Find out which varietal wines and grape varieties are produced by Paso Robles Wineries, as well as learn about varietal and grape characteristics, and wine blend styles. Use this list along with your Wine Tasting Map to help plan your next visit to Paso Robles Wine Country.
- Zinfandel and blends.
- Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends.
- Rhône Blends including Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Viognier.
- Italian varietals including Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, and Barbera.
- Innovative Blends – non-traditional, unique wine blends that have put Paso Robles Wine Country on the map. These blends continue to intrigue wine enthusiasts.
Aglianico
Aglianico is a red wine grape variety native to southern Italy. It is known to produce full-bodied red wines that show musky berry flavors with firm tannins and good aging potential. History buffs will enjoy a part of history when they drink wines made from this ancient Italian grape. Around 600 BC the Phoenicians imported the grape to Italy, and Pliny the Elder (from the early Roman Empire) was so taken by the varietal that he included the grape in his writings.
Pairing Suggestions: Mallorcan braised rabbit (conejo a la Mallorquina), Chicken with paprika sauce, Barbecued lamb chops with minted peas.
You can find Aglianico at the following wineries:
Albariño
An aromatic variety that is high in acidity, Albarino can be produced as a light white wine with aromas of white peach, apricot, citrus and jasmine with a dry, lively, fruit and mineral finish.
Pairing Suggestions: Fish, Seafood & Sushi. Also pairs well with spicy Thai, Chinese or Mexican dishes.
You can find Albariño at the following wineries:
• Brecon Estate
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Halter Ranch
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Alicante Bouschet
Best-known for its dark, purple pulp, Alicante Bouschet is often used in blends to enhance color saturation, but its elegance as a wine is sometimes overlooked. The mouthfeel is luscious, soft, and dense, and this wine unfolds in layers of red fruit and an array of bold spices. Pomegranate, peppermint, and olallieberry flavors develop into deeper notes of truffle, lavender, and plum. The wine finishes clean, with a strong acidity that culminates in the lingering flavors of a fresh raspberry tart.
Food Pairing: Pasta with Tomato based sauce, Braised Beef Short Ribs, Steak or Cream of Butternut Squash Soup
You can find Alicante Bouschet at the following wineries:
• Villa San Juliette
Arneis
A white wine grape variety from Italy’s much-respected Piedmont wine region. It produces floral-scented white wines with delicate aromas of pear and apricot rounded out with a creamy hint of hazelnut.
Pairing Suggestions: Antipasti, simply prepared fish and asparagus.
You can find Arneis at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
Barbera
Barbera is a dark-skinned wine grape variety found in many Italian wine regions. When young, these wines have a bright-red cherry character, when matured and aged, this turns to a denser, sour-cherry note.
Pairing Suggestions: Italian dishes made with beef or chicken, macaroni & cheese, burgers & Pizza.
You can find Barbera at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
• Eberle Winery
Bordeaux-Style Blend
A red wine blend composed of varietals of the Bordeaux region of France. Dark fruits and berries such as plum and blackcurrant are commonly used to describe the flavors of red Bordeaux. Tannins tend to be relatively high in these wines, giving them a firm structure.
Pairing Suggestions: Steak, Leg of Lamb, Beef Stroganoff, with Porcini mushrooms, duck.
You can find Bordeaux-Style Blends at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Chateau Margene
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Kiamie Wine Cellars
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Cabernet Franc
A black-skinned French wine grape variety with a light to medium body, often showing vegetal characteristics, in particular green bell peppers.
Pairing Suggestions: Perfect with lamb, pork and chicken courses.
You can find Cabernet Franc at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Brecon Estate
• Chateau Margene
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Halter Ranch
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Villa San Juliette
Cabernet Pfeffer
This rare grape has a somewhat mysterious origin as a late 19th-century crossing of Cabernet Sauvignon and unknown Vitis vinifera vine. Pfeffer (the German word for pepper) adds floral notes and red fruit, plus lots of pepper spice. Cabernet Pfeffer is compared to a big Cabernet but without the tannins found in cabernet sauvignon.
Pairing Suggestions: The spiciness and earthiness of this varietal pairs well with red meat, most notably lamb.
You can find Cabernet Pfeffer at the following wineries:
• Dubost Ranch
Cabernet Sauvignon
One of the most famous red wines, it displays deep color, good tannin structure, moderate acidity and aromas of blackcurrant, tomato leaf, dark spices and cedar wood.
