Bodegas Paso Robles

Walked into here and was attended to by Max, who apparently is well liked by many of their competitors. He was very knowledgable and courteous, and had a fine list of wines that they make. Tiny but quaint, the only thing missing was some crackers or cheese to cleanse the palate.

I hate to downgrade a winery and its service, but that is the case here.
I ordered a case of white wine at a sale price over the summer for later pickup, which included two bottles of rose type wine. Months later, I pre arranged to pick up the wine in Paso Robles. When I arrived, they didn’t have the inventory. They offered me a bottle of red wine «as a gift,» and I agreed to come back down to Paso on my way home from a trip to Northern California to pick up the wine.
I did get the case, and when I got home and opened it, I found 11 bottles. The «gift» bottle apparently wasn’t a gift bottle.
I wrote an email to the winery, and never got a response.
Worst of all, while I have had some excellent red wines from Bodegas, the white was literally awful (Galicia), and the rose was beyond awful, to the point that I poured it out. These were supposed to be $ 25 retail wines, so they should have been good, I would think.
So, two stars for awful customer service and almost undrinkable white and rose wines.

This is a must! If you love wine and great conversation in a quaint town. This is the place! My husband and I were driving up the coast from Orange County and we’re looking for a place to stop in Paso Robles for lunch. As we were walking down the street we noticed the Bodegas tasting room. Stopped in an had such an awesome experience. We made a great friend, Heather Gray, who we actually order our wine from now from the OC! My husband and I LOVED the 2014 Dona Blanca. We ordered 5 cases to last us through the winter! Thank you Heather!
Bodegas rocks!

What does it mean in the world of Californian wine to carve out a niche for oneself amidst of wealth of competitive options? Beyond the basics — quality versus quantity, blends/​reserves/​single vineyards, marketing and pricing for age, class, gender, and generational preferences — what else might one do to become a destination location, worth a pride of place on someone else’s wine tasting itinerary?
Come to Bodegas Paso Robles, and then you will know. This is what creating a niche tastes like. Unless you happen to be of Iberian extraction, you’ll discover something new here. A Portuguese varietal, like Bastardo, that makes a superbly subtle, elegantly rustic red wine. Or a palate-​pleasing blend of Tempranillo and Graciano that make you think Paso Rioja, rather than Paso Robles. Whoever assumes that Paso wines must dance to the beat of a French drummer should come here to learn otherwise.
The Spanish and Portuguese wine playbook isn’t a public relations ploy or an obvious effort at tasting trendy. It is by all accounts a long-​term commitment on the part of the winemaker and her support staff to making and marketing wines that are approachable, expressive, and delicious. The whites are among the best I’ve tasted in Paso outside of Tablas Creek; the Garnacha Blanca, Malvasia, and Albariño (sourced from the cool climate Edna Valley) offerings are crisp, floral, and fruit-​forward, with great drink-​alone or food pairing possibilities.
Among the wide range of reds, I was drawn particularly to the 100% Tempranillo and to the Bastardo, the former for its rich cherry and dusty earth notes, the latter for its dark, brooding fruit and thick layers of black pepper and old leather spice. These are excellent examples of how Central California offers an opportunity for Iberian wine making methods and varietals, in part because San Luis Obispo and San Benito counties aren’t as heavily branded as Napa or Santa Barbara are. I think of it more as a Central Californian counterpart to Mendocino in the North, where all sorts of interesting microclimates and out-​of-​the-​box wine thinking is still possible.
The Bodegas tasting room is open, airy, and walk-​in ready, with standing room for a dozen or so tasters but works most effectively when there are smaller numbers, so that the pourer can engage more directly with individual taster. Truth be told, there is a fair bit of education that needs to happen here, at least on that first visit. Most of us aren’t familiar with many of the wine grapes used, and it helps to be able to talk them through with the aid of the wine maps on the wall (one for CA, one for Spain and Portugal). It is always fascinating when you have the opportunity to taste something new, something that you hadn’t even considered possiblr before (think: Gruener Veltliner from Napa, or Montepulciano from the Dry Creek Valley). Even for a veteran of the wine tasting room wars, it’s nice to feel like a newbie, sometimes, to rekindle that joy of discovery.
Whether you leave with a bottle, a mixed case, or simply a new appreciation for Portuguese and Spanish-​inspired wines, there is no good reason not to come here when you’re in Paso. Even the diehard Zinfandel and Chardonnay drinkers among your circle of friends will have fun at Bodegas Paso Robles. Widen the horizon. Drink promiscuously. Cheat on your Cabernet spouse by having an affair with Touriga Nacional. What happens in the Bodegas STAYS in the Bodegas. If you keep this admonition in mind, you’ll have fun and won’t even feel a tiny bit naughty about the experience. It’s hard to go wrong when the wines are this good.

