N
estled Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles and just a few hours’ drive from Newport Beach lies what for years was a well-kept secret among California pleasure-seekers. The central coast’s beauty is enhanced by abundant hot springs, orchards of every genus and, in and around idyllic Paso Robles, more than 200 wineries that create all manner of heavenly nectar.
The Paso Robles region is becoming especially popular with wine enthusiasts as artisan winemakers recognize the potential of the area’s earthly elements. “Entrepreneurs are looking for areas other than Napa Valley and Sonoma where they’ll have the ability to grow,” said Hayato Nogaki, food and beverage director at The Resort at Pelican Hill.® “Paso Robles offers an ideal climate, which is key to producing great wines.”
The Adelaida District is home to a host of mostly family-owned operations. In fact, many of these winemakers have formed a sort of umbrella family, celebrating their shared passion by educating, inspiring and encouraging one another. It is this sense of community, as opposed to the hustle-bustle of the world-famous wine regions up north, that attracts oenophiles and neophytes seeking to connect with viticulture through an intimate, sometimes hands on, experience. These adventurers will walk away with more than a delightful buzz; they’ll have gained a deeper understanding of, and appreciation for, the winemaking process.