Soft cashmere sweaters, marbled braised meats, and rich chocolatey sweets: these are a few of our favorite indulgences this, and every, holiday season. We’re also partial to luxurious Paso Robles reds, as festive to drink as they are to gift! This December, add a little Paso wine pleasure to the mix, and spread that sultry sin around (chaste New Year’s resolutions will come soon enough). No need to check your list twice. Just go for these bold bottles, elegant events, and indulgent winter wonders. You can thank us later.
Take it all off at Rendarrio Vineyards
What could be more classy-cool than a sensual burlesque performance? Old school entertainment meets royal ambiance and modern wines at Rendarrio Vineyards this Dec. 3 starting at 7:30 p.m.! Enjoy wine by the glass or bottle and take in these devilish delights. These powerful ladies will sparkle as the night burns on while the award winning Rhone wine seduces your senses. Oh, Santa, baby! Click here for tickets.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/Rendarrio
Meet a Rich, Dark Stranger at Pelletiere
No beau to bring to your next holiday soiree? Head on over to Pelletiere Estate this winter and get a load of their new Lagrein release (talk about a rich, dark stranger!). This relatively unseen bold Italian red is full bodied and unbelievable dark, yet has a light and luxurious mouth feel. Mmmm. Yes, please! Clear your social calendar. After one taste, you won’t be going anywhere without this rare, limited edition release tucked under your arm.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/Pelletiere
One for You, Two for Me…
Get ready for a holiday spectacular, Paso style. As one of the region’s oldest wineries, Rotta Winery knows a thing or two about throwing a fab party and making wines that are as delicious to give, as they are to receive. Attend the winery’s Holiday Showcase & Pickup Party this Dec. 3 and see what a whole lot of history tastes like. Club Members are invited to pickup their Winter Wine Shipment, but the entire public is invited to enjoy a host of local artisans, too! Cross off every wine lover on your list (and snag incredible Cabs, red blends, even Black Monukka Dessert Wine) and have a damn good time doing it. Possibly even too much fun? You bet. You certainly shouldn’t give a wine (or three) that you haven’t tried yourself.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/RottaWinery
Indulge in Bloody Good Steaks at Rangeland
The carnal desire for meat is strong. We say go on and give in (especially when you’re sourcing your steaks from grass fed beef raised by the folks at Rangeland Wines)! These Adelaida Springs Ranch cattle offer a healthy, delicious alternative to the sad corn-fed beef you’ll find at your local supermarket and boy, do they cook up plump and juicy. Pick up a few bottles of inky Petite Sirah or Cabernet Sauvignon from this renowned Paso winery alongside a pack of irresistible beef, lamb, or burgers. Nothing says, “I’ve been thinking of you” like a bloody piece of meat and a great red, right?
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/Rangeland
Stay at San Marcos Creek Vineyards
The kids, the in-laws, the dogs—who has the time?! Send the tots to your aunt’s, give the ‘rents the boot, and board the dogs for the weekend. It’s time to have a sinful escape for you and your sweetie, no need to explain to the neighbors or your babysitter! Brush off the holiday to-dos and relax in well-appointed suites at San Marcos Creek Vineyards, tucked away in the rural wine country countryside. Your cell may get spotty reception, but we guarantee you’ll still discover a powerful connection to delicious Paso Bordeaux style reds!
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/SanMarcosCreekVineyards
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, 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.
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
L
a 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