Inside Paso Robles

Paso Robles: Crush & Roll West

by Matt Browne

We are fast approaching the 5^th annual Crush & Roll West event at the Paso Robles Event Center. It’s a gathering of folks that love the cigar and wine lifestyle and it will take place on September 6 and 7. As someone that has attended each one thus far, I have to say that it gets better and better each year.

Part of the reason for that is the organizers keep upping the game each year with additions of beer, lifestyle booths, and this year a new charity to benefit from the event…the North County Women’s Shelter & Resource Center (soon to be called the Sexual Assault Recovery & Prevention Center). This year they added a “Social Ticket” for those coming to the event but will not partake in the cigars, great addition in my opinion. They also have five awesome breweries joining the event this year which is great for a craft beer lover like me.

Another reason it’s getting better year to year is the development of the community that comes together each year for the event. The attendees come from near and far to partake in this premier event and a sense of family has emerged as you see many of the same faces each year.

I liken it to hanging out in your backyard with your closest friends…it just feels that natural and comfortable. The organizers (Doc “Stogie Fresh”, Christina from The Boss Cigars, and Bill Roof) have done an amazing job so far and you can feel and see their passion for the lifestyle with each decision made.

You can check out the pretty amazing list of cigar vendors, wineries, and breweries here http://www.crushandrollwest.com/sponsors.htm and the itinerary for the two day event here http://www.crushandrollwest.com/itinerary.htm.

I hope to see you at the event…I’ll be the guy with stogie, beer, and video camera in hand!! Cheers!

Last year's event:

 

Matt is a 10-year Paso Robles area resident. He and his wife, Annie, love exploring the Central Coast looking for food, drinks and adventure. You can follow their adventures on their blog at HootnAnnie.

Matt is a 10-year Paso Robles area resident. He and his wife, Annie, love exploring the Central Coast looking for food, drinks and adventure. You can follow their adventures on their blog at HootnAnnie. - See more at: http://blog.travelpaso.com/2013/05/barrelhouse-brewing-in-paso-robles.html#sthash.VrQ49rr9.dpuf

 

BarrelHouse Brewing in Paso Robles

by Matt Browne

There’s a new brewery in Paso Robles and it’s called BarrelHouse Brewing. I must be honest and let you know that I’ve been there numerous times since they opened in mid to late February of this year … and you will continue to find me there on occasion.

Let’s cover the basics of this new spot:

• The beer: Personally, I think the beer is quite good. They change up their menu here and there but you might find things like their Templeton Ale (a Kolsch-style blonde ale), the Belgian Wit (Belgian-style wheat ale), Pale Ale, IPA and different types of stouts. Again, the beer is good … so go check it out!

• The people: All the people that we’ve interacted with there are fantastic. It’s like hanging out at a friend’s house and once you go enough it might become that place where “everyone knows your name.” The customer service has been great each time we’ve been and that’s a big reason why you’ll continue to see us there.

• The facility: On the inside there’s a nice big bar along with many tables sprinkled throughout. The really cool thing is that that the beer making happens right there in front of you. All the stainless tanks are in the middle of the joint and you’ll often see the guys working on something while you sip on some beer. Much of the stuff on the inside has been recycled or repurposed which is pretty neat as well. When you sit at the bar you look through these two roll up window-style doors out onto this amazingly lush beer garden area.

• The music: They have a flatbed truck that they use as a stage for their live music, and there is outdoor seating and tons of grassy area so you can take a blanket or your own chairs. The manmade rock feature outside boasts a pond and waterfall which adds to the ambiance. Again, it really feels like you’re hanging out with friends in a really great backyard.

They only serve their beer, no wine or anything else, and they also do not have food; however, they have no problem with you bringing food in and they do actually have a food truck show up from time to time.

I’m a huge fan of what they’re doing and I’m happy to see Paso Robles becoming a place that more craft beer folks want to do business in. You have to check this place out and let me know what you think, in fact, when you go check it out I may be sitting on the bar stool right next to you! Cheers!!

