Our Favorite Chilled Red Wines & Alternative White Wines for Hot Summer Days

Forget everything you think you know about summer wine. While everyone else is reaching for the same predictable rosé and sauvignon blanc, Paso Robles’ most innovative winemakers are crafting chilled reds and alternative whites that’ll revolutionize your hot-weather sipping.

Welcome to the cooler side of summer wines, Paso Robles style, where chilled red wine proves just as refreshing as any white and unexpected summer wines like Grüner Veltliner and orange bottles steal the show. 

Discover chillable reds that taste like bright summer days and alternative white wines you can’t wait to taste. This isn’t your grandmother’s summer wine guide—read on to stay cool, curious, and completely refreshed all season long.

Why Paso Robles is Perfect for Summer Wine Innovation
With scorching summer days and cool nights, Paso’s bold producers craft refreshing wines that beat the heat. The secret? Diverse microclimates and fearless winemaking create ideal conditions for both traditional and experimental approaches. 

From high-elevation vineyards preserving bright acidity to innovative techniques unlocking unexpected flavors, Paso Robles is ground zero for California’s coolest summer wine discoveries. Whether it’s Counoise that drinks like liquid refreshment or crisp Albariño with ocean spray notes, these chilled-out wines prove summer sipping doesn’t have to be standard.

The Science Behind Perfect Summer Sipping

Temperature is Everything
While white wine is the obvious choice for chilling, chilled reds tell a different story. The magic lies in serving temperature. Traditional red wine service at 65-70°F feels heavy on hot days, but drop that temperature to 55-60°F and you’ll discover bright fruit, crisp acidity, and refreshing drinkability that rivals any white!

Pro Tip: Pop your summer reds in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving, or keep them in an ice bucket during your tasting adventures. You’ll be amazed at how cooling transforms the flavors completely.

What Makes a Red “Chillable”
Not every red wine works when chilled, so look for key attributes:

• Lower alcohol levels (under 14%) for lighter body and enhanced refreshment
• Bright natural acidity that shines when cold
• Minimal oak influence allowing pure fruit flavors to pop
• Elegant tannin structure that won’t turn bitter when chilled

Your Guide to Paso’s Summer Wine Varietals

Ready to explore? Here’s your roadmap to the grapes that make Paso Robles the ultimate summer wine destination. From light and bright chillable reds to crisp alternative whites and funky orange wines, these are the bottles worth seeking out when the temperature rises.

Chillable Reds That Love Ice Buckets
These reds were made for summer—light, bright, and absolutely delicious with a chill.

• Cinsault: Silky and aromatic with fresh strawberry, raspberry and rose petal notes. When chilled, it drinks like the most sophisticated rosé you’ve ever had.
• Counoise: Bright and juicy with cranberry, rhubarb and white pepper. Think of it as Pinot Noir’s playful Mediterranean cousin.
• Carignan: Herbal and vibrant with tart cherry, thyme and a hint of black olive. Chilling brings out its refreshing, almost savory character.
• Grenache: Red berry explosion with hints of orange zest and subtle spice. Served cold, it’s like summer berries in liquid form.
• Mourvèdre (light extraction): Delicate plum and violet notes with earthy undertones. When made in a lighter style (like rose) and chilled, it’s surprisingly elegant and refreshing.

Alternative Whites Beyond the Ordinary
Skip the usual suspects and discover these crisp, bright whites that showcase Paso’s diverse terroir.

• Albariño: Zippy citrus, white peach, and sea spray minerality. It’s like a beach vacation in a glass.
• Picpoul Blanc: Crisp green apple, lemon zest and crushed oyster shell. The ultimate seafood wine with mouth-watering acidity.
• Grüner Veltliner: White pepper, green herbs and stone fruit with a distinctive mineral finish.
• Chenin Blanc: Honeyed pear, quince and fresh hay with electric acidity. Versatile enough for poolside or dinner party.
• Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne: Viognier brings peach and honeysuckle; Roussanne adds pear and herbal tea notes; Marsanne contributes waxy texture and almond flavors.
• Grenache Blanc: Green apple, white flowers and citrus pith with surprising weight and texture.
• Semillon: Lemon curd, beeswax and lanolin with rich texture balanced by bright acidity.
• Vermentino: Lime leaf, green almond and subtle herbs with a salty mineral edge.
• Clairette Blanche: Delicate white flowers, green melon and chalk dust. Rare and refreshing.

