Let the Festivals Begin!

The months of April and May can easily be defined as the prime festival time here on the Central Coast. From Paso Robles to Santa Ynez, our wineries are busy showcasing their wines and as wine fans, we are busy supporting them. If you are looking for the right time to make a trip to the area, or if you are a local, I strongly suggest that you seize one of these wonderful opportunities and attend one of our wine festivals. The best part about the festivals is that they bring the wineries to you! It also provides a wonderful opportunity to define your palate, as you can try the same varietal from several different wineries at one time. The cost is usually very reasonable, from $30 to the hundreds, depending upon how VIP you like to taste. Most of these events also provide safe shuttles home and designated driver tickets. Oh, and I can’t forget the culinary eats that are available, yum! By now you might be thinking the all important “What’s, When, and Where’s.” Here is a list, starting with this week, to tickle your fancy…

Saturday, April 26, 2008
The 6th Annual Cal Poly Wine Festival
This student run and organized event features over 80 wineries and 20 restaurants. The diverse group of wineries ranges from France to our very own Paso Robles. Tickets run from $30 to $50 and are selling out fast. For more information, click here.

May 1-3, 2008
Hospice du Rhone
This truly unique three-day event is regarded as the single most important and fun gathering of international Rhône wine producers and enthusiasts in the world. Celebrating the passion and spirit of winemakers world wide, participants will expand their knowledge of the twenty-two varieties while satisfying their thirst for knowledge. For more information visit http://www.hospicedurhone.org.

May 1-4
Roll Out the Barrels
This four day event highlights wine growers and culinary artists in the Edna Valley Wine Region. Starting with the main event on Thursday at the San Luis Obispo mission plaza and ending on Sunday with the Passport Event, you won't want to miss out. For more information, click here.

May 16-18
Paso Robles Wine Festival
The Paso Robles Wine Festival is one of the largest outdoor wine festivals in California with a unique character that makes this Paso Robles wine country's marquee event of the year.  The event, held annually at the Paso Robles City Park on the third Saturday of May, offers guests the opportunity to taste wines from more than 90 Paso Robles wineries in a beautiful downtown setting.

Saturday, May 24th, 11-3PM
California Festival of Beers
The California Festival of Beers in Avila Beach celebrates more than 125 microbrew beers from 50+ breweries in San Luis Obispo County and the state. Enjoy live music from two local bands along with your brew.

If you would like a full list of the years wine related events, visit our events page.