Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, leisurely afternoons, and of course, warm evenings! As the seasons shift from summer to fall there’s no better place to embark on your seasonal wine journey than with the perfect glass of wine to complement it all. As we dive into this sunny time of year, let’s delve into the world of Paso Robles wines. Renowned for its diverse terroir of microclimates, soil types and exceptional varietals, this Californian region produces some of the most intriguing and delightful wines you’ll find.
Paso Robles, located in California’s Central Coast, has become a celebrated hotspot for Rhône varietals. The Rhône variety revolution in Paso Robles began in the late 20th century, when winemakers discovered the region’s potential for producing high-quality Rhone-style wines. Grenache, in particular, has become a standout thanks to the region’s warm days and cool nights, which helps preserve the acidity and freshness of the grapes. The varied soils—ranging from calcareous and sandy to loamy—impart unique characteristics to the wines. This combination of climatic and geological factors results in wines that are expressive, well-balanced, and full of character.
Today, we’re spotlighting three standout varietals from Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery, whose focus is about farming at the highest quality—their Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Viognier wines— are particularly well-suited for spring and summer sipping. Grenache brings bright fruitiness and versatility, Mourvèdre delivers robust and spicy depth, and Viognier provides a lush and aromatic profile. Each of these wines offers unique aromas, flavors, and styles that reflect the distinctive characteristics of Paso Robles. Let’s explore three of their wines that should be on your radar for sipping during the warmer months.
ALTA COLINA VINEYARD & WINERY
Alta Colina 12 O’Clock High Viognier
Adelaida District AVA, Paso Robles
Varietal Breakdown: 100% Viognier
This Viognier is distinguished by its lush, aromatic profile featuring ripe peach, apricot, and a hint of honeysuckle, aka Magic In A Glass! The Paso Robles region’s diverse microclimates contribute to the complexity of this Viognier, making it an excellent representation of the region’s ability to craft wines that are both elegant and expressive. Its creamy texture and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion to a wide array of dishes that have a touch of sweetness, spice or richness, such as roasted chicken with apricot glaze, creamy seafood pasta, or even a fresh fruit and cheese platter, Thai curry or Indian biryani. For those who appreciate wines with a bit of flair and depth, this Viognier is a refined choice that adds a touch of luxury to your summer gatherings.
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Alta Colina Grenache Blanc
Adelaida District AVA, Paso Robles
Varietal Breakdown: 100% Grenache Blanc
For a refreshing start to your summer wine journey, this Grenache Blanc embodies bright bursts of citrus—think lemon zest and lime—and delivers a zesty acidity that is both crisp and revitalizing. The warm, sun-soaked days and cool, temperate nights of Paso Robles impart a unique freshness to the grapes, resulting in a wine that pairs beautifully with light, seasonal fare. Imagine enjoying this with a fresh seafood salad or a platter of goat cheese while lounging on a sun-drenched terrace. Its lively profile is not only a testament to the region’s ideal growing conditions but also a celebration of what summer should taste like: vibrant, refreshing, and full of promise.
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Alta Colina GSM Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre
Adelaida District AVA, Paso Robles
Varietal Breakdown: 49% Grenache, 26% Mourvèdre, and 25% Syrah
No summer wine roundup would be complete without a standout red. This GSM is a perfect blend of spice and fruit and offers a balance of ripe berry flavors, such as blackberry and plum, with spicy and earthy undertones from the Syrah and Mourvèdre. It’s an exceptional choice for hearty dishes, making it an ideal partner for a cozy summer evening by the fire pit or barbecue, featuring grilled lamb chops, smoky sausages, or robust charcuterie board where its rich flavors can complement the savory aromas.
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Disclosure: Sample bottles of wines were received. Samples submitted to Shall We Wine are for review and thoroughly assessed before posting.
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