Paso Robles is a large AVA without much ocean influence, making it a warm climate growing region, albeit with some cooler micro climates located towards the southwestern sector where sea air enters via the Templeton Gap. On the north it is bounded by Monterey County, with San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties to the south. Daytime temperatures are quite warm through the growing season and a high degree of ripeness is consistently achieved. These are conditions that emphatically make this red wine country, and Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted varietal in the county with red Rhone varietals coming on strong in recent years.

Paso Robles reds tend to be quite rich and ripe with deep berry and chocolate flavors. Occasionally the wines can veer into over-ripeness with some bottlings showing stewed flavors. As a younger region, Paso Robles is still in many respects finding its way, yet its unique physical attributes should continue to make for large scaled, rustic leaning reds with a greater sense of refinement in the years to come.

Paso Robles’ history of wine production dates to the days of the Spanish Missionaries. The first vineyards were planted at Mission San Miguel Arcangel during the late 18th century. Prominent wineries include Tablas Creek, Justin, Saxum, and J. Lohr among others. (Wine/Appellations)