How to Go Wine Tasting on the Cheap in Paso Robles

Paso Robles, California, is known to some as the "New Napa Valley." There are many wonderful vineyards to visit, all nestled in a beautiful landscape of rolling hills and oak trees. As an added bonus, it is possible to go wine tasting on the cheap.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Many wineries in the Paso Robles area offer complimentary wine tasting. Some of these wineries include Tobin James and Vina Robles.

2. Most other wineries charge a small tasting fee of $3-$5, which is considerably less than many tasting fees in other, more well-known areas. Some of these fees also include the wine glass for you to take home, which makes a great souvenir.

3. Many local hotels offer free tasting coupons for two people, at wineries such as Meridian, Peachy Canyon, Wild Horse, and Eos. If you stay in a hotel, be sure to ask for these tasting coupons.

4. If you are interested in going to a particular winery, be sure to check the winery's website online for special events or coupons for free wine tasting. Some wineries offer complimentary wine tasting during weekend festivals, such as the Harvest Festival in September and the Zinfandel Festival in March.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to have a designated driver for your excursion, or ride one of the local wine tour buses and trolleys.
• You must be 21 or older to wine taste in California.

[Hode]

on 3/10/2009 If only I lived closer. We are starting to get a good assortment of wineries here on the East Coast, so I can't whine too much. Great article. Thanks

[sonni57]

on 3/5/2009 Good tips on wine tasting

[texasparky]

on 3/5/2009 Great insider info!

[rjspindle]

on 3/4/2009 Awesome tips. I had a friend go there recently and he brought back some marvelous wines. 5*

[LissaK]

on 3/3/2009 I haven't had much wine but I love vineyards, they're so beautiful. Thanks for this, I can use this in the future!