So, you don’t have a cocktail garden of fresh, organic muddled herbs, a waxed mustache or a $50 vintage cocktail shaker. No worries. You can still shake, stir and pour like a pro. Follow these 5 Paso Robles Wine Country cocktail shortcuts, guaranteed to get your mixology cred moving in the right direction (that direction would be—of course—straight up).
1. Keep it Simple
You don’t need a ton of mixers or accoutrements to make a killer cocktail that crackles over ice. Pick up a bottle of KROBAR Rye Whiskey, which has taken on the delicious, smokey flavor of charred American Oak Barrels (it also won Best of Class at the Distilled Spirits Competition and a Silver Medal at the California Craft Spirits Competition). Yes. It’s that easy. Just open the bottle, add ice and pour. No, we aren’t kidding!
Mapping and Directions to Krobar Distillery
2. Have a Wine Cocktail
When I say “white wine spritzer” you may think grandma by the pool. We dare you to look outside the box (boxed wine, that is), and toward a truly refreshing and elegant cocktail. A dash of herb-infused vermouth mixed with a bright, Paso Robles white and a dash of seltzer will make you feel like summer is right around the corner. Try Pelletiere Estate’s 2017 Viognier, bursting with blossoms, beach, and mango. Where’s my shades?
Mapping and Directions to Pelletiere Estate
3. Just Say “Punch”
Yes, “punch” can be a tad of a bad word in fancy wine drinking circles, but who are we, if not fearless pioneers in the field of enjoying Paso Robles’ amazing offerings? Embark on an adventure fit to please your whole (grown up) party. A fantastically fruity blush, like Lusso Della Terra’s 2017 Rose of Merlot, would be perfect for this sophisticated party drink. Don’t believe punch can be an “adult” refreshment? Combine 1 bottle of red wine, 6 ounces of brandy, 6 ounces of raspberry or orange liqueur, and the juice of 2 lemons in a large pitcher and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight. Serve over ice and garnish with raspberries and orange slices. Call me in the morning!
Mapping and Directions to Lusso Della Terra
4. Go with Grappa
Looking for a festive, unique drink that will wow your dinner party guests? Go for grappa, a brandy distilled from the fermented residue of grapes after they have been pressed in winemaking. Formerly known as “The Distillery at Opolo”, Willow Creek Distillery carries a range of fantastic spirits, each as sumptuous as the last. We like their take on a classic margarita. Take three ounces of Willow Creek grappa, two ounces of mango nectar, sparkling water, lime, and add jalapeño (for a kick). We like a little fire with our ice.
Mapping and Directions to The Inn at Opolo
5. Go Where Everyone Knows your Name
Speaking of margaritas, sometimes the best advice is to put down your DIY flag. Spend less time fussing over limes and salted rims (meanwhile, your friends are having all the fun without you). Head to Fish Gaucho in downtown Paso Robles for a no-fuss tequila flight (choose from more than 140 tequilas and mezcals) or order up something truly luxurious, like a Tangerine-Thyme marg, featuring fresh-pressed tangerine juice, thyme, lime, agave, sotol, and volcanic lava salt. Sometimes easy is the best answer.
Mapping and Directions to Fish Gaucho
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for PasoRoblesWineries.net and former food and wine writer for SLO New Times. Follow her on Instagram @flavorslo.
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
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
Treat yourself to the ultimate Paso Robles wine country experience by booking your stay at The Inn at Opolo Vineyards. Guests enjoy our luxurious, spacious rooms and all of the sensory pleasures of Paso Robles in one destination. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/oploVineyards
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
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
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