How to Prepare for a Wine Tasting Trip to Paso Robles

Paso Robles isn’t Napa. That’s the point. It’s easier, cheaper, and less polished—but the wine? Just as good.

If you’re planning your first trip (or second, or tenth), here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

1. Know Before You Go

Paso is hot. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and drink water between tastings. It’s not unusual to see temps hit 100°F by mid-afternoon.

Tastings range from $20–$40 for 4 to 6 pours. That’s a deal compared to a $20 single glass in San Francisco.

Some spots need reservations. Many wineries take walk-ins, but the popular ones—like DAOU or JUSTIN—book up fast. Plan ahead, especially on weekends.

Key Item: Paso Wine Passport

2. Get the Central Coast Wine Passport

Locals and regulars swear by it. For around $80, you get tastings at 30+ wineries. If you’re hitting more than 3 or 4 spots, it pays for itself fast.

3. Choose Wineries That Match Your Style

You’ve got options. Paso has over 200 wineries—and no, they’re not all the same.

For scenic views and great lunch:

• Calcareous – Hilltop views, fried chicken sandwich, wine dogs.

• Robert Hall – Excellent food and wine pairing, cool cavern tour.

  
  

For something different:

• Cass Winery – Offers archery, beekeeping, and sidecar tours through the vines.

• Tin City – A mix of small, experimental wineries, cider houses, and breweries all in one place.

  
  

For sustainability and dog lovers:

Don’t miss us!  Shale Oak Winery. The wines are great, the vibe is calm, and the whole property was designed with eco-friendly systems from the ground up. Oh—and your dog’s welcome, too.

Come see us at Shale Oak!

4. Pack Smart

• Wear comfy shoes. You’ll walk through vineyards, tasting rooms, and sometimes dirt paths.

• Dress in layers. It’s cool in the morning and can get blazing hot by 2pm.

• Don’t wear perfume. Scents mess with your ability to taste wine.

• Bring snacks or plan food stops. Some wineries have food, others don’t. A good rule: wine + no food = nap time.

5. Learn the Basics of Tasting

No need to act fancy, but knowing a few tips helps:

• Look. Hold the glass up. Red or white, it tells you age and clarity.

• Swirl. Gently. It adds oxygen and opens up aromas.

• Smell. Try to name one scent (fruit, spice, wood).

• Sip. Let it coat your tongue. Notice how it feels (light, bold, smooth, sharp).

• Spit (optional). Don’t feel weird spitting. If you’re doing more than 2–3 wineries, it’s smart.

  
  

6. Book a Tour If You Don’t Want to Drive

Uber isn’t always reliable out here. Wineries are spread out. If you plan to hit more than a couple spots, book a tour. Try:

• Vine Cycle – E-bike tasting with a sommelier at Justin.

• Third Wheel Tours – Sidecar rides through the vines.

• Wine shuttles – Easy way to hit a few spots without worrying about driving.

Plenty of Wine Shuttles Around to Avoid Drinking and Driving

7. Explore More Than Just Wine

There’s plenty to do between pours:

• Sensorio Field of Light – Outdoor light art installation, best at sunset.

• Paso Market Walk – Local shops, food stands, wine bars.

• Pickleball at Centennial Park – Great for all skill levels.

• Fish Gaucho or Finca – Local favorite restaurants worth a reservation.

  
  

8. Eat Well

Here are a few solid picks:

• Finca – Pork belly tacos and scallop ceviche.

• Cello at Allegretto – Mediterranean-style fine dining.

• Etto Pasta Bar – Affordable, local favorite in Tin City.

  
  

Don’t skip food. Wine hits harder without it.

9. Stay Cool (Literally and Figuratively)

Paso gets hot. And wine is dehydrating. Bring a refillable bottle and drink water between wineries. Seriously—it makes a difference.

Beat the Paso Heat and Don't Forget to Hydrate!

What to Wear

Paso is casual—but the weather swings hard. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons can hit 100°F, and some tasting rooms are in caves or cellars where it’s 60°F year-round.

Here’s what works:

• Layers. Start with a light shirt, add a sweater or denim jacket. Peel off as needed.

• Comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking on gravel, dirt, grass. Skip the heels.

• Sunglasses and a hat. It’s sunny most of the year.

• Avoid strong scents. Perfume or cologne interferes with wine tasting. Let the Syrah do the talking.

• Crossbody bag or small backpack. Easy to carry, hands free for wine glasses and photos.

  
  

You don’t have to dress up unless you want to. Most people are in smart-casual outfits—comfortable, cool, and ready for wine.

Planning your trip soon?

Come see what eco-friendly winemaking looks like in action. Shale Oak is all about good wine, good company, and staying grounded. Bring your dog. Check out our live music page. Bring your questions. We’ll pour the wine.