Paso Robles Wines

Paso Robles AVA is a large wine region in California's Central Coast. It was until 2014 one large, undivided AVA that is three times bigger than Napa Valley. It ranges from the valley floors into the mountains, with the eastern side being generally warmer and producing full-bodied, concentrated wines. The west is closer to the Pacific and is therefore cooler, particularly areas near the Templeton Gap that funnels the air further inland, making wines with higher acidity and fresher flavours.

Now there are 11 sub AVAs to reflect unique climates of key areas within the region. Adelaida District AVA is the best known. Located in the mountains to the north-west of the region, it produces powerful yet elegant wines on limestone rich soils.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted grape, with significant plantings of Zinfandel, Syrah and Merlot also important to the areas production. On the whites, Rousanne and Marsanne from the Rhone are making a name for themselves.