Pairing Suggestions: Beef dishes, steak, big game and rich cheese courses.
You can find Cabernet Sauvignon at the following wineries
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Chateau Margene
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Iron Oaks Winery
• Kiamie Wine Cellars (blend)
• Lone Madrone
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Canned Wines
Canned wine allows wine enthusiasts to enjoy their wine while taking in the great outdoors. These single-serving cans of white wine, cans of rosé wine, cans of red wines and champagne can be conveniently thrown in your cooler, backpack, beach bag or saddle bag. Luckily for us, there is an increasing selection of brands packaged in aluminum containers. You’ll find some new canned-only brands while other wine producers are established names in this new packaging trend. Because lugging around a bottle isn’t always fun, right?!
Pairing Suggestions: The mountains, the beach, the desert, the lake, tailgate parties, wedding receptions; well, you get the message.
You can find Canned Wines at the following wineries:
• Chronic Cellars
• Iron Oaks Winery
Carménère
Carménère is a dark-skinned grape variety originally from the vineyards of Bordeaux. A late-ripening variety, Carménère needs high levels of sunshine and a warm summer to reach its full potential. In the right environment it can produce fine, deeply colored red wines, with the attractive meaty plumpness of Merlot and the gently herbaceous, cedary notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pairing Suggestions: Beef dishes, especially lamb, good match for fish and dishes flavored with herbs, as well as Empanadas, and dark leafy greens.
You can find Carménère at the following wineries:
• Dubost Ranch
Charbono
Charbono (Bonarda) is a widely traveled red-wine grape variety with a complicated history. Originally from the alpine vineyards of Savoie in eastern France, it is now mostly planted in Napa Valley, where it is known as Charbono, and in Argentina, where it goes by the name Bonarda. The variety’s wines are generally medium bodied with high acidity and berryfruit aromas and some smoky characteristics.
Pairing Suggestions: Hickory-smoked beef brisket, Cheeseburger with bacon, Morcilla (black pudding)
You can find Charbono at the following wineries:
Chardonnay
The world’s most famous and widely planted white-wine grape. Flavors vary greatly and often include notes of vanilla, smoke and hints of sweet spices such as clove and cinnamon. Extended lees contact while in barrel imparts biscuity, doughy flavors. Because of its high level of winemaker involvement, Chardonnay is known as the “winemaker’s wine”.
Pairing Suggestions: Fish, seafood courses, chicken and egg dishes.
You can find Chardonnay at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Chateau Margene
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
•Eberle Winery
• Écluse Wines
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Iron Oaks Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Chenin Blanc
A versatile white-wine grape variety that has been cultivated in France for nearly 1300 years. Its high acidity means it can be vinified in a number of different styles, such as a sweet, botrytis-affected dessert wine, a light, honeyed sparkling wine and a full-bodied, still white wine.
Pairing Suggestions: Chicken, fish, soft cheeses, Indian and Asian cuisine.
You can find Chenin Blanc at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Lone Madrone
Clairette Blanche
Clairette, dating back to the mid 1500’s, is one of the oldest wine grapes in France. It is used not only in the production of white wine in regions inside and outside of France, but it is also used to produce Vermouth. It has the ability to deliver both low alcohol and high acidity. Often it is added into a blend to help impart acidity. Green apple, lime, peach, licorice, white peach and floral characteristics are the typical flavor profiles of Clairette Blanche.
Pairing Suggestions: You’ll enjoy pairing this wine with seafood, shellfish and vegetable dishes, as well as a myriad of soft and hard cheeses.
Counoise
Low-yielding and late-ripening, it offers more in terms of quality than quantity. Often described as a peppery and spicy grape variety, it also adds much in the way of plum, strawberry and raspberry flavors.
Pairing Suggestions: Roasted chicken, hearty fish, non-spicy grilled meats.
You can find Counoise at the following wineries:
• Michael Gill Cellars
Dessert Sherry
A fortified wine produced using varying amounts of three grapes and is purposefully oxidized so that it develops nutty aromatics.
Pairing Suggestions: Varies depending on the style of Sherry…Fino goes well with olive tapenade or creamy soups, Oloroso pairs with red meat and big game. Manzanilla and Amontillado go well with seafood or chicken and Moscatel is thick and syrupy and goes great with vanilla ice cream.
