Paso Robles Regions

Paso Robles lies midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. It’s in the heartland of the San Luis Obispo Coast District, also known as the SLO Coast.

Despite being only 30 miles (50 km) by 40 miles (65 km) in size, this small region contains most of the different grape-growing climates that we see throughout the world. This means that they can grow everything from Pinot Noir to Zinfandel!

Coastal Paso Robles

Areas in Paso Robles that are closer to the Pacific Ocean are cooler, wetter, windier, and even may see marine fog.

This is where you’ll find wines with higher levels of acidity and freshness, along with grape varieties that like it cool, like Pinot Noir. Some examples of sub-AVAs that are close to the ocean are the Adelaida District, Templeton Gap District, York Mountain, and Willow Creek District.

Paso Robles Inland

As you move further inland, it gets hotter and drier, but the difference between day and night temperatures (diurnal shift) is much greater.

This means you’ll find full-bodied wines, but they will also have a freshness about them due to this swing in temperature. The Estrella District, San Juan Creek, and Creston District are examples of these warmer areas.

Lots of variation in style and variety depending on where you are in Paso, but no matter what, these wines will have a backbone of freshness that will surprise you in such a warm climate.

Paso Robles Wine Region Facts

• 41,000 acres (16,500 ha) of vineyards are planted in the region.
• 64 different grape varieties are planted in Paso.
• There are over 200 wineries throughout the region.
• There have been vineyards here since 1882.
• Paso Robles AVA was established in 1983.
• The most planted grape variety is Cabernet Sauvignon.
• The 11 sub-districts of Paso Robles were established in 2014.
• Though Paso is an inland AVA, one point is only 6 miles from the ocean.
• Paso Robles is one of the few places in California with Limestone soils.

SOURCES

♦ Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance