Break out that teeny bikini or bold pair of board shorts: summer has arrived in Paso Robles Wine Country! Yes, temps tend to soar into the 80s, 90s, and even triple digits throughout Northern SLO County this time of year (how do you think our Cabernet Sauvignon achieves such desired sugar levels?). That said, there’s plenty of ways to cool off and refresh your senses in this world class wine region that don’t involve finding the nearest air conditioned store. One locally beloved way? Why, with rosé, of course! Think pink, my friends: It’s fresh, it’s crisp, and—when chilled—makes for the perfect palate pick-me-up. Haven’t yet gotten on the “drink pink” bandwagon? Oh, you will. Paso Robles shares the same sensibilities as the Europeans when it comes to crafting blush colored wines. Expect sophisticated and complex rosés that are never sweet, but always juicy. Whether you crave layers of watermelon rind, strawberry earthiness, or fresh minerality in your glass, you’ll find the perfect shade of pink to compliment summer 2018.
1. Four Lanterns 2016 Sunset Syrah Rosé
A light, crisp, provencal style rosé with strawberry aromas and hints of dried fruit on the finish, this pleasurable pink drink pairs well with salads, light cheeses, and seafood dishes galore. Head to Four Lanterns Winery, where the grass is green and ready for your next picnic (or book the on-site vacation rental and never be more than a few steps from a great glass of something).
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Mapping and Directions to Four Lanterns
2. Opolo 2017 Rosé
This French inspired blend of grenache and syrah exemplify the beauty of easy, breezy summer living. Watermelon, strawberry, and pomegranate juiciness find balance alongside lemon zest and red raspberry acidity. Fleshy and well rounded, this irresistible rosé gives off a lively and lengthy finish (just like the best summer moments). With a wood fired pizza oven and hilltop gathering space, Opolo is a great stop for summer gatherings—so invite one and all. Hey, everyone loves rosé.
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Mapping and Directions to Opolo
3. Rōtta 2016 Rosé
With a nose of bright berry and stone fruit plus hints of plush peach and dusty rose petals, this sensual rosé is as alluring as a summer breeze on bare shoulders. Savor bright acidity, lush stone fruit, and a rich, mouthfeel of nectarine and berry on the palate (you might also catch a whiff of orange blossom on the finish, to complete the dreamy experience). Sip alongside lunch or a backyard cocktail party: This enchanting wine is as comfortable around fancy charcuterie as it is sipped alongside down-home family barbecue.
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Mapping and Directions to Rōtta
4. Seven Oxen 2017 Rosé
This limited production grenache-mourvedre rosé is made from estate grapes harvested specifically for this wine. Intentional and elegant, this salmon colored rosé offers up notes of strawberry, raspberry, and currant plus romantic rose petal (yes, it sounds like the perfect spa day, doesn’t it?). Fermented in stainless steel and aged for five months in neutral oak barrels, you’ll savor all the fresh, fruit flavor minus any old fashioned oakiness. Tip: Chill at least an hour before drinking. You can thank us later.
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Mapping and Directions to Seven Oxen
5. Sculpterra 2017 Paso Pink Rosé
The deep, hot pink color of this standout rosé reflects its richness on the palette (yes, you can keep this one a while before drinking, although you may not want to wait). Packed with red currant and berry flavors, you’ll also get a tinge of orange, watermelon, cantaloupe, and strawberry. Subtle notes of rose and wild berry supply a softer side to this altogether unabashed offering. With live music on the lawn each Sunday and a sculpture garden to explore, Sculpterra Winery makes for a fabulous start to a day of non-stop rosé.
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Mapping and Directions to Sculpterra
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at [email protected] or 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.
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
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
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
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
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
