Paso Robles: Wine Country
No other agricultural area in California advanced as rapidly as the Paso Robles American Viticultural Area. Paso Robles wine production began two centuries ago at Mission San Miguel Archangel.

But the boom in wine grape growing began in the late 1960s. When the vineyards started appearing east of Hwy. 101,  at Estrella River Winery, now Meridian Vineyards and Eberle Vineyards. Then, new wineries blossomed on Paso Robles’ western mountains, under names like Adelaida, Castoro, Norman and Peachy Canyon, which impressed wine lovers with their rich red wines. At the same time, Justin Vineyards and Wild Horse won everyone over with their outstanding Bordeaux varietals and blends.

The last decade of the 20^th century saw significant vineyard development in Paso Robles, which grew 72 percent. Again, it was the most dramatic increase of any American Viticultural Area according to the San Francisco marketing firm Gomberg, Fredrikson and Associates.

Paso  Robles now boasts over 26,000 acres of wine grapes, 170 wineries, and more than 100 tasting rooms.

The outdoor enthusiast can find any challenge in the Paso Robles area. Horseback riding along the river bed or cycling through the winding roads of wine country, Paso can accommodate.  If water sports are more your speed, Lake Nacimiento and San Antonio are your getaway for championship waterskiing and PWC excitement. The lakes are also perfect for bass fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking or just a cool retreat from the summertime sun.  Also, for those who love the ocean, the coast is only a 30-minute drive away.

If golfing is your passion, Paso Robles is home to four courses. If Bocci ball is more your pace, many of the local wineries have courts for this traditional Italian sport of strategy and are open to the public.