Viticulture & Enology

suited to planting a wide range of grape varietals and take pride in their diversity, and both boast of having over 60 varieties planted in their respective AVAs. Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary grape for Paso Robles (approximately 50 percent of total), with the remaining 50% focused on over twenty types of Rhône varietals (such as Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre), plus Zinfandel and other varieties. While the top Cabernet Sauvignons rival other areas in California, the grape diversity create a natural advantage for creative red and white wine blends, showcasing the personality of the area and the vintners. Zinfandel plantings were among the first in the Paso region, and it is still known as the heritage varietal of the region, which is similar to Sonoma. Sonoma County’s most popular wines are focused on single varietals, with the top three grapes making up 70% of the total – Chardonnay (27%), Pinot Noir (22%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (21%) – and the remaining 30% dispersed amongst other varietals well suited for the climates, including some iconic Zinfandels from Dry Creek and Alexander Valley of Sonoma.

EVENTS

The Paso Robles wine event scene offers an assortment of events for wine connoisseurs as well as curious new fans. The season typically kicks off in March with the Vintage Paso: Zinfandel Weekend, followed by the Paso Robles Wine Festival in May, then bookended with Harvest Wine Weekend in the fall. Throughout the year, there are always plenty of unique events, hosted by single or multiple wineries, and positioned around special themes, such 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 80’s, 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.

HISTORY

The first vines in Sonoma were planted in 1812 by Russian colonists, followed 40 years thereafter by the first major commercial winery, Buena Vista, which stands today as the oldest 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

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 Rhône wines and proprietary blends that have brought critical acclaim to the region, as well as smaller town and less urban atmosphere.

Whichever area you choose, I know you will not be disappointed in their offerings. 