When it comes to SLO CAL activities, an endless amount of options are available, with no two itineraries ever looking the same. But there’s one selection that makes it onto most visitors’ lists—wine tasting. Is sipping a glass of local wine on your must-do list?
With more than 250 wineries spread among two major wine grape-growing regions—Paso Robles and the San Luis Obispo wine country—SLO CAL offers a variety of tasting experiences. More than 40 wine grape varieties grow in SLO CAL, producing internationally acclaimed wines that can be sampled at more than 100 tasting rooms, each with its own character and vibe. Designated wine trails and clustered tasting rooms make it easy to explore SLO CAL’s wineries, whether for an afternoon or a long weekend of tasting.
From boutique wineries to large producers, SLO CAL hospitality welcomes you in and invites you to linger. You’ll feel right at home, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply beginning the journey of discovering wines. Whatever level of wine knowledge you may have, there’s no rush to leave. And why would you want to? Views of rolling vine-covered hills entice you to relax. Uncrowded roads encourage exploration. Pack a picnic, and lunch among the vines. Feeling adventurous? Check out zip lining or cycling through the vines. Sometimes, the best approach is to just sit back and savor the moment.
Over 30 wineries are located in Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande viticulture areas, less than five miles from the Pacific Ocean. The coastal marine air greatly shapes the wines of California’s coolest wine-growing region as does the varied marine topography of fossilized shells, shale and sand. With twenty varieties grown, led by Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, you'll find unique exuberance and energetic acidity in the handcrafted wines of the SLO Coast. Learn more at SLOCoastWine.com.
Having been named Sunset Magazine’s “Best Wine Region in the West” and “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast magazine, Paso Robles is a favorite among wine travelers. Paso Robles’ warm days and cool nights provide the optimal growing conditions to produce over 60 winegrape varieties. Paso Robles boasts critically-acclaimed diversity from Albarino to Zinfandel as well as Rhône and Bordeaux varietals and blends. Wine-related events happen most every weekend in Paso Robles, including several major festivals like Vintage Paso’s Zinfandel in March, the signature Paso Robles Wine Festival in May, Hospice du Rhône in April and Harvest Wine Weekend in October. Learn more at PasoWine.com.
