It’s a tale as old as time. Summer barely starts, and, somehow—just like that—it’s already close to being over. If you’re just now experiencing a wicked case of summer FOMO (that’s the fear of missing out), we’ve got the remedy right here. These pleasurable Paso Robles wine ideas are perfect for your last minute August trip to wine country, just before summer ends and winemakers dive into hectic harvest season. So, grab the bull by the horns and the wine by the bottle. The time is now to have crazy fun!
1. Lounge like you mean it
Summer is for recharging those batteries. Embrace the idea of doing nothing for an afternoon (well, nothing but sipping, nibbling and conversing with your fave people). This is not just another tasting room we’re talking about, and that’s why you’ll want to stay for at least a few hours. In fact, winemaker Austin Hope has said of his uniquely Paso Robles hangout: “Our tasting cellar offers a distinctive blend of eclectic decor, spacious atmosphere and cozy lounge-style seating. The goal was to give the wine a more vivid sense of place, and to also let a bit of my personality come through.” Well, this locally beloved winemaker has oodles of personality, if we don’t say so ourselves. Chat and laugh with friends in a stylish nook, taste the winery’s incredible 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, and even stroll along the vineyards. When you’re in Austin’s house, you are always free to roam about the cabin.
For quick and easy mapping and directions to Austin Hope click here
2. Spice up your life
You promised yourself 2019 would be the summer of bold choices, big dreams and raucous road trips. Before you let yourself down completely, take a detour to downtown Paso Robles. It’s pretty hard to sustain any feeling of FOMO when you’re sampling fine wines and Indian spice pairings. How often can you say that, right? Scoot into LXV Winery and be seduced by the power of spice. Prepare yourself for a sensuous ride through hot, savory and sweet delights, all of are sure to get you back into the happy groove. Each wine pairing is crafted to enhance both the spice blend (say, the Porcini mushroom, garlic, black sea salt, and saffron, as well as the wine (say, the 2015 Crimson Jewel Sangiovese – Petit Verdot). Wham bam, thank you m’am!
For quick and easy mapping and directions to LXV click here
3. Post a perfect panorama
Summer is for savoring the outdoors and really enjoying the scenery. If you’ve been stuck inside thus far, it’s time to break out and take a long breath of fresh, Paso Robles air. The nifty “panorama mode” on your iPhone was made for this kind of view: At Pear Valley Vineyards, you’ll experience a 360-degree vista encompassing all of the lush green vineyards and stately oaks that make Paso Robles so grand. Spread out on the soft grass (or in the comfy outdoor lounge area) and enjoy a picnic paired with a chilled glass brimming with something magical (we recommend the 2016 Chenin Blanc, which features a splash of pineapple and white peach). Feeling extra indulgent? Try the winery’s incredible dessert and port-style offerings. How beautifully sweet it is!
For quick and easy mapping and directions to Pear Valley Vineyards click here
4. Meet the winemaker
Soon enough (or maybe its already happened!), the kids will be back in school and you’ll be back to the same old routine. Don’t waste a moment more. Now is the time to have fun and rub elbows with the folks that make the wine—and no, we’re not kidding. Some wine regions are known for long lines and overly crowded tasting rooms. Boo! In Paso Robles, there’s still plenty of family owned and operated wineries excited to welcome you with open arms. Yay! Specializing in zinfandel, syrah and Rhone blends, Dover Canyon Winery is an authentic, boutique operation offering up some seriously elevated flavors. That said, the tasting room itself is still cozy, quaint and totally accessible. Book a tasting for you and a small group of close friends and know that you’ll get the one-on-one attention you crave. These are memories rarely made, always cherished.
For quick and easy mapping and directions to Dover Canyon click here
5. Eat, drink and be merry
Do Instagram feeds full of perfectly coifed avocado toast and summery sweet treats make you drool (and get you more than a tad jealous)? Well, prepare to be the one posting the #foodgoals of the week! An Evening Under the Estrella Sky Winemakers’ Dinner—slated for August 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Harley Farms in San Miguel—should be on your calendar. Enjoy offerings from the many wineries of the Pleasant Valley Wine Trail, a collection of boutique wineries nestled just east of Paso Robles. Fabulous wine, gourmet food and live music will all be on the menu, including a bittersweet chocolate cake with caramel sauce, vanilla whipped cream and strawberry jam crafted on-site. Beach body, be damned! Don’t miss pours from Villa San Juliette, known for elegant, highly acclaimed reds like the 2013 VSJ Romantique, a tangy blackberry-coated beauty that just snagged 91 points from Wine Enthusiast. We don’t judge if you take too many photos of your plate or glass on this night, as long as we see your pearly brights!
For quick and easy mapping and directions Villa San Juliette 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, 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