You can find Dessert Sherry at the following wineries:
Dessert Wine
In order to make these wines sweet, the fermentation is stopped before the yeast turns all the natural grape sugar into alcohol. There are several ways to stop the fermentation, including super-cooling or adding brandy to wine. In addition to sweetness, these wines tend to have a higher alcohol content.
Pairing Suggestions: There are a wide variety of dessert wines, but the general rule of thumb is that the wine should be at least as sweet as the dessert, with enough acidity for balance. They typically go well with cheesecake with berries, fruit tarts, apple pie, and carrot cake; late-harvest Zinfandel goes great with chocolate.
You can find Dessert wines at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery
• Chateau Margene
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Harmony Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
Friulano
Friulano is most famous for its proliferation in the white wines of Friuli in northeastern Italy. Formerly known as Tocai Friulano, and also known as Sauvignonasse or Sauvignon Vert, these wines typically are lively and fruity with notes of citrus, florality and almond, and often have a touch of minerality.
Pairing Suggestions: This wine pairs well with vegetables, chicken, and seafood. We suggest that you’ll especially enjoy Friulano with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus topped with a poached egg, a cheese plate, spaghetti alle vongole, or roast chicken with rice pilaf.
You can find Friulano at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
Fumé Blanc
Fumé Blanc is the same grape as Sauvignon Blanc. Fume Blanc refers to the smoky flavors that occur when the Sauvignon Blanc wine has been aged in oak. Sauvignon Blanc is a light wine that is crisp and acidic. It is usually a dry wine.
Pairing Suggestions: Fumé Blanc, which often has notes of tart fruit, pairs well with creamy cheeses and fish, and is best drunk young.
You can find Fumé Blanc at the following wineries:
• Robert Hall Winery
Gewürztraminer
While Gewürztraminer wine has many similarities to Moscato it also has higher alcohol, lower acidity and more striking aromatics including Ruby Red grapefruit, rose petal, ginger and a smoky aroma similar to burnt incense.
Pairing Suggestions: Duck, Chicken, Pork, Shrimp and Crab, as well as highly spiced and aromatic herbs and veggies with natural sweetness.
Grappa
Grappa is one of Italy’s most popular alcoholic drinks. Its main ingredient is pomace, which consists of the grape skins, seeds and stalks leftover from the winemaking process. Through a second distillation process, the flavors from the pomace are extracted and either bottled at once to create White Grappa, or aged in wooden casks to create brown-hued, Riserva.
Pairing Suggestions: Drunk either as a shot or added to espresso, Grappa is a wonderful way to end a meal.
Grenache
Grenache exhibits rich, spicy, berry flavors, particularly raspberry. Since it is often grown in hot environments, the alcohol content of Grenache-based wines can be very high, often surpassing 15 percent ABV.
Pairing Suggestions: Duck, beef, lamb, rabbit and game birds.
You can find Grenache at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Ecluse Wines
• Halter Ranch
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Seven Oxen Estate Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Grenache Blanc
Typically displaying green-apple and stone fruit aromas, though it is very sensitive to its environment and this has a profound effect on the final wine. The cooler reaches of the Paso Robles wine region allow the variety to develop crisper acidity and more mineral characteristics.
Pairing Suggestions: Pork chops with braised apples, briny cheese like feta and citrusy salads.
You can find Grenache Blanc at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Brecon Estate
• Halter Ranch
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
Grenache Gris
A pinkish-grey mutation of the red Grenache grape and is grown to a limited extent in the south of France. Little research has been conducted into the history of Grenache Gris and the variety remains in relative obscurity. Wines made from Grenache Gris tend to show apricot and stonefruit aromas with a full, sometimes oily palate. In this way they are similar to Viognier, minus the lavender and herbaceous notes that make Viognier so distinctive.
Pairing Suggestions: Escargots with garlic butter, Crab cakes, Smoked-eel terrine.
You can find Grenache Gris at the following wineries:
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
GSM Rosé
Grenache, contributes spice, red fruit and alcohol to the blend, Syrah adds its structure and dark fruit, while Mourvedre gives tannins, color and length to the wine.
Pairing Suggestions: Salmon, Chicken dishes, or bread with cheese and olives.
You can find GSM Rosé at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Halter Ranch
• Oso Libre
Heida
Heida has become one of the most popular rarities of Valais, in the southwestern part of Switzerland and now found in California. It is pale yellow in color, is richly acidic, yet delicate. On the palate you’ll find notes of nuts, honey, apricots, perhaps mint and a hint of sweetness with a dash of peppery spice. Rather glorious!