Orange Wines for the Adventurous
What are Orange wines? Skin-contact whites that blur the lines between red and white—perfect for those ready to try something completely different. Expect amber colors, grippy textures and flavors ranging from dried apricot and orange peel to tea leaves and exotic spices.

Light & Bright Chillable Paso Reds

Villa San Juliette: Alicante Bouschet Innovation

Sizzling in the sun? More like made in the shade. Villa San Juliette’s standout 2022 Alicante Bouschet steals the summer spotlight—a fascinating cross between Grenache and Petit Bouschet with rare red flesh and juice that creates a stunning ruby hue, made even more brilliant in summer.

This opulent and esoteric wine represents one of VSJ’s most intriguing offerings yet, balancing New and Old World flavors with pristine precision. Served slightly chilled on their Tuscan-inspired patio against the Cholame Hills, it showcases how European winemaking heritage meets Paso’s unique terroir to create something extraordinarily fresh.

Local Tip: Ask about VSJ’s recommended serving temperatures for maximum refreshment, and don’t miss their excellent sparkling Grenache rosé that highlights the estate’s focus on meticulous craftsmanship.

Address: 6385 Cross Canyons Road, San Miguel, CA 93451
Hours: Thursday–Monday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Tue–Wed

Copia Vineyards: Grenache Great for Chilling

Copia Vineyards knows Grenache is a natural for chilling—and their 100% Grenache offering proves exactly why. This earthy Rhone red delivers bright berry flavors and subtle spice that wow at cooler temperatures, creating an ideal summer sipper. Pair it with seafood paella, bouillabaisse, merguez sausage or ancho-rubbed pork tenderloin for meals that celebrate the season’s bold flavors.

But wait, there’s more! Copia’s summer lineup abounds: Their glistening Grenache Rosé blend captures pure joy in a glass, while their 2022 Amrit Chardonnay from Bien Nacido Vineyard proves this classic can be bright, tropical and fresh, swapping out heavy oak for stainless steel treatment. Choose your adventure and swirl your way to pure summer refreshment.

Local Tip: Hungry for more? Copia Vineyards’ elevated tastings makes pairing these chillable wines with seasonal bites effortless.

Address: 5076 Mustard Creek Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Monday and Thursday 11:00 AM – 3:45 PM; Friday – Sunday 10 AM – 3:30 PM

Sans Liege: Rhône Rebellion in Tin City

Step into Paso’s vibrant Tin City and discover Sans Liege, where winemaker Curt Schalchlin embodies the rebellious spirit of winemaking sans authority. Inspired by a memorable trip through the Rhône Valley, Sans Liege represents pure creative liberation in every bottle.

Their 2023 Groundwork Counoise showcases exactly why this approach works brilliantly for unique summer sipping. Sourced from cool-climate vineyards and crafted with minimal intervention, this 100% Counoise delivers juicy cranberry and rhubarb flavors dancing with white pepper and delicate rosewater notes. It’s a red wine that absolutely demands to be chilled.

Local Tip: Sans Liege’s Tin City location puts you in the heart of Paso’s maker’s hub—combine your tasting with craft beer, cider and artisanal food experiences for the ultimate walkable adventure.

Address: 2995 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (Tin City)
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thacher Winery & Vineyard: French Elegance, Paso Style

Discover the magic of Cinsault at Thacher Winery, where this family-owned, award-winning winery brings French varietals to life through minimal intervention and native fermentations. Known for their hand-crafted approach, Thacher proves that the best summer reds speak for themselves.

