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10 things you must know before you visit California Wine Country.

by California LivingNapaPaso RoblesSanta BarbaraTemecula
  1. Most wine regions are pretty spread out, be sure to map out your trip and plan your route accordingly 
  2. Hire a driver! The last thing you want to worry about is a DD. Hire a driver to ensure your safety, full enjoyment and support local businesses 

3. Don’t plan more then 3 wineries per day. It’s important to not feel rushed and to fully enjoy each stop 

4. Call ahead and make appointments at each spot. To guarantee the perfect day, set up appointments ahead of time to avoid disappointment of being turned away from a full tasting room. (Plus with the current pandemic, most places are appointments only anyways) 

5. Book the proper time slots. The best wine tasting day includes a 10 am slot, a 12:30 wine and food pairing for lunch and a 3:30 to end the day. (Followed by dinner at a local restaurant) 

6. Be sure to either buy wine or leave a tip! For a simple tasting, I usually leave a $10 tip and for a tasting and tour I leave $20, but the best way to support is to buy wine and it’s a win win! 

7. Never tell the people pouring the wine that you don’t like the wine! This is their beloved sweat and tears you’re tasting! If you don’t like it, quietly dump and move to the next one. No need to express your disgust. 

8. Expect to spend a minimum of $35/ guest for a tasting. It’s definitely worth the splurge to book a tasting and tour, this can be up to $150/person. 

9. If you get the chance take your glass and stroll the vines. There’s nothing more magical then walking through the vineyards. 

10. Bring water! As amazing as wine is, it’s a dehydrator. Be sure to bring plenty of water so you are good to go the next day! 

 

If you’re planning a trip and not sure where to go, please don’t hesitate to reach out for recommendations! 

 

Check out my previous posts:

Solvang/ Santa Barbara

Paso Robles

Temecula 

Napa

 

Cheers! Cas- your personal Sommelier 

I’m Here To Keep You In The Know About All Things Vino!

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© 2023 By The Stem

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Plan a Perfect Getaway to Paso Robles

by Paso Robles

Paso Robles is located in central California, just a 3.5 hour drive north of Los Angeles. You can expect to find outstanding wine, beautiful sights, and hospitality that instantly makes you feel like family. See below for some of my winery recommendations and where to stay!

My first recommendation is Cass Winery. Not only is it an absolutely stunning property, but incredible wines! Here you can enjoy a Marsanne and Roussanne side by side, or sip on an estate Backbone Syrah and see with your own eyes where the name “Backbone” comes from.

They are always hosting a variety of events including Wednesday night dinners. I had the luxury of attending a Spanish themed wine dinner presented by Chef Charlie and owner Ted. If you get the chance, add one of these dinners to the top of your list!

And just when you thought Cass Winery couldn’t get any better… introducing the GENESEO INN. These modern villas are situated right in the middle of the vineyards and include a full breakfast served to your room every morning. Nothing like waking up with sun and a steaming cup of coffee in the middle of the vineyard!! If you are looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles, look no further than the Geneseo Inn for pure luxury and comfort.

Here’s a few more wineries to consider on your trip:

Chateau Margene is an adorable family owned winery with high quality wines. They do vineyard weddings on this stunning property. It’s the perfect place to sit and relax with a glass of wine. Visits are by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead to set something up!

I absolutely loved the estate Cabernet Sauvignon. Then we topped it off by walking through the vines and seeing the sustainable and biodynamic vineyards that the fruit came from.

If you’re looking for comfortable, urban tasting spot with incredible wines with a French influence, look no further than SEVEN OXEN.

Another amazing spot to add to your list is ONX WINES. This amazing vineyard grow so many unique wines and classic Paso GSMs.

Throughout the property, are many different “oasis” spots where you can sip among the vines with your crew. You can call ahead and reserve one of these stunning oasis spots to ensure the most relaxing and enjoyable sipping experience.

Paso Robles has so much to offer, it needs to move to the top of your list!!

Here’s a few more of my favorite spots to visit while you’re there!!

Daou Vineyards

Tablas Creek Vineyards

Adelaida Vineyards

Le Cuvier Winery

Pelletiere Estate

But, there’s more than 200 wineries in Paso Robles, so there’s many many more to explore!! Tell me if you visit any of my suggestions or comment your favorites below!!

Love, Cas- your personal Sommelier

I’m Here To Keep You In The Know About All Things Vino!

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Join my mailing list to receive weekly tips, inspiration, and industry highlights.

 

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© 2023 By The Stem

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