Pairing Suggestions: Pair with raclette, fondue, fish, foie gras, and smoked salmon.
You can find Heida at the following wineries:
• Halter Ranch
Lagrein
Its wines are strong and full bodied with plum and wild cherry flavors, and this variety is particularly well known for the deep, dense color it imparts on wines.
Pairing Suggestions: Cured pork, hearty stews, traditionally served during winter months.
You can find Lagrein at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Pelletiere Estate
Late Harvest
This term applies to wines made from grapes left on the vine longer than usual. Late harvest is usually an indication of a sweet dessert wine. Late harvest grapes are often more similar to raisins, but have been naturally dehydrated while on the vine, leaving a more concentrated sugar content.
Pairing Suggestions: Late harvest wines are known for pairing better than most with chocolate.
You can find Late Harvest Wines at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery (Roussanne)
• Chronic Cellars
• Harmony Cellars
• Lone Madrone
Late Harvest Cabernet
This is a Cab in which the grapes were left on the vine longer than usual. See “Late Harvest” above.
Pairing Suggestions: Chocolate and chocolate desserts.
You can find Late Harvest Cabernet at the following wineries:
• Oso Libre
Late Harvest Viognier
This is a Viognier in which the grapes were left on the vine longer than usual. See “Late Harvest” above.
Pairing Suggestions: Fresh or dried fruit, fruity dessert dishes.
You can find Late Harvest Viognier at the following wineries:
• Lone Madrone
Late Harvest Zinfandel
This is a Zinfandel in which the grapes were left on the vine longer than usual. See “Late Harvest” above.
Pairing Suggestions: Chocolate and chocolate desserts.
You can find Late Harvest Zinfandel at the following wineries:
• Brecon Estate
• Oso Libre
Malbec
A black-skinned grape variety native to south-western FranceIt is frequently blended with the softer, less tannic Merlot, to produce bright, fruit-driven wines against a backbone of oak. Plums and violets are common flavor descriptors.
Pairing Suggestions: Steak, red game meat and beef stew.
You can find Malbec at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Brecon Estate
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Robert Hall Winery
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Marsanne
A white wine grape, Marsanne wines generally have good weight and structure, but often lack any depth of perfume and flavor. As a result, it is often blended with its more aromatic cousin Roussanne. By itself, examples of a slightly earthy minerality, lifted by notes of honeysuckle and melon.
Pairing Suggestions: Seafood, shellfish, chicken, veal and spicy Asian cuisine.
You can find Marsanne at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery
Merlot
A red wine variety which is popular and planted throughout the world. Smooth, rounded and “easy-drinking” are common descriptions of Merlot wines. The main reason for this is that Merlot grapes are relatively large in relation to their pips and the thickness of the skins, in which tannins are found.
Pairing Suggestions: Lamb, beef, macaroni and most pasta dishes.
You can find Merlot at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Montepulciano
A red wine grape appreciated worldwide for their soft flavors, strong color and gentle tannins, Montepulciano wines are typically best consumed in their youth and with food.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled eggplant, lasagna, veal and pizza with sausage.
You can find Montepulciano at the following wineries:
• Pelletiere Estate
Mourvèdre
Mourvedre’s meaty, herby aromas are very distinctive, as are its strong tannins. Mourvedre likes warm, dry climates and has small, thick-skinned berries.
Pairing Suggestions: The strong tannins of this wine beg for rich meats like short ribs, pork shoulder, lamb & veal.
You can find Mourvèdre at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Halter Ranch
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Sculpterra
• Seven Oxen Estate Wines
Muscat Canelli
It may be produced as dry, medium, sweet, sparkling or even dessert wine. Because of its strong grape flavors, various Muscats are widely grown as table grapes around the world.
Pairing Suggestions: Fruits, desserts and foie gras go well with this wine.
You can find Muscat Canelli at the following wineries:
• Eberle Winery
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
Nebbiolo
A red wine grape, Nebbiolo wines are distinguished by their strong tannins, high acidity and distinctive scent – often described as “tar and roses”.
Pairing Suggestions: Veal, white truffles, rich pastas, stews and slow braised meats.