Their top shelf Cinsault transforms completely when served with a light chill—revealing silky textures and vibrant red berry notes that dance on your palate. Thacher also crafts exceptional Carignan, another chillable red that brings fresh, herbal vibrancy to summer sipping. These aren’t just red wines that happen to work cold; they’re wines specifically crafted with native yeasts and minimal handling to let their natural brightness shine straight from the fridge. How cool is that?

Local Tip: Thacher’s elevated Westside location provides naturally cooler tasting conditions, making it the perfect spot to hit refresh and take in the scenery.

Address: 8355 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tablas Creek Vineyard: Counoise Mastery and More

At Tablas Creek, Counoise shows off the playful side of Rhône varietals. This fresh, light-bodied red bursts with bright fruit and zippy acidity—think of it as Paso’s best-kept secret for chilled reds. Serve the 2022 vintage cool and watch it reveal juicy strawberry and raspberry notes with a whisper of spice, perfectly bridging the gap between rosé and classic reds.

Beyond their exceptional chillable reds, Tablas Creek’s Picpoul Blanc showcases their mastery of lesser-known Rhône white varietals. This crisp, mineral-driven wine brings bright acidity and food-friendly character perfect for all-you-can-eat seafood. Don’t miss their Vermentino and rare Clairette Blanche offerings either—proof that their expertise extends across the entire spectrum of refreshingly different summer wines!

Local Tip: Tablas Creek pioneered Rhône varietals in Paso Robles, so their expertise runs deep. Ask about their surprisingly light Mourvèdre that shines beautifully when slightly chilled. 

Address: 9339 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Alternative Whites: Summer Game Changers

Dive into Paso’s coolest wave yet—alternative white wines that prove adventure and refreshment go hand in hand

Brecon Estate: Where Innovation Meets Inspiration

Tucked away in its lush Westside setting, Brecon Estate consistently pushes boundaries with refreshing alternative white wines that’ll expand your summer horizons far beyond classic Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. This isn’t just about utilizing different varietals—it’s about reimagining what summer wine can be.

Their Albariño delivers zippy citrus and sea spray salinity that practically screams for oysters on the half shell, while their Grenache Blanc balances weighty texture with refreshing green apple and stone fruit notes, perfectly bridging light and satisfying summer wines.

The real magic emerges in Brecon’s innovative releases that showcase their experimental spirit. The 2024 Last Sandwich—an unexpected Viognier-Albariño blend born from pure winemaking serendipity—marries Viognier’s rich, oily texture with Albariño’s crisp refreshment, creating something entirely new for adventurous summer sipping.

Local Tip: Even more intriguing is their 2024 True Acacia Head, where Albariño aged in acacia barrels achieves structured elegance with aromatic white peach and nectarine notes layered over the grape’s naturally citrusy bite. With such compelling alternative whites available, a tasting room visit is essential.

Address: 7450 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily by appointment: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Graveyard Vineyards

Nestled in San Miguel’s rolling hills, Graveyard Vineyards crafts refreshing alternative whites perfect for sunny summer afternoons. Their Grüner Veltliner stands as a rare Paso find—Austrian varietals are virtually unseen here, making this particularly special for adventurous wine lovers.

Their 2023 Grüner Veltliner features Monterey County grapes with 80% stainless steel fermentation for bright, pure flavor—a mix of enchanting hibiscus and honey aromatics layered with orange peel and sweet basil. The palate balances creamy texture with white pepper, tarragon and apricot notes, finishing liht and clean like a cool mountain breeze.

Graveyard’s other small-batch whites emphasize stainless steel fermentation for maximum freshness. Expect vibrant acidity, subtle herbal notes, and a laid-back Eastside setting perfect for slowing down and enjoying each moment as it comes. Whether picnicking by the pond or sampling under ancient oaks, Graveyard delivers the ideal counterpoint to Paso’s summer heat.

Local Tip: Don’t miss their Tombstone Pink Rosé—a chilled Syrah-Cabernet Sauvignon blend bridging bold reds and crisp whites with surprising juiciness.

