Summer is all about that BBQ life! From dripping dippin’ sauces oozing down our chins to watching the kids run barefoot on the lawn, there is nothing quite like a true summer cookout in Paso Wine Country. This August, swap your average six-pack for something a little more savory and watch the sparks fly. Feisty, festive, and perfect for summer feasting, these five beefy Paso red wines are a perfect match for hot coals and hotter nights.
Lusso Della Terra 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon
Why: This “King of Cabs” is a slam-dunk when paired with juicy, succulent beef burgers
Tasting notes: A vibrant fresh blackberry, plum, black currant and violet aromas. Complemented by flavors of ripe complex dark fruit, blackberry, pomegranate, savory spice, hints of chocolate with a beautiful integration of oak. With a truly powerful full-bodied mouthwatering mouthfeel.
Pair with: A char-grilled bacon cheeseburgers topped with crispy onions and balsamic glaze
Click here for mapping and directions to Lusso Della Terra
Opolo 2012 Petit Verdot
Why: Just because it’s dark, that doesn’t mean it isn’t summer barbecue worthy! As black as the char on the perfect steak, you’ll be surprised how well this inky wine pairs with a meaty mouthful.
Tatsing notes: Observed in the glass, the rich dark color is an omen of what’s to come. This is a full-bodied, fruit forward wine (blackberry and other dark berry notes), and cellaring has contributed to the velvety tannins.
Pair with: Grilled bone-in steaks topped with sharp, crumbly blue cheese and earthy mushrooms
Click here for mapping and directions to Opolo Vineyards
Michael Gill Cellars 2013 Big Rock Syrah
Why: Fruity, peppery and bold, this wine is barbecue sauce’s best friend.
Tasting notes: Bright medium black ruby color. Delicate, fruity aromas of dried blueberries and cherries, melted toffee, delicate spice, and double mint gum with a soft, crisp, dry-yet-fruity medium-full body and a tingling, medium-long creamy vanilla, cedar, and peppercorns finish with crunchy, dusty tannins and moderate oak. An attractively juicy, chewy syrah that will be quite versatile.
Pair with: Pork ribs slathered in tangy barbecue sauce (the more peppery the sauce, the better)
Click here for mapping and directions to Michael Gill Cellars
Rendarrio Vineyards 2013 One Step Beyond Merlot
Why: Merlot isn’t just for fancy cheese and wine soirees. This bright barbecue companion is surprisingly acidic (meaning it begs for one more sip).
Tasting notes: 100% Merlot produced from Clare Ranch Vineyards and spent 24 months in 40% New French and American Oak Barrels. There is a wonderful bright cheery, velvety structure, and balanced acidity.
Pair with: Barbecued lamb chops with herby chimichurri sauce
Click here for mapping and directions to Rendarrio Vineyards
San Marcos Creek Vineyard 2014 Zintuition Estate Cuvee
Why: Just like a good party, you want lots of interesting characters mingling in your glass during a sizzling summer barbecue. This mix is a barrel of laughs and way too much fun.
Tasting Notes: A fruity, fun blend of 57% Zinfandel, 34% Petite Sirah, and 9% Grenache, this is your next drinkable party wine, to be sure. Just remember, you’ve been warned. This is not your grandmother’s Zin.
Pair with: Barbecued chicken drizzled with hot sauce and honey
Click here for mapping and directions to San Marcos Creek Vineyards
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