Matt is a 10-year Paso Robles area resident. He and his wife, Annie, love exploring the Central Coast looking for food, drinks and adventure. You can follow their adventures on their blog at HootnAnnie.

Why Holiday Shopping in Paso Robles is Good for Humanity

by Shonna Howenstine

Over the course of the past few years, many of us have scaled back our holiday celebrations and gift giving. With more and more people concentrating on the joy of being with family and friends during the holidays, a heartwarming trend is emerging...

Thoughtfulness is back in style.

And Paso Robles, in all its authenticity, is a great place to find gifts with meaning and purpose that suit each recipient, all made right here in Paso. Many products are made by hand, and all have a terrific story to go with them.

Does your mother-in-law love to cook? How about a bottle of your neighbor's olive oil and a copy of your favorite local caterer's cookbook?

Does your best friend love wine? Sneak out to your favorite boutique winery and grab a bottle of something that can't be found outside of their walls.

Got a beer lover in the family? Firestone Walker Brewery is right down the street and their 805 Ale is only available in the 805. Pick up a gift certificate for FW t-shirts, tap handles and.... cornhole??  

If you are shopping for someone who has everything, here is a list of unique, Paso-made items to choose from that will make the recipient feel special, keep small business owners in business and keep the thoughtfulness trend going strong:

Paso-Made Goods:

• Art, Sculpture, Pottery, Handmade Jewelry, Fine Crafts: www.studiosonthepark.org, www.piercemodern.com, www.valefineart.com, www.daleeversstudio.com or www.thefireflygallery.com 
• Balsamic Vinegar: www.weolive.com
• Beer www.firestonewalker.com
• Body Care Products made with local olive oil: www.pasolivo.com or www.oluvskin.com
• Books by Local Authors: http://bit.ly/FriendsPasoLibrary
• Cheese or a Cheese Club Membership: www.vivantfinecheese.com
• Cooking Spices and Gourmet Provisions: www.pasospices.com or www.pithywine.com
• Honey www.ntnah.com
• Italian Soda: www.pithywine.com
• Olive oil www.weolive.com
• Walnut Oil www.limerockorchards.com
• Wine, Champagne, Port and Handcrafted Spirits: www.pasowine.com

Paso Robles Experiences:

• Art classes, seminars and workshops www.studiosonthepark.org
• Cooking Class at Dining with Andre www.diningwithandre.com
• Lodging or Dining Gift Certificates www.travelpaso.com
• Hunter Ranch Golf Course www.hunterranchgolf.com
• Massage/Facial/Spa Day www.replenishmassage.com, www.twistway.com and www.travelpaso.com or www.riveroakshotsprings.com
• River Oaks Hot Springs Spa www.riveroakshotsprings.com
• Steinbeck Vineyards Crash Course www.steinbeckvineyards.com
• Wine Tours www.travelpaso.com

The recipients of these thoughtful gifts will be thrilled by the human touch that went to each of them and the heartwarming stories behind each one. Support small business and give thoughful gifts, it's good for humanity!

Here is a quick video about shopping in downtown Paso Robles. 

 

Shonna Howenstine is the Tourism Coordinator for the City of Paso Robles and vows to shop thoughtfully and locally this holiday season. If you have an item that you think should be on this list, she can be reached at [email protected].

 

Tours, Tours, Tours - Yeah!

by Shonna Howenstine

You want to know what's cool? Taking a guided tour of a place you've never been to before. Like a brewery. Or wine caves. Or an abalone farm.

We have all of that and then some in or near Paso Robles, here is a breakdown of some local favorites: 

Firestone Walker Brewhouse - Just completed this month, you get a glimpse into how some of the best beer in the world is made in a custom-designed state-of-the-art facility modelled after European brewhouses. Weekend tours from 10:30-3:30 and weekday tours by appointment.  These killer tours are FREE. 

 

Wine Caves - Three Paso Robles wineries feature caves - Robert Hall Winery, JUSTIN Winery and Eberle Winery, which features FREE daily tours of their winemaking facilities and the underground cave system, the first in the area. Eberle will have their caves all scaried-up for Halloween, check their website for details.  

Downtown Walking Tour - Take a guided tour of 4 wineries, We Olive and a chocolate store throughout downtown Paso Robles. Learn all about the history of Paso Robles,  and be delivered back at your car in the Mercedes Limo Coach after an Old Historical Home tour on Vine St. These tours are a very easy walk only, 4-blocks. 

Paso Robles Food Tour - Come learn about the culture and cuisine that is uniquely Paso Robles. Booking a food tour on the first day of your vacation is the absolute best way to get the very most out of the area's treasures. Your guide has lived in the area and knows all the insider spots to send you for wine-tasting, foodie excursions, dining locations throughout the Central Coast.  

Abalone Farm Tour - The largest abalone farming operation in the country is located just 30 minutes west of Paso Robles. Monthly tours each summer offer the visitor insight into the life and farming methods of one of the most mouth-watering delicacies ever to come out of our coastal waters. You will leave with a whole new respect for abalone, and possibly a couple of recipes. The last tour of the summer happens on September 20th, so give them a call to grab a spot.

Don't forget, Sunset Magazine's annual chef, farmer and wine extravaganza,  SAVOR The Central Coast, features a number of amazing culinary, wine and adventure tours that you can only take during the event, this September 27 through 30, 2012. 

Check their website for more information.

 

Have you taken any of these tours?  Do you have a favorite tour that we should know about? Let us know in the comments section. Happy Touring!

Shonna Howenstine is the Tourism Coordinator for the City of Paso Robles and believes that  a tour left undone is a site unseen.

Cigars, Wine and Craft Beer at Crush & Roll West

by Holly Todd

The Central Coast loves their cigars; and with more and more local events featuring cigar lounges, their popularity is soaring. For those of you looking to peek into the world of stogies, the 4th Annual Crush & Roll West will be here before you know it!

Premium wine, cigars, and craft beer will be featured at Crush & Roll this September 14th and 15th, which was rated the #1 Wine and Cigar Event on the West Coast. Hundreds flock to the Paso Robles Event Center each year to taste the best wine, beer, and cigars in the world. Crush & Roll is a two-day event starting on Friday with a casual mixer that features cigar and wine tastings. Tickets include live entertainment by the JD Project, complimentary appetizers, raffles, a commemorative wine glass and a live auction for the charity, Project Mañana. Not a bad deal for $40.

Saturday will bring 50 different cigar, wine, beer, and lifestyle vendors. Cigar tasting and cigar rolling demonstrations will entertain and delight; as cigar manufacturers from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Honduras and Costa Rica will be on hand to provide their hand crafted cigars. In addition, Saturday’s event will include educational seminars with top industry experts from craft beer to cigars. Dr. Bill Sysak, Food and Beverage Director of Stone World Bistro will be a featured speaker for both the general sessions, and available for unique and once-in-a-lifetime discussions “Dr. Bill” is a Rock Star in the Craft Beer world, and a well-known cigar aficionado.

Crush & Roll West attracts couples with varying interests; wine connoisseurs who find out that they also like cigars; and cigar aficionados who enjoy vino. Organizers say the popularity stems from the fact that wine, craft beer, and cigars are artisanal and sensory activities that attract both men and women.

This year’s Crush & Roll West charity benefactor will be Project Mañana, a non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to bettering the lives of impoverished children, their families and communities through nutrition, education, and guidance.

Tickets are available now at the Crush and Roll website and range from $50-$140. Tickets include cigars, food, beer and wine tastings, a swag bag of fun goodies, and entertainment. Those who purchase the 2- day pass receive special access to the Maguin VIP Area featuring ultra reserve wines and cigars. An excellent value in my opinion, and of course I’ll be there ready to blow smoke rings.

Holly Todd is the Co-Owner of Create Promotions, and blogger at We Eat. We Drink. We Play. Check out www.createpromotions.com for more information.

Manly Vacations in Wine Country? Heck yeah.

Art of Manliness

It seems that when some men hear “wine country” they think “romantic vacation on my best behavior”.  Which may be fun for some people, but we're guessing the average Joe prefers to relax while on vacation.

Did you know that Paso Robles is a killer relaxation and adventure destination?

Yep.

Manly men everywhere should breathe a sigh of relief and pack their Bug Out bags to head for Paso.  

The California Mid State Fair in Paso Robles: Brad Paisley, The Band Perry and Easton Corbin

by Tina Swithin

I have heard from several sources that last night's concert was phenomenal with Loverboy, Pat Benatar and Journey taking over the Chumash Grandstand Arena.  Due to the power of social media and minute-by-minute updates, I felt like I was in the front row! 

Speaking of 'front row', I have a connection who is front and center (and backstage!) for every show.  The official photographer for the California Mid State Fair is none other than the amazing Brittany App and she is kind enough to keep me stocked with photos from every concert at the fair.  Here are a couple of great shots from last night's performance.      

The California Mid State Fair is proud to welcome three fabulous bands tonight to the main grandstand.  I will personally be in attandance and I can't wait!!!  I look forward to seeing you at the fair as Brad Paisley, The Band Perry and Easton Corbin take over Paso Robles!

Here are just a few of the things on tap for today:  

Here just a few things going on at the fair for Wednesday, July 25th, 2012:

• Stock horse show, breeding beef show, dairy cow show and market steer show
• New Fresh Flowers
• Sewing Machines & Quilting Demonstration
• Mutton Bustin’
• Olive Oil Demonstration 
• Artistry In Motion and Academy of Dance
• Local Chef of the Day – McGees Catering
• Piano Madness
• Debby Boone (Free Stage)
• Acoustify (Free Stage)
• KJUG Barn Dance
• Headlining Act: Brad Paisley w/ The Band Perry & Easton Corbin

Check the full Daily Mid-State Fair schedule, throw on your best boots and enjoy the concerts and activities that only the fair can provide.  For a full list of lodging options, please visit the Travel Paso Robles Alliance.

Brittany App, Photographer & Vagabond, is the Official Photographer for the California Mid State Fair. Throughout the rest of the year, she photographs life & love, and has been known to ride her bicycle really really long distances.  She invites you to join her journey across the United States, with  "Water Tension : A Web Series".

California Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles: Weekend Festivities

by Tina Swithin

While I wasn't able to attend, I heard from many sources that Alabama rocked the California Mid State Fair in a big way last night.  If you missed the show, I was able to get a few fabulous photos from the amazing Brittany App to share with you. 

Here just a few things going on at the fair for Saturday, July 21st and Sunday, July 22nd. 

Saturday

• Cutting Horse Show
• Mutton Bustin’
• 4H Dog Show
• Olive Oil Demonstration
• Dance Shows
• Local Chef of the Day – 10th St. Basque Café
• Cupcake Challenge
• Kenny Wayne Shepherd (Free stage)
• KJUG Barn Dance
• Headlining Act: The Mavericks w/ special guest

Sunday

• Sheep Dog Trials
• Mutton Bustin’
• Draft Horse Show
• Olive Oil Demonstration
• Cake Decorating Demonstration
• Kutless (Free stage)
• KJUG Barn Dance
• Headlining Act: The Fresh Beat Band

Check the full Daily Mid-State Fair schedule, throw on your best boots and enjoy the concerts and activities that only the fair can provide.  For a full list of lodging options, please visit the Travel Paso Robles Alliance.

Brittany App, Photographer & Vagabond, is the Official Photographer for the California Mid State Fair. Throughout the rest of the year, she photographs life & love, and has been known to ride her bicycle really really long distances.  She invites you to join her journey across the United States, with  "Water Tension : A Web Series".

Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast Weekend Pass: Amazing May Ticket Special

Whether you’re just emerging into the world of wine and food, or well-traveled gastronomes, you’ll fall in love with Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast, happening September 27-30 at the renowned Santa Margarita Ranch - all for just $100 (50% off) if you buy your weekend passes this month.

No other wine and food event provides foodies with such a rich culinary immersion adventure as well as Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast. Home to our very own Paso Robles wine country and one of the most abundant agricultural counties in California, the event encompasses regional artisan food makers and nationally acclaimed wine producers – all coming together to create the West Coast’s most sought after wine and food event of the year. Aarti Sequeira, star of Food Network’s “Aarti Party” says “I was at this event five minutes and I had my mind blown.”
From the President of Sunset Publishing:  “From passionate foodies to people who just want to experience the best of the Central California Coast lifestyle, SAVOR offers four days of unforgettable culinary experiences in a setting where you can personally connect to the wine and food, whether it’s through cooking demonstrations with celebrity chefs using fresh local ingredients or winemaking programs with regional winemakers,” says Barb Newton, president, Sunset Publishing. “You can also rub elbows with Sunset’s top editors and favorite experts, and be the first to taste the medal-winning wines of Sunset’s International Wine Competition while savoring spectacular places like Hearst Castle, unspoiled nature trails and even an evening reception lit only by the stars and glowing hot air balloons. Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast is one of the most exciting and accessible wine and food events around.”

Tickets for West Coast’s “Must Taste” Wine and Food Event of the Year Are on Sale with a Huge Savings in the Month of May: Get a Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast 2012 Weekend Pass for Just $100 (50% Off)

Some events do sell out, so get your tickets now and take advantage of this spectacular short-term deal!

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.savorcentralcoast.com or call the SLO County VCB at (805) 541-8000.

Paso Robles Train Station: National Train Day

by Coy Barnes

Have you ever travelled by train? It’s a fascinating and inexpensive way to travel, offering a relaxed pace along with spectacular views of the countryside not accessible by any other means.  Amtrak ridership is up as more and more people “ride the rails” in search of a slower pace, scenic beauty and new experiences.

We think Paso Robles has one of the quaintest and friendliest train stations this side of the Rockies on the Amtrak network.  Where else can you pick-up some local merchandise, visit three tasting rooms, have sushi, or enjoy a glass of Paso Robles wine or beer?   

There are daily trains that come to Paso Robles from Southern California and the Bay Area and two upcoming events offer great opportunities to get to know wine country via train:

• The Paso Robles Wine Festival May 19, 2012 is the perfect introduction for people from the Bay  area interested in visiting us for an afternoon of wine tasting.  You can take the Coast Starlight with a scheduled arrival in Paso Robles at 1:38pm and depart back at 4:45pm the same day!  Our station is literally just three short blocks from the Festival and our downtown. 

• National Train Day is the perfect time to inform travelers from both the Bay Area and Southern California area about travel to Paso Robles.  Every day customers and tourists to Paso Robles walk through the door of our shop and tasting room at the Paso Robles Train Station.  They all seem to say the same thing.  “This is sooo cute.  Does the train stop here?”  The answer is yes!  Not many people know that the train stops here twice per day; once going south and once going north. 

Arriving in Paso Robles and depending on where you stay, you won’t need a car while visiting our area, making the Amtrak the green way to go and it’s cheaper than a tank of gas!  Some of the local lodgings will even offer free transfers to their hotel, just ask.  Downtown Paso Robles has everything you need: 20+ great restaurants and at least 13 different wineries all within walking distance of the train station. 

So, if you are looking for stress-free travel without paying the high price of gas, Amtrak is the way to go and Paso Robles makes the ideal destination for a train trip. 
Call us for hotel and tour packages:  866-238-6400

Coy Barnes is the owner of the Paso Robles Wine Club, a wine club that sends an assortment of Paso Robles wines; and The Wine Wrangler, Paso Robles’ longest running wine tour service. Both businesses are located at the Paso Robles Train Station.