You’re swirling a great glass of Paso Robles wine, leaning back in a comfy chair and enjoying a stunning view of sun-dappled vineyards. Sounds like a gorgeous day at the vineyard, no? Well, guess again. With the help of cutting-edge technological advancements, you could be enjoying all of this deliciousness in the comfort of your own home. How is this possible and just how can you get in on the virtual adventure? Read on, my friend. Because you don’t have to be a tech guru to enjoy all of the incredible convenience at your fingertips. All you have to do is swish, swirl, and click!
1. Look Into Your VR Winery Tour Goggles
Back in the 80’s we heard a lot about “virtual reality,” but, much to the dismay of futurists everywhere, that future never truly came. Until now. Strap your eyes into these futuristic cardboard (or plastic) goggles and take good long look around. What you see will delight your imagination and defy your senses. As you turn and tilt your head from side to side, you’ll be privy to a real-life, 360-degree view of the winery you wish to visit. All you need is your smart phone. Find these miraculous cardboard goggles at participating wineries or click here to order your own (show them off at your next dinner party and watch your friends be blown away). Unlike some modern-day apps, this gizmo isn’t just cool for the sake of being cool—it’s totally practical. Before you make the long trek to a new winery, why not check it out first? Save gas, time, and peace of mind. Like what you see? Easily share the virtual experience in a text message or through social media in one swift click. You heard right, folks. The future is now!
2. Pick A Screen, Any Screen
Smart phones, laptops, and tablets have added immeasurable convenience to our daily lives—but they just got a whole lot more enticing from the wine lover’s point of view. Did you know that you can access virtual tours of Paso Robles wineries from literally any screen, anywhere in the world? Navigate the winery of your choice just as you would in real life. “Walk” through the gardens, “view” the vineyard, and “tour” the gift shop or tasting room all with your mouse, or stylus, or God-given finger. Want to know more about the winery you’re visiting? Virtual tours are media rich, meaning you can watch a video, swipe through a slideshow, or meet the winemaker in a matter of seconds. The best part? There’s absolutely no credit card required or annoying online forms to fill out. How many things in life are quick, easy, and free? You count. I’ll wait…
3. Map It Out
A good map can make or break your next excursion, whether you are exploring the French countryside or just trying to figure out where that cool new Paso Robles wine trail is. Next time you’re wondering where to go, pull out this handy dandy comprehensive map, which features every wine tasting room, distillery, and brewery in the Paso Robles Wine Country area. Trust me: Once you use it, you will never want it to leave your glove compartment again! Flip the map over for useful links and amenity information, always helpful when you’re trying to plan something romantic, good for large groups, or just a unique getaway that speaks to your interests. Just conducting a little research before you go? Check out this amazing virtual map of Paso Robles Wine Country, which is designed to help you plan smarter. In just a few clicks, you can survey wide-ranging view of the entire region. Click on spots on the map that pique your fancy and take a virtual tour of the space. Yes, these are maps that actually make your life easier. Who would have thought?
4. Plan Like A Pro
Looking for an autumn wedding at a stylish Eastside Paso winery? Want to plan a cozy reunion for the family off Adelaida Road? Maybe you have no idea what differentiates one wine tasting itinerary from another (there’s so many to keep track of, we understand). With these virtual tools at your fingertips, not only can you instantly see hours, location, and detailed amenities at a glance, but you can also ensure that you’re choosing the right location for your afternoon, wedding, or event—with your very own eyes. Scrap the time-consuming spread sheets and annoying lists as you try to get a handle on where to go and why. Forget choosing blindly or relying on a friend of a friend. With amazing insider sources and immersive technological resources a click away, you won’t just get the haps on the best wineries, you’ll also learn where to stay, play, shop, and dine. In a world where everything seems to be moving faster and faster, it’s calming to know you don’t need to scramble all over the internet to find this kind of piece of mind. Visit one simple, easy-to-understand site, and you’re good to go. And that means you’ll be closer to what really matters: enjoying Paso Robles Wine!
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas, food and wine writer for New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at hthomas@newtimesslo.com.
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View more Virtual Tours of the following Wineries: Brecon Estate, Cayucos Cellars, Cutruzzola Vineyards, Hammersky Vineyards, Harmony Cellars, Opolo Vineyards, Oso Libre, Peachy Canyon, Sculpterra, Shale Oak.
Once you figure out which Paso Robles Wineries to visit, find a great place to stay nearby! Here are a few suggestions:
