Whew. One of the longest, toughest years in recent memory is finally over—and it’s safe to say we all have our sights set on brighter days ahead! I think you’d agree that, collectively, we’re all ready for a glass of Paso Robles wine. Right? As we look joyfully to 2021, let’s plan for fresh new flavors, surprising virtual tastings, and exciting adventures in and around beautiful Paso Robles Wine Country. Don’t just dream it—achieve it! How? You can make all of these wine fantasies (and more) reality with these 5 easy-to-keep resolutions.
Try something new
Go wild! In Paso Robles, new flavors are always celebrated. In fact, it’s part of our pioneering spirit. If you’re feeling blasé about your recent wine choices, we’re here to help! Now is the time to shake things up with vibrant bottles and bold new offerings. From rebellious red blends to elegant Rhone whites and everything in between, you’ll find your new favorite varietal here, in our dynamic family of microclimates. Lone Madrone is all about crafting wines that reflect and honor the vineyards from which they came. Sip the winery’s diverse selection and you’ll soon understand that terroir can vary wildly, even from one hillside to another. Yes, wine is an ever-evolving muse. Take a step off the beaten path and discover what you’ve been missing. It’s all part of the fun! Have you ever experienced Tannat?
We love Lone Madrone’s 2016 Tannat. The fruit is dark, yet quite showy with a vibrant lively feel, there is great depth here with a sense of the forest floor, earth, and stone. Just a touch of vanilla here, perhaps born of the oak. Absolutely stunningly bright red and black fruits herein the mid palate. Long and marked with solid acid, its full, vibrant, rich and long. Crying for red meat. It’s the butcher’s accomplice.
Get organized
Truth: It’s hard to pick an outfit when you can’t see what’s in your overstuffed bedroom closet. Same goes with wine. Allow your pairing skills (and creativity) to soar when you truly are able to view all your wines in one go. Now is the time to take stock of what’s aging in the cellar (or just in your cupboard), bring bottles ready-to-drink to the front of the line—and yes—discover a few vintages you completely forgot you had. We’re all guilty of this one. A bottle worth clearing a little space for? Chronic Cellars 2019 Purple Paradise, a mix of zinfandel, petite sirah, syrah and grenache that bursts with juicy blackberry-mocha charm. In fact, the label’s so cute, you might want to display this one on a fancy new countertop wine rack from Crate and Barrel.
Go Virtual/To-Go
Click, sip, hooray: Virtual tasting are here to stay! Paso Robles Wineries have upped their game lately, providing miniature tasting bottles, Zoom links and all the expert know-how you’d expect from a world class tasting room experience. Many wineries continue to offer sensational virtual tastings, while some—like Parrish Family Vineyard—offer bottles, glasses, and even gourmet food entirely to go. Want to visit Paso Robles Wine Country in 2021? Embark on a virtual tour! This is a great way to dip your toe in the water (or wine) before you head out on your next road trip.
Plan a trip (safely)
Speaking of traveling to Paso Robles Wine Country: We all need something to look forward to! Not only is Paso Robles Wine Country easily accessible by car (we’re located off the 101 Highway, midway between Los Angeles to the south and San Francisco to the north), but you can also rest assured you’ll be taken care of. Paso Robles Wine Country is home to wide open spaces and rolling hills perfectly tailored for socially distant wine tasting experiences. From gorgeous outdoor patios and verandas to breezy tours among the vines, you can stay safe while you sip. Plus, Paso Robles Vacation Rentals are doing their part to redouble cleaning efforts. Choose from 120 unique stays, including whole house rentals and cottages in the country. Lekai Ranch offers up a premium stay heightened by 300 degree views spanning more than 50 miles of Paso Robles vineyards, sweeping on toward the backside of Big Sur and Hearst Castle. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you’re just a stone’s throw from Halter Ranch Winery, chosen as a 10 Hot Winery brand!
Join the Club
Become one of the fam: We’re not your average club! Friendly, outgoing and outrageously friendly, Paso Robles wine clubs are a lot like a group of friends (and pick-up parties are akin to a fun and boisterous reunion for all involved). Paso Robles Wineries offer wine clubs as unique as you are! From shipments featuring your preferred varietals (all red, all white, a mix of both) to amazing exclusive perks reserved for VIPS, you can ensure you’ve signed up for a club that truly “gets you.” Eberle Winery’s Cellar Club is legendary for a reason: get access to new releases, limited production and cellar club wine labels, exclusive discounted pricing along with your regular shipment of delicious wines. The Legacy Club ships six bottles four times per year and allows you to choose between a bottle of mixed red and white wines; all red; all white; or a customizable pack of just your favorite hand-picked selections. That’s right. You do you!
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, 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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
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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
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