Wine enthusiasts searching for an extraordinary diversity of Central Coast varietals will discover their sanctuary at Absolution Cellars, where owner and winemaker Dirk Neumann crafts over 20 different handcrafted wines annually from carefully selected Paso Robles and Central Coast vineyards.
This boutique Paso Robles winery stands apart with its remarkable portfolio spanning everything from classic Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah to rarely produced varietals like Aglianico, Tempranillo, Graciano, and Touriga Nacional, ensuring every wine lover finds their perfect expression of terroir.
The Experience:
Wine lovers can immerse themselves in Absolution Cellars’ artisanal approach at their Waterside Tasting Lounge, located along the scenic Embarcadero in nearby Morro Bay.
Each limited-production wine represents a unique portrait of place and time, showcasing single-vineyard fruit from prestigious Central Coast appellations including Chalone AVA, Edna Valley, and the Paso Robles Willow Creek District. The winery’s Classic Tasting features six current release wines from their award-winning portfolio, offering guests a guided journey through their diverse varietals in both indoor and outdoor seating areas with waterfront views.
For those seeking a deeper dive into rare bottlings, the Rare & Reserve Tasting Experience provides an intimate exploration of six library wines, newest releases, and reserve-designated selections that highlight the breadth of Absolution Cellars’ winemaking expertise.
What Makes It Special:
Absolution Cellars distinguishes itself among Paso Robles wineries through its commitment to producing small-batch, single-vineyard wines that authentically express their origin. Winemaker Dirk Neumann sources fruit from some of Central Coast’s most respected vineyards, including the legendary Michaud Vineyard in Chalone, creating wines that have earned consistent 90+ point ratings from Wine Enthusiast.
The winery’s extensive portfolio includes rarities seldom found in Paso Robles wine country, such as Italian varietals Aglianico, Nebbiolo, and Sangiovese, Portuguese grapes Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão, and Souzão, and distinctive white varietals like Albariño, Picpoul Blanc, and Clairette Blanche. Each bottle features original artwork by local artist Aja Trier of Sagittarius Gallery, transforming every wine into a collectible piece that merges artistry with exceptional winemaking. With wines available for shipping to 41 states, Absolution Cellars makes their handcrafted Central Coast wines accessible to enthusiasts nationwide.
Visitor Tips:
- Open daily with extended weekend hours: Monday-Friday 12pm-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-6pm (last tastings at 5pm)
- Walk-ins welcome for Classic Tastings ($20 per person, waived with $50 purchase or wine club membership)
- Reservations recommended for the Rare & Reserve Tasting Experience ($30 per person, waived with $75 purchase or wine club membership)
- Both indoor and outdoor waterfront seating available at their Morro Bay tasting lounge
- Wine by the glass and bottle service offered throughout the day
- Don’t miss their rare Portuguese and Italian varietals – unique finds in Paso Robles wine country
- Join the wine club for exclusive library releases and special vertical tasting opportunities
- Consider combining your visit with exploring the scenic Morro Bay waterfront and Embarcadero shops
Perfect For:
Adventurous wine enthusiasts seeking to explore beyond traditional Paso Robles Cabernet and Rhône varietals, visitors who appreciate handcrafted small-production wines with artistic presentation, and anyone looking for a relaxed waterside tasting experience featuring Central Coast’s hidden gem varietals.
