popular wines are focused on single varietals, with the top three grapes making up 70% of the total â Chardonnay (27%), Pinot Noir (22%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (21%) â and the remaining 30% dispersed amongst other suited to planting a wide range of grape vari- varietals well suited for the climates, including etals and take pride in their diversity, and both some iconic Zinfandels from Dry Creek and boast of having over 60 varieties planted in their Alexander Valley of Sonoma. respective AVAs. Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary grape for Paso Robles (approximately EVENTS 50 percent of total), with the remaining 50% focused on over twenty types of RhĂ´ne varietals The Paso Robles wine event scene offers an (such as Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre), plus assortment of events for wine connoisseurs as Zinfandel and other varieties. While the top well as curious new fans. The season typically Cabernet Sauvignons rival other areas in Cal- kicks off in March with the Vintage Paso: Zinifornia, the grape diversity create a natural ad- fandel Weekend, followed by the Paso Robles vantage for creative red and white wine blends, Wine Festival in May, then bookended with showcasing the personality of the area and the Harvest Wine Weekend in the fall. Throughvintners. Zinfandel plantings were among the out the year, there are always plenty of unique first in the Paso region, and it is still known events, hosted by single or multiple wineries, as the heritage varietal of the region, which and positioned around special themes, such is similar to Sonoma. Sonoma Countyâs most as culinary, nautical, and animals, solving for a wide array of interests. Sonoma County has multiple showcase events, such as the Sonoma County Wine Auction, which raised over $6 Million in 2019 for local non-profits. Due to the beauty and easy access, Paso and Sonoma are popular wedding destinations, with affordable solutions to be found for savvy planners.
the award-winning wine from Napa Valley in the Judgement of Paris was from Sonoma. In the early 80âs, both Sonoma (1981) and Paso Robles (1983) established their official AVA boundaries. At that time, Paso Robles also established its signature event, the Paso Robles Wine Festival. Through the 1990s, there was a boon to California wine country with many acres planted, which was the same for Paso Robles and Sonoma. Then into the 2000s till today, smaller brands born out of the passion from young winemakers looking to start their journey has been where the growth lies. It is hard to believe that wine has been made in these counties for over two centuries, and while many things remain the same, recent developments in technology, hospitality and winemaking bring a new vision to the areas. CONCLUSION Paso Robles and Sonoma County share a number of common characteristics while also clearly providing unique attributes. They have striking similarities with rolling hillsides dotted with vineyards and oaks, hundreds of family-owned and operated wineries, a diverse selection of wines, and a laid-back yet welcoming style of hospitality.
It is important to mention that due to COVID-19 restrictions, large gatherings are currently on hold. Please be sure to check out the Paso Robles, Sonoma, and California wine region sites to learn more.
In Sonoma, you find a focus on both Burgundy and Bordeaux style wines, as well as closer proximity to bigger city urban life. In Paso Robles, you see the commonality in the production of Bordeaux wines, but a focus on world-class RhĂ´ne wines and proprietary HISTORY blends that have brought critical acclaim to the region, as well as smaller town and less The first vines in Sonoma were planted in urban atmosphere. 1812 by Russian colonists, followed 40 years thereafter by the first major commercial winery, Whichever area you choose, I know you will Buena Vista, which stands today as the oldest not be disappointed in their offerings. ďŽ functioning winery in California. Paso Robles has a similarly deep history, with Andrew York establishing Ascension Winery in 1882. Early on, both regions were known as excellent sources for high-quality fruit. A little-known fact is that a portion of the Chardonnay from CentralCoastJournal.com
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