Oh, Paso — Off the beaten path in Paso Robles, CA


I've been visiting Paso Robles on the stunning central coast of California at least twice a year for about seven years now. And each time, I discover new wineries. There are currently over 200 wineries in the area, many of them smaller boutique operations. Unlike Napa, it's still quite common to walk into a tasting room and be greeted by the owner or winemaker and have them walk you through their wines personally.

There are a number of gems in the area, but this blog post isn't about those. It's about the handful of hidden spots a little further off the traditional wine trails. Our first stop? The fabulous Via Vega. Open most weekends, winemaker Larry is a legend and the reason we keep coming back visit after visit. Ask him about the Giants this season. Or anything at all, really. He's hilarious, genuine and passionate. They sell big reds for fair prices. I especially enjoy their Los Amigos and La Perla wines, and if you ask nicely, they'll even let you into their airstream.


Next, we're heading to Mitchella. Hiding in the shadow of Robert Hall, this is a great spot for a picnic lunch. Plus, they have swings. Adult-friendly swings Adult-friendly swings next to the vineyard. It's a pretty idyllic spot and that's before you even have their wines. If the swings aren't incentive enough (can you tell, I liked the swings?!), they usually offer free local cheese pairings with their wine tasting fee (which is, like most places in Paso, waived with bottle purchase.)


Finally, let's go to Onx. Open by appointment only, the vineyard tour is the finest I've been on in Paso. Their reds are interesting, (my hubby fell in love with their zin,) and they make a fabulous rosé. It's a tiny operation with just a handful of dedicated employees. The off-road tour felt like a mini safari, and tasting the wine in the actual vineyards where the grapes grew was a wonderful experience.


The wine pours in Paso are generous, to say the least, so, stay safe, wine friends. I always use the amazing Rick from Destination Drivers when in town. Happy sipping!



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