Dogs have a special way of lighting up our lives—not to mention the pleasure centers of our brains! Simply petting a dog for just a few minutes a day is correlated with lower blood pressure, a longer lifespan, and a general boost in well being. When fine wine and canines are combined, there’s no telling just how high your mood can soar! Paso Robles Wine Country is known for its laid back appeal and rustic charm. Many wineries have their own “winery dogs,” and these cute unofficial mascots often greet customers at the door. Planning a Paso wine tasting adventure in the New Year? Bring Fido along and spread a little extra joy wherever you roam. And don’t forget to take your four-legged friend’s sage advice: Always take the time to slow down and sniff the roses…or the vines.
1. Have a howling good time at Vines on the Marycrest
Syrah, zinfandel, mourvedre—these juicy red wines are all waiting for you at Vines on the Marycrest, located on the scenic west side of Paso Robles Wine Country. At the winery, you’ll find a relaxing outdoor area where live music unfolds with passion. Bring along your four legged friends and relax with a tasting flight or bottle shared among friends. Owner/winemaker Victor Abascal isn’t just obsessed with wine—as a former SoCal sound engineer, he’s totally enthralled with live tunes, too. The winery’s Sixth Annual Spring Concert and Party featuring Grammy Award nominated Robbie Fulks of Chicago is slated for March 17. Grab your ticket now and reserve a spot within this chill venue where vine meets sky.
Sundays are lazy days in Paso Robles wine country, so you should probably plan accordingly. Pack up the car and head to Scuplterra Winery for free live music every Sunday afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m.. Surrounded by oak trees, lush vineyards and a magical sculpture garden ripped from the pages of a storybook, you and your pup can relax and unwind the Paso way. Did we mention that Farmstead Catering Company is always onsite for easy picnicking? You and your dog will be glad to have a few fabulous munchies to gnaw on as the afternoon rolls on. The wine list—which features more than a dozen single varietals and sumptuous blends—are for human consumption only.
Sip on Rhone and Bordeaux style wines in the legendary Willow Creek AVA while throwing a few frisbees for old Spot! Four Lanterns Winery is known for its rolling green hangout perfect for music events, picnics and catching up with your canine companion. Located off Highway 46 West, consider stopping here on your way to the coast, where dog-friendly beaches beckon.
Elegant Italian style wines don’t have to be fussy. Pelletiere Estate Winery proves that you can have your fine wine and furry fun, too. Rent the rustic chic farmhouse for the weekend or just swing by for a wine flight, pup in tow. The grounds are absolutely stunning, and perfect for enjoying a quiet afternoon or sunset with your pet. Coming up this Spring, head to Pelletiere for a special Vintage Paso-vertical tasting. Of course, your dog may want to take a horizontal nap in the warm Paso sun while you sip. That’s totally understandable!
Known for vines, wines and angus, Oso Libre is a carnivore’s dream stop! Swing by this rustic winery, nestled in Paso’s famed Adelaida District, and enjoy a wine flight and picnic perfect for the entire family. Want to create even more special lasting memories with your loved ones, human and otherwise? Book a private picnic area among the vines and leave the planning to the experts. Taste through robust red wines, learn a little about the vineyard and maybe even grab a doggie bag of pasture raised beef raised onsite, too.
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at [email protected] 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.
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
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.
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®
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.
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves.
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
