Paso Robles Wine

Paso Robes is the largest AVA in the San Luis Obispo County. Its northern boundary follows the San Luis Obispo and Monterey County line. The southern boundary is less defined but does come close to the town of San Luis Obispo and the neighboring Edna Valley AVA. To the east are the Coastal Mountain Ranges with the Santa Lucia Range in the west shielding much of the region from coastal influences. Most of the region has a warm inland climate although the Templeton Gap does let some coastal influence seep into western parts of the region allowing cool climate varieties to be grown. Multiple soils have been identified in Paso Robles. The majority are deep and well drained suiting quality viticulture.

There are many terroir differences in this vast region. Most of the grapes are grown in the dry inland climate of the eastern half of the AVA where full-bodied styles result. Wines often display rich fruit flavors and soft tannins due to the warmer climate. Here Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel are the most widely planted but many other varieties flourish. These grapes when grown in western cooler parts of Paso Robles have more acidity and noticeable tannins; which are the key ingredients to enabling the wines to age longer. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from western Paso also have a fine reputation.