If Paso’s oldest vines could talk, they’d tell you why wine lovers keep reaching for Zinfandel. This beloved varietal offers a beautiful dance of bold, fruit-forward flavors, from sun-ripened blackberry jam to juicy plum—often with a delightful encore of peppery spice. From cozy family barbecues to elegant dinner parties, Paso Zinfandel’s rich, satisfying character makes it both approachable and complex – a true crowd-pleaser that doesn’t sacrifice sophistication.
When it comes to celebrating National Zinfandel Day (November 20), Paso Robles is certainly the place to taste. Few wine regions can match our rich heritage of old vine Zinfandel, with some vines dating back over a century. From pre-Prohibition vineyards to innovative blends, discover the Paso Robles wineries and tasting rooms that showcase this heritage grape variety in our comprehensive guide to Paso Robles Zinfandel.
A Tale of Two Continents: Zinfandel’s Journey to Paso
Paso’s zinfandel story began during the California Gold Rush when Italian immigrants introduced this expressive varietal to the Golden State. Thanks to the area’s ideal climate and soil conditions, these vines didn’t just survive – they thrived, becoming Paso’s heritage grape.
But here’s where the plot thickens: while Zinfandel may have a firmly-rooted place in California’s heart, its family tree stretches across the Atlantic. After years of globe-trotting research and DNA sleuthing, wine scientists have discovered Zinfandel’s true identity in the most unlikely of places – Split, Croatia (source).
This ancient vine revealed that our beloved Zinfandel is actually a Croatian grape variety called Tribidrag, whose story dates back to at least the 15th century. Who would have guessed that this California wine country star began its journey in a sun-drenched corner of the Dalmatian coast?
A Polish Pianist’s Legacy
Among Paso’s most fascinating wine tales is that of Ignacy Jan Paderewski, the celebrated Polish pianist and statesman who helped shape the region. Drawn to Paso’s rolling hills and limestone-rich soils in the early 1900s, Paderewski established vineyards in the Adelaida District. His pioneering spirit lives on at Epoch Estate Wines, where the historic Paderewski Vineyard continues to produce coveted Zinfandels that honor his legacy.
The Old Vine Advantage
These centenarian vines, gnarly and twisted with age, tell the story of Paso’s winemaking heritage. Dry-farmed and head-trained using traditional methods, they produce wines of incredible concentration and character that new plantings simply can’t match. It’s sustainable farming at its finest – an approach that honors both tradition and our environment.
A Style for Every Palate
What makes Paso Robles Zinfandel truly special is its remarkable range. From elegant and balanced to bold and jammy, there’s a perfect bottle for every wine lover. While some command premium prices, many excellent Zinfandels remain surprisingly affordable, making this noble variety accessible to both newcomers and seasoned collectors.
A Legacy of Family Winegrowing
At the heart of Paso’s Zinfandel story are the multi-generational farming families who have preserved this heritage. Their deep connection to the land shines through in every bottle, whether enjoyed young or cellared to develop even greater complexity. These are more than just wines – they’re liquid history, telling the story of Paso Robles vines one sip at a time.
Where to Taste Paso’s Historic Zinfandels
Ready to explore Paso’s legendary Zinfandel offerings? From pre-Prohibition survivors to carefully tended heritage vines, Paso Robles’ historic tasting rooms tell a unique chapter of Paso’s passionate love affair with Zinfandel. Here’s where to taste these iconic offerings:
mid•point Winery (previously Rotta Winery)
Region: Willow Creek District
Original Zin: Dating back more than a century, this historic Willow Creek winery survived Prohibition by producing “sacramental wines,” a clever loophole. Founded in 1908 by the Rotta Family, Rotta WInery (now mid.point Winery) is the only remaining family-owned “original” winery in San Luis Obispo County. Today, their traditional old vine Zinfandel continues to showcase enduring flavors that ignite the imagination.
Must Taste: Estate old vine Zinfandel, crafted from some of Paso’s most historic plantings.
Location: 250 Winery Road, Templeton
Open: Thursday-Monday, 10 AM – 5 PM
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Epoch Estate Wines
Region: York Mountain
A Pianist’s Legacy: Preserving the historic vineyard of late Polish pianist and Prime Minister Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch Estate Wines honors Paso’s most famous resident zinfandel vintner. Stop by this unique property for an illuminating dose of area history enjoyed alongside world class wines and time-honored vines.
Must Taste: Vineyard-specific zinfandel offerings sourced from the historic Paderewski Vineyard.
