Paso Robles Wine Country: A Hidden Gem
Located in between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Paso Robles wine country is found in the area commonly referred to as the California Central Coastal region. The Paso Robles vineyards are all found approximately 20 miles away from the Pacific Ocean. The ocean, coupled with the Santa Lucia Mountain Range and the limestone clay, provides for the ideal growing conditions for the wineries in Paso Robles. The cool nights and the hot days result in the perfect Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Merlot grapes. The Paso Robles wine country contains about 60 wineries and is the third largest appellation in California.
Enjoying Paso Robles Wine
For those who enjoy Zinfandel and Syrah, the Dover Canyon microbrewery is a must stop. The wines here are made from grapes grown in the Templeton Gap, Willow Creek, and Adelaida microclimates of the Paso Robles wine country. In addition, they make small quantities of Roussanne, Viogneir, and Rhone blends. Several of the exceptional wineries in Paso Robles can be found along the main thoroughfare, but a trip off the beaten path can lead to multiple small family owned vineyards, many of which offer tasting and tours.
Unique to the Paso Robles wine country is the Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association, which banded in 1993. This non-profit organization works toward promoting Paso Robles wine region, which is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the country. Every March, the Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association holds a Zinfandel Festival. This one of a kind event helps bring together all of the California Zinfandel producers and aficionados for special evening of wine and food based around the celebration of this outstanding wine.
Other Attractions in Paso Robles Wine Country
The natural beauty of the Paso Robles wine country is unsurpassed, including two gorgeous lakes: Lake San Antonio and Lake Nacimiento. Boating, fishing, water skiing, and camping are all available at the lakes. There are also three 18 hole golf courses available in Paso Robles.
A visit to the Paso Robles wine country would not be complete with visiting its hot sulfur springs. Many visitors flocked to Paso Robles in the 19th and 20th Centuries to take advantage of what they felt were the curative powers of these geothermal waters. Today, many geothermal spas are still open for guests to experience the powers for themselves. The nearby Hearst Castle is also worth a visit. This historical monument offers a variety of tours through the gorgeous rooms of the castles as well as its stuning gardens.
