Roaming Paso Robles

New to Wine Tasting? Don’t worry, I Got Ya

October 4, 2023 Kelly33

3 Pro Tips for Wine Tasting

Kelly Simmerman

Most of us didn’t grow up in a wine-tasting environment, so there is always that first time, and trust me, you’ll never forget the experience.

I remember the first time I and a friend ventured into a wine-tasting room. We felt like a pair of lost penguins at a ballroom dance class. The woman pouring the wine swirled her glass elegantly, detecting aromas like a wine wizard, so we also tried to swirl. But that didn’t work out as I spilled the white wine on my shoes. With all the confidence of a toddler in a tiara, we took our first sip and tried to look sophisticated, but our taste buds were having a carnival. “Is that a hint of blackberry or a ninja raspberry?” we wondered, trying desperately to keep straight faces. We nodded appreciatively to the sommelier, though we secretly suspected that our palates were on vacation in a parallel universe.

That was a number of years ago before I became a wine sommelier. I wanted to know the difference between a cab suav and a cab franc. I thought that I might get into the wine business. Turns out I like tasting, drinking, and writing about wine.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to go to the wine country and taste wine, then you absolutely must. And, of course, I recommend Paso Robles, but I might be a tad biased. Along with some sensible shoes and a light sweater, here are a few wine-tasting tips to take with you.

Pro Tip 1: Use Your Senses

Sight: Begin by observing the wine’s appearance. Tilt the glass against a white background to assess its color, clarity, and viscosity. A young red wine might be vibrant, while an older one could be more brick colored.

Smell: Gently swirl the wine in your glass to release its aromas. Put your nose into the glass and take in the scents. Try to identify fruit, floral, herbal, and other nuanced notes.

Taste: Take a small sip and let it roll across your palate. Notice the initial flavors, how it evolves, and then the finish.

Photo by Alexandra Marta

Pay attention to acidity. Acidity creates a puckering or tingling sensation on the sides of your tongue and around your mouth. It’s akin to the feeling you get when you eat something sour. You should also pay attention to sweetness and, for red wines, tannins.

Tannins are a type of polyphenol, which are compounds found in plants. They act as a natural preservative and provide structure to the wine. They give the wine its backbone and contribute to its texture and mouthfeel. When the tannins are out of balance, they taste bitter and create an astringent sensation in the mouth. This is often described as a feeling of dryness or puckering on the palate. This sensation is similar to what you might experience when drinking strong tea.

Pro Tip 2: Ask Questions and Engage

Don’t hesitate to ask the tasting room staff questions. They’re often very knowledgeable and can provide insights about the wines, the winemaking process, and even food pairings. Engage in conversation, share your impressions, and be open to their recommendations.

Wine tasting is a subjective experience. Your preferences and interpretations are unique to you, so trust your palate and enjoy the journey.

Pro Tip 3: Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Drinking water in between tastings helps cleanse your palate and keeps you refreshed. Additionally, having some snacks or light food can enhance your tasting experience and prevent the effects of alcohol from setting in too quickly.

Bonus Tip: Practice Moderation

It’s easy to get carried away, especially at a winery with numerous wines to try. To fully appreciate each wine, take small sips and consider using a spittoon if available. This allows you to maintain your palate’s sensitivity and enjoy the experience for longer.

Before you know it, you’ll be speaking in haikus about tannins and terroir, sipping and swirling, and uncovering the mysteries of the wine universe. Cheers!

Yay Paso Robles Wine Country!

5 Indie Bookstores In and Around Paso Robles

August 2, 2023 Kelly33

Kelly Simmerman

Ah, independent bookstores, those delightful sanctuaries for bookworms and bibliophiles alike! Welcome to the enchanting world of independent bookstores, where literary wonders and whimsy unite. Stepping into one is like entering a realm of literary treasures and eccentric characters. You never know what you might stumble upon – a hidden gem tucked between the shelves or a quirky store owner recommending a book that’s so obscure you wonder if it even exists outside the confines of this magical store.

