Sure, there’s a lot we’ll never agree on, but there is one universal truth we stand by: Everyone loves a good grilled cheese! Whether you drizzle yours in honey or add a dash of arugula to the mix, it’s time to finally kick this comfort classic up a notch. We’re talking about hot, ooey gooey cheese, buttery toasted bread and a tall glass of (wait for it) Paso wine! No, you can’t give us credit for this insanely indulgent pairing (some genius chef probably first stumbled upon it after a long shift). You can, however, thank us for telling you which wines go with these oh-so-melty cheeses. It’s a rough job, but someone’s got to do it. You’re so welcome.
Chardonnay and Goat Cheese
Fabulous fresh: When in doubt of what to pair with grilled cheese, we say go with a full-bodied white like Chardonnay. I mean, this varietal is known the world over for its ability to complement and mimic the charms of buttered toast. That said, we love a fabulous, pungent cheese—like a creamy, aged goats milk—to really play off all that toasty goodness in a fresh way. Robert Hall Winery’s 2018 Cavern Select Chardonnay features a surprising kick of preserved lemon, spiced apples and a tittle caramel (yum). Add a drizzle of honey if you’re feeling extra naughty…we won’t tell.
Visit sustainable Robert Hall and get ready for an outstanding wine flight with gourmet food pairing. Amazing value for $45.
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cheddar
Better together: Apple pie and baseball. Ketchup and mustard. Cheddar and cabernet sauvignon. Yes, you can add the forthcoming combo into the world’s great pantheon of pairings! A classic, sharp cheddar cheese boasts the heft to stand up against a fruit-powered bottle like Hope Family Wines Quest Red Wine, Aged in American Oak barrels. The most recent release displays a beautiful creamy vanilla nose—plus, the palate smacks of black berry, dark chocolate, fresh tobacco and herbs. You’d think this haughty combo could be far too rich for any one human, but we beg to differ: the wine’s bright acidity was born to cut fat.
Born to be mild: A reserved Rhône-style white blend adds levity to all that sumptuous, cheesy richness. But which cheese to choose? A slightly nutty baby Swiss cheese dances elegantly with Kiamie Cellars 2020 White Kuvee, which smells of crushed mineral and crisp white melon. On first swish, the experience melts into grilled pear and ultra-ripe grapefruit, which totally sets the soft Swiss into motion. Classically styled, yet uniquely Westside Paso in its expression, this delicate combo proves that mild can be mouthwatering!
Visit Kiamie, sip their gorgeous wines and take selfies with their handsome miniature goat named G.O.A.T!
Zinfandel with Asiago
Zinful pairing: Pleasure seekers and thrill chasers wanted for this to-die-for flavor combination! Zesty, jammy zinfandel plays well with cheeses that are assertive and bold (the bright fruit flavors work perfectly with a dose of salty sass). Asiago’s nutty, sweet-yet-spicy zing gives way to a slightly sharp finish. All this fun has a way of heightening Dover Canyon’s already “killer” Cujo Zinfandel, awash inbright cherry, berry and spicy pepper. Is it odd we’re craving a dash of hot sauce on top of all this punchy passion? Matches, meet fire!
Dover Canyon is a hidden gem that rates very high by Zin lovers. Visit Dover Canyon to be in the know and meet their joyful Goldendoodle, Zinny.
Pinot Noir and Gruyère
Earth to flavor: Dark cherry, smoked herb, and grounded, savory tones make Sculpterra’s 2019 Héroe Pinot Noir extra grand when paired alongside velvety aged gruyère cheese (be sure to select a mature wheel, as these will feature the most complex notes). With a slight toastiness on the palate followed by a menagerie of ripe fruit flavors, this pairing knows how to balance fruit with earthiness, and then some. The result? The most “adult” grilled cheese you’ve ever had the joy of sampling. Quite a party trick!
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 Retreats Two 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®
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
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.
Peachy Canyon Guest InnSits 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.
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.
