Sunshine and surf, burgers and ketchup, pool floats and heart-shaped sunglasses—these quintessential summer pairings will never go out of style. Similarly, Paso Robles Wine Country honors its own cache of spectacular hot-weather duos each July. With endless blue skies, welcoming tasting rooms and more stellar summer sippers than you can shake a hot dog at, you’re sure to be made in the shade!
1. A chill grenache blanc and a grand sunset – Sextant Wines
The best things in life are free: Tart, lemony goodness, zesty grapefruit and dried apricots blossom in the glass while light notes of pineapple and melon linger on the tongue. Yes, this is summer as you imagined it: perfectly carefree, juicy and refreshing! Sextant Wines 2019 Estate Grenache Blanc has that uncanny ability to transport the weariest traveler into a pool of pure, Golden State vibes. When paired with a gorgeous sunset—best viewed at their Edna Valley tasting room with a killer cheese plate—you’ll swear you’ve entered a new dimension of relaxation entirely.
Mapping and directions to Sextant Edna Valley click here
2. A unique rosé and an adventure off the beaten path – Rio Seco
Get lost! You know those fun-loving summer days that start one way and end in another? Chase that sense of spontaneity along a lesser-beaten path (we promise, you’ll be glad you took the chance). When you embark on a romp along Paso’s pastoral backroads, you’re sure to encounter cows, vines and a whole lot of warm hospitality. A dry, European style rose with hints of surprising cotton candy, Rio Seco Winery’s 2018 Syrah Rosé is as playful as it is perfect for outdoor sipping. Bet you didn’t see that one coming!
Mapping and directions to Rio Seco click here
3. A funky-fresh white and a rockin’ playlist – Penman Springs
Not quite feeling yourself these days? That’s what Summer playlists were made for! Kick-start the weekend with a fresh-picked mix of feel-good jams from the likes of The Beach Boys and Stevie Wonder (seriously, have these guys ever steered you wrong?). Pair a jubilant backyard dance-off of one with an equally high-energy white. Penman Springs Vineyard’s 2018 “Dry Humor” Alsatian style wine is a blast in a glass: Savor the super creamy mouthfeel and fresh aromas highlighted by tangerine, green apple and a hint of peach. Trust us: you’ll be busting a move in no time.
Mapping and directions to Penman Springs click here
4. Desert wine and a beach date – Cass Wines
Sweet and salty—that’s how we prefer our dates to be! Summer is the perfect time to rekindle the romance: just add one part dessert wine, one part sandy stroll. This 2018 Lake Harvest Roussanne from Cass Winery is bursting with sexy honeysuckle and meringue pie sumptuousness. Pack a light picnic and set your heart for the cool, coastal breeze (after all, Paso Robles is only a few miles from Highway 1 and the glittering blue Pacific). Whether you hunt for moonstones in Cambria or kick back on a towel in Cayucos, you’ll feel just like the lovebirds in Grease. Summer lovin’ happened so fast…
Mapping and directions to Cass Winery click here
5. A bold red and a drive-in movie – JUSTIN
And now for our feature presentation: When it comes to bold Paso Robles reds, JUSTIN reigns supreme. Although you might not think of JUSTIN’s 2017 Right Angle—an intriguing blend of cabernet, petite verdot, petit sirah and malbec—as a traditional “summer wine,” just wait till the sun goes down at the locally-loved Sunset Drive-in. Located just a few miles south of the Cuesta Grade in San Luis Obispo, this iconic hangout offers up all the summer traditions you’ll remember from childhood: hot dogs, nachos and lots of opportunities to smooch your seat-mate. Cheers to nostalgia (and a long, lingering finish). Remember, the designated driver gets extra butter on their popcorn!
Mapping and directions to JUSTIN click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
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Peachy Canyon Guest Inn Sits above Peachy Canyon Winery + acres of vines at Mustang Springs Vineyard. The house has 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, living room, family room + panoramic views.
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