How about that intoxicating smell of old books that hits you like a nostalgic wave? It’s like the perfume of a well-read adventurer, and you can’t help but take a deep breath, embracing the musty scent like the bouquet of fine wine. The stacks of books seem to whisper ancient secrets and tales of worlds far, far away. And when you think you’ve seen it all, you discover a shelf labeled “Oddities and Curiosities,” where books with titles like 101 Ways to Knit Socks for Your Pet Rock reside. Who even knew that was a thing?

And let’s not forget about the ambiance. The creaky wooden floors sing stories of countless footsteps over the years, and the cozy nooks invite you to curl up with a book.

Here are five local independent bookstores in and around Paso:

Spare Time Books If you like a bookstore that is floor-to-ceiling, chock full of books, this is the place for you. They mainly focus on used books and have a brilliant program where one can read and turn the book back in for credit. Online, they offer mystery book boxes that focus on genres like romance, vintage classics, or your favorite genre. 945 12th Street, Paso Robles.

Book Odyssey Book Odyssey is a delightful bookstore in Atascadero and is just a short distance from Paso Robles. They offer both new and well-priced used books. They are super friendly but give you plenty of space to be with the books. 1855 El Camino Real, Atascadero.

Phoenix Books This is a fabulous used bookstore with a ton of titles and plenty of downtown San Luis Obispo charm. The more you explore, the more you’ll be amazed. It’s in a perfect location and has lots of variety. 986 Monterrey Street, San Luis Obispo.

Coalesce Bookstore and More This store is packed with books but organized and comfortable, with a beautiful garden oasis in the back. It features new and used books and is wonderfully situated in the middle of town among other cool shops. It’s cozy, eclectic, and ideal. 845 Main Street, Morro Bay.

Volumes of Pleasure Book Shoppe This little gem is a diverse store in the small town of Los Osos on the Central Coast. They have made it their goal to carry as wide a variety of books, gifts, jewelry, and spiritual and holistic supplies as will fit within their walls. 1016 Los Osos Valley Rd, Los Osos.

Independent bookstores are a rare breed, keeping the spirit of reading alive one dog-eared page at a time. So next time you find yourself in one of these treasure troves, take a moment to savor the charm, the characters, and the stories that only an independent bookstore can deliver. Happy reading, fellow book adventurers!

Paso Robles, California: A Haven for Wine Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers

February 20, 2023 Kelly33

Ranchero Cellars located in the Paso Underground

In the heart of California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles is a charming city known for its warm hospitality, picturesque vineyards, and scenic landscapes. It is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to escape city life and immerse themselves in nature, adventure, and (of course) wine. This blog will explore what makes Paso Robles such a special place and why it should be on your travel bucket list.

Wine Tasting and Vineyards

Paso Robles is home to over 250 wineries, making it one of the fastest-growing wine regions in California. The area is famous for producing some of the best red wines in the world, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah, and many Rhone varietals. Most of the wineries offer wine-tasting tours and guided visits of their vineyards. Visitors can learn about the wine-making process, sample different wines, and even take home a bottle or two as souvenirs. Some of the most popular wineries in Paso Robles include Justin Vineyards and Winery, Sea Shell Cellars, Eberle Winery, and J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines.

Outdoor Activities

Paso Robles is not just about wine; it’s also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Natural beauty surrounds the city, from rolling hills and oak-studded meadows to scenic lakes and rivers. For a nice 2-mile morning walk, try the Montbello Oaks Open Space Trail. For a fairly easy bike ride from downtown City Park, make your way north to J. Lohr Winery for a tasting and back during this 15-mile round-trip ride on mostly flat terrain. You’ll pass Allegretto Vineyard and Resort and also CaliPaso Winery and Villa. You’ll want to avoid biking on CA-46, so check maps before you go.

Another must-see attraction is Lake Nacimiento, which is located just a short drive from downtown Paso Robles. The lake offers a range of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Plenty of picnic areas and campgrounds allow visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Art and Culture

Paso Robles is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city has many art galleries, museums, and cultural events throughout the year. The Studios on the Park is a popular destination for art lovers, where they can see various contemporary art pieces and meet local artists. Visiting both Park Street Gallery and Laure Carlisle Art Studio & Gallery is always fun. The Paso Robles Pioneer Museum is another must-see attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the region.

