Paso Robles Wineries Spectacular Landscapes Wine Tasting Trail Part One of the Series

The next series on our list are the “Spectacular Landscapes” of wine country.  We know the wine is good in Paso Robles, but these places not only have fantastic wine but breathtaking views, gorgeous surroundings and unique landscapes.  If you are a photography buff, an instagrammer, or just really looking for an escape into paradise, these wineries will fill the bill.  Some of them transport you into another country, some of them just awe you with their peaceful ambiance, but mainly you will melt into the landscape with your glass of wine and the stress will melt with it.

1. Sculpterra Winery

Directions and Info: geo.to/ScupterraWinery

We are big fans of Sculpterra and they could not be left out of this list as well.  Many times we have raved about their gardens but if you have never visited Sculpterra, or maybe you have, it is worth the trip time and again.  The sculptures are HUGE and are beautifully crafted throughout their magical gardens.  The back patio has a large area where you can sit and picnic while listening to their live music on Sundays and the wines are so good.  I have mentioned many of them before but Paul the winemaker also does educational classes on the grapes, gives wine tours and talks to you about the process as you taste which is an intimate and fun experience.  Grab your lunch and come by here first to eat, explore and drink while enjoying this beautiful place.

2. Croad Vineyards

Directions and Info: geo.to/CroadVineyards

Croad Vineyards has one of the most beautiful views with a spectacular Italian patio lush with greenery, views of the vines and valleys, a fountain, pergolas and comfortable seating.  The wines match the gorgeous ambiance with some rich and complex selections.  They have my favorite Rose’, a rich and fruity 2010 Zinfandel Pure and many Italian and Spanish varietals as well.  The tasting room is large and open with smiling faces and sits atop a hill with a view as far as you can see.  The winery also has an Inn for guests to stay in and is a very popular spot for weddings.

3. Calcareous Vineyard

Directions and Info: geo.to/CalcareousVineyard

Not too far from Croad is Calcareous at the top of a winding road that holds a very special place that feels like you are in your own little world.  The tasting room is mostly windows to capture the fantastic views that span across the terrain deep into the valleys and over hilly vines.  The grass area opens up to the “edge of the world” and has comfortable seating, a fire pit for chilly nights and events and lovely landscaping through out.  The wine is rich and has of course the Calcareous soil influence in the mineral transfer.  The wine that stood out to me was the 2012 Pinot Noir York Mountain which I believe pairs well with BBQ, steak dishes and salmon.  I enjoyed the friendly service and being able to soak in the zen-like feeling I got being there.

4. Pear Valley Vineyards

Directions and Info: geo.to/PearValley

Pear Valley actually makes you feel like you just drove to some Tuscan vineyard in Italy and it only took a short jaunt to transport there.  As you drive up the vines surround you and you see the facility at the top of the hill.  The tasting room is large and spans out to open windows bringing in the views and the light.  The gardens surrounding it have little special places to sit all around in comfortable arrangements and overlooking the scenic landscape.  The wine is simply delicious with a crisp Rose’, deep reds such as Inspiration and Charbono and many other varietals to try which all make their way into my wine club bag twice a year!

5. Bianchi Winery

Directions and Info: geo.to/bianchiwinery

Bianchi has a lovely water feature that spans across the tasting room and along their vines which also sits next to a great seating area to enjoy your wine and is right around the corner from Pear Valley.  The tasting room itself is open and has tons of windows which seems to be a trend for gorgeous landscape themed wineries!  The vines surround the whole facility and when you sit down by the water you feel so serene.  I talk a lot about Rose’s and reds but this winery actually boasts some delicious white wines as well.  The 2012 Chardonnay and the 2011 Moscato are very bright and crisp and are great for the hot summer nights of Paso Robles or drinking right out there by the water.

For more Spectacular Landscape wineries check back for Part Two coming soon.  Enjoy your wine tasting trail!