Your summer vacation dreams may have wilted with the daisies, but you don’t have to cancel your rendezvous with thrilling flavor. In fact, Paso Robles Wine Country was founded on a sense of freedom, self-expression and pioneering spirit! From the very beginning, this dynamic growing region has produced bold blends and unique varietals that buck the status quo. If you really want to shake up your routine, we suggest putting down the scissors (bangs are not the way) and raising a glass. Trust us. These 5 freewheeling Paso Robles wineries are sure to satisfy your quest for adventure.
1. Savor the obsession at Michael Gill Cellars
Feel the passion! Freedom of expression is not always about how many different kinds of wine you can make, but about the ability to focus, doggedly, on one singular obsession. In Paso Robles Wine Country, a handful of dedicated winemakers continue to harbor a one-varietal love affair that spans vintages. At Michael Gill Cellars, a single-minded approach to syrah has led to some of the finest expressions of the varietal in the region (and a slew of gold medals and awards, to boot). Not sure which to sample first? Truly, take your pick. Each syrah is more spectacular than the last.
For mapping and directions to Michael Gill Cellars click here
2. Taste the terroir (and then some) with Lone Madrone
Go wild! With so many incredible vineyards in Paso Robles Wine Country, why would you ever want to stick to just one? At Lone Madrone, grapes are sourced from a handful of top vineyards located across the area (which means you’re free to taste the best of the entire region, all under one label). Sip Lone Madrone’s distinct and varied single varietals and blends for a true taste of Paso terroir. Thanks to a natural, hands-off approach to winemaking, you’re sure to taste the nuances of the land—minus the travel costs. Oh, and don’t forget the winery’s popular hard cider, an homage to the winemaker’s upbringing in Bristol, England. An award-winning winery that also makes killer cider? In Paso Robles, this is an everyday thing.
For mapping and directions to Lone Madrone click here
3. Ride into the Sunset with Rangeland Wines
Cowboys (and outlaws) wanted! The rugged essence of Paso Robles comes into full focus when you swirl the exceptional “field crafted” reds crafted by Rangeland Wines. Located just twelve miles from the ocean at 1,700 feet of elevation, the winery’s pastoral Adelaida Springs Ranch estate vineyard is surrounded by rolling oak woodlands, abundant wildlife and grazing livestock. Part ranch, part winery, the winemaking folks here care as much about the cabernet sauvignon in your glass as they do about the steak on your plate (and yes, you can pick up estate-raised grass-fed beef from the tasting room). Yeehaw! This is the wild west with wildly satisfying wine.
For mapping and directions to Rangeland click here
4. Splash into summer with Krobar Craft Distillery
Shaken, not stirred! Now we’re really rocking the boat: this one isn’t even a winery. That’s oh-so-Paso, mind you! Never (ever) boring, Krobar Craft Distillery has brought a punch of originality to Paso Robles Wine Country’s world recognized wine scene. With a range of outrageously creative spirits—including whiskey, bourbon, rum and vermouth—plus uniquely pungent bitters (olallieberry citrus, anyone?), your next cocktail can be a total talking piece. Be warned, however: These bottles are far from something you’d find in your father’s bar cart. Expect elevated and eclectic booze crafted by local winemakers looking to make a big splash.
For mapping and directions to Krobar click here
5. Revel in the history with Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellars
Here comes trouble! Well, Hope Family Wines’ famous “Troublemaker” wine, that is. You might already know the famously rich, fruit-forward red blend, but have you ventured into the winery’s full stable of outstanding offerings? With several crowd-pleasing labels, including Treana, Quest, and Liberty School, you’re in for a a multi-dimensional experience, to be sure. Thanks to 30 years of winemaking heritage, the Hope family has done its part to cultivate decades worth of enjoyment for a once unrecognized region. Hard to believe Paso was once just a blip on the map, right? Now, you can step into that history, sip by sip. The next chapter begins with you!
For mapping and directions to Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellars click here
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, 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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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.
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