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, 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
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at 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