Paso Robles California
We stopped at Paso Robles, California, on the way down to Morro Bay after Christmas. We had some time to kill before checking into the State Park, and we were really looking forward to wandering the town as the map showed several wine tasting rooms.
From my research, this was what I was expecting: from https://pasoroblesdowntown.org/
Taste some wines, stay and dine, and have a fine time … in downtown Paso Robles! Over 12 wineries downtown.
Situated in the heart of the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area in
California wine country, find out why Paso Robles is being hailed as the state’s next up-and-coming wine region. Coined “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast as its 2013 Wine Star Award winner, discover why tourists and visitors from across the nation are calling Paso their go-to wine destination. With more than 15 wineries situated downtown to suit your wine tasting needs, come and meet the winemakers, mingle with the farmers, stop, dine, and taste some wine in downtown Paso Robles!
California wine country, find out why Paso Robles is being hailed as the state’s next up-and-coming wine region. Coined “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast as its 2013 Wine Star Award winner, discover why tourists and visitors from across the nation are calling Paso their go-to wine destination. With more than 15 wineries situated downtown to suit your wine tasting needs, come and meet the winemakers, mingle with the farmers, stop, dine, and taste some wine in downtown Paso Robles!Sounds fun – right? Well, I have to say we were a bit disappointed to find out that some are closed on Tuesdays (the day we were there) and others didn’t open until 3 pm – long after we left. This was the week after Christmas, vacation time in the tourist world. But there were a few open and we checked them out.
Our first stop was the Visitors Center, and we asked for some recommendations. She didn’t really have any, and couldn’t find an easy map to follow, but I was able to find out the area to look. She did suggest The Rabbit Hole as it was fun. So off we went on our adventure.
Wine Tasting
When you walk into The Rabbit Hole tasting room, it was like walking into Alice in Wonderland, following the rabbit theme. This includes the gifts offered for sale. Great idea! There was only one person in the tasting room tasting, and the employee (or owner?). I walked up to the bar and wasn’t even acknowledged. So I decided I wasn’t going to beg them to take my money. Off we went to the next stop.
We then walked into Grizzly Republic Wines. I was looking forward to the California label theme and what they had to offer. This wine tasting room, which was open (at least the door was), had no one there in the bar. I waited a few minutes and tried to call out to the room in the back, but no response. We left and continued on our adventure.
Then I found a friendly and fun tasting room – my favorite of the area – Pianetta Winery. Not only did they greet me with a friendly smile, but they were also great about explaining their tasting. And a great selling point was that they had many for me to choose from, and if I purchased a bottle, my tasting fee was waived. Our server was great and I truly enjoyed the experience. And bought their 2014 Pianetta Sangiovese. I highly recommend this winery.
Hopefully one day we can return during a busier time of year and try some of the other wineries, but it was a fun day, in spite of the lack of open businesses. There were a few stores that we wandered into. We did stumble onto a couple of shops with a unique selection of products. And several local eateries were located throughout the downtown area. They looked like there was something to satisfy the foodie in just about anyone.
About Paso Robles
Welcome to Paso Robles, California – a hidden gem located in the heart of San Luis Obispo County and home to some of the finest wineries and vineyards in the state. Paso Robles sits at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains and offers visitors an array of outdoor activities, as well as some of the best restaurants and tasting rooms in the area. From hiking and biking trails to picturesque vineyards and relaxing hot springs, this charming town is sure to enchant travelers of all ages!
Located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Paso Robles is a city that embodies the charm and majesty of California’s Central Coast. Meaning, “Pass of the Oaks” in Spanish, the city is named for the picturesque hills and mighty oak trees that characterize its landscape.
One of the best things about Paso Robles is its abundance of award-winning wineries and vineyards. Whether you prefer a light Pinot Noir or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, you’re sure to find something that pleases your palate amidst the many tasting rooms in downtown Paso Robles. Spend an afternoon touring some of these delightful wineries and enjoy their delicious wines alongside gourmet cheeses from local artisans. Many of these establishments also host live music events during weekends so don’t forget to check out their upcoming events for a fun night out!
Of course, wine isn’t all that Paso Robles has to offer – there are plenty more fun activities for families with kids, couples looking for romance, or those seeking solo adventure. Explore nearby lakes such as Lake Nacimiento or Whale Rock Reservoir for fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and camping; take an exhilarating hike through nearby hills; or simply enjoy a picnic lunch on one of Paso’s tranquil beaches overlooking rolling hillsides dotted with olive groves. Golfing, galleries, outdoor concerts, the Pioneer Museum, and of course Hearst Castle are all local attractions.
When it comes time to refuel after exploring all day – make sure to pay a visit to one of downtown’s renowned eateries where some serve up farm-to-table cuisine featuring only fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms and ranches around San Luis Obispo County.
