Summer might have all the fun, but May has its perks in Paso Robles Wine Country. From welcoming barbecues and to bustling tasting events to savory appetizers and sunset soirees under the oaks, the events just keep on rolling in as the days get longer. The wildflowers are popping, the baby sheep are grazing, and the wine scene is in full bloom, to be sure. Don’t miss your chance to take advantage of the idyllic weather and general excitement of this breezy beautiful time in Paso Robles (and keep an eye out for the new buds, the grapes have begun their magical journey for the next vintage). Better grab that calendar and maybe even a few colored highlighters. There’s just too many good things going down! Don’t miss a moment.
1. Vitner and Vines Tour at Pelletiere
Date: Saturday, May 4 at 11 a.m.
Location: Pelletiere Winery
Tickets: No tickets needed; normal tasting fees apply; RSVP appreciated
Why: You’ll get the hands-on Paso wine experience (and get a little dirt on those new cowboy boots).
What: Deep in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles, discover distinctive Italian wines unique to Pelletiere Estate by walking (and talking) with winemaker Amy Butler and Vintner Janis Denner. You’ll learn just what it takes to make these limited production Italian style wines and compare Old World and modern approaches to winemaking. Then, experience these exceptional wines first-hand with a guided tasting! You may just be ready to make your own wine afterward (or at least feel semi-qualified to dream out-loud about it).
Bring: Sunblock, walking shoes, your best questions and your curiosity.
For mapping and directions to Pelletiere click here
2. Rava Concert Series
Date: Starting Saturday, May 4; running select weekends through spring; noon-4 p.m.
Location: Rava Winery
Tickets: No tickets needed; regular tasting fees apply
Why: Life is short, enjoy the moment and bask in the joy of an outdoor concert complete with food trucks and seasonal wine offerings.
What: Dance and dip your partner outside Rava’s elegant tasting room or sit and sip on the lawn (either choice sounds good to us). Gourmet food trucks will be onsite for nearly every show and all ages are welcome. The concert lineup: Saturday, May 4 Kentucky Derby Party with Sonic Boom (In honor of the Kentucky Derby, try the Rava style mint julep, made with sparkling wine); Sunday, May 5, Cinco De Mayo with Sonic Boom (Celebrate Cinco De Mayo by pairing your favorite wines with legitimate street tacos by Tacos La Potranca De Jalisco); and Sunday, May 12 Celebrate Mother’s Day with musician Jack Cimo (sip sparkling wine flights; The Pairing Knife food truck will also be serving fresh Spanish-style tapas). With so many concerts and pairings to choose from, you have no excuse not to pick one.
Bring: A comfy low-back lawn chair, blanket, friends, family, and your appetite.
For mapping and directions to Rava click here
3. Mother’s Day at Eberle Winery
Date: Sunday, May 12 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Eberle Winery
Tickets: Email Events@eberlewinery.com for more info.
Why: Mom deserves to be pampered in Paso Robles, too! Show your ma how much you care by giving her what she really wants (Paso Robles wine and your undivided company).
What: The annual tradition continues as Eberle celebrates Mom the very best way possible! Eat, drink and laugh the afternoon away. Join the winery on the vineyard deck for brunch by Paso Terrra, wine by Eberle and live music from Jan & Ted. Catch up with the most important lady in your life while enjoying the views from the deck (and sampling the amazing cuisine of Andre and Cristina Aversang).
Bring: Your mom (and a bouquet of fresh flowers, because your mom loves fresh flowers and it’s been a while since she’s smelled fresh lillies).
For mapping and directions to Eberle click here
4. Templeton Wine Fest
Date: Saturday, May 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.
Location: Templeton Community Park
Tickets: Click here or call 805-434-1789.
Why: This casual community event feels like something from the Main Streets of yore. You’ll discover incredible small production boutique wines that we love (like Rails Nap, Clavo, and Dubost Winery), and perhaps even meet a few new friends around the neighborhood.
What: Swing by Templeton’s welcoming downtown for fine wine, craft beer, good food, and boutique vendors plus live music. Enjoy that authentic small town feel, so rare nowadays. It’s all happening at the charming Templeton Community Park, a sight to behold during this green time of year. Your ticket includes unlimited wine tasting, a souvenir wine glass, and unique specialty food samples. Spend the afternoon under the shady oaks and don’t forget to say, “howdy neighbor.”
Bring: Low back chairs, kids, and community pride.
5. Paso Wine Fest Grand Tasting
Date: Saturday, May 18 from noon to 4 p.m. (early bird tickets available)
Location: Paso Robles Downtown City Park
Tickets: Click here for more info.
Why: Taste literally hundreds of Paso Robles wines from every varietal and AVA all in one place at the 37th Annual Paso Wine Fest Grand Tasting. Seriously—you won’t find bigger, more exciting wine event all year in Paso Robles.
What: Held in charming downtown Paso Robles, you’ll explore offerings from more than 70 wineries. Each area is cleverly arranged by “region” for a seamless and focused tasting experience: Bordeaux-style, Rhône-style, Zinfandel, Burgundian-style, Italian varieties and Other Wild Wines for your tasting pleasure. Yes, all that wine in a single day! With restaurants surrounding the park, you’re never far from a delicious bite, either. Try Pappy McGregor’s for pub grub with an elevated twist, Fish Gaucho for fresh seafood, or Thomas Hill Organics for the finest locally grown goodness.
Bring: A hat, sunblock, tasting notebook, refillable water bottle, sunglasses.
Photo Credit: SLO Safe Ride
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
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