Who knew a small, tiny tasting room in an lesser known part of California turned out to be one of our favorite and most personalized wine tasting experience ever. A group of 4 of us showed up on a random Friday afternoon. The places was empty hence why the worker was more than happy to see us.
We enjoyed almost every single wine on the menu. Most of us had never tried wines from Spain/​Portgual so it was a very unique and educational experience. We initially were not a fan of Rose but after trying one of their own’s, it turned out to be quite refreshing and different. The worker answered all of our questions and had a breadth of knowledge on wineries. He gave us a bunch of facts about the types of grapes used for Spanish/​rose wines and even threw in some knowledge about Spain (even though he has never gone). My group ended up buying a case. Moreover, before we left, he recommended a nearby cheese shop and farmer’s market which we ended up attending the next day.
We were very pleased with the service we received. The shop greatly resembled a quaint yet genuine atmosphere. We later went onto another fancy French wine tasting shop not so far afterwards but received the typical bland customer service. We definitely want to come back to Bodegas and purchase more of their refreshing wines!

This was our first stop on our impromptu downtown wine tour after our flight was delayed and kept us from our winery tour.
This is a small but delightful operation, and whatever they’re doing seems to be working. The staff is very friendly and the wine was very memorable.
Thanks for hosting us, we will return.

Dorothy made our trip. Stopped by here on a quiet Sunday afternoon and ran into the actual owner/​operator Dorothy Schuler. Had just as much fun talking to her about her world travels than the actual tastings. This lady’s been everywhere. Excellent variety of not-​so stereotypical Paso wines and one hell of an interesting lady.
Thanks Dorothy from the United Pilot and the Alaska Flight Attendant.

We had a really great time here. Staying in an airbnb a block away, we consulted Unilocal and found Bodegas to be highly recommended so in we strolled. We were greeted right away and invited to taste. We were honestly surprised how many of the wines we really liked and ended up buying a ton! We both really enjoyed how many unusual blends and (Spanish) grapes they use. The 2010 Viva Yo! was awesome (a blend of Cab and Tempranillo) and we bought a couple of the 2005 Iberia (Tempranillo, Touriga, Graciano, Tinto Cao) and the 2009 Pimenteiro (Trousseau and Tempranillo). Honestly there wasn’t anything we didn’t enjoy.
Being big Napa fans we weren’t totally sure what to expect from Paso Robles but this was a perfect example of how great it is. Amazing unique wines and delightfully friendly people.

Omg! I loved their Chardonnay
, I didn’t buy it but I’ll go tomorrow. The guy who helped us was so nice… If you go here you’ll like it.

Amazing. My favorite winery anywhere, hands down. (And I’ve been to well over 100). Big, bold, unusual Spanish wines. Very small operation — the fascinating winemaker Dorothy and her awesome, personable, and super knowledgable staff of 2. Thanks Max for all of your recommendations!

Delicious Spanish wines and Max was very knowledgeable. Great tasting experience. We visited here last time and had to come back. We loved it so much we became club members.

I never fail to have a good time when I come to Bodegas! I spent a year living in Paso Robles trying (foolishly) to work my way through all the wineries and was lucky enough to come across Bodegas early in my venture. I fell in love instantly with their bold Spanish and Portuguese varietals and from that first day on made it a point to stop in regularly! The wine maker Dorothy is truly a master! You can tell she takes her time picking the perfect grapes and coming up with the perfect blends! Every experience I have ever had has been top notch! Heather and Maxwell are two of the amazing faces of the tasting room. They are extremely knowledgeable and take their time going over the tasting list and answering any and all crazy questions I could think to come up with. After going through the whole list, it’s impossible for me to not come away with at least one bottle, my current favorite is their Iberia. :)
I cannot even put into words how great of a time I KNOW you’ll have if you’re smart enough to stop in! ;)

The best wine in Paso Robles cannot be found in any of the elegant tasting rooms perched atop the region’s many hills. You won’t find it sitting in a patio chair, staring out at a valley bursting with grapevines. Many will search far and wide for that perfect glass, unable to satiate their thirst, unaware that the secret was sitting right under their nose the whole time. Many years ago, I too searched for the perfect glass of wine. And like the lucky adventurers before me, I found it in an unassuming building in downtown Paso Robles.
I approached the simple façade — at the time not understanding that after this tasting nothing would ever be the same. Placing myself at the bar, I was greeted cordially and advised to taste all of the wines on the list. I agreed completely.
As I brought the first glass to my lips, I was overwhelmed by a burst of flavors. This was something different. These wines are the product of Spanish and Portuguese grapes, used in unorthodox amounts. The results were unlike anything I had experienced. Tempranillo, Tinta Cão, and Bastardo unleashed a higher consciousness, revealing to me what had been hidden for so long.
Dorothy, the winemaker, is a master of her trade — crafting unique wines with textures and flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. One can often find her in the shop, chatting with customers and making sure her product is of a higher quality.
Heather and Maxwell were very attentive, friendly, and all-​around fabulous. You just might find that time slips away at Bodegas, as you spend an hour or two talking, drinking, and having a wonderful time.
So if you find yourself yearning for wines of a different nature, or you just happen to be in Paso Robles browsing the boutiques, you might just find what you are looking for at Bodegas.

