No luck with that summer loving? How about summer sipping? When it comes to sunshine, good times and wide open spaces, Paso Robles Wine Country is your social distant escape. Criss-crossed with diverse wine trails and dotted with happy cows, wine tasting along this world renowned stretch of California’s Central Coast is sure to get you into that golden state of mind. Plus, you’re only a few miles from the coast and iconic Highway 1, which could inspire your next epic road trip for one. So, grab your shades, a mask and some comfortable shoes (for exploring quiet vineyards, uncrowded hiking trails and beautiful backroads galore). Your socially distant—and totally delicious—summer adventure starts right here.
1. You, yourself and the dog
Sit, stay, sip! Your loyal, ever-loving pooch understands you far better than anyone else, right? Bring your best friend along for the ride of his or her life (and roll the window down so the ears can fly). Paso Robles is full of wide open spaces to explore, oak trees to sniff and world class wine for you. Plus, many hotels offer dog friendly rooms and accommodations. Wag more at Bodega de Edgar, specializing in Spanish varietals like albarino and tempranillo. Hang with your four legged friend at their cool, industrial chic tasting room located off Highway 46 East and see where the day takes you. Sure, they’ll love the belly rubs and one-on-one attention. You’ll adore the zesty, small lot blends.
Get going!
Bodega de Edgar is currently open by appointment only. Call 805-369-2625 for more information.
For mapping and directions to Bodega de Edgar click here
2. Yes you can
Paso Robles locals are known for their “can-do” attitude. Why should your socially distant summer doesn’t have to be stationary? With plenty of room to roam, you can pack your picnic basket and head out on a grand trek (bolstered by incredible tasting rooms along the way). Whether you choose to mount one of Paso Robles’ scenic hiking trails, hop on a horse or just kick back on the back patio of Chronic Cellars, you’re never far from awesome provisions. Portable, light and perfect for single portion enjoyment, wine in a can will become your new go-to beverage of the summer. Check out Chronic Cellars’ canned rose and sparkling wines and never lament forgetting the cork screw again!
Tour Chronic Cellars Virtually!!!
Get going!
Chronic Cellars is currently open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 pm. Tastings are by reservation only and purchases can be made any time during business hours. Please call the tasting room for reservations at (805) 237-7848.
For mapping and directions to Chronic Cellars click here
3. Hit the beach
Surf’s up, are you? Beaches on the Central Coast of California are pristine, gorgeous and totally uncrowded. Stroll along the sand or take a drive up scenic Highway 1 and lose yourself in the great blue expanse of known as the Pacific Ocean. On your way there, you’re sure to find a swath of stellar tasting rooms to refresh the senses. Need to get away and clear you head? Cruise down Highway 46 West in Paso Robles Wine country out towards the coast, stopping at Harmony Cellars. Blue skies and cool ocean breezes will greet you at this time-honored tasting room known for as much for its hospitality as its award winning zinfandel.
Get going!
Harmony Cellars is currently open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. and open daily from 10 am to 5 p.m. for wine purchases to go. For current tasting room offerings and requirements, click here.
For mapping and directions to Harmony Cellars click here
4. Get lost
You just might lose your WiFi signal, and that’s not even the best part! Sometimes you just need to unplug and take a left turn down the unbeaten path. Meander along some of the most scenic backroads in Paso Robles Wine Country, where tasting rooms are welcoming and quiet. Known for incredible boutique blends, Kiamie Wine Cellars is an oasis among the oaks. Settle in for a flight (and keep your eyes peeled for the winery’s resident goat aka G.O.A.T.). Bring a good book and you’ll be shocked how quickly the day gets away from you.
Get going!
Kiamie Wine Cellars is currently open by appointment only. For more information, call 805-226-8333.
For mapping and directions to Kiamie click here
5. Go old school
If “Back in the day” sounds preferable to the current troubles of 2020, you’re not alone. Take a trip back in time—and down memory lane—with Paso Robles’ historic haunts. One of the very first tasting rooms in Paso Robles Wine Country, Rotta Winery is a great example of classic winemaking preserved for today’s sophisticated tastes. A visit to this beloved local tasting room includes stories steeped in area history you’ll never forget. Sip on unconventional blends and striking single varietal offerings while overlooking the oldest cabernet sauvignon vines in the county. This one’s for the history books!
Get going!
Rotta is currently open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. For more information, call (805) 237-0510
For mapping and directions to Rotta click here
6. Take the scenic route
When’s the last time you just relaxed and appreciated the splendor of Mother Nature? If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors—and perhaps even take in a few wild animal sightings—Dover Canyon Winery is for you. Located on pastoral Vineyard Drive in the Willow Creek appellation, this rural tasting room is a fabulous place to kick back and breathe in some fresh country air. Keep an eye peeled for deer, hawks and butterflies while you savor fruit forward red blends that are immensely drinkable. You’ll feel like one of the fam in no time.
Get going!
Dover Canyon Winery is currently open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday by appointment only. Call (805) 237-0101 for more information.
For mapping and directions to Dover Canyon click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, locally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers. TOUR VIRTUALLY
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Peachy Canyon Guest Inn Sits above Peachy Canyon Winery + acres of vines at Mustang Springs Vineyard. The house has 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, living room, family room + panoramic views.
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