Paso Robles Wine Country

By Jennifer Bravo

Spring is an exciting time to visit Paso Robles wine country. The vineyards have been pruned, groomed, and are beginning to bloom for a new vintage. The budding vines tint the hillsides in vibrant shades of green with wildflowers dancing between the rows. The air is crisp in the mornings while the bright sun warms the afternoons. There is great energy in the air.

This time of year, wineries begin releasing their newest vintages. With more than 200 wineries to choose from, dozens of wonderful restaurants, and many diverse activities to excite any visitor to Paso Robles wine country, it’s hard to know where to start your spring getaway. So, we’ve taken the guesswork out of planning your trip and crafted a lively itinerary just for you. If this is your first vacation to Paso Robles, we are confident it won’t be your last.

Day One

Whether you’re an avid Paso Robles visitor or a newbie to this world-class wine region, you will soon discover that there is something for every wine-loving traveler. They boast countless options for lodging, from budgetfriendly inns to full-service resorts, vineyard estates to tiny bungalows, deluxe RV properties to vintage trailers.

For this springy trip to Paso, consider staying at a modern hotel boutique located right in downtown Paso Robles, The Piccolo. Right across the street from the downtown park, this is the perfect location to enjoy the Spring Release Weekend downtown tasting, as well as enjoy all that the downtown tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants have to offer. Visit Piccolo’s rooftop bar for a panoramic view of Paso Robles while enjoying a glass of local wine.

The Paso Robles AVA (American Viticultural Area) is just over 600,000 acres—which is pretty big, right? But the way that the region is laid out makes it so that, no matter where you are staying, you are in very close proximity to a multitude of wineries, great food, and fun experiences. Since it’ll be your first evening in Paso, start by getting the lay of the land and vibe of the community by heading downtown, which is conveniently right out your front door.

Take in the fresh air while you stroll through the four-acre park, which is the centerpiece of downtown, and peruse the many charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. And then, it’ll be wine time! When is it not? Downtown Paso is home to more than 20 wine-tasting rooms. A few favorites include Sea Shell Cellars, Pianetta, CaliPaso, Copia, Hayseed & Husdon, Herman Story, Derby Wine Estates, Indigené Cellars, and the collective tasting space of the Paso Underground. After tasting at a spot or two, grab a table at Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ for dinner. Jeffry’s is a favorite local hangout in Paso Robles. Known for its “Wine Country Comfort Food,” Jeffry’s offers a wide variety of delicious house-smoked meats, signature sauces, and award-winning mac and cheese. Take a seat on the spacious outdoor patio around one of the fire pits and enjoy your soul-warming, scratchmade meal.

Local tip : Jeffry’s offers complimentary corkage on wines purchased from downtown Paso Robles tasting rooms. Grab a bottle while you are out tasting and enjoy!

Day Two

Take the backroads back to B & E Vineyard. This working horse and cattle ranch grows and produces lovely red blends, merlot, and cabernet. The rustic tasting room gives you the feel of the cowboy heritage that Paso Robles was built on. It's likely that one of the owners of the ranch will be pouring your wine for you while treating you to good old-fashioned hospitality.

A short drive away is the new kid on the block, Rava Wines + Events. The Ravas, a third-generation farming family, have taken their expertise into the cellar, crafting sparkling wines in the traditional “méthode champenoise” style. Experience this elegant winecountry venue and discover a blend of modern hospitality, fine wines, and your place for future celebrations. Taste through the exquisite wines of Rava on one of the many patios or at our preferred spot next to the pond. For lunch, share a generous cheese and charcuterie board or choose items from the seasonal food menu.

From Rava, head over to the neighboring vineyard and winery and an OG of Paso Robles Wine Country, Still Waters Vineyards. This is an oasis set atop a hill—with views for days, lush gardens, warm hospitality, and award-winning wines.

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