Tear up the to do list and grab your favorite friends—it’s time for a sunny trip to Paso Robles Wine Country! You’ve all been talking about getting away. Now, put your money where your mouth is before the season is gone. Springtime is the right time for incredible culinary events, unique winemaker dinners and once-in-a-lifetime tasting experiences (with a live band, great barbecue, awesome ambiance, or all of the above). Whether you seek a swanky multi-course meal by the sea or just a night under the stars two-stepping to a great live band, Paso Robles Wine Country is here to put that spring back in your step. That garage needing reorganization can wait.
1. Dance Like No One’s Watching at Tooth and Nail
Will you do us this honor? Sometimes a chill concert is just what the doctor ordered. De-stress and rejoice in that laid-back Paso Robles vibe at Tooth and Nail Winery, which hosts free concerts each Friday night from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. and each Sunday night from 1-4 p.m. Country artist Michael D. Keeney will take the stage on Friday, April 12, featuring a dance instructor to make sure you get your moves just right. After you take advantage of a free lesson, grab a glass of wine and an unconventional food pairing and hang out with your friends at “the castle.” As you move into the tasting room, you’ll find a seat for everyone in your gang (and you’ll soon meet your own personal tasting steward). Danced your cares away? Cozy up by the roaring fire or relax under an expansive pergola overlooking the vineyards. Ah, we could get used to this.
For mapping and directions to Tooth and Nail click here
2. Cheers to Wine, Tacos and Tequila with Bodega de Edgar
Calling all SoCal locals! Bodega de Edgar knows how to have a (very, very) good time. Why stop at wine when you can also have tequila and tacos too? Meet winemaker Edgar Torres this Friday, April 12 at Vino at Trios in Alhambra, California and celebrate on the patio from 5 to 7 p.m. By “celebrate,” we mean: eat, drink, and generally have yourself a flat-out ball. The tequila and taco bar will be overflowing with delicious fixings (mmm guac) and you’ll be privy to a complimentary appetizer, wine flight and margarita. Some say less is more. In this case, we say more is most certainly more! Pass the hot sauce. We’re looking to overdo it.
For mapping and directions to Bodega de Edgar click here
3. Traverse the Pacific Coast Wine Trail with Harmony Cellars
Salty sea air does a body good. Travel the Pacific Coast Wine Trail on Cinco de Mayo, Sunday, May 5 and discover more than just seashells by the sea shore. Highway 1 is home to some of the most enviable coastline in the world and—at least we think—some of the best wines just west of Paso Robles. From Coastal Burgundian varieties grown on the coast to robust Bordeaux and Rhone varieties grown in nearby Paso Robles, the wines of the Pacific Coast Wine Trail are perfect for your next spring adventure. At Harmony Cellars, surf meets wine (and one epic sunset). On Cinco de Mayo, enjoy a unique “fiesta bite” paired with a special wine at each of the six wineries on the trail. With grub prepared by Boni’s Tacos, you’ll want for nothing. Yes, the pairing is included with purchase of your tasting, and it goes without saying: no reservations required. Just come as you are, flip flops and all!
For mapping and directions to Harmony Cellars click here
4. Soak up the Sun with Villa San Juliette
Grab your good shades and head for the wide, open blue. This Cinco de Mayo, Sunday, May 5, join Villa San Juliette Vineyard and Winery for the kind of dining experience California dreams are made of. From 6-9 p.m., guests will nosh at the stunning Oceanpoint Ranch in Cambria, where special guest and winemaker Dan Smith will share a plethora of award winning wines paired with a unique Cinco de Mayo themed tasting menu. The four-course meal (prepared by Executive Chef Thomas Drahos of Tin Canteen) will be nothing short of thrilling, featuring fresh seafood and a hefty portion of zest. Yes, this is the perfect occasion to wear that fancy white linen suit! Just be careful.
5. Get in the Wine Fest Spirit
There’s no bigger Paso Robles Wine event than Paso Wine Fest (the name says it all). This year’s four day celebration of small town charm and world class wine promises to be larger than life! Will you be there to witness the spectacle? Held May 16-19, expect to sample hundreds of delicious, award winning offerings along with uniquely curated events. On Friday, May 17, select wineries will feature their Library, Reserve, White/Rosé, and Futures complemented by fresh and local gourmet bites at the RESERVE Event. Start your morning on Saturday, May 18 with a fun and educational Winemaker Seminar. Following the seminar, more than 70 wineries come together in the Paso Robles Downtown City Park to showcase their wines during the Grand Tasting. This year, the fest kicks off the weekend with an all-inclusive family style bottle share dinner that will allow for lots of conversation and general goodwill among table mates. Join three of Paso’s best producers for The Hatch’s three-course meal and some killer Paso wine (advance purchase only. Seating extremely limited). Featured winemakers include Janis Pelletiere of Pelletiere Vineyard & Winery, known for showcasing elegant Italian varietals. Here, we’re all family, and you’re the guest of honor.
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
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