Food and Drink

Paso Robles is not just about wine; it’s also becoming a foodie’s paradise. The city has a range of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that offer delicious cuisine from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy everything from farm-to-table meals to gourmet food trucks, as well as locally sourced ingredients and artisanal products. Some of the most popular restaurants in Paso Robles include The Hatch Rotisserie and Bar, Thomas Hill Organics, TASTE! craft eatery, and The Range.

Final Thoughts
Paso Robles is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, nature lover, or art lover, this city will leave a lasting impression. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious food and drink, it’s no wonder that Paso Robles has become a must-visit destination on the Central Coast. So, if you’re looking for a memorable experience, be sure to add Paso Robles to your travel bucket list.

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Paso Robles

February 22, 2022 Kelly33

Kelly Simmerman

I know many of you out there have been happily vegan for years, and many of you have absolutely no intention of going vegan at all. A few years ago, my partner and I tried going vegan and decided to have a heavy veggie diet instead of fully vegan. In any case, doctors’ recommendations point us in one clear direction. To be healthier, we should eat more plant-based foods.

With local farms abound and the neighboring Salad Bowl of the World to the north in Salinas Valley, CA, our Paso Robles chefs have bountiful resources at their fingertips to create fresh, flavorful, and innovative dishes focused on plant-based ingredients. I thought I’d spotlight a few.

Here you go! Get to Paso and enjoy these vegan and vegetarian yummy spots.

Ziggy’s, originally from San Luis Obispo, opened a restaurant in Paso in January 2022. We can’t be more thrilled! Ziggy’s just wants to make GOOD FOOD… that is less impactful on the environment. With no judgment and no agenda, they strive to provide a positive and inclusive environment. Co-owners, Matt Martinez and Brian Englund wanted to open a restaurant “they would want to eat at,” says Martinez.

Their menu is diverse, but we know them for their homemade Ziggy patty made from black and pinto beans, carrots, corn, bell peppers, and spices. It’s delicious, and they serve it with their hand-dipped onion strings. Don’t pass on their shakes, either. They have chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, made from coconut, cashews, oats, and almonds, from Scoop the Magic. Scoop the Magic is a woman-owned, San Luis Obispo based non-dairy dessert brand.

Ziggy’s also has tacos, breakfast burritos, and salads. My favorite is the Kale Salad with red & green cabbage, lightly tossed in ranch dressing. I love to add the avocado egg rolls and wash it all down with their homemade ginger lemonade.

1227 Pine St, Paso Robles (805) 221-5999

The Vreamery located inside the Paso Market Walk is a non-dairy gold mine. Make this your first stop when staying in Paso.

A Vegan Cheese Shop and Melt Bar, they curate dozens of artisan vegan cheeses crafted by the best small-batch makers nationwide. The Vreamery serves seasonal and scratch-made fare, including signature sandwiches, bagels and sides, custom curated grazing boxes, vegan grab-and-go, and fun vegan cheese-making kits.

The Vreamery started in 2018 and quickly expanded into multiple San Luis Obispo area farmer’s markets and health food stores with their signature cashew cream line. In late 2018, owner Jennifer Golden attended PLANTLAB, an international Raw Vegan Culinary Academy, where she further expanded her education with culturing, vegan cheese making, and raw food preparation.

In August 2020, The Vreamery opened its first storefront at the Paso Market Walk Public Market, becoming the third vegan cheese shop in the United States to showcase a variety of small-batch, plant-based artisan vegan cheese makers from all over the country.

The Paso Market Walk is a perfect location if you have vegans, vegetarians, or all other eating choices in your group. Having several restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

1815 Spring St, Paso Robles (805) 423-5835

Check out The Neighborhood for more than just acai bowls. They also have healthful and delicious plant-based lunch options and fresh juices. They focus on superfoods, which are nutritionally dense foods that provide powerful sources of antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and other health-promoting properties.

