“The woods are lovely, dark and deep…” Most of us know this compelling line from Robert Frost’s iconic poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowing Evening.” In fact, many of us were forced to memorize and recite it to the entire class (sorry to bring up those horribly embarrassing memories). But how many of us know the poetry of Paso Robles Wine and its ravishing reds? With smooth, velvety tannins, decadent dark fruit flavors and larger-than-life aromas of leather, baking spice and smoke, these bold red bottles are sure to inspire poetic feelings of your own. If you haven’t yet luxuriated in our deepest, darkest and most sumptuous reds of the season, you are missing out on one of winter’s most enticing sensory delights. So, throw another log on the fire and cozy up in your warmest cashmere. Consider this your invitation to unwrap our richest winter wines yet!
Brecon Estate
Have an interesting holiday: Brecon Estate is known for crafting shimmering, vibrant whites, but this award-winning boutique winery also knows how to go to the dark side with rich cabernet sauvignon, petite sirah and more. If you really want to wrap your mouth in a deep, dark red this winter, reach for Brecon’s velvety smooth 2019 mourvedre, bursting with a naturally sweet forest fruit character, notes of smoke and an extra long finish that lingers on far past midnight. Be warned, this one is for the bold! One thing this 100% single vineyard hilltop offering is decidedly not? Boring.
Bow to the king: You’d think you were bored of Paso’s famed cabernet sauvignon, but you haven’t yet tried this remarkable cab crafted by Harmony Cellars! This tried and true offering loads up on intense aromas of cherry and licorice complemented by notes of warm, toasty oak. Prepare your palate to be flooded with flavors of red fruit, cassis and cola. The medium rich body, velvety tannins and well balanced acidity lead to a long, savory finish that begs to be paired with winter stew or a beefy burger. This, my friends, is why “classic” will always be cool.
Que syrah: Sure, you can find stellar winter reds like tempranillo and négrette at Michael Gill Cellars, but inky, incredible syrah is the darling of this tucked away tasting room. In fact, word has it that winemaker Michael Gill grows some of the darkest and most luxurious varieties of syrah around! Experience for yourself when you head out to this unique tasting room, which feels a bit like a European hunting lodge (currently open weekends and appointments recommended, however walk-ins are welcomed). Discover the lush layers of dark fruit and velveteen finish that continue to garner these purple-hued wines Best of Class distinction year after year. You really can’t argue with those kind of accolades. Why would you?
What’s not to love? Harvesting and producing award-winning wines made with grapes grown all the way from the Malibu Coast to the Central Coast, Hoyt Family Wines produces just 800-1,200 cases of estate wine each year. This means, of course, that every drop matters! Fruit forward, chewy, leggy and lovely, Hoyt Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is a bombshell of a bottle and any red wine lover’s “fantasty”. An unbelievably round mouthfeel and overall sophisticated vibe also make this bottle a crowd-pleaser for any winter soiree on your calendar (in other words: you’ll impress your friends and please your grandma). Two birds—one stone! Be sure to visit their downtown tasting room.
French for awesome: “Écluse” is the French word for the locks on the canals that gently carve their way through the remarkable French wine countryside, so it’s no wonder that these bottles smack of a certain je ne sais quoi. If you’re looking to unlock a beautiful blend that melds the richest varietals of the Paso Robles Wine region, you’ll want to check out Ecluse’s 2017 Insider, a library selection with a top notch pedigree. When blending their 2017 vintage, the winemaker started with a barrel that tasted toasty and delicious, adding in a mix of tannat, carignane. malbec, cabernet sauvignon and merlot to the party. Vibrant in color and with aromas of cherry and vanilla, this Paso take on a Bordeaux-style blend is worth locking away for that special holiday feast. Seriously, hide this wine before someone drinks it! Furthermore, you seriously need to swing by their winery that boosts stunning views of their estate vineyard and Paso Robles Wine Country.
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
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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
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.
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.
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.
Hoyt Family Vineyard RetreatsTwo very cool, tiny houses, designed using fertile imagination and repurposing of materials are located on Hoyt Family Vineyard.
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®
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
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.
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.
Make the most of your Paso Robles wine experience with our definitive wine tasting map – the most comprehensive guide available for navigating Paso Robles wine country.
Explore all of Paso Robles’ wine regions with our expertly curated map featuring every tasting room in the area. Today, there are over 200 tasting rooms and our recommendations are always highlighted in bold.
