Tasting rooms are boring, the only choice is red and there’s never enough food to keep those tummy grumbles at bay. Allow us to bust those dusty old wine myths, all of which have no basis in reality (but have everything to do with bad media portraits, silly assumptions and a lack of imagination).
In truth, Paso Robles Wine Country is a dynamic, vibrant and ever-expanding place where flavor (and friendliness) always take a front seat. With hundreds of tasting rooms and dozens of varietals to discover, step into a whole new world of wonder. Hey, and while you’re at it follow us on Instagram!
Aren’t your tasting rooms stuffy?
Our wine might be fancy (award-winningly so) but our tasting rooms are beloved local hangouts where everyone is welcome to let loose! From the most opulent tasting lounges to the most chill outdoor set-ups, we pride ourselves on our warm hospitality and gracious spirit. Here, tourists and residents rub elbows and raise a glass to the winemaker—a real-life human being who can often be found in the same room, not on a pedestal! Truly: no question is too silly, no request to small. We’re here to usher you into the family, one sip at a time.
Busted: Think all Paso wine tasting rooms are formal? Sink into a well-worn chair at The Terrace at Écluse and feel your worries melt away. Located just off the crush pad, take in stunning views of Paso Robles Wine Country while unwinding with a glass or a picnic. No dress code required!
BONUS: Écluse is dog-friendly!
Visit Écluse’s Website, click here
Mapping and directions to Écluse, click here
You grow a lot of great reds—and that’s it.
OK—we all love a great cabernet sauvignon or malbec around here, don’t get us wrong. That said, there’s so much more to Paso than you think! In reality, we’re home to hundreds of tasting rooms and dozens of wine varietals ranging from the most obscure to the best loved. From bright, fresh whites and unique dessert wines to celebratory sparklings and bold blends that buck the status quo, Paso Robles wines are as diverse as they are delicious. Plus—and this is the real kicker—we’re becoming known for our dry, elegant hard cider offerings and unique spirits, too. Mic drop!
Busted: In addition to a seemingly endless rainbow of Rhone, Bordeaux, Spanish and Italian wine varietals, we’ve also got some crazy good cocktails behind the bar that you can enjoy on the patio overlooking the vineyard! Case in point: KROBAR Craft Distillery, where small-batch spirits get shaken up for the modern world.
BONUS: Delish food served here!
Visit KROBAR’s Website, click here
Mapping and directions to KROBAR, click here
Wine regions are all the same
Not true! In fact, Paso Robles is home to several distinct microclimates and wine trails, all with their own distinct characters. Savor the breezy coastal influence when you discover the wineries of Highway 46 West. Head east on the same highway and guess what? You’ll find wines that reflect the dusty soil and warmer temps. All you have to do is take a detour through Paso’s enchanting rural terrain and you’ll find yourself on the Back Roads wine trail, where tasting rooms are cozy and family-owned. Need help orienting yourself to this amazing web of wines? Check out our detailed map showing you just where your next adventure awaits.
Busted: Overlooking the quaint village of Harmony, CA (population 18, if you count the cows), Harmony Cellars is a breath of fresh air on a hot sunny afternoon. As the breeze blows in from the sea, you’ll understand what we mean when we say each Paso Robles wine trail is distinctly its own!
BONUS: Lots of fun events are always happening! This weekend savor Harmony Cellars cupcakes and wine pairings on their beautiful hilltop patio.
Visit Harmony Cellars Website, click here
Mapping and directions to Harmony Cellars, click here
Follow Harmony Cellars on Instagram
You won’t find a real meal
Oh really? We know what you were expecting: a bowl of dry crackers and perhaps a little cheese plate, if you’re lucky. That just isn’t going to work for our appetites! You’ll be glad to know that this myth has been beyond busted: Paso Robles love to eat! An incredible growing season means amazing wine rapes and amazing crops—not to mention estate-raised beef, to boot. We are proudly at the epicenter of California’s farm fresh dining frenzy, with legendary downtown restaurants and wineries serving lavish sit-down meals.
Busted: They don’t joke about food at Iron Oaks Winery! In fact, you can pick up a few pounds of local pasture-raised beef finished off from California Coast Beer Co grains at this fun-loving Paso Robles tasting room. What else would a cowboy pair with small batch, boutique wines? Great wine needs a friend, and we believe there is no better BFF than a big, juicy burger!
BONUS: Great grub (move over In-N-Out), and hootin’ tootin’ games to play!
Visit Iron Oaks Winery Website, click here
Mapping and directions to Iron Oaks Winery, click here
Follow Iron Oaks Winery on Instagram
There’s nowhere nice/cool/rustic/elegant to stay!
Let me stop you right there. Have you explored all the options lately? Whatever your dream lodging, you’ll find it waiting in Paso Robles. From romantic love nests surrounded by vines to sun-dappled suites with plush amenities like fireplaces and private tubs—Paso Robles is not your one-size-fits-all stay. Not by a long shot! Whether you’re booking a six-bedroom house for a boisterous bridal party (may we recommend a vacation rental with a barbecue pit and pool) or a private, peaceful getaway (sounds like a spa treatment is order), we hold the key.
Busted: Sip, celebrate and sleep whatever way you please. How? Well, Paso Robles Vacation Rentals allows you to pick and choose exactly the amenities are perfect for you. Search by number of bedrooms, proximity to tasting rooms—even or pet-friendliness! Now you’re one step closer to everyone’s dream: waking up in Paso.
BONUS: Visions of sugar plums will dance in your head!
Visit Paso Robles Vacation Rentals Website, click here
Mapping and directions to Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, click here
Follow Paso Robles Vacation Rentals on Instagram
Get Your Wine Country COUPONS click here!
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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Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
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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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyInn
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