Rolling green hills dotted with majestic oak trees, a clear blue sky, and vines as far as the eye can see. No, I’m not describing a faraway land where unicorns and fairies roam. This is the reality of Paso Robles Wine Country from winter through spring! Thanks to recent January rains, this renowned wine region is lush and verdant as ever. Although summer is full of fun starlit parties and boisterous barbecues, temperatures can easily soar to triple digits (causing once green hills to turn striking gold). Late winter and spring, on the other hand, offers a unique breath of fresh air—especially when it comes to enjoying a low key, less crowded excursion. With breezy, temperate afternoons, sunny days, and green surroundings in store, there’s never been a more scenic time to get out into Paso’s beautiful countryside. This green gorgeousness won’t last forever…get on it before it’s gone!
Watch the Vines Awaken
Paso Robles vineyard managers are still a few months away from exciting bud break, but that doesn’t mean the vineyard is gray. Vines are slowly waking up and coming out of winter dormancy—a beautiful sight to see! Vines that were once naked and bare are beginning to show new signs of life and curling tendrils. Watch the scenery turn green at Jada Vineyard, where you can sip a flight or a glass while surveying Paso Robles’ iconic Templeton Gap/Willow Creek District. Be sure to ask for the winery’s new Bordeaux blend releases, too: Jersey Girl and Hell’s Kitchen. These are better than finding any pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Click here for mapping and directions to Jada
Make Fresh Friends
The nearby coastal town of Cambria inspired winemaker Edgar Torres’ father to settle down on the Central Coast. The young immigrant sought a better life for his family, and—sure enough—his son, Edgar, has found it in Paso Robles. Experience the friendly vibe of Paso Robles Wine Country at Bodega de Edgar’s charming tasting room, located at 2725 Adelaida Road. This scenic slice of of Paso Robles Wine Country (deemed the Adelaida District) is known for its iconic tasting rooms—some of which, likePeachy Canyon Winery—have been around since the 1970s. Make friends with new and old Paso Robles winemakers, and be sure to try Edgar’s sumptuous red blends and Peachy Canyon’s crowd-pleasing zinfandel offerings. There’s nothing like experiencing Paso’s present and past in one picturesque afternoon! Click here for mapping and directions to Bodega de Edgar and Click here for mapping and directions to Peachy Canyon
Discover Downtown Treasures
A day of back roads excursions should be capped with a lovely, leisurely lunch or dinner in downtown Paso Robles, where restaurants and tasting rooms are just steps away. January-April is an easy and relaxed time to explore downtown, where you’re never far from a new epicurean experience. Stop in to Bodegas Paso Robles, where Spanish and Portuguese varietals tantalize tired tastebuds. These exotic flavors are crafted with passion and innovation (don’t leave town without sipping on a few famous Tempranillo vintages). Peckish? Belly up to a casual community table at nearby Pappy McGregor’s, where the charcuterie platters are laden high with stilton, brie, manchego, grilled local sausage, marcona almonds, olives, and farmer’s market honey. Hear that? It’s the sound of your soul Click here for mapping and directions to Bodegas Paso Robles and Click here for mapping and directions to Pappy McGregors
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, 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.
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.
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.
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®
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.
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.
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.
