What to Know Before Wine Tasting in Paso Robles
By Ava Crouse
September 9, 2024
Planning a trip for wine tasting in Paso Robles can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming. With over 200 wineries and countless acres of vineyards to explore, it’s difficult to know where to start.
In this Paso Robles wine tasting guide we’ll cover everything you need to know before you go, from a brief history of the region and what makes the wine so special to where to stay and when to go. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
A brief history of Paso Robles
Spanish explorers first introduced wine to Paso Robles in the late 1700s. However, wine didn’t become commercialized until the late 1800s when Andrew York opened the first Paso Robles winery: York Mountain Winery. Several families migrated to the area for winemaking in the 1920s but quickly met hurdles due to Prohibition. Despite the federal government banning the sale of alcohol, Paso Robles as a wine region survived due to speakeasies and home winemaking.
It was during the 1920s that Ignacy Paderewski, a famous Polish pianist found his way to the region in search of the healing properties of Paso’s hot springs. Captivated by the region, he began to grow and make Petite Sirah and Zinfandel which would later win awards, and began to create a name for Paso Robles wine.
Paso Robles began to take its modern shape in the 1960s and 1970s when many of today’s legacy winemaking families planted their roots, including the first Cabernet Sauvignon vines. The region saw a significant expansion in the 1990s and early 2000s, with the Rhône Rangers introducing a variety of new varietals. Today, Paso Robles is known for its focus on distinctive terroirs, microclimates, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
What is so special about Paso Robles wine?
Paso Robles winemakers seek to produce wine that is known for quality and distinctive flavors, which is what has given Paso Robles a unique name. The region’s diverse microclimates, soil types, and range of elevation levels have allowed winemakers to create their own style of wine. Paso Robles wines are crafted to showcase the region's unique terroir.
At BENOM, what makes Paso Robles wine so special is the creative freedom of winemaking and the diversity of varietals and blends. Arnaud and Guillaume Fabre, owners of BENOM, originate from France, where winemaking has more restrictions and laws. Paso Robles is the “wild west” of winemaking where the vintner is allowed complete control over what they choose to grow and blend.
Paso Robles AVAs
Paso Robles, often perceived as a region split by the 101 highway into East and West, is much more intricate, with 11 distinct American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). In general, the East side tends to be warmer with less rainfall and has a topography that is overall easier to farm. Wines on the East side therefore are more fruit-forward and robust due to the higher heat they grow in.
In contrast, the West side of Paso Robles is closer to the coast and benefits from the cool breezes and fog that roll in from the Pacific. This area experiences greater temperature fluctuations between day and night, known as diurnal shifts, which contribute to the development of complex, balanced wines.
Here is a bit about the AVAs that BENOM sources from:
- Willow Creek: Located on the West side, the Willow Creek District is known for its rolling hills and steep, rocky soils, which provide excellent drainage and stress the vines, leading to lower yields but higher-quality grapes. The cooling marine influence, coupled with the unique limestone soils, makes this AVA ideal for Rhône varieties.
- Adelaida District: Also situated on the West side, the Adelaida District is characterized by its high elevation and diverse microclimates. The vineyards here are planted on steep slopes, with soils ranging from calcareous rock to shale. The region's altitude and proximity to the ocean create a cooler growing environment, which is perfect for producing complex and age-worthy wines.
- York Mountain: One of the smallest and coolest AVAs in Paso Robles, York Mountain is located just a few miles from the coast, at the region's western edge. This AVA benefits from significant maritime influence, with fog and cooler temperatures that extend the growing season. The result is wines with remarkable elegance and restraint.
When is the best time to go wine tasting in Paso Robles?
The best time to visit Paso Robles wineries is during the harvest season from September to November. You’ll get the chance to view the wine country in full action as production teams harvest their fruit and begin the winemaking process. Fall also tends to have more temperament conditions for outdoor tastings.
Another great time to visit is in the spring from March to May. You’ll be surrounded by rolling green hills and blooming vines and there are often several spring release events. You’ll also be able to enjoy cooler weather that is perfect for wine tasting.
Where to stay in Paso Robles for wine tasting
Much like the wine, Paso Robles has a wide variety of accommodations to suit different tastes. For a local experience, choose a boutique hotel in downtown Paso Robles, such as Hotel Cheval or the Piccolo. For a more immersive wine experience, stay at a vineyard hotel and wake up surrounded by vines. For nature lovers, there are several campgrounds or RV sites where you can enjoy the Central Coast’s natural beauty.
Important things to know about planning
What is the ideal wine-tasting itinerary for Paso Robles?
Plan for two to three tastings a day with time for lunch. This allows time to fully enjoy each winery without tiring your palate. Distances between wineries can be significant, so factor in travel time.
Do you need reservations?
Most Paso Robles wineries require reservations due to limited space and availability. It’s best to book in advance.
Should you hire a driver?
It is recommended to hire a driver, especially if you plan to visit several wineries. If you prefer to be able to walk from location to location, visit us in Tin City!
How much time do you need to plan between wineries?
This largely depends on which wineries you plan to visit and the distance between them. Typically a tasting lasts an hour to an hour and a half, but you should check with the winery first or allow ample time between tastings.
What to wear to wineries in Paso Robles
Comfort is key. Mornings and evenings in Paso Robles can be cool, even during summertime, so wear layers. Be mindful if you will be tasting outside and dress accordingly. And if you’re booking a vineyard tour, choose shoes that are suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
What is there to do in Paso Robles other than wine tasting?
While Paso Robles is renowned for its wine, there’s plenty more to explore. The region has world-class restaurants, such as Les Petites Canailles and Il Cortile Ristorante, where you can enjoy a meal paired with local wines.
To explore the area's history and art culture, visit Hearst Castle or Sensorio. And if you love being surrounded by nature, enjoy the Central Coast’s miles of beaches and rolling hills with several hiking trails. Lastly, don’t forget the hot springs that first drew visitors to Paso Robles centuries ago!
Time to start planning!
Now that you have the basic information for wine tasting in Paso Robles, all that is left is to choose your wineries and pack your bags! Paso Robles will not disappoint from wine to suit every taste to the beauty that will surround you. Happy planning!