Address: 6990 Estrella Road, San Miguel, CA 93451
Hours: Thursday–Monday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Four Lanterns Winery: A Lighter Side of Paso

Nestled on 35 acres in Paso’s prestigious Willow Creek District, Four Lanterns Winery proves that serious winemaking can create unexpectedly refreshing summer wines. Hot days, cool nights and calcareous soils provide the perfect environment for both renowned reds and surprising summer whites.

A standout summer sipper; Their 2021 Semillon from Jackie’s Vineyard in the Templeton Gap District, a beautifully complex Bordeaux white that pairs beautifully with sea bass in saffron cream sauce or a simple poolside afternoon. 

The wine showcases Semillon’s natural affinity for both richness and refreshment, proving alternative whites can offer sophisticated complexity without sacrificing summer drinkability. 

Don’t miss the winery’s popular Still Light blend of Semillon, Viognier, and Picpoul Blanc, either. Creamy citrus notes and golden pear aromas evolve into rich pineapple and lemon meringue flavors, best served at cellar temperature (59°F) to showcase its perfect balance of richness and refreshment.

Local Tip: Ask about estate vineyard tours to understand how their Willow Creek District microclimate creates these distinctive flavor profiles and alluring complexity.

Address:  2485 CA-46 West, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 11 AM – 5 PM

CASS Winery: Single Varietal Rhône Mastery

At CASS Winery, the art of single varietal Rhône whites reaches exceptional heights through their dedication to showcasing each grape in pure, unblended form. While many producers blend these varietals, CASS’s 100% single varietal approach to Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne reveals each grape’s true personality—from Viognier’s rich, oily texture with stone fruit and floral notes, to Roussanne’s elegant minerality and honeyed complexity, to Marsanne’s waxy richness balanced by crisp acidity.

Their crown jewel is the late harvest Roussanne dessert wine—liquid gold where white peach, crushed honeysuckle, and orange blossom greet the nose. Viscous texture coats the palate with honeycomb, lemon meringue pie, and candied pineapple flavors. Fresh acidity maintains perfect balance while whispers of orange rind zest and minerality linger through the finish. It’s dessert in a glass, yet somehow still refreshing.

Local Tip: CASS’s Rhône expertise runs deep—ask about their blends, which include both red and white offerings. Their onsite café further enhances your summer afternoon, pairing exceptional wines with seasonal burgers, salads and more that highlight their food-friendly nature.

Address: 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Eberle Winery: Côtes-du-Rôbles Blanc Excellence

At Eberle Winery, legendary winemaker Gary Eberle’s legacy shines through their exceptional Côtes-du-Rôbles collection that brings Provençal elegance to Paso’s sun-soaked terroir. 

This summer, don’t miss their 2021 Côtes-du-Rôbles Blanc, where passion fruit and kiwi aromatics lead into lively key lime and honeysuckle bliss. Subtle slate and beeswax notes add intriguing depth, while briny acidity and medium-light body create the ideal match for oysters or fresh goat cheese.

These summer-approved wines show exactly how Eberle’s innovative spirit continues to push Paso’s boundaries while honoring classic winemaking traditions. Their 2023 Côtes-du-Rôbles Rosé is another hot-weather staple worth trying—a harmonious blend of Grenache, Syrah and Viognier that pours soft rose-gold with tropical notes perfect for poolside soirees.

Local Tip: Eberle’s underground wine caves offer a wonderfully cool respite during hot summer days—tour the historic cellars while tasting these refreshing wines.

Address: 3810 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: April–October: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; November–March: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sparkling and Bubbles: Explosive Summer Sipping

Plunge into Paso’s celebratory best—unique sparkling wines that prove innovation and tradition can create bubbles of fun.

Robert Hall Winery: Sparkling Grenache Blanc Innovation

Step into Robert Hall Winery and prepare to have your summer wine assumptions shattered. These Eastside pioneers have perfected sparkling Grenache Blanc that’s as refreshing as it is surprising. Their Wine Enthusiast Editor’s Choice 2021 vintage reveals lemon peel, apple blossom, and crushed stone notes with fine bubbles and a clean finish. Ask about the traditional méthode Champenoise process behind such exceptional effervescence.

