At the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country lies the El Pomar District, a region where agricultural heritage and modern viticulture intersect to create one of California’s most distinctive wine-growing areas.
This 21,300-acre sub-appellation, whose name derives from the Latin word “pomum” meaning “edible fruit,” tells a fascinating story of agricultural evolution, from historic almond orchards to world-class vineyards.
Once crowned the Almond Capital of California, the El Pomar District’s transformation began in the late 1800s when pioneering farmers first recognized the area’s agricultural potential. While remnants of its orchard past still dot the landscape, today’s El Pomar District showcases over 2,000 acres of meticulously tended vines, thriving in conditions that make it ideal for premium wine production.
The district’s unique topography, characterized by rolling hills and ancient river terraces ranging from 740 to 1,600 feet in elevation, creates a distinctive growing environment. These varied elevations, combined with the cooling influence of the Templeton Gap—where marine air spills through the Santa Lucia Range—produce dramatic diurnal temperature swings of 20-35 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season, setting the stage for wines of remarkable complexity and balance.
A Climate Shaped by Maritime Influence
The El Pomar District’s exceptional wine-growing conditions stem from its unique position within the Paso Robles AVA. Here, the maritime influence creates a fascinating daily spectacle as the marine layer builds over Estero Bay, reaching heights of 1,400-1,800 feet before cascading through the Templeton Gap. This natural phenomenon, often called the “fog monster” by locals, plays a crucial role in moderating temperatures throughout the growing season.
El Pomar receives approximately 15 inches of annual rainfall—a sweet spot between the wetter Templeton Gap District to the west and the drier Creston District to the east. Daily sea breezes of 10-20 miles per hour sweep through the vineyards, creating ideal conditions for slow, even ripening of premium wine grapes.
Soils: A Geological Tapestry
The district’s complex soil composition reflects millions of years of geological evolution. The foundation begins with Late Cretaceous granitic plutons and marine sedimentary rocks, overlaid by the Miocene Monterey Formation and the younger Paso Robles formation of sands and gravels. This geological diversity manifests in several distinct soil complexes:
These moderately alkaline soils, rich in calcareous shale fragments, provide excellent drainage and contribute to the natural acidity in El Pomar’s wines.
Signature Varietals
These distinctive climate and soil conditions prove particularly favorable for both Bordeaux and Rhône varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc flourish alongside Syrah and Grenache, producing wines of notable complexity and character. The moderate growing conditions allow for extended hang time, developing complex flavor profiles while maintaining crucial acid balance. Check out all the wineries in the El Pomar District.
Must Visit Wineries of El Pomar District
Sculpterra Winery
Sculpterra Winery offers a unique fusion of fine wine and artistic expression. Their expansive grounds feature an impressive sculpture garden where visitors can wander among larger-than-life artworks while enjoying estate wines. The winery welcomes picnickers to their grounds, providing multiple grassy areas and outdoor seating perfect for a leisurely afternoon in wine country.
Address: 5730 Linne Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: (805) 226-8881
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bovino Vineyards
Perched along El Pomar Drive, Bovino Vineyards captures the essence of the district’s diverse growing conditions. Their portfolio ranges from crisp Albariño to robust Cabernet Sauvignon, each wine expressing the unique characteristics of their hillside location. The observation deck offers one of the area’s most spectacular sunset views, making it a must-visit destination for both wine enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Address: 5685 El Pomar Drive, Templeton, CA 93465
Phone: (805) 238-2007
Hours: Friday, Saturday & Monday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Still Waters Vineyards
Nestled along the Back Roads Wine Trail, Still Waters Vineyards epitomizes the rustic charm of El Pomar. The estate, bordered by ancient olive trees and meticulously landscaped gardens, offers more than 22 handcrafted wines in a serene setting. Beyond traditional tastings, Still Waters has become known for its popular seasonal concert series and Saturday evening taco nights, creating a perfect blend of wine country sophistication and laid-back Central Coast charm.
Address: 2750 Old Grove Lane, Templeton, CA 93465
Phone: (805) 237-9231
Hours: Thursday – Monday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sextant Wines
Sextant Wines exemplifies the rich diversity of Paso Robles terroir, crafting exceptional wines from both El Pomar and beyond. Their scenic estate along Highway 46 West provides panoramic views of the countryside while offering visitors a sophisticated tasting experience focused on Zinfandel and Bordeaux varietals. The winery’s nautical theme carries through to their sophisticated portfolio, where Old World wisdom meets New World innovation in every bottle.
Address: 2324 West Highway 46, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: (805) 542-0133
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Fableist Wine Co.
The Fableist Wine Co. represents a unique collaboration between winemakers Curt Schalchlin and Andrew Jones, bringing creative storytelling to the El Pomar District. Set on a picturesque 120-acre property, the winery features multiple tasting areas including a modern farmhouse and lush garden setting. Each wine in their portfolio draws inspiration from Aesop’s fables, creating a narrative experience that goes beyond the glass. The presence of an antique train on the property adds to the vintage charm of this distinctive estate.
Address: 5385 El Pomar Drive, Templeton, CA 93465
Phone: (805) 246-1431
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Rava Wines
At the forefront of innovation in the El Pomar District stands Rava Wines, Paso Robles’ first winery dedicated to méthode champenoise sparkling wines. Their state-of-the-art facility on Creston Road showcases the district’s versatility, producing everything from classic sparkling whites to distinctive offerings like sparkling Grenache Rosé. Visitors to their elegant tasting room can explore these effervescent creations daily, each bottle reflecting both traditional techniques and modern innovation.
Address: 6785 Creston Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Phone: (805) 238-7282
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ambyth Estate
Representing a distinct philosophical approach to winemaking, Ambyth Estate stands out for its unwavering commitment to biodynamic principles. This Demeter-certified estate produces vegan, unfiltered wines with no added sulfites, allowing the true expression of El Pomar terroir to shine through. Their 42-acre property functions as a complete ecosystem, where livestock, bees, and natural flora contribute to the vineyard’s health and balance.
Address: 510 Sequoia Lane, Templeton, CA 93465
Phone: (805) 423-1904
Hours: By appointment only
For the full list of wineries in this historic district, see our full region guide here.
The El Pomar Legacy: Where Heritage Meets Innovation
The El Pomar District embodies the region’s agricultural evolution. From its origins as the Almond Capital of California to its current status as a premier wine-growing region, El Pomar continues to demonstrate the remarkable potential of this unique terroir. The district’s combination of marine-influenced climate, complex soils, and dedicated vintners creates wines that speak to both tradition and innovation.
Today’s visitors to El Pomar discover more than just exceptional wines; they encounter a landscape where past and present intertwine. Historic orchards share hillsides with state-of-the-art wineries, while traditional farming practices exist alongside cutting-edge viticulture. From the sustainable practices at Still Waters to the biodynamic approach at Ambyth Estate, from Rava’s pioneering sparkling wines to The Fableist’s storytelling approach to winemaking, each producer adds their own chapter to the district’s rich narrative.
As the El Pomar District continues to evolve, it remains true to its agricultural roots while embracing its role in Paso Robles’ wine future. For wine enthusiasts seeking authenticity, innovation, and excellence, El Pomar offers an experience that captures the very essence of California wine country—one where every glass tells a story of place, passion, and possibility.