I’m a sucker for beet juice, so I tried their I ♥ Beets that has, of course, beets with apple, celery, cilantro, and lime. And yes, it holds up. They also have plant-based wraps, salads, avocado toast, and a matcha waffle to round out the menu.

811 13th St, Paso Robles (805) 369-2119

Red Scooter Deli is tiny but mighty with a huge menu and their items pack tons of flavor. Seriously, I can’t believe everything they offer, including delicious vegetarian and vegan options. My favorite is the veggie wrap with house-made peanut sauce.

If you’re on the go, they have breakfast boxes that include your choice of a tofu breakfast wrap, Fauxy Loxy bagel sandwich, or oatmeal. Plus, a fresh-baked scone and fresh fruit cup. I love the fact that they have biodegradable cutlery served in a compostable box.

This is my go-to place to pick up wraps and snacks for a day of wine tasting out in Paso’s gorgeous wine country.

1102 Pine St, Paso Robles (805) 237-1780

Finally, if you have a hankering for a pizza, try Rustic Fire and Blaze. They both have veggie pizzas with vegan cheese. Blaze now has vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO chorizo. Way to go, Blaze!

Rustic Fire 1145 24th St D, Paso Robles (805) 238-7711

Blaze 2051-A, Theatre Dr, Paso Robles (805) 825-2002

I’m sure you’ll love these vegan and vegetarian options in Paso Robles as much as I have! Hope to see you at one of these amazing restaurants.

5 Best Paso Robles Wineries

February 10, 2022 Kelly33

Kelly Simmerman

Wine, oh Yes, the Wine!

Paso Robles is quickly becoming a wine growing and wine making California superstar. Located in the Central Coast area halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso keeps its friendly small town feel but boasts world class wines.

Recently, I learned that Paso Robles is actually the biggest AVA (American Viticultural Area) in California, but it is quite distinct in its characteristics. Unlike the warm and steady weather seen in most of California’s wine-growing regions, in Paso Robles, you’ll find that the average daytime temperature fluctuates more than any other California appellation.

Some popular wines you may have heard of like Las Tablas Creek and Justin, but there are so many more. Paso has over 250 wineries and is growing every day. Here is my short list (for today) though it was hard to narrow it down. My pick five Paso Robles wineries will include some biggies and some boutique-ies. Any great winetasting journey should include as diverse and representative a sample as possible! I’m basing my decision on the wine, of course, but also the wine tasting experience.

Keep in mind, tasting room fees and the prices of wine are going up everywhere. I’m posting this February, 2022. (Still in the pandemic. Get reservations or you may be turned away.)

Adelaida Vineyards—I’ll start with one of my favorites for many years. Yes, Adelaida used to be one of the small guys, but they have grown year over year because of their superior wines. They can also boast the fact that they are one of the Paso Robles original wine growers and winemakers.

In 1964, Dr. Stanley Hoffman planted the first Pinot Noir in the craggy hillside terrain of what is now the HMR Vineyard in Paso Robles’ Adelaida District. Dr. Hoffman planted some of the region’s first Cabernet Sauvignon vines and continued in 1973 to plant Chardonnay in the HMR Vineyard.

If you start your wine tasting journey with Adelaida, you’re setting a pretty high bar. It’s a classy place with estate grown, vineyard driven wines. I recommend getting a tasting out on their upper deck. The sweeping views of the Walnut orchard and vineyard are breathtaking, and in the summer, there’s always a nice breeze up there. Their tasting room is about ten minutes from downtown Paso Robles on Adelaida Road.

Insider’s hint: There are 2 Tesla and 1 standard EV charger in the front parking lot.

The basic tasting experience is $25 per person, and free to members.

Denner Vineyards—After traveling the state for years, searching for the perfect piece of dirt to grow grapes that would produce highly acclaimed wines, Ron Denner finally found exactly what he was looking for in the far western reaches of Paso Robles. He began planting the first few acres in 1999, which has now grown to a total of 130-acres, consisting of s 20 different grape varieties and counting.