You can find Nebbiolo at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
• Lone Madrone
• Pelletiere Estate
Négrette
Négrette is a black-skinned wine grape that is often used in the production of both reds and rosés. It is a descendant of Mavro, an ancient variety from Cyprus. Négrette wines are deeply pigmented and relatively low in tannins and acidity with a soft, silky and perfumed aroma.
Pairing Suggestions: Pairs well with dishes that are aromatic and meaty, especially grilled foods, BBQ beef and stir-fried pork.
You can find Négrette at the following wineries:
• Dubost Ranch
Nero D’Avola
Nero d’Avola is a full body, strong, yet fruity wine that expresses notes of black plum, prune, black cherry, and licorice. With its fruity nature, this wine can exude a cherry and herbal aroma.
Pairing Suggestions: Pair with rich meats, including burgers, veal, meatloaf, steaks, and pork chops.
You can find Nero D’Avola at the following wineries:
• Halter Ranch
Orange Muscat
Orange Muscat is a white grape variety best known in California, Oregon and Australia. Though not known for sure, the origin of Orange Muscat is thought to lie in Italy or France. As its name may hint, Orange Muscat has a distinctive and strong aroma of orange. Its powerful aromatics also include orange blossom, apricot, pear and spicy fruit. It also shares some characteristics typical of the Muscat family of grapes, including a relatively lush mouthfeel. It is produced in dry, off-dry and fully sweet styles.
Pairing Suggestions: spicy cuisine, chocolate, dried fruits, nuts and a wide variety of both hard or soft cheese.
You can find Orange Muscat at the following wineries:
Petit Verdot
Petit Verdot has small, thick-skinned berries are valued for their depth of color; which tend to lend wines a dense, inky, violet-black appearance. They also have high levels of tannins because of the high ratio of skin and seeds to juice.
Pairing Suggestions: Foods with weight, protein and fat like red meats and aged cheese, as the high tannin levels would overwhelm subtler food choices.
You can find Petit Verdot at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Brecon Estate
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Halter Ranch
• Mystic Hills Vineyard
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Robert Hall Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Petite Sirah
The high tannins and acidity in Petite Sirah make it an excellent candidate for aging. Flavor notes often associated with the wine are blackberry, chocolate and black pepper. Many other characteristics of Syrah can also be noted, like blueberry, licorice and various herbal elements.
Pairing Suggestions: Steak, kebabs, pasta dishes and other hearty cuisine.
You can find Petite Sirah at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Ecluse Wines
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Picpoul Blanc
Yielding taut, full-bodied white wines with herbal and citrus aromas. The name Pique-poul translates literally to “stings the lip”; a reference to the grape’s high acidity.
Pairing Suggestions: Strong seafood like swordfish, salmon, scallops, clams, oysters and rich, creamy or buttery sauces.
You can find Picpoul Blanc at the following wineries:
• Four Lanterns
• Halter Ranch
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
Pinot Grigio
The most common descriptions of the style are “light”, “crisp” and “dry”. These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms. Pinot Grigio wines are almost always intended for consumption within a year or two of harvest.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled or baked fish and chicken dishes.
You can find Pino Grigio at the following wineries:
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
Pinot Gris
Flavors and aromas vary greatly, but commonly feature notes of pears, apples, stone fruit, sweet spices and even a hint of smoke or wet wool.
Pairing Suggestions: Asian and Indian cuisine.
You can find Pinot Gris at the following wineries:
• Harmony Cellars
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is known for aroma of strawberry and cherry, underpinned in the most complex examples by hints of undergrowth. Well-built Pinot Noirs, particularly from warmer harvests, also exhibit notes of violets and leather, often approaching the flavor spectrum of Syrah.
Pairing Suggestions: Roasted chicken, salmon, quail, pheasant, pork and other grilled meats.
You can find Pinot Noir at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Chateau Margene
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Windward Vineyard
Port Style
A fortified wine, typically sweet and red dessert wine, but also comes in dry, semi-dry and white varieties. True Port is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley in the northern provinces of Portugal.
Pairing Suggestions: Stilton cheese is a natural pairing. You can also cook with port in duck, chicken or beef dishes.
You can find Port-style wines at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery
• Chateau Margene
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Harmony Cellars
• Sculpterra
Primitivo
A dark-skinned grape known for producing inky, tannic wines. Primitivo translates to “early one” which refers to it’s early ripening nature.
Pairing Suggestions: Seafood Jambalaya, Moroccan style lamb, anchovy pizza.
