Enjoy a Green February in Paso at these 5 Haunts
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, like Peachy 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.
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
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Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals