This time of year, holiday parties abound, and it’s easy to get sucked into the mindset of the overextended host (planning, decorating, cleaning, cooking). It doesn’t matter if it’s a Halloween costume you’ve just got to finish sewing for your kid’s monster-themed bash or an overambitious Turkey Day menu that’s gone way above and beyond what you can handle…stresses lurk everywhere (let’s not even touch Christmas lists). Why not take a load off this winter season and allow these Paso Robles and surrounding wineries to soothe your weary spirit? When the holiday fun comes pre-wrapped in a no-fuss bow, you can get to toasting the new year with friends and family. Isn’t that what the holidays are all about, anyway? We think so!
Cheers to Halloween fun at the Eberle Caves
When: Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Something about Halloween and underground wine caves go together so perfectly—don’t you think? Brave the darkness and experience Eberle Winery’s 16,000 square feet of underground caves with a glass of juicy Cabernet Sauvignon in hand. You don’t have to snack on a Snickers: Real comfort food will be available for noshing thanks to Hurricane Kitchen food truck, a favorite among local ghouls. Oh, and don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume for a chance to spin the wheel of fortune. You could win awesome wine discounts that are frighteningly fantastic. Click here for more information.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/EberleWinery
Experience a Scarecrow Surprise at Cutruzzola
When: Through Oct. 31
Each fall, the seaside hamlet of Cambria is overrun with creative scarecrows that range from “totally cute” to “awe-inspiring.” Now is the perfect time to stroll these quiet streets in search of artistic delights and fine wine. Don’t miss out on this amazing photo opportunity and excuse to get yourself to the Cutruzzola tasting room, known for amazing boutique rieslings and pinot noir. Could there be a more fun and relaxed afternoon adventure? We think not.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/Cutruzzola
Give boldly during Chronic Cellars’ Fall Sale
When: Through November
#GotChronic? If the answer is no, you’ll want to stock up for the holidays—both for yourself and your loved ones. Chronic Cellar’s bold bodacious wines are on sale this fall, so that means everyone can enjoy a Sprtiz and Giggles bubbly or Ricardo Grande GSM in their stocking this year. Get 10 percent off six bottles or 15 percent of a dozen bottles (at that price, why not pick up a few for Turkey Day, too?). The best part: This deal is valid whether you’re clicking around online or want to stop by their laid back tasting room, which also features a newly remodeled patio area. Did we mention they’ve even got a pool table? I say that’s a true holiday shopping win-win.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/ChronicCellarsWinery
Spend an Elegant Evening with Tudor Wines
When: Nov. 12
Craving an elegant evening of fine pinot noir? This Nov. 12, sample the exceptional cool climate terroir of Monterey County at Tudor Wines’ tasting room in downtown Paso Robles. It’s going to be quite a bash! Also, you won’t want to miss the winery’s swank grand opening party this Nov. 5 during Paso Robles’ Autumn Wine Stroll (Tudor Wines will serve up Thai chili coconut prawns with their 2014 Nacina off-dry riesling). Not sure what to after Thanksgiving grub? Swing by the tasting room for delicious pinot noir representing a lush lineup of the best boutique vineyards.
Click here for tickets to Autumn Wine Stroll
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/TudorWines
Eat, Drink, & be Merry at JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery’s Open House
When: Nov. 18 – Open House and Dinner / Nov. 19 – Apps and 2013 ISOSCELES
Festive? Oh yeah. On Nov. 18, Join JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery for a special wine paired dinner prepared by Executive Chef Will Torres and the award winning culinary team of The Restaurant at JUSTIN. The evening will consist of a 30 minute welcome reception with passed appetizers followed by a four course dinner served with JUSTIN wine, including the world famous ISOSCELES. Click here for tickets.
On Nov. 19, enjoy passed appetizers by a favorite local food vendor and tastings of the winery’s newly released 2013 ISOSCELES Reserve. Click here for tickets.
Mapping and Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at [email protected] or follow her on instagram @flavorslo.
If you’re looking for a place to spend the night in Paso Robles, checkout:
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping.
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves.
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine