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Paso Robles Distilleries

July 29, 2024

Explore one of California’s Hidden Gems: The Paso Robles Distillery Trail

Nestled in the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by spirits enthusiasts – the Paso Robles Distillery Trail. While the region is renowned for its world-class wines, California’s only distillery trail offers a unique and immersive experience for those looking to explore another side of the craft beverage scene.

Paso Robles Distillery Trail
Paso Robles Distillery Trail bottle line up. Photo by HM Imagery

What is the Paso Robles Distillery Trail?

The Paso Robles Distillery Trail features 13 member distilleries in the Paso Robles wine country and southern San Luis Obispo County. Collectively, these distilleries represent the region’s swift rise as one of the nation’s leading destinations for enthusiasts of artisanal whiskeys, brandies, gins, liqueurs, and other craft spirits—all created amid a magical Central Coast landscape.

What sets the Paso Robles Distillery Trail apart is its focus on winegrape-based spirits that showcase the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Sustainably authentic and delicious, many Paso Robles distilleries produce grape-based spirits by capturing the prized saignee (free-run juice) that numerous wineries discard during the winemaking process. They then have a quality ingredient from which to distill their artisanal spirits: vodka, gin, and specialty liquors. The distilling process can vary, similar to the winemaking process, with each distiller having their own distinct style and method. You are invited to visit our local distilleries to learn more, meet the distillers, take a tour, and taste the difference.

Distillery Spotlights

Each distillery and every sip tell a story—a blend of craftsmanship, terroir, and passion!

The path to Bethel Rd. Distillery & Winery has been one of passion, experimentation, and homage to the tradition of spirit making from around the world. Holding one of the first distillery licenses in the county, the Udsen family dream is now a reality, distilling brandy, gin, grappa, and artisanal liquors.

The Donati Family has deep roots running throughout California, producing spirits with the same attention to quality as they do their wines. Enjoy Donati Spirits Chardonnay barrel-aged vodkas, brandy, and gin, all crafted from their estate wine grapes.

Both grape & grain farmers, Grain + Vine Distillery handcrafts each spirit with curiosity and intention in mind. Featuring unconventional whiskeys, as well as traditionally focused gins, rums, and vodkas for Paso Robles and beyond to enjoy.

RE:FIND Distillery handcrafts artisan spirits in a sustainable authentic method, from grape & grain to glass, in the heart of Paso Robles wine country. Pioneers of grape-based spirits, this small-batch artisan distiller produces vodka, gin, whiskey, and specialty liquors.

Tin City Distillery is a haven for premium Central Coast spirits, including a unique collection of cinnamon, orange, walnut, ghost pepper, American Oak, and Neutral Brandies as well as their special Barrel Mates Reserve: A collaboration with esteemed wineries.

Willow Creek Distillery, the Spirit of Paso, estate-sourced and hand-crafted spirits featuring VSOP and XO brandy, Amaro, and specialty liquors such as After Dark chocolate and Muddy Waters coffee liquors, as well as a burgeoning whiskey program.

Bethel Rd. Distillery. Photo by HM Imagery

Distillery Trail Weekend: Aug. 9-11

Mark your calendars for Aug. 9-11, 2024, as the Paso Robles Distillery Trail beckons visitors to embark on a journey of taste and discovery during Distillery Trail Weekend. Whether you’re a fan of the classic brandy, a lover of bold amaro, a connoisseur of artisanal gin, smooth vodka, or simply looking to expand your palate with unique specialty liquors, there’s something for everyone along the Paso Robles Distillery Trail.

Step into the world of small batch distilling as you meet passionate distillers, learn about their craft, and sample an array of handcrafted spirits that embody the essence of Paso Robles, and beyond. From the art of distillation to the nuanced flavors of each bottle, Distillery Trail Weekend offers an unforgettable experience that blends tradition, innovation, and a touch of Paso Robles charm.

Experience The Paso Robles Distillery Trail like a VIP with the exclusive Copper Card. The Copper Card offers access to private distillery tours, special tastings, barrel samples, craft cocktail demos, drink specials, food and spirits pairings, live music, eats, educational still demos, bottle specials, and so much more! It’s the new bartender’s handshake and your all-access pass to specialty experiences and elevated VIP treatment, including complimentary tastings at all 13 member distilleries.

Grab your Copper Card, pick up a map, and hit the trail for a weekend filled with the best locally crafted spirits of SLO CAL on Aug. 9-11!

For more information about the Paso Robles Distillery Trail and Distillery Trail weekend, visit pasoroblesdistillerytrail.com or any of the member distillery tasting rooms.

The Paso Robles Distillery Trail encourages you to savor these spirits responsibly, whether alongside good company on a beautiful day out on the trail, or a cozy evening at home. Cheers!