Beyond their celebrated sparkling offerings, Robert Hall crafts exceptional rosé and Sauvignon Blanc that work beautifully straight from the wine fridge—sample the entire lineup this summer.

Address: 3443 Mill Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Thursday–Monday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Tuesday–Wednesday

Halter Ranch: Sustainable Sparkling Perfection

More than just a winery, Halter Ranch represents a 2,700-acre testament to sustainable farming and biodiversity, where award-winning organic wines emerge from the land itself.

Their summer crown jewel is the 2020 Libelle Sparkling Picpoul Blanc, an effervescent masterpiece crafted using traditional méthode Champenoise. In fact, this 100% Picpoul Blanc sparkler represents one of the region’s finest achievements in alternative sparkling production. 

From the first pop, tropical pineapple and zesty lime aromatics transport you to a slower pace, while the opening sip bursts with Pacific mist freshness revealing bright lemon, exotic guava and crisp pear layers.

This is celebration in every bubble—lively, perfectly balanced and utterly refreshing, like witnessing a classic Paso sunset unfold across the estate’s rolling hills. The wine pairs magnificently with onsite seasonal dishes, showcasing how terroir-driven winemaking creates food-friendly sophistication.

Local Tip: Halter Ranch’s sustainable farming practices directly influence wine quality—ask about their organic certification and how biodiversity enhancement affects flavor development in their innovative offerings.

Address: 8910 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Hayseed & Housdon: Sparkling Minimalism with Heart

Looking for a sparkling wine that blends methodical craft with pure emotion? Meet Metronome Track 3 Brut Nature (2022) from Hayseed & Housdon—a no-sugar-added, low-intervention summer sparkling offering that captures Paso’s soulful side in every fizzy sip. 

Produced using the traditional méthode Champenoise, get ready for zesty citrus and green apple with a dry, mineral-driven finish that dances across the palate like a invigorating ocean breeze. Pop the cork to discover fresh Viognier and Grenache, spun into something crisp, elegant and ready for any celebration!

Focused on community and unfussy wines with minimal interference, Hayseed & Housdon operates with a deep commitment to local causes, donating a portion of every bottle sold. Their wines not only taste great all summer long—they do good, too.

Local Tip: Keep an eye on their seasonal releases and small-batch approach—Hayseed and Housdon makes an exceptional Grenache Rosé perfect for cooling down those scorching midday rays.

Address: 1122 Railroad St, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Thursday–Saturday: 12PM – 9PM, Sunday–Monday: 12PM–6PM, Tuesday–Wednesday: By appointment only

Tackitt Family Vineyards: Brilliant Bubbles with Award-Winning Elegance

Looking for a sparkling wine that combines traditional craftsmanship with vibrant Central Coast character? Meet the 2023 Sparkling Alicante Bouschet from Tackitt Family Vineyards—a Silver Medal-winning méthode Champenoise creation that captures Templeton’s distinctive terroir in every effervescent sip.

Produced using the time-honored traditional method with secondary fermentation directly in the bottle, get ready for brilliant deep red salmon hues with ruby highlights and fine, persistent bubbles that create an elegant mousse.

Pop the cork to discover this energetic and distinctive sparkling wine that perfectly showcases the vibrancy of Paso Robles terroir—light-bodied, zesty, and ready for any celebration from summer brunches to elegant evening toasts!

Committed to quality and community connection, Tackitt Family Vineyards offers their newly launched Sparkling Club for true enthusiasts, delivering three latest releases twice yearly with exclusive 25% member discounts. Their wines not only celebrate life’s special moments—they bring people together around exceptional craftsmanship.

Local Tip: Join their Sparkling Club for first access to new releases and substantial savings—the perfect way to keep your cellar stocked with these award-winning bubbles that pair beautifully with everything from prosciutto-wrapped melon to goat cheese salads.

Address: 6640 Von Dollen Road, San Miguel, California 93451
Hours: Friday-Sunday, 12-5PM, Monday & Thursday by appointment!

