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Anatomy of a Perfect Paso Robles Picnic Basket

We’re not just talking about packing a lunch, people. Here in Paso Wine Country, we know how to pack a punch! Bud break has begun and the weather is perfect for sunny spring spreads spent outdoors. Paso Robles wine is a must, of course—but do you also have a handle on the appropriate edible accoutrements? Whether you unfurl your picnic blanket in the meadow, the vineyard or just on the lawn of your favorite Paso Robles tasting room, make sure you have all the essentials on lock. Happy nibbling. Nom nom!

1. Mighty meats

Real talk. A picnic without cured meats is a picnic we’d rather not attend. Charcuterie—whether in the form of prosciutto, salami, ham or pâté—truly makes the meal. Try a local producer, like Alle-Pia, purveyors of all natural hand-crafted Italian salumi (their storefront is in nearby Atascadero, but you can find their meats at General Store Paso Robles in, among other Paso Robles area retailers). Their sopressa salami, made with zinfandel and a cayenne pepper kick—will play well with Lusso Della Terra’s 2015 Zinfandel, a zesty (and worthy rival) if there ever was one. Extra credit: book a tour of the Lusso Della Terra vineyard, where you’ll get a barrel sample paired with a killer cheese and charcuterie spread (no picnic-packing required).

Mapping and Directions to Lusso Della Terra click here

2. Cheese, please

Will you make the grade? You might think you know your cheese (perhaps you do know a bit). However, we’d be willing to bet you’ll learn something new about those aged wheels at Vivant Fine Cheese in Paso Robles. Stop by this popular downtown cheese shop and pick up a cheese plate to go. Trust us: grab a wedge of Fromage d’Affinois Honey Bee Goat Gouda for your basket (it practically begs for a glass of Oso Libre 2018 Rosalinda Rosé). Bright, crisp and refreshing with a burst of strawberry, watermelon and citrus, this wine has it all: drinkability and minerality to spare. Lunch with a view: Fancy picnic locales abound in Paso Robles, but some come with an extra special setting. Head to the Oso Libre’s tasting room, on a hilltop with views of their vineyards, grazing sheep and cattle in scenic west Paso. Stunning!

Mapping and Directions to Oso Libre click here

3. Gelato-yeah!

Luscious, authentic artisan gelato? Check and check! You’ll be glad you brought the cooler and those ice packs when you dig into your first bite of this Paso Robles frozen treat. With flavors like blueberry cheesecake, butter pecan and coffee chocolate chip, there’s a scoop for every taste at Leo Leo Gelato, set to open its debut Scoop Shop at the upcoming Paso Market Walk next month (be sure to also check their website for a list of local locations to pick up a pint). A bottle of citrus-y, 2018 Sextant Grenache Blanc balances well with Leo Leo’s nutty coconut macadamia gelato flavor. With kiwi fruit, and tart green apple on the tongue and lime-pear aromas dancing on the nose, this wine truly screams for ice cream. Or, well—gelato.

Mapping and Directions to Sextant Wines, Paso Robles click here

4. Get a buzz on

Along with nuts, olives, and dried fruit, a drizzle of local honey is simply required for a perfect Paso picnic. In fact, we think a dollop of “the golf stuff” has a nifty way of pulling all those wild flavors together (yes, even the stinky cheeses). For a sweet pairing, pick up a bottle of Lone Madrone’s 2015 Points West White, built upon a solid foundation of roussanne. The Rhone varietal’s classic honied characteristics—bolstered by a touch of picpoul blanc and viognier—showcase not just a round mouthfeel, but impressive acidity, too. Find local honey at Paso Robles’ vibrant farmer’s market, which kicks off at Downtown City Park farmer’s market each Tuesday from 3-6p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon. We must say, Lone Madrone’s tasting room and patio also make for a fab picnic spot (plus, they serve burgers on select Sundays throughout the spring and summer months). Come on now. Pour some honey on me!

Mapping and Directions to Lone Madrone click here

5. Butter is better

It tastes so good to be bad! Is there any snack on earth as irresistible as an oh-so-warm brown butter cookie? Salty, sweet, buttery, crumbly—these naughty, flavor-packed (and high calorie) morsels deserve a spot of honor in your picnic basket. Hot tip: Downtown Paso Robles is home to local bakery Brown Butter Cookie Company (just follow your nose). That’s a very good thing, since you’ve already packed a chilled bottle of Four Lanterns’ Sparkling Noir, a pinot noir rosé made in the traditional methode champenoise. Time to pop some bottles and release those bubbles. Dessert can happen any time of day in Paso Wine Country.

Mapping and Directions to Four Lanterns Winery click here

  This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.

DISTILLERIES WINERIES

TOURS & TRANSPORTATIONS BREWERIES

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.