On the Central Coast, we take a few things pretty seriously. Great wine, incredible food, and a robust supply of fun times top the list all year round. Each summer, these elements collide as wineries host fantastic parties that roll on into the balmy, sunset-streaked nights. What makes our shindigs special? We don’t believe a party is truly a party unless you have something to sip, a bite to savor, and a live band to groove to. Summer may be nearing its end, but there’s still plenty of dancing, bopping, and booty shaking to be had through September with live music at Paso Robles wineries. Here, relishing the moment isn’t just some romantic ad campaign. It’s a lifestyle. So why should the fun ever end?
Four Lanterns Winery: Country Crooning And A Paso Sunset
If you haven’t yet caught a show at Four Lanterns Winery, you have been really missing out. This summer, their new Singer/Songwriter Series have provided a stage for more talented local musicians than you can shake a corkscrew at. Don’t worry, there’s still time to relax with a glass of elegant Rhône wine and appreciate a magical Templeton Gap sunset.
Cozy up to homespun country goodness with Callie Twisselman this August 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and bring your own picnic to unpack under splendid shady branches. This hometown Paso Robles girl recently hit no. 30 on the Country Music Breakout Charts, and for good reason. She’s all heart and authenticity, wrapped up in well-worn denim. Hurry back, y’all!
Other shows: August 27 – Loren Radis
Harmony Cellars: Beat The Heat With A Coastal Chill Sesh
The historic dairy-turned-art town of Harmony, population 18, is a sight to behold at dusk. Located between Cambria and Cayucos off Highway 1, there is no greater escape from the Paso heat than Harmony Cellars, the quaint hillside tasting room that twinkles just above the Central Coast landmark. Through September 25, the winery is hosting Twilight Hours events, each flavored by a different delicious food purveyor and handpicked musician. On August 28, submerge your senses in artisinal wines and sway to the beachy, organic sounds of Dan Waters, who sings about his love of area wildlife and scenery. Boni’s Tacos will also be on-hand, serving up authentic, savory delights, including al pastor, carne asada, pollo, and chile verde. With a tremendous coastal view to behold and chilled chardonnay that bursts with citrus and butterscotch flavors (try the 2013 vintage as well as the 2014 Rosato Vivo blush wine), you’ll wish the summer could roll on forever, just like the waves.
Other shows: September 4 – Tennessee Jim with food by Matteo’s Gourmet Food
September 18 – Music by Tim Jackson with food by Rib Line BBQ
Pelletiere Winery: Soft Sounds And A Bold New Wine
Dive head first into sumptuous Italian style wines surrounded by gorgeous vineyards at this Highway 46 West hot spot. On August 22, Loren Radis will bring his etheral, acoustic songs to the winery for an epic 2013 Syrah and 2013 Lagrein Release Party. Never head of Lagrein? You’re in for a treat! This intense, inky wine is fruity, complex, and unmistakably bold. Experience the winery’s second-ever vintage of this rare varietal and chow down on barbecue, which will be cookin’ alongside the tunes from 2 to 5 p.m. When you’re done with the newest wines, try the winery’s current flight, which features bodacious Sangiovese, floral viognier, spicy Zinfandel, and juicy Montepulciano (all of which will go great with Pelletiere Winery’s tri-tip sandwich or gourmet cheese board).
Other shows: September 5 & 12 – Kenny Taylor Band
Lone Madrone: Burger Up, Boogie Down
Sometimes you just need (not want) a big, juicy burger.
When that carnal need comes knocking, head for Lone Madrone’s groovy tasting room, a hot bed for local music. Starting at noon on August 30, kick back with live tunes, a gourmet beef burger, and an extraordinary lineup of wines, including an extensive swath of French, Italian, and Bordeaux varietals (they truly do it all—and they do it very well).
An elegant, rustic atmosphere beckons all who enter to unwind and get lost in conversation (who knows how many new friends you’ll meet). And with a philosophy that cries “eat, drink and be merry,” who are we to argue?
Other shows: Sept 6, 19 & 20: Live Music and Gourmet Burgers
Scuplterra Winery: Smooth Sounds Meets Sculptural Wonderland
Sundays at Sculpterra Winery are dreamy, indeed. Music floats through the grounds as you sip wine amongst towering sculptures and topiary greenery, a la Alice in Wonderland. Songwriters at Play is behind this ongoing musical event, which brings in local talent as well as traveling performers from around the world.
On August 30 from 1 to 4 p.m., Shane Alexander will bring his subtle, romantic guitar playing and smooth vocal style to the winery, located on Paso Robles’ dusty Back Roads trail. Munch on pistachios grown onsite and sip a range of wines, including the bold blends the winery is famous for (The 2012 Statuesque is a bright mix of Cab, Syrah, Petite Sirah) and Mega Focus is a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah that sings with full bodied flavor. You’ve fallen down the rabbit hole, and there’s no need to find your way out.
Other shows: August 23 – Connie Lim & Josh Talbott
This blog post was written by Hayley Thomas, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. She can be reached at hthomas@newtimesslo.com.