The Paso Robles Wine Region is quickly becoming a hot spot for wine tasting and vineyard tours, and autumn is one of the busiest times of year. Wine lovers from all over are able to take pleasure in celebrating a new vintage being born during this special time in Paso known as, Harvest!

One of the best things about touring Paso Robles Wine Country is the opportunity to converse and taste with the owners and winemakers themselves. If you’re lucky enough, you might even run into them fresh off the vineyard and chat with them about the latest vintage.

While spontaneity is encouraged in Paso Robles, planning ahead will ensure you are able to make the most of your wine country experience.

Here are some tips to consider on your next visit to Paso Robles… whether it is during harvest, or any other time of year.

Tour Brochure 

First and foremost, always bring your Paso Robles Wine Country Tour Brochure. It is a wonderful tool to use when planning an excursion. Wineries list hours of operation, special tours and tastings, as well as if they have picnic areas and light fare for sale.  This piece lists over 110 tasting rooms with phone numbers and addresses, and has a tri-fold map.

Vineyard & Winery Tours

Call 24 to 48 hours in advance to set up a special tour and tasting.  This will make your visit unforgettable and give your palate a break between tasting rooms!  Most wineries and vineyards are happy to accommodate you and this is an exciting way to learn about Paso Robles while you taste wine.

Make an Appointment

When visiting multiple wineries, it is recommended that you make an appointment so the tasting room is prepared to accommodate you.  This is especially important when you have groups of seven or more.  If you are going to be late, make sure to call the next winery.  Most tasting rooms will allow you to use their phone if you do not have cellular reception.

Transportation in Advance

Always remember to designate a driver or plan for a taxi, limo or tour bus to take you through Paso Robles Wine Country. The country roads of Paso Robles can be windy and narrow.  Enough said.

Lunch in the Vineyard 

Many wineries, vineyards and tasting rooms have picnic areas, set on the gorgeous backdrop of Paso Robles.  Plan to pack a picnic, or refer to your Paso Robles Tour Brochure to see who has light fare picnic items for sale in their tasting rooms.  Many downtown restaurants also offer lunches to go.

Plan for the Weather

Paso Robles often experiences hot days and cool nights during the months of May – October.  Remember that barrel rooms and cellars are temperature controlled, so bring a sweater.

Drink plenty of water! 

You will be walking and tasting a lot of wine, so staying hydrated is important.  Although wineries often offer water, it is smart to take some along with you at the beginning of the day.

Responsible Tasting 

The four S’s are “Swirl, Smell, Sip and Spit.” This tip is very important, and this practice is a great way to taste a lot of different wines.  Remember, you’re tasting, not drinking – and this is the only way to keep your palate fresh.

Visit pasowine.com.