If you’re gleefully counting down the days till Halloween, I’m with you. Paso Wine Country is known for its endless sunshine, expansive blue skies, and gently rolling hills—all of which are totally great—until you spot gourds, scarecrows, and jack-o-lanterns popping up on every lawn. Suddenly, we’ll all be craving braised meats, cozy sweaters, and Pumpkin Spice what-have-you. Let’s face it: Harvest time in Paso Robles, CA is probably more temperate than some states’ springtime, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get cozy, too! So, stoke a fire, hunker down, and break out that candy corn. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the coming season with these festive fall reds!
Tudor 2011 Pinot Noir – Santa Lucia Highlands
A light, sumptuously scented red is perfect for the first chill of autumn, don’t you agree? Garnering 91 points from Wine Enthusiast, Tudor Wine’s pinot noir is beloved for its “flamboyantly perfumed dark berry aromas,” floral allure, and smoky finish. Plus: You gotta love those long, supple tannins and touch of bitter cherry. Tip: Grab two bottles! One for now, and one to pair with Thanksgiving dinner. It will wow when set against turkey and cranberry sauce, that’s for sure.
Mapping and Directions to Tudor Wines
Seven Oxen 2014 Grenache
Think this varietal lacks enough heft for fall’s heavier flavors? Think again! Thanks to a dry, hot growing season, this punchy Grenache from Seven Oxen Estate Wines offers up a strong, concentrated red fruit and cherry brandy flavor that will kick your taste buds into autumnal bliss. With spicy notes of black pepper and rounded out with bright acidity, we could see this French oak-aged beauty paired nicely alongside a saucy pizza or pasta dish topped with the last of that tender summer squash.
Mapping and Directions to Seven Oxen Estate Wines
Eberle 2014 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Nothing says “classic Paso Robles” quite like a good solid cab. This ruby red beauty is Eberle Winery’s flagship wine for a reason: A palate full of rich, dark fruit, cassis, black cherry, chocolate, and mint come together to create a cornucopia of deliciousness. Pair with steak and mushrooms or enjoy on its own. That’s a wine that’ll stick to your ribs on a chilly night!
Mapping and Directions to Eberle Winery
Four Lanterns 2014 Bordeaux Style Blend
Kick off your boots and pile under a mound of soft blankets, because this warm and sophisticated blend from Four Lanterns Winery is full of soft tannins you’ll want to snuggle with all night long. Savor merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and a splash of petit verdot, which pairs well with a robust cheese plate or perhaps even a cigar. You’ve been good all year. Why wait till Christmas to live a little?
Mapping and Directions to Four Lanterns Winery
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, 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, 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.
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
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
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
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