Celebrities! They’re just like us. Well…not really. Not even close. They may spend way more time (and Benjamins) on their appearance, own multiple homes, and jet set around the world on a whim, but they really are pretty normal when it comes to the age-old practice of geeking out over great wine. These five celebs know the difference between Petite Sirah and Syrah—and who knows—you might just see one traversing Paso Wine Country one of these days.
1. Mike D. of the Beatie Boys
Mike D. of Beastie Boys fame isn’t carrying around a boom box or a forty ouncer of malt liquor any more. In fact, he’s probably carrying around a notebook filled with thoughtful notes on his favorite fancy wines. During an interview for Food and Wine Magazine, D. credited touring the world for his wide-open palate. However, he does regret not buying up a bunch of Bordeaux wines while touring France in the early 80s. Ah, to be young and 
dumb!
Fight for your right to party: Oso Libre’s 2011 Reserva Bordeaux style blend is the life of the party. Blending traditional estate Cab and Merlot, it ups the ante with silky smooth texture and bright, rich, black fruit character.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/OsoLibreWinery
2. Sting of The Police
Are you at all surprised that “King of New Age Cool” Sting sings to his grapes? We’re not. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably know that the crooner’s biodynamic Il Palagio wines, grown and produced on his 350-acre Tuscan estate, are natural and organic. I mean, c’mon! This is (ageless) Sting we’re talking about. We’ll have whatever he’s drinking.
Message in a bottle: Not only does Sting share British heritage with Lone Madrone Winemaker Neil Collins—he also shares a love of natural winemaking processes. With a hands-off philosophy that allows Mother Nature to shine, Lone Madrone’s Sheep Camp Zinfandel is a pure expression of Paso Robles’ Willow Creek District, pure and simple. We think Sting would approve.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/LoneMadrone
3. Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac
Merlot may still be licking its wounds thanks to damaging words thrown around in the flick Sideways, but Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac couldn’t care less about the “rumors” going round. The ‘70s rocker even started his own label, Mick Fleetwood Private Cellar, in 2011 specializing in the drinkable, fruit forward grape. Only a rock n roller would be so bold.
Go your own way: Opolo Winery’s 2012 Concerto is as bold as a red wine gets. Merlot, Cab, and Petite 
Sirah collide with notes of cherries and dried cranberries, tobacco, mint and leather. Rich flavors of black cherry and tea are surrounded by firm tannins in the mid palate and lead to a long satisfying finish.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/OpoloVineyards
4. Recording Artist Pink
Once known more for her pink hair and edgy attitude, top 40 recording artist Pink is now famous the world over for her platinum selling albums and elaborate stage performances that leave audience members astounded. Did you know that behind all that glitter and glitz, you’ll find a tried-and-true wine lover? It’s true! In fact, sources say the mega star is even pursuing wine academically with online classes. She’s even said she harbors big dreams of starting her own winery! Paso could use more pink!
Unabashedly pink: This ruby colored 2013 Grenache Rosé from Riverstar Vineyards & Winery is not your Mother’s Rosé! The fruit is crushed and the skins are allowed to bathe in the fermenting juice just long enough to pink it up. With refreshing spice and stewed strawberry notes, it transitions gracefully into fall flavors. All hail the pink invasion!
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/RiverstarVineyards
5. Guitarist Carlos Santana
The “Smooth” guitarist known world round for luxurious, Latin-fueled solos is more than your average rocker. In 2000, Santana fell head over heels in love with Napa’s Silver Oak Cab, and now he’s a self-proclaimed wine snob. This love affair with wine has led to collaborations with winemakers and Santana is even known to pair the finest wines with gourmet Mexican food at his restaurant, Maria, Maria.
You’re so smooth: Like a guitar solo that beckons you to shake your hips to the beat, San Marcos Creek’s 2012 Estate Nebbiolo is a true seductress. The Italian style wine shows subtle cherry and vanilla overtones that finish with sharp acidity, like a rock song with the perfect blend of backbone and infectious melodic hooks.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/SanMarcosCreekVineyards
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
L
a 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