You can find Primitivo at the following wineries:
• Oso Libre
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
Red Blend
Blends typically consist of at least 40-50 percent of one type of grape and a smaller mix of two or more other grapes. There are some grapes that are more commonly used for blends, while others are rarely used…but this ultimately lies in the discretion of the winemaker.
Pairing Suggestions: Depending on the blend, anything from grilled steak to mushroom risotto, shepard’s pie and hamburgers. A good rule of thumb is to check which varietal makes up the majority of the wine and pair with that.
You can find Red Blends at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Brecon Estate
• Chronic Cellars
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Iron Oaks Winery
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Kiamie Wine Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Villa San Juliette
Red Meritage Blend
Red Meritage wine must be a blend of two or more of the five traditional Bordeaux reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec).
Pairing Suggestions: Steak, Leg of Lamb, Beef Stroganoff, with Porcini mushrooms, duck.
You can find Red Meritage Blends at the following wineries:
• Brecon Estate
• Chateau Margene
• Eberle Winery
• Harmony Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Red Rhône-Style Blend
A Red Blend of grapes from the Rhône Region, such as Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre.
Pairing Suggestions: Gamey meats seasoned with herbs, lamb, duck, Mexican food, root vegetables and stews.
You can find Red Rhône Blends at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Chronic Cellars
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Four Lanterns
• Halter Ranch
• Kiamie Wine Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
Red Tuscan-Style Blend
A Red Blend of grapes from the Chianti Region like Sangiovese, but sometimes include others such as Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled meats, roasts, kale and porcini mushrooms.
You can find Red Tuscan-Style Blends at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
• Chateau Margene
• Pelletiere Estate
• Sculpterra
Riesling
A light-skinned, aromatic grape originally from Germany. Often described as fruit-forward apricot floral aromas, with rich full-bodied citrus flavors and a fresh off dry to sweet finish. Ripe pear, apricot, and floral notes continue through the palate of the wine.
Pairing Suggestions: Pâté, fish, ham, and foie gras, Indian and Asian cuisine.
You can find Dry Riesling at the following wineries:
• Harmony Cellars
Riesling Dry French Style
Dry styles of Riesling are similar to Sauvignon Blanc. Albariño, and Chenin Blanc wines. On the palate you’ll typically find notes of of lime, apricot, beeswax, jasmine, and petrol.
Pairing Suggestions: Light meats and fish and cheese such as Humbolt Fog goat cheese.
You can find Dry Riesling at the following wineries:
• Oso Libre
Rosé
Rosé wines incorporate some of the color from the grape skins, but not enough to qualify as a red wine. It is produced with the skin contact method where skins are removed after a short time, so less color is imparted. Rosé wines can be still or sparkling.
Pairing Suggestions: Tapas, fresh salads, paella and rice dishes, spicy foods and cold meats and cheeses.
You can find Rosé at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Bella Luna
• Cass Winery
• Chronic Cellars
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Four Lanterns
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Hayseed and Housdon
• Iron Oaks Winery
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Pelletiere Estate
• Rangeland Wines
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Villa San Juliette
Roussanne
A white wine grape named for its reddish-gold pigment when ripe. Characterized by herbal, tea-like, aromas, showing pears and honey with notable intensity. The acidity can be high if picked under-ripe, but if left on the vine longer alcohol levels can reach past 14 percent.
Pairing Suggestions: Bold cuisines like Thai, Indian and North African, also rich shellfish and root vegetables.
You can find Roussanne at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery
• Lone Madrone
Ruby Cabernet
The typical Ruby Cabernet varietal wine is easy-drinking with notes of blackberry and cherry. The variety was created in California by Dr Harold Olmo and is a crossing of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carigan.
Pairing Suggestions: Margherita pizza, ground beef, cheese pie, spaghetti bolognese.
You can find Ruby Cabernet at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
Sangiovese
The most widely planted grape in Italy, prized for its high acidity, firm tannins and balanced nature. Flavors such as dark cherries and black stone fruit are characteristic, with secondary notes of tomato leaf and dried herbs. The use of oak coaxes richer flavors from the grapes, tending toward plum and wild raspberry.
Pairing Suggestions: Veal, beef, poultry and parmesan cheese.
You can find Sangiovese at the following wineries:
• Bella Luna
• Chateau Margene
• Eberle Winery
• Harmony Cellars
• Pelletiere Estate
Sauvignon Blanc
A white wine grape known for its straightforwardness – the flavors are rarely hidden away in the background. There is also a close correlation between the perceived flavors and their descriptors, making Sauvignon Blanc an ideal wine with which to begin wine-tasting lessons.