Location: 7505 York Mountain Road, Templeton
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 4 PM
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J Dusi Wines
Region: Templeton Gap
A Family Legacy: The historic Benito Dusi Vineyard, planted in 1925, produces what winemakers lovingly call “Dusi Fruit,” the best in the biz. Thanks to the magic combination of sustainable farming and the unique Templeton Gap microclimate, J Dusi Wines shine with heart and authenticity. Still family-owned, stop by to meet the winemaker herself!
Must Taste: The Benito Dusi Zinfandel, sourced from vines planted nearly 100 years ago.
Location: 1401 CA-46 West, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 11 AM – 4 PM
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Turley Wine Cellars
Region: Templeton Gap/Willow Creek
Old Vine Whisperers: Known for breathing new life into historic vineyards, Turley’s crown jewel is the Ueberroth Vineyard, planted in 1885. The stuff of winemaking legend, Turley Wine Cellars’ head-trained, dry-farmed zinfandel vines capture pure Paso essence in every bottle.
Must Taste: Amadeo’s Vineyard Zinfandel, featuring fruit from 1920s Templeton Gap plantings.
Location: 2900 Vineyard Drive, Templeton
Open: Thursday-Monday, 10 AM – 4 PM
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Peachy Canyon Winery
Region: Westside/Adelaida District Zinfandel
Peachy Pioneers: One of Paso’s most celebrated Zinfandel houses since 1988, Peachy Canyon has built its reputation on crafting an impressive portfolio of distinctive zins. From their popular “Incredible Red” Zinfandel blend to their premium single-vineyard offerings, each bottle showcases the complexity and character of Paso’s diverse terroir.
Must Taste
Single-vineyard Zinfandels, especially their flagship offering, aptly named “Westside” Zinfandel.
Location: 1480 N Bethel Rd, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
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More Paso Robles Zinfandel Stars
Discover how today’s producers are carrying forward Paso’s Zinfandel legacy
Robert Hall Winery
Region: Geneseo District
Classic Paso Style: Known for award-winning wines with a nod to balance and food-friendliness, Robert Hall Winery plays host to vibrant tasting events, including a popular Zinfandel Day Celebration, held November 20, 2024. Stop by the tasting room for guided wine tastings, e-bike vineyard tours and barrel tasting tours galore.
Must Taste: The signature Cavern Select Zinfandel, which has featured iconic vineyards like the Dante Dusi vineyard, where head trained zinfandel vines have grown for 80+ years.
Location: 3443 Mill Rd, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
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Eberle Winery
Region: Geneseo District
Heritage Meets Innovation: Though most famous for pioneering Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in Paso Robles, Eberle honors the region’s Zinfandel heritage by sourcing from historic sites like Steinbeck Vineyard, one of the oldest vineyards in the nation.
Must Taste: Eberle’s complex-yet-harmonious zinfandel offerings are always a deliciously spicy counterpart to their iconic cabernet sauvignon.
Location: 3810 CA-46 East, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
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Tobin James Cellars
Region: Geneseo District
Paso’s Party Central: Famous for their fruit-forward wines and legendary tasting room atmosphere, Tobin James Cellars is all about letting your hair down and experiencing Paso’s “howdy neighbor” hospitality. What pairs better than a glass of fun-loving Zin?
Must Taste: An exuberant tasting room experience pairs well with a bold Zinfandel lineup, including Ballistic and James Gang offerings.
Location: 8950 Union Rd, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
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Westside Wonders
Écluse Wines
Region: Adelaida District
Boutique Excellence: A true reflection of their special corner of the Adelaida District, Écluse’s intimate tasting room offers a personal wine tasting experience where you’ll meet the winemakers and learn the tale behind each bottle. While known for their Bordeaux and Rhone style wines, their handcrafted Zinfandel has become a standout in their tasting lineup.
Must Taste: Estate Zinfandel, incredibly balanced and smooth, with a signature finish of caramel, fruit and spice.
Location: 2815 Adelaida Rd, Paso Robles
Open: Fri-Sun, 11 AM – 5 PM; Mon-Thu by appointment
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Brecon Estate
Region: Adelaida District
Unexpected Elegance: Crafting boutique wines that showcase Paso Robles’ nuanced side, enjoy an exciting range of small lot finds and unusual blends. Not tied to any one Old World tradition, expect to taste “the best of the best” of Paso Robles flavors, including beguiling Zinfandel interpretations.
Must Taste: Small-lot wines showcasing Paso personality, especially food-friendly Zinfandel.
