Bury your nose in that glass and take a big whiff. Do you smell elegant violet, invigorating orange blossom, or sweetly perfumed, delicate honeysuckle? Spring doesn’t just mean that real life flowers are blooming in Paso Robles Wine Country: Floral wines are growing wild, too! I don’t know about you, but I always prefer a wine bouquet over fresh-cut stems. These bottles are just as flirtatious and will certainly last longer.
1. Lone Madrone 2015 Roussanne
Roussanne is one of the great varietals of the southern Rhone region in France, and it grows incredibly well in temperate Paso Robles. Known for its deep honey character and matching honeysuckle fragrance, this Spring-worthy wine is known to deepen in its complexity over time. Lone Madrone’s Roussanne already shows those delicious “elder” characteristics in its youth—a major plus. This means you can totally drink it now or (if you’re super patient) save for spring/summer 2019.
Mapping and Directions to Lone Madrone
2. Four Lanterns Winery 2016 Sunset Rosé
A rose is a rose is a rosé? Not so. Just look at this blushing pink Syrah rosé, which truly rivals floral petals in your glass. Fresh fruit fabulousness—including a wallop of strawberry—pairs well with creamy cheeses, fresh fruit, and seafood. Yes, you’ll want to buy a whole case before inviting the gals over. This one goes down real smooth.
Mapping and Directions to Four Lanterns Winery
3. JUSTIN 2015 Sunny’s Block Dessert Wine
This glowing, pale straw colored orange muscat dessert wine is about as intoxicating as the first day of Spring. White peach and subtle citrus fruit aromas mingle with sensual orange blossom, playful honeysuckle and soft beeswax. But is it sweet? Well, yes. However, the wine also offers up a clean and complex palate balanced by green apple, ripe orange and acidic lemon. Tip: This bottle is best enjoyed at the JUSTIN Restaurant, where farm fresh flavors accompany every flight. That said, your backyard will also do just fine!
Mapping and Directions to JUSTIN Winery
4. Peachy Canyon Concrete Blanc Viognier
Named ‘Concrete Blanc’ after its oak alternative aging vessel, Peachy Canyon’s refreshing viognier is unique and bright. This aging process lends a clean, mineral driven essence to match the grape’s honeysuckle-laced lushness. Could it be true? Acid and richness don’t have to compete for the spotlight? We say let them shine equally and watch as the sparks fly.
Mapping and Directions to Peachy Canyon
5. Tudor Wines 2009 Tondre Reserve Pinot Noir
Not all flowery wines are white or pink in color. This “luxury pinot noir” is highly perfumed (some might even say flamboyantly so), with lots of Asian spice and pungent herb accents. A whirlwind of green house aromas end in a delightfully smokey finish, made more exciting by a touch of bitter cherry. The 91 point review from Wine Enthusiast might attract newcomers like bee to pollen, but the experienced among us know that all one really has to do is follow your nose.
Mapping and Directions to Tudor Wines
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