Hooray! Paso Robles wineries and tasting rooms are re-opening! After a long, three-month closure due to state-mandated COVID-19 restrictions, winery patios, lounges and tasting bars will again clink to life. Mark your calendar for Friday, June 12—a celebratory date that we’ll all remember, to be sure.
Although the mood in Paso Robles Wine Country is decidedly joyous, winery owners, winemakers, and staff urge all visitors to heed all posted safety precautions, which may differ from winery to winery. We are not out of the woods yet with COVID-19, so be sure to temper that soaring enthusiasm with a dose of measured caution.
Still, what Paso Robles wine drinker isn’t jazzed about this new development? We’re certainly allowed to do a little happy dance. Here’s 5 things you should know about Paso Robles Wine Country re-opening. See you out there!
(Before you dive into the blog, ENTER the Wine Country Getaway SWEEPSTAKES! Click Here)
1. Enjoy the wine, but stay safe
Sure, you can’t wait to get back out to scenic Paso Robles for a day of world class tastings and epic sight seeing. We get it! Just remember a lot of other folks are stoked on the exact same idea. Summer is a popular time for tourists to head out to Paso Robles and the Central Coast of California in general, so be sure to employ social distancing when you can. Bring your trusty bottle of hand sanitizer or use the anti-bacterial wipes, sprays and gels provided to you, depending on the winery. While you’re never mandated to wear a mask in Paso Robles, some wineries may suggest a face covering for certain areas of the facility. Similarly, make sure you note any signage regarding tables and seating (it’s still a good idea to sit six feet away from others, whether inside or out). When in doubt, bring a picnic blanket to ensure you can spread out on the lawn and enjoy the simple pleasure of sunshine, wine and good times.
Enjoy responsibly: Eberle Winery is always a bustling tasting room in Paso Robles, especially during those fun-loving summer months. It’s always a great idea to take your wine outside to a table on the breezy tasting deck (not only is the scenery stunning, but you can ensure your distance from other patrons). The winery will re-open officially near the end of June. Can’t wait? Neither can we.
Mapping and Directions to Eberle click here
2. Branch out
Try something new and you might find your next favorite. Paso Robles wineries have taken a financial hit over the past few months. In simple terms: Many winery owners could use a boost! If you’ve always gone to one particular winery, consider branching out to support a few while on your journey in Paso Robles Wine Country. Small, family owned boutique wineries are bountiful across the region and they truly appreciate your support, especially now. Note: Be sure to check the updated hours for each tasting room you plan to visit ahead of time. Not all wineries will go back to their pre-COVID-19 hours right away or at all. You can always call the tasting room, as staff members are happy to give you the lowdown on their own version of “the new normal.”
Try this: If you’ve never experienced Seven Oxen Estate Wines, you’re in for a real treat. Sample their luscious Rhone reds, like Seven Oxen’s 2016 Mourvedre, with tart cherry notes and earthy undertones.
Mapping and Directions to Seven Oxen click here
3. Food is available
Dig in, friends! All this red tape surrounding exactly what wineries can and can’t do might have sent your head into a tizzy. We get it. Let us be the ones to reassure you that yes, many wine tasting rooms that served food before COVID-19 will continue to do so. However, do remember that some food-serving wineries may still be offering a limited menu. As tasting room staff—and celebrated winery chefs—prepare for this exciting reopening, come hungry, but don’t forget to pack a snack (just in case).
Nosh on: Dine at Villa San-Juliette, and lunch with the best of them. Whether you crave a turkey pesto wrap or a smattering of olives, hummus and gourmet cheese, you’ll never feel peckish at this gorgeous oasis nestled above the rolling hills of San Miguel.
Mapping and Directions to Villa San Juliette click here
4. You can still get curbside pick up and great shipping deals
Not sure you’re ready to venture out to Paso Robles wineries just yet? We totally understand. Not everyone is in a health position to visit these amazing tasting rooms in person. We hear you. Before you start to feel left out, remember: Many wineries are still offering incredible once-in-a-lifetime deals on bottles, cases and shipping costs. Perhaps you won’t be lounging on the veranda at your favorite tasting room for quite a while, but you can still enjoy the fruit of their labors. Cheers to that.
Virtually delicious: So you aren’t prepared to walk among the vines this month. You know what you can do? Take a virtual tour of Paso Robles tasting rooms here! It’s the second-best thing to being there in person. Pair with great wine for the full effect.
5. Stay in Paso
Rest easy. In recent months, Paso Robles area hotels were able to fill only half of its rooms (due to COVID-19 restrictions). Now, this order is no more. That means you can visit Paso Robles Wine Country without fear that rooms won’t be available. The more the merrier! For your peace of mind, you should know that local hotel owners are making a big fuss of keeping things spic and span: new safety protocols, like the frequent cleaning of high traffic areas have gone into effect across the region.
Stay: The Hampton Inn and Suites in Paso Robles offers up that perfect mix of down-home hospitality and a touch of luxury. Expect plush beds, free wifi and even pet friendly rooms. Located a hop skip and a jump from dozens of fantastic Paso Robles wineries, you’ll find a cozy home away from home paired with the best flavors around.
Mapping and Directions to Hampton Inn and Suites 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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyInn
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