It’s going to be lit! Slap on that Kiss the Cook apron and grab your longest pair of tongs—grilling season is just around the corner! Time to lug your trusty barbecue into the sun, dust off that big bag of charcoal and get a spark going. When it comes to grilling the Paso Robles way, don’t forget the most important ingredient: A fruity, drinkable red wine that wows. You thought we were going to say “barbecue sauce,” didn’t you? Well, that would be number two on the list, just before “ripe watermelon.” Ready to get grilling? Grab these 5 reds first. Now we’re cooking with fire!
Wines of the West – Alloy Antipasto Sangiovese in a Can
Grab a six-pack: This luxurious sangiovese courtesy of the folks at Alloy may taste super fancy, but the laid back aluminum can format is 100% “casual Friday.” Crack open one of these bold bad boys and take a sip between bites of your tomato-and-bacon-laden burger. The wine cries out for rich sauces and meaty morsels (especially when a little char is involved). Maybe you should give it what it wants? Sure seems like this sangiovese means business! Want to try the wine first? Check out Wines of the West’s virtual tasting offerings and bring this red to a patio near you.
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Dubost Wine – 2017 Auguste GSM
The power of three: Something truly special happens when you mix juicy sausages, spicy peppers and caramelized onions all on the grill—it’s like the trio are so much better together than they ever were apart. But what about Paso’s classic GSM blend? When grenache, syrah and mourvedre co-mingle, true magic happens in the glass! Grab Dubost Wine’s approachable GSM—aged for 18 months in 50% new oak—and behold the unifying yumminess of each satisfying slurp. Uncork now or let it ride till 2035 (seriously, we’re not making this up). Do you think we’ll still be grilling then? Considering it’s the original way of enjoying any piece of food, we have to think so…
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Oso Libre – 2016 Reserva Bordeaux Blend Reserva
Meaty and mighty and altogether marvelous: A winery that can supply the perfect red blend plus a fantastic cut of red meat for the grill? That’s right, friends! If “beef” happens to be your particular love language, you’re in luck! Oso Libre’s robust Bordeaux-style blend is perfect when paired alongside the winery’s estate raised Angus beef. Really, it’s quite romantic how well they play together. Comprised of 79% cabernet Sauvignon and 21% merlot, get ready for layers of plush fruit flavor that roll into a finger-licking (and ultra-lingering) finish. Truly, could any match be easier? Cupid can take the day off.
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Donati Family Vineyards – 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon
Consider yourself a serious eater? Are you the type to tie on a bib and really go for it (even if everyone else is primly nibbling on a garden burger)? Well, let’s just say a full rack of baby back ribs are no match for Donati Family Vineyard’s cabernet Sauvignon that was awarded an esteemed 90 points from Wine Enthusiast. Mischievous in personality, this wine easily conjures up aromas of brambleberry, dark cherry, vanilla bean, and toffee crunch. The palate is intense with tight tannins, flavors of raspberry, fresh blackberry, black pepper, and cedar box. Long and lasting finish, with hints of mocha leather hide, and raspberry puree offers up a delightful contrast to any barbecue sauce-laden entree. With lively acid throughout and creamy tannins that turn to velvet, this wine isn’t just a show-stopper. It’s a meal topper!
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For mapping and directions to Donati, click here
Chateau Margene – Roxo Port 2014 Barbera
Dig in and indulge: We say skip dessert and go straight for this sweet talking charmer. You can thank the folks at Chateau Margene for carrying this outstanding port style red (and before you argue with us on whether it could or should pair with barbecue, just hold your horses). Aged in French oak for six long years, this distinguished-yet-approachable wine is not cloying or “one note.” In fact, it’s totally the life of the party! Complex layers of juicy flavor call out for pulled pork sandwiches topped with sharp red onion. Sure, you’re skeptical. But once you try it, you’ll be converted.
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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, 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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
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
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hoyt Family Vineyard Retreats Two very cool, tiny houses, designed using fertile imagination and repurposing of materials are located on Hoyt Family Vineyard.
Directions: speedfind.com/hoytfamilyvineyards
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
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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
The Kiler Canyon Vineyard Retreat Perched on top of a hill on ONX Estate’s vineyard with gorgeous 360 degree views of the Willow Creek AVA
Directions: speedfind.com/KilerRetreat
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at chic, sparkling clean 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. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Oxford Suites Paso Robles You’ll find that from our lobby, our on-site restaurant, to our meeting spaces, to our 101 spacious suites, every space is beautiful + functional as well as comfortable + chic.
Directions: speedfind.com/oxfordsuitespasorobles
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
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
Rio Seco Winery Guest House 2 comfortable suites each with 2 bedrooms, complete with kitchens are set amongst the vines at iconic Rio Seco Vineyard & Winery. Enjoy your own barbeque + firepit.
Directions: speedfind.com/riosecovineyard