Aron Nevarez, their Vineyard Manager since 2005, has had complete control of all vineyard operations, including the designing and planting of the 12 acres surrounding the winery. He is committed to environmentally friendly farming practices, using only sustainable inputs and minimal irrigation. Aron’s hands-on approach and years of experience with the vineyard allow him to produce the quality fruit Denner is known for harvest after harvest.

It’s hard to decide whether it’s nicer inside Denner’s tasting room or outside on their patio. I usually opt for outside. In the cooler months, they have several outside fireplaces to cozy around. In the summer, shade and a nice breeze do the trick. If you’re lucky, Ron, the owner, will stop by your table for a chat.

Insider’s hint: He loves ice hockey!

Tasting fee is $30 and is waived when you purchase one bottle.

Ranchero Cellars—We actually met Amy Butler, owner and winemaker at Ranchero, before we even tasted her wines. We were invited to a neighborhood dinner and Amy brought several bottles of her own wine.

Her 2017 Viognier went deliciously with the appetizer cheeses and charcuterie plate. Then we moved on to the Tethered Beast and Fancy Boots, both 2018 vintages. The Petite Syrah in Fancy Boots has a silky mouthfeel that is unmistakably Ranchero Cellars style, with muscularity and depth balanced by lively acidity and considerable length. Both reds paired so nicely with the main dish. Needless to say, we went home from that dinner with happy full tummies and had made a friendship with another approachable and hardworking Paso winemaker.

Ranchero Cellars is located in downtown Paso Robles on the City Park in Paso Underground. They are open every Saturday or call Amy for a private tasting.

Insider’s hint: Ask Amy about her Ranchero car/truck. The story is a little heartbreaking, but it’s one of the reasons why she’s making such fantastic wines.

Kiamie Wine Cellars—pronounced key ah’ mee. If you’re looking for fancy and pretentious, you might want to skip this spot. They have a goat. They have happy dogs. They have good wine. Nuff said? Nah I’m gonna keep going.

Kiamie is a rustic style family-owned winery that gives the feeling of sitting in a friend’s backyard and tasting wine. But when it comes to their wines, don’t let the laid-back setting feeling fool you. They usually pour around 5 different wines, starting with the refreshing and crisp White Cuvee which is a Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne blend and end with their more robust red Meritage.

I recently sampled the 2018 Meritage, and it was a delicious flavor of cooked blueberries and cardamom with a chocolatey finish. Red wine with a chocolatey finish? I asked Greg, one of the owners, about the finish, and he said it reminds him of the Mexican hot chocolate drink called champurrado.

Insider’s hint: The goat’s name is, you guessed it, Goat!

Seashell Cellars— Established in 2001, the Seashell Vineyard is nestled on the banks of the Huerohuero Creek just one mile east of the Salinas River. They chose the vineyard site for its unique microclimate and extraordinary soil composition. Since this is kinda far from Paso, lucky for us, they have a fun and lively downtown tasting room on 13^th Street. No snobby winery vibe, here.

Seashell offers one white, a rose, and seven reds. The Grenache Rose is my favorite with its aroma of fresh peaches and flavors of strawberry and star anise. Their 2018 Cab Franc and 2018 Collection are tough to beat, as well. The Collection is a blend of 50% Mourvèdre, 37% Grenache, and 13% Syrah, and offers moderately intense notes of mulled black cherries, spice box, and peppery herbs in its medium-bodied, charming, easygoing style.

In the tasting room, you’ll get to know Denice as she is there nearly every day. I think the place would crumble without her. It’s a 10-star experience. She’s knowledgeable about wine, and if she has it open, ask for a taste of the Reserve Syrah. Delish!

Insider’s hint: Ask Denice if she’ll take a “beach” picture of you and your crew. They have an entire wall with a beach scene, and she’ll get out the sun chairs, surfboard, and leis for the perfect picture.

I love the Paso Robles wine country. Reach out to me if you have any questions about Paso!