Rosé Reloaded: Rethinking Pink Expectations

Summer sips that prove pink can pack a punch

Chronic Cellars: Playful Summer Perfection

At Chronic Cellars, serious winemaking meets playful personality in their exceptional 2022 Pink Pedals Rosé. Far from simply “sweet,” this is how Paso turns expectations on its head. Crafted from 100% Grenache, Pink Pedals embodies its inspiration—a cyclist with rose petals in her hair who doesn’t sweat the small stuff and simply enjoys the ride.

Experience what summer sipping should be: ripe melon and fresh strawberries floating on warm Central Coast breezes, followed by minerality and lively stone fruit flavors. Mouth-watering acidity and clean finish create perfect balance on a hot summer day. It’s everything great about Paso wine culture—serious quality wrapped in approachable fun, creating wines that invite relaxation over overthinking.

Local Tip: Chronic Cellars’ playful branding reflects their philosophy that great wine should be enjoyable above all—ask about their other fun-named wines delivering serious quality behind whimsical labels.

Address: 2020 Nacimiento Lake Dr, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Wednesday–Monday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (last tasting 3:45 PM); closed Tuesday

CaliPaso Winery: Complex Rosé Realness

Rosé in Paso Robles is far from one-note, and CaliPaso’s 2020 Rosé offering proves that complexity and refreshment can dance together in perfect harmony. 

This isn’t your typical pink sipper—it’s a vivacious blend of Grenache, Chardonnay, Albariño and Pinot that showcases what happens when winemakers think outside the rosé box.

Grapes are crushed with juice kept on skins for exactly six hours, creating just enough color and flavor extraction for personality without heaviness. Cold fermented in stainless steel with no oak aging, this rosé maintains a clean, crisp finish that lets the fruit shine. The result? A beautiful, pale offering that delivers enchanting strawberry flavors that work equally well as an aperitif or alongside light summer meals.

Local Tip: CaliPaso’s unique four-grape rosé blend represents the innovative thinking Paso is known for—ask about their winemaking process for insights on how the winemaker struck a balance between complexity and drinkability.

Address: 809 13th St, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Sunday–Wednesday 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM; Thursday–Saturday 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery: Sophisticated Summer Elegance

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery proves that serious winemaking can create seriously refreshing summer wines with their expertly crafted rosé offerings. 

Their 2023 Rosé, crafted predominantly from Syrah using whole-cluster pressing and white wine fermentation techniques, displays a gorgeous salmon-copper hue with bright red fruit aromatics of crushed strawberries, watermelon and green papaya paired with subtle herbal and floral notes. Medium-bodied and beautifully textured, this wonderful hot weather wine is balanced by crisp acidity and a dry, refreshing finish that makes every sip feel like “summer-anytime.”

Local Tip: JUSTIN’s hillside location provides stunning views—be sure to check out their onsite restaurant, a Michelin Star culinary experience that evolves with the seasons.

Address: 11680 Chimney Rock Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (lunch served Thursday–Sunday 11:00 AM–3:00 PM)

ONX Wines: Estate-Driven Rosé Innovation

In the heart of the Templeton Gap, ONX Wines showcases how estate-grown grapes and bold winemaking create summer wines overflowing with personality. 

Check out the winery’s genre-bending blends, always a testament to the winemaker’s unruly spirit. Their 2023 Indie Rosé, crafted from 100% estate Tempranillo, offers mineral-driven aromatics of wet stone and pure citrus that evolve into white peach and bright lemon-bar acidity. 

Floral lilac hints and herbal undertones add refined elegance, while the palate explodes with sweet cobbler, sugar scone, honeydew melon and apricot pith balanced by a pronounced mineral streak that keeps everything refreshing and food-friendly.

Address: Tin City Tasting Room: 2910 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Orange Wines for the Avant Garde

Skin-contact wines for those who color outside the lines

Tank Garage Winery: Breaking All the Rules

Winemaking lets down its hair at Tank Garage Winery, where orange wines represent just one facet of their boundary-pushing philosophy. Orange wines—white grapes fermented with skin contact—create amber-hued bottles that offer the textural complexity of reds with the refreshing qualities of whites. 