Location: 7450 Vineyard Drive Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM by appointment
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Lone Madrone
Region: Adelaida District
Vineyard Focus: Since 1996, Lone Madrone winemaker Neil Collins has focused exclusively on Paso’s mountainous westside vineyards, partnering with multi-generational farming families to craft wines that shine. Their long tradition of collaboration with historic vineyard sites results in both distinctive single-varietal Zinfandels and inspired Zinfandel blends.
Must Taste: Bailey Ranch Zinfandel, the culmination of six generations of farming wisdom. Be sure to also ask about creative zinfandel blends that push the boundaries of this heritage grape.
Location: 3750 Highway 46 W Templeton
Open: Daily, 10:30 AM – 5 PM
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Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
Region: Adelaida District
Sustainably Good: Nestled in Paso’s mountainous westside terrain, Adelaida’s commitment to sustainable farming shines in their long standing zinfandel program. Established in 1981, the tasting room is surrounded by a scenic walnut orchard, a truly “vintage” Paso Robles experience.
Must Taste: Michael’s Estate Vineyard Zinfandel, showcasing the character of organically-farmed dry-farmed grapes since 1993.
Location: 5805 Adelaida Rd, Paso Robles,
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 4 PM (closed Tuesdays)
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Opolo Vineyards
Region: Willow Creek District
Mountain-Grown Expressions: A mountain top winery known for epic harvest parties and delicious woodfired pizza, Opolo’s powerful Zinfandels from the Willow Creek District have achieved cult status among Zin-friendly tasters.
Must Taste: Legendary Mountain Zinfandel and unique Late Harvest Zinfandel, both Paso Robles classics!
Location: 7110 Vineyard Dr, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
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Grey Wolf Cellars
Region: Willow Creek District
Wine and Dine: This family-operated winery is a Westside oasis perfect for enjoying a wine country tasting paired with lunch from Barton’s Kitchen. Known for distinctive wines, sample from Barton Family Wines, Grey and Grey Wolf Cellars offerings, all in one scenic hangout.
Must Taste: Crowd-pleasing Barton Family WInes Big Bad Zinfandel Blend and bold Grey Wolf Zinfandel offering, a members-only exclusive.
Location: 4001 Wine Country Dr, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM (food kitchen open 11 AM – 4:30 PM)
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Midnight Cellars
Region: Willow Creek District
Estate Pioneers: Since 1995, the Hartenberger family has crafted wines from their meticulously-planted estate vineyard, where terraced Zinfandel vines produce small yields of top shelf fruit. Midnight Cellars’ sustainable farming practices and hands-on approach result in vegan-friendly wines that truly express their Willow Creek site.
Must Taste: Estate Zinfandel, with its concentrated dark ruby color; as well as the Full Moon Red, a distinctive Zinfandel blend.
Location: 2925 Anderson Rd, Paso Robles
Open: Daily, 11 AM – 5:30 PM
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South Paso
Ancient Peaks Winery
Region: Santa Margarita Ranch
Cool Climate Pioneers: From their historic ranch at the southernmost frontier of Paso Robles wine country, Ancient Peaks crafts distinctively balanced Zinfandels. Taste limited releases, enjoy a bite and kick back at their welcoming tasting room and café in the historic town of Santa Margarita.
Must Taste: Cool-climate Zinfandel, an expression of the winery’s maritime influences and diverse soils.
Location: 22720 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
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Celebrating Zinfandel in Paso Robles
Mark your calendar for these seasonal wine events celebrating Paso’s heritage grape:
Fall – National Zinfandel Day at Robert Hall Winery
Hosted on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 10 AM to 4 PM, national Zinfandel Day brings special tributes to Paso’s heritage grape. Join Robert Hall Winery as they mark the occasion by offering a complimentary glass of Zinfandel with every tasting. More Info
Spring – Paso: Zinfandel Weekend
Held in March, Vintage Paso: Zinfandel Weekend has evolved into a three-day festival of new releases and spring celebrations. More than 100 wineries participate, offering winemaker dinners, seminars and special tastings while the countryside bursts with wildflowers and fresh vine growth.
Summer – Summer Zinfandel Celebration at Peachy Canyon Winery
ZAP’s Summer Zinfandel Celebration at Peachy Canyon Winery pairs outstanding Paso Zins with gourmet cheeses and delicious eats – proving once again why Zinfandel is one of the food-friendliest wines around.
Your Next Glass Awaits
As wine trends come and go, Zinfandel’s popularity endures because it delivers what wine lovers seek: character, quality, and a genuine sense of place. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of Paso Robles Zinfandel.
When you pick up your next bottle, you’re not just treating yourself to a delicious wine experience – you’re participating in a tradition that spans generations of California winemaking history.