Pairing Suggestions: Turkey, chicken and veal are excellent with this wine.
You can find Sauvignon Blanc at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Halter Ranch
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Souza
A Portuguese wine grape that is used in the production of port wine. While originating in the Minho regions, it is used primarily in Australia, California and South Africa. In Portugal, it is also an authorized planting in the Douro, and Dão-Lafões area (Vinho do Dão). The grape is known for the deep color it produces in a wine as well as its coarse and raisiny taste.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled sardines, Chicken in spicy tomato sauce, Steak sandwich with caramelized onion.
You can find Souza at the following wineries:
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine is a wine with significant levels of carbon dioxide in it, making it fizzy. This is done either through the result of natural fermentation using a specialized tank, or through carbon dioxide injection. The classic example of a sparkling wine is Champagne, but this wine is exclusively produced in the Champagne region of France.
Pairing Suggestions: Depending on the wine at hand, they can pair well with caviar, smoked salmon, cheeses, sausages, deep-fried foods, salty dishes and tangy, fruity dishes.
You can find Sparkling Wines at the following wineries:
• Cass Winery
• Chronic Cellars
• Halter Ranch
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Still Waters Vineyards
Sweet Wines
One aspect in the taste of wines is the degree of sweetness or dryness. People who prefer these wines should enjoy Ice Wines, Sauternes, some Rieslings, Vouvray, White Zinfandel, Port and Muscat Beaumes-de-Venise all of which are generally sweet.
Pairing Suggestions: White Zinfandel, Vouvray. Also pairs well with Ice Wines, Sauternes or Port and Muscat Beaumes-de-Venise.
You can find Sweet Wines at the following wineries:
• Eberle Winery
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Robert Hall Winery
Syrah
A dark-skinned red wine grape which can display a myriad of dark fruit flavors. Syrah can be quite floral early on, developing more peppery and herbal notes as it ages. Some notes of tanned leather and smoky scents, but more commonly these wines tends towards the very dark flavors of blackcurrant and licorice.
Pairing Suggestions: Game meats, beef, pork, turkey and cheeses.
You can find Syrah at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Four Lanterns
• Harmony Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• Michael Gill Cellars
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Pelletiere Estate
• Robert Hall Winery
• Rotta Winery
• Sculpterra
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
Syrah Rosé
Resulting from an unlikely combination of Syrah and Viognier. Though used at only about 15%, the Viognier adds notes of apricot and ripe peach to the spicy, plummy, full-bodied Syrah.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled fare, spicy foods and ripe peaches.
You can find Syrah Rosé at the following wineries:
• Eberle Winery
• Sextant Wines
Tannat
Deep, dark, dry and rustic are words to describe Tannat, originating in the Basque region between France and Spain. With its high natural acidity and aggressive tannins, Tannat is similar to Merlot and Syrah.
Pairing Suggestions: Duck Confit, lamb, beef and strong cheeses.
You can find Tannat at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Brecon Estate
• Halter Ranch
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Seven Oxen Estate Wines
Tempranillo
A thick-skinned variety with a high anthocyanin count that makes for deep-colored wines with moderate tannins. Tempranillo features tasting notes ranging from strawberries, blackcurrants and cherries, to prunes, chocolate and tobacco.
Pairing Suggestions: Lasagna and dishes with tomato-based sauces, Mexican cuisine, corn-based dishes and wild game.
You can find Tempranillo at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Brecon Estate
• Dubost Ranch
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Hoyt Family Vineyards
• Michael Gill Cellars
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Tooth and Nail Winery
Tinta Cao
Tinta Cao is one of the top five grape varieties used in the production of quality Port in the Douro Valley. The low-yielding variety is prized for the spice and bite it delivers to red Port. Despite the dark hue of Tinta Cao grapes, the wines they produce are not as deeply colored as those made from the Douro’s other principal grape varieties Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz.
Pairing Suggestions: Braised pork chops with crispy sage (dry), Chocolate and cherry tart (fortified), Stilton cheese (fortified)
You can find Tinta Cao at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Halter Ranch
Touriga Nacional
A dark-skinned grape variety that is currently very fashionable and is widely believed to produce the finest red wines of Portugal. Extensively planted in the Portugal’s northern Dao and Douro wine regions, the variety is a key ingredient in both dry red wines and the fortified wines of Oporto (Port).
