Paso holds an event each August that really puts our winemakers to the test.

Sure, we know they can craft beautiful wine, but can they cook a tasty bite to pair with that wine?

Wineries and breweries really go all out for the Winemakers’ Cookoff, held this year on August 11. Now in its 20th year, the Paso Robles Rotary Club holds this event to raise funds for local high school scholarships. To date, they’ve raised more than $1.4 million to help students in Paso Robles Wine Country.

So, what’s in store?

More than 35 wineries and breweries serve up wine and grilled treats, all in a battle for the Judges’ Choice.

But here’s where the real fun comes in!

There is also a People’s Choice award.

Tip: When you enter you’ll be given tickets to vote for your favorite wineries. Wineries will try to bribe you for your tickets with special goodies, like barrel samples, library and reserve wines. Don’t be too quick to hand out all your tickets— see what you can negotiate!

Tip: Last year’s winners are probably a great place to start since they’ll want to defend their titles! Check out Broken Earth (Spirit Award- see pic), Derby  (Professional Chef Award), Pear Valley (Judge’s Award), and Eberle and Calcareous (People’s Choice).

As if that’s not enough, you’ll also enjoy live music from Julie Beaver and the Bad Dogs.

Tickets to the event are $90/pp and $50/designated driver. You can purchase yours at www.eventbrite.com or visit www.winemakerscookoff.com.

This event is really a blast!

Visit our events page for all events in Paso Robles Wine Country.