It’s time to swap Zoom calls for birdsong, and chores for cheery Monarch butterflies. Fine wine, fragrant lavender and bountiful sunshine come out to play in Paso Robles Wine Country, home to dozens of vibrant outdoor tasting rooms. Allow the atmosphere to enchant and delight: Savor incredible wines while bathed in the unmatched beauty of the region. Perhaps you don’t believe in fairies anymore, but you might just believe in magic by the time you’ve explored these 5 ethereal wine country gardens.
Giants slumber at Sculpterra Winery
Tumble through the looking glass: The very word “enchanted” seems to perfectly sum up the lush, creative and truly impressive grounds at Sculpterra Winery and Sculpture Garden in Paso Robles (pictured above too). Here, towering statues of spellbound animals, butterflies and otherworldly creatures guard well-groomed hedges and meandering pathways. Stroll along the grand green expanse, marveling at the works of art (both surrounding you and in your glass).
Enjoy: Bring your own picnic and sample the winery’s 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, famous for its enticing tropical nose and round, fruity palate. You may never wake from this dream—but why would you want to?
Explore: Tasting reservations and walk-ins welcome. Kids and dogs are also invited to enjoy in the landscape. Outside food permitted. Open 10am to 5pm daily.
For a WINE TASTING COUPON, click here
For mapping and directions to Sculpterra, click here
Just the essentials at JUSTIN
Need a break from civilized life? A long, leisurely drive along Chimney Rock Road in Paso Robles will do the trick (keep your eyes peeled for deer as you cruise). Your destination, of course, continues the natural theme: Climbing vines, rose gardens, a chef’s garden and a collection of sun-drenched California native greenery greet you at JUSTIN’s legendary garden grounds. Book a reserved tasting for an intimate experience or simply unwind with a glass in hand and watch the sun melt behind rural hills.
Enjoy: The Old World meets the “new” with JUSTIN’s 2017 Justification, a robust blend of cabernet franc and merlot. The best of both worlds? We could get used to this!
Explore: Reservations are required at this time. Same day reservations and walk-in reservations may be taken as availability allows. Book your JUSTIN experience by calling 805-238-6932 or by emailing concierge@justinwine.com.
For mapping and directions to JUSTIN, click here
Rose colored glasses at Chateau Margene
A rose is a rose is a rose: With comfortable couches, overstuffed lounge chairs and grassy knolls to spare, you’ll feel the urge to linger for hours at Chateau Margene (and you’re free to do so). Fragrant roses add a special aromatherapy to this scenic landscape, home to verdant vineyards and chirping birds. What’s next on the to-do list? Relax under the branches of a friendly oak tree and enjoy the quiet of this calm, outdoor oasis.
Enjoy: Refined red cherry fruit, cedar and mesmerizing savory notes make the winery’s 2019 Pinot Noir – Sta. Rita Hills the perfect sipper for an afternoon of sun-dappled pleasures.
Explore: Appointments can be made between 10:30 am 3:30 pm at this time (six people per group). Dogs and their humans will be seated in the pergola area overlooking the rose garden and vineyard. Make an appointment online here.
For a WINE TASTING COUPON, click here
For mapping and directions to Chateau Margene, click here
Vacation vibes at Villa San Juliette
Made in the shade: Ample umbrellas, a bubbling fountain and gourmet nibbles just might trick your brain into thinking you’ve just arrived at a Tuscan villa. We say, go with that fantasy. Passionate staff are always on hand to guide you through a stellar seasonal tasting flight (paired with something equally delicious off their opulent bistro menu). It’s time to bask in the glory of your best staycation yet at Villa San Juliette!
Enjoy: A vacation to the Rhone region of France might not be in the cards, but you can still sip like you’re there: Try the winery’s 2013 VSJ Grenache Reserve, laced with bing cherry, French vanilla and caramel luxury.
Explore: Appointments required at this time. Make your appointment Thursday through Monday from 11am to 5 p.m. (six people per group). Book your appointment online here.
For mapping and directions to Villa San Juliette, click here
Dream on at Allegretto Vineyard and Resort
Stay a while: Allegretto Vineyard and Resort doesn’t just offer up a beautiful outdoor tasting experience for the afternoon—you can also bed down for the night! Sample the boutique hotel’s own wine offerings while taking in the worldly grounds, revealing ancient statues, an enchanting labyrinth, colorful blooms, surrounding vineyards and an inviting pool. Whether you stay for the night or the week, you’re sure to come away with a whole new perspective. Plus, the winery now boasts a sister location nestled in Paso’s famed Willow Creek District where you will taste on a patio or lawn overlooking a bewitching pond under towering trees. What better place to breathe in fresh air and watch the clouds go by?
Enjoy: The world is reborn in shades of gold thanks to Allegretto Vineyard and Resort’s 2018 Cello White, a sultry, dreamy blend of chardonnay and roussanne.
Explore: Reservations are highly recommended at this time. The resort tasting room is open 11am to 6 p.m. daily and the new Westside tasting room is open most weekends from 11am to 5pm. Make reservations by calling 805-369-2526 or emailing info@allegrettowines.com.
For a WINE TASTING COUPON, click here
For mapping and directions to Allegretto, 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, lo
cally 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
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hoyt Family Vineyard Retreats Two very cool, tiny houses, designed using fertile imagination and repurposing of materials are located on Hoyt Family Vineyard.
Directions: speedfind.com/hoytfamilyvineyards
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
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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
The Kiler Canyon Vineyard Retreat Perched on top of a hill on ONX Estate’s vineyard with gorgeous 360 degree views of the Willow Creek AVA
Directions: speedfind.com/KilerRetreat
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
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. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Oxford Suites Paso Robles You’ll find that from our lobby, our on-site restaurant, to our meeting spaces, to our 101 spacious suites, every space is beautiful + functional as well as comfortable + chic.
Directions: speedfind.com/oxfordsuitespasorobles
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyInn
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals
Rio Seco Winery Guest House 2 comfortable suites each with 2 bedrooms, complete with kitchens are set amongst the vines at iconic Rio Seco Vineyard & Winery. Enjoy your own barbeque + firepit.
Directions: speedfind.com/riosecovineyard