This small tasting room is not located at their winery, rather located in old downtown Paso Robles, one of the boutique businesses that is just a block from the square. However, don’t let that make you hesitate. They offer a unique product that you are more likely to find in Europe, not California.
While I did not participate in the tastings, I was impressed by the enthusiasm and friendliness of the employees, in particular, Heather. She did such a great job, Mr. B found himself in a dilemma. In the long run, all I can attest to is, he sure bought a lot… a sure sign in wine-​ese that the winemaker is near genius and this brand is worthy of a visit.
We came home with a variety representing the high quality Spanish and Portuguese style wines they produce :
2013 Galicia (Albarino)
2009 ¡Viva Yo!(Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon blend)
2010 ¡Viva Tu! — (Tempranillo)
2010 ¡Viva Mos! (Alicante Bouchet)
2009 ¡Viva Negra ! (Mouvedra, Tempranillo, Grenache blend)
2005 Iberia (Tempranillo, Touriga, Gracieno, and Tinto Cão blend)

Absolutely love this winery! All spanish varietals done very well. The entire tasting experience is very enjoyable and we absolutely love the wine club. Recently went to the pick up party, awsomely (should be a word) catered by Thomas Hill Organics and tasted great new vintages of Bodegas Paso. A must try when in Paso!

This was my first wine tasting. Everything I tried was delicious, and the woman running the store front was so sweet. Wine tasting here was a really fun experience because I am not familiar with Spanish wines. Each glass was fresh and new to me!
Not only did I try a variety of wines, but I also took a bottle home.
I strongly recommend checking Bodegas San Robles out if you’re in town. They offer a top notch experience that will not disappoint.

Just joined the wine club after a fabulous tasting! The Spanish wines are fantastic, especially the Albariño and the Monastrell. Such a cute tasting room and the manager, Heather is very knowledgeable and sweet. The winemaker, Dorothy popped in and talked to us for a bit as well. Great experience and great wines! My new favorite Paso winery!

Absolutely THE best wines hands down. Mama Tempranillo knows what she’s doing. (That’s the name Dorothy, the winemaker, has been given). For Spanish varietals look no further, wander in, and enjoy.

Wow, just wow.
On my first visit to Paso Robles, I meandered into Bodegas Paso Robles… granted I had heard of them before (local wine shop carries their SOLD OUT Verdelho), so I looked for them.
Since I visited on the off hours (during the week) I got the full attention of the wine tasting associates… and I grilled him. He was very knowledgeable and gave awesome recommendations about the wines, some history about the wine maker, the wines that they carry (all Spanish and Portugese).
I was offered their current release tasting list (9 wines!) for only $ 5! Which I think is waived if you buy a bottle… and when the price is right, it’s only too easy.
Great place, can’t wait to come back!

WOW. THIS IS A GREAT FIND. PUT THIS ON YOUR MUST VISIT LIST FOR PASO.
This is a stand out winery, making novel wines, among the 100+ wineries in Paso.
Little known, but much appreciated (by their followers) Bodegas Paso Robles are producers of Spanish and Portuguese varietal wines. Dorothy Schuler is their winemaker and she has a passion for varietals which are not often found in Calfornia wines. She has made it her goal to introduce these very authentic wines. Most of the product is limited to 100 case lots, so Dorothy can spend the time getting the results she wants. The results of her attention are very good and difficult to pass up.
The whites are fruity, well balanced and very refreshing with or without food. The price is very fair for the product. The Albariño is just fabulous — immediately bought a case after tasting it. Probably should have bought 2 – 3 cases.
The reds are really nice and full of the character of the varietal grapes. The Tempranillo is spectacular and the Pimenteiro (made from Bastardo grape) is even better. The Rosado, a great everyday red is very respectable and priced right (around $ 15).
The wine club discount makes these wines more attractive and affordable, enough to be considered your «go to wine».
They do not have the traditional winery tasting room, because they buy the grapes from around California (these varietals are hard to find in some cases), they process their juice at a local winery (Zenaida) and bottle & lable it using a mobile bottling service from SLO.
Their tasting room is near the center of Paso Robles on 13^th street, one block north of the city park in a growing artsy-​fartsy area of «old Paso». Fellow Unilocaler, Heather G. is the hostess at the tasting room. As you can see, she is a good reason to stop at the store even if you don’t buy the wine.
She is an Orange County transplant of many years and is very knowledgeable about what you are drinking.
The tasting fee is $ 5, but don’t worry, you won’t be paying it, as you will buy a bottle or two before you leave.