Your Guide to Central Coast Wines

 

Marine breezes and miles of romantic coastline, year-round sunny weather and vineyards as far as the eye can see propel the Central Coast into its position as a premier wine country destination, boasting a wine for every palate preference. Ninety thousand, three hundred acres of vineyards are planted in the region, with Chardonnay being the most common variety. Most of the area’s vineyards can be found in the valleys that open up to the pacific.

Whether you enjoy a full-bodied red, marine-influenced white or a zesty rose, California’s Central Coast offers it all. Most of the wines coming from the region are still and dry. Grapes grown along the coast benefit from the cold, moist air and morning cloud covering, which reduces temperatures and sun exposure on the grapes.

The Central Coast AVA (American Viticultural Area) encompasses the middle of California, most notably Monterey, Santa Barbara, Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. Our focus is on our favorite region, the southern section of the Central Coast, which produces vastly different wines than its northern neighbors. This area is known to experiment with popular varietals from well-known European wine regions.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles has a long history when it comes to wine. Winemakers have been growing grapes in the region since the 1970s. Paso Robles is home to more than 200 wineries and 26,000 acres of vineyards. Here, rural charm meets contemporary cuisine and some of the best Rhone-style vintages of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Most known for red wines, Paso Robles’ Merlot, Zinfandel, Bordeaux and Cabernet Sauvignon are coveted by visitors.

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo County’s Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley are known for producing some of the finest Pino Noir, Chardonnay and Zinfandel. The area is a perfect example of a cool-climate growing region.

The Arroyo Grande Valley is home to some very popular wineries. The area’s sedimentary, volcanic soil is credited in part to the region’s award-winning wines.

Established in 1982, Edna Valley has emerged as a draw for wine enthusiasts with the state’s longest growing season. The long season gives grapes the opportunity to mature, and develop rare and unique flavors that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

Pick Up a Bottle of Some of these Popular Vintages:

• ·         Edna Valley Sauvignon Blanc
• ·         Stephen Ross Stone Corral Pinot Noir
• ·         Zocker Riesling
• ·         Edna Valley Pinot Grigio
• ·         Sextant Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles
• ·         Paso Ranches Bourbon Barrel Zinfandel

The next time you travel to the Central Coast to experience the region’s wonderful wine county. Stay at Cobbo’s Beach House, a luxury vacation rental located in the heart of Avila Beach. The property has a Wine Cellar ideal for tastings and enjoying the best local wines.