Old Hollywood movies and complicated dance numbers, shoulder pads and big, frizzy perms, homemade sourdough bread and Instagram double taps: the trends are always changing. No matter how weird the future gets, some pairings will remain rock steady. For instance? Paso Robles wine and a great cut of beef. Ever wonder why a thick slab of meat and a glass of red work so beautifully together? It’s not just a matter of preference—it’s a matter of science! The tannins in that glass of cab actually work to soften the fat in your steak to release more flavor goodness (sorry to make you drool already). But wait, there’s more! The delicious fat in your steak also helps to mellow the wine’s astringency, releasing more of the vino’s inherent fruitiness. Mmmm…! Wondering which wine is best to pair with your next ribeye, T-bone or filet mignon? Any Paso Robles red will do, but here are a few faves we’re more than mooing over:
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon and Syrah from Michael Gill Cellars
Wrap it up, I’ll take it: Dark, smokey syrah is a no-brainer when paired with juicy, slightly charred bacon-wrapped filet mignon. Michael Gill Cellars is ground zero for all things syrah, so you can pick up a few bottles and compare them all? These luscious offerings—and gold medal winners—are a sophisticated homage to Paso’s rocky, calcareous soil and hilly, sunny slopes. From vineyard to vineyard and vintage to vintage, you’ll pick up on nifty nuances that bring out the bold beefiness on your plate! Meaty morsel: Remember, a fattier choice of meat can stand up against syrah’s hefty tannins and structured mouthfeel. Go big or go hungry, right?
For mapping and directions to Michael Gill Cellars, click here.
Tri-tip and a Rhone Red from Brecon Estate
A world of flavor: Not every meaty meal has to knock you on the head with its intense, Flintstones flavor profile. A lighter bodied and more acidic red—like one of Brecon Estates’ beautiful grenache or red Rhône blend offerings—will pick up the bountiful, herbaceous seasonings famously rubbed into this classic Central Coast cut. When paired with perfectly cooked tri-tip (oak-grilled on the outside and blushing pink in the middle) the entire experience is Paso Robles perfection. Meaty morsel: Did you know that the rarer your steak, the more mellow your wine will taste? Good to know when choosing between “medium rare” and “all moo.”
For a virtual tour of Brecon, click here.
For mapping and directions to Brecon Estate, click here.
Burger and Cabernet Sauvignon from Rangeland
Back to basics: Ground beef need not be reserved for the kid’s table! A truly gourmet burger can do wonders for your morale (especially if you’ve been eating salads all week). Plus, they’re a cinch to whip up at home on any old night. Order up a box of estate raised Angus ground beef and a case of bold red wine from Rangeland Wines today. Fire up the grill and get acquainted with Rangeland’s fruit forward and velvety cabernet sauvignon, a pairing made in weeknight heaven! Meaty morsel: Be sure to pop the wine at least 30 minutes before digging in. This allows the cab’s robust flavors to truly open up in the glass. Wouldn’t want to waste a single sip!
For mapping and directions to Rangeland, click here.
Beef Ribs and Zinfandel from Dover Canyon
Repeat after me: “barbecue and zinfandel are best friends!” What might seem like an odd pairing is, in reality, a love affair to stand the test of time. Jammy, spicy zinfandel (like the kind you’ll find at Dover Canyon Winery) has a way of taking saucy beef ribs from “good’ to “grand.” Flavors of bright cherry and black pepper perfectly mimic the savory-sweetness of those tangy, finger-lickin’ ribs! Meaty morsel: Make your own barbecue sauce and add a glug of your favorite zinfandel before reducing the liquid down to a glossy finish. You can thank us later!
For mapping and directions to Dover Canyon, click here.
Mourvèdre from Cass and Dry Aged Steak
Wisdom of the ages: If you don’t think your go-to steakhouse order can be improved, try a dry-aged cut. Why? Dry aging imparts additional flavor and a totally tender texture you have to taste to believe! Naturally present enzymes in the meat break down some of the collagen (the stuff that usually holds muscle fibers together and causes meat to toughen cooking). A steak this exquisite can only be paired with a wine made to linger. Enter mourvèdre, known for its rich flavor and spicy, savory profile (Cass Winery knows a thing or two about perfecting this lesser-known varietal). Polished tannins and a round mouthfeel dance with every marvelous melt-in-your-mouth bite. What could be better? Meaty morsel: Want to “cut it with a butter knife?” With less collagen in a dry aged cut, the end result is, well, like butter!
For mapping and directions to Cass Winery, 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, lo
cally 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
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hoyt Family Vineyard Retreats Two very cool, tiny houses, designed using fertile imagination and repurposing of materials are located on Hoyt Family Vineyard.
Directions: speedfind.com/hoytfamilyvineyards
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
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. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
The Kiler Canyon Vineyard Retreat Perched on top of a hill on ONX Estate’s vineyard with gorgeous 360 degree views of the Willow Creek AVA
Directions: speedfind.com/KilerRetreat
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
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. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Oxford Suites Paso Robles You’ll find that from our lobby, our on-site restaurant, to our meeting spaces, to our 101 spacious suites, every space is beautiful + functional as well as comfortable + chic.
Directions: speedfind.com/oxfordsuitespasorobles
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.
Directions: speedfind.com/PeachyInn
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals
Rio Seco Winery Guest House 2 comfortable suites each with 2 bedrooms, complete with kitchens are set amongst the vines at iconic Rio Seco Vineyard & Winery. Enjoy your own barbeque + firepit.
Directions: speedfind.com/riosecovineyard