In other words: Orange wines are the ultimate conversation starter for your summer wine adventures!

Known for their one-off blends and experimental approach, Tank Garage creates seasonal skin-contact wines that showcase what happens when white grapes get the red wine treatment. Their lineup of natural wines proves that the most memorable discoveries come from winemakers who aren’t afraid to color completely outside the lines.

Local Tip: Tank Garage’s experimental nature means their orange wine offerings change seasonally—call ahead to discover what unique skin-contact wines are currently available, and ask about their natural wine lineup for the full avant-garde experience.

Address: 840 13th St Ste F, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Open daily noon – 7 PM

Symbiosis Wines: Skin-Contact Stars

At Symbiosis Wines, the art of orange winemaking reaches sophisticated heights through meticulous attention to detail and innovative fermentation techniques. 

Their approach to skin-contact wines demonstrates that Paso’s new set of orange wines can be both complex and approachable, bridging the gap between quirkiness and refined elegance.

Learn how extended skin contact can create wines with remarkable depth and texture while maintaining the refreshing qualities that make them perfect for summer sipping. Using carefully selected white grape varietals, Symbiosis employs controlled fermentation processes that extract color, tannin and flavor compounds from the grape skins without creating overly aggressive or funky characteristics that can sometimes intimidate newcomers to the style.

The result is a collection of orange bottles that offer the structural complexity of red wines combined with the bright acidity.

Local Tip: Symbiosis’s thoughtful approach to orange wine makes them perfect for first-timers—ask for a guided tasting to understand how skin contact transforms familiar white grapes into something entirely new.

Address: 612 12th St #101, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Hours: Thursday–Monday 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Giornata Winery: Italian-Inspired Orange

Giornata Winery channels authentic Italian soul into Paso Robles, mastering the ancient art of orange wines with passionate precision. Drawing from centuries-old techniques perfected in Italy’s Friuli region, Giornata creates skin-contact wines that honor Old World tradition while unleashing Paso’s bold terroir.

Their orange wines transform native Italian varietals through extended skin contact, birthing complex, textured masterpieces bursting with dried apricot, candied orange peel and seductive tannins. These aren’t casual summer offerings—they’re contemplative wines that demand attention while delivering the refreshing acidity that conquers summer’s most intense flavors.

Local Tip: Giornata’s Italian devotion creates orange wines that sing alongside Mediterranean cuisine—experience them with their curated food pairings for pure magic.

Address: 2970 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (Tin City)
Hours: Friday–Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Field Recordings: Fresh Orange Adventures

Field Recordings makes orange wine accessible to everyone with their playful yet serious approach to winemaking. Known for their artistic labels and experimental spirit, Field Recordings creates skin-contact wines that prove orange doesn’t have to mean intimidating.

Their orange wines tend toward the lighter, more approachable end of the spectrum—think fresh, zesty, and food-friendly rather than tannic and intense. These are gateway orange wines that invite exploration without overwhelming newcomers to the category. With bright acidity and subtle texture, they’re perfect for summer afternoons when you want something more interesting than white wine but lighter than red.

Local Tip: Field Recordings’ fun, approachable style extends to their tasting room vibe—it’s the perfect place to explore orange wines without a drop of pretension.

Address: 2920 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (Tin City)
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

More Summer Sips to Discover

With 200+ wineries in Paso Robles, we’ve only skimmed the surface of alternative whites and chilled reds. Desparada‘s game-changing Sauvignon Blanc redefines crisp. Lone Madrone‘s Chenin Blanc begs for an ice bucket. L’Aventure brings French finesse to Rhône whites, while Seven Oxen Estate crafts sparkling rosé the ancestral way. Don’t miss Adelaida Winery‘s mountain-grown Counoise or Tobin James‘ supremely chillable red blend. The beauty of Paso? Every winery adds their own twist to the ever-evolving summer wine scene.

Consider this your starting point—now go explore, experiment and share what you discover. Cheers to keeping it cool!

Photo by Daniel on Unsplash