“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.
Harmony Cellars
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.
Michael Gill Cellars
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?
Hoyt Family Vineyards
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.
Écluse Wines
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.
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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
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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.
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