Pairing Suggestions: Grass-fed sirloin steak (dry) or Chocolate or custard tart (fortified).
You can find Touriga Nacional at the following wineries:
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
Ugni Blanc
Ugni Blanc is a variety that originally comes from Tuscany, Italy, where it is known as Trebbiano Toscano. However, it is much more commonly grown in France. On the palate one typically finds mostly fruit along with citrus notes, such as lemon, as well as quince.
Pairing Suggestions: Hard Italian cheeses, seafood pastas, white pizza, roast chicken, pesto pasta, fried or poached fish.
Vaccarese
A dark-skinned grape planted in minuscule quantities in France’s Rhône Valley. The grape produces light-bodied reds which are often compared to Syrah and Cinsaut. They have red-berry flavors similar to Cinsaut, but with a touch more pepper and spice, and a tannin structure similar to Syrah’s.
Pairing Suggestions: Marinated pork spare ribs, chicken curry.
You can find Vaccarese at the following wineries:
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
Verdejo
Spain’s signature white wine grape with crisp acidity and soft, creamy, nutty overtones that is sometimes accompanied by notes of honey.
Pairing Suggestions: Excellent with greens dressed in vinaigrette and other sharp ingredients such as tomatoes and olives. Also partners well with fish and shellfish.
You can find Verdejo at the following wineries:
• Halter Ranch
• Sextant Wines
Vermentino
A white wine grape with refreshing acidity and attractive aromas of peach, lemon peel, dried herbs and a whiff of saline minerality.
Pairing Suggestions: Cioppino, calamari, and simply prepared white fish.
You can find Vermentino at the following wineries:
• Halter Ranch
• Michael Gill Cellars
• Robert Hall Winery
Viognier
A white-wine grape variety known for producing textural, aromatic wines with distinct stonefruit flavors. Viognier wines can also be very herbal, with aromas of chamomile, lavender, thyme and sometimes a hint of pine. In aged examples and sweeter styles, this potentially overpowering herbality is softened by notes of honey.
Pairing Suggestions: Cheeses, brunch and egg courses, oysters, fruit and quiche.
You can find Viognier at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Donati Family Vineyard
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Four Lanterns
• Halter Ranch
• Lone Madrone
• Michael Gill Cellars
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Pelletiere Estate
• Robert Hall Winery
• Sculpterra
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
White Blend
Blends typically consist of at least 40-50 percent of one type of grape and a smaller mix of two or more other grapes. There are some grapes that are more commonly used for blends, while others are rarely used…but this ultimately lies in the discretion of the winemaker.
Pairing Suggestions: Can vary greatly depending on the wine, but typically white blends go well with seafood, chicken dishes, and salads.
You can find White Blends at the following wineries:
• Allegretto Vineyards & Wines
• Bella Luna
• Brecon Estate
• Chronic Cellars
• Harmony Cellars
• Iron Oaks Winery
• Kiamie Wine Cellars (Viogner & Roussanne Blend)
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Still Waters Vineyards
White Rhône-Style Blend
A White Blend of grapes from the Rhône Region, such as Roussanne and Marsanne.
Pairing Suggestions: Bold and spicy foods like Indian and Thai, also goes well with vegetarian options.
You can find White Rhône-Style Blends at the following wineries:
• Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar
• Brecon Estate
• Cass Winery
• Chronic Cellars
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wine
• Halter Ranch
• Kiamie Wine Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
Zinfandel
Zinfandel has been used to make various styles of wine since it arrived in Paso Robles, including dry and sweet red wines and the famous White Zinfandel blush. It offers a variety of flavors including black and red fruit, spice, pepper, tar, licorice and wood.
Pairing Suggestions: Grilled meats like beef, veal, pork and chicken, ragout, cheeses and BBQ cuisine.
You can find Zinfandel at the following wineries:
• Anarchy Wine Co
• Bella Luna
• Brecon Estate
• Cloak & Dagger Wines
• Dubost Ranch
• Eberle Winery
• Ecluse Wines
• Halter Ranch
• Harmony Cellars
• Lone Madrone
• ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
• Oso Libre
• Pelletiere Estate
• Robert Hall Winery
• Seven Oxen Estate Wines
• Sextant Wines
• Still Waters Vineyards
• Tooth and Nail Winery
• Villa San Juliette
