new kids on the block! This downtown Paso Robles tasting room, which opened this month, is different indeed. Like its neighbors, Tudor Wines showcases world-class wine in a casual setting. Unlike its neighbors, the offerings are dedicated exclusively to cool-climate grapes sourced from the legendary Santa Lucia Highlands. Stop by and try the winery’s 2011SLH Pinot Noir, which garnered 90 points from Wine Spectator. You’ll soon see why this new name is making a big splash in the Paso wine world this fall! Get updates and info on this exciting new addition to downtown at the winery’s Facebook page.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/TudorWines
2. 10-8: A Delish Dinner Party with Winemaker Amy Butler
Pelletiere Estate Winery may have taken a while to throw its first winemaker dinner (over a year!), but that’s OK—they went all out for the occasion and it’s going to be delicious. This Oct. 8, wine club members are invited to share an enchanted evening under the oaks featuring a multi course food and wine pairing with winemaker Amy Butler. Held at the winery’s gorgeous Westside property, you can bet there will be plenty of laughing, drink-clinking, and fall cheer galore. Get your tickets here and be sure to make room for the winery’s 2013 Sangiovese, with notes of blackberry cobbler and wild blueberries.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/Pelletiere
3. 9/17: A Peachy Keen (Cheesy) Concert
What pairs better than live music and wine? Oh…we know: live music, wine, and grilled cheese! Mmmm! Grab a few hot sandos from Melt Your Heart Gourmet Grilled Cheese Truck and groove to the sounds of Meet the Foppers from noon to 4 p.m. this Sept. 17th (the band is father/son music duo of Billy & Charlie Foppiano) at Peachy Canyon Winery. If unique prog rock, fine wine, and distinctive cheese is your jam—this is your party destination. Our pick to drink with a ooey gooey carb-splosion? Peachy Canyon’s 2015 Rosé, which is bone dry, flirty, and totally charming.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyCanyonWinery
4. 9/30: Star Gaze and Glass Gaze
Harmony Cellars knows how to mix the magic of wine and nature for one unforgettable experience! This September 30th, grab a blanket and head for one of Harmony’s famous Star Gazing parties bolstered by live music and gourmet food from the Hurricane Truck. As the sun sets, cozy up to local astronomers who know their stuff and—if you’re lucky—a sip of Treble, a port style wine that tastes of caramelized cherries and chocolate wonderment.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/HarmonyCellars
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at hthomas@newtimesslo.com or follow her on instagram @flavorslo.
If you’re looking for a place to spend the night in Paso Robles, checkout:
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, locally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers.
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping.
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796