By Lori Budd of Exploring the Wine Glass
California and wine have been in a torrid love affair for centuries. Similar to a symbiotic relationship, this couple has shaped both the state’s identity and its global reputation. The early courtship involved the Spanish missionaries planting the first vineyards, but the crowning moment; the engagement of this couple, can be traced to the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris. In this unprecedented competition, Chateau Montelena’s Chardonnay and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars’ Cabernet Sauvignon took top prizes against top French Bordeaux wines. Since then California has grown into one of the most influential wine regions in the world and Paso Robles, with its own unique journey and distinctive style has become one of its most passionate love letters.
Mission-Era Origins: The First Crush
Every romance novel or Lifetime Movie has its initial conflict before true love is found and California and wine’s story is no different. The initial romance began in the late 1700s with Franciscan missionaries with the humble Mission grape. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was reliable. Together they could depend on each other. The “first date” took place at Mission San Juan Capistrano in 1779. As the relationship blossomed more vineyards were scattered across the state. For almost a century, this grape stood by California as a steady companion. As time passed, the two began to grow apart, looking for something with a little more complexity and passion. However, if it weren’t for this first crush, future love letters would never have been written and Paso Robles may never have found its place in California’s grand romance.
The Gold Rush: Love at First Boom
When love is found, sparks fly and everything changes. For California wine, that electricity came during the mid-1800s Gold Rush. People from around the globe flooded to the state in hopes of finding a fortune. What they did find was a thirst for something more than water or whiskey. They began to fall in love with wine and what was a quiet romance between California and the Mission grape was uprooted and a whirlwind love affair began with European varieties.
One of the matchmakers to this new relationship was Agoston Haraszthy. Nicknamed “Father of California Viticulture” for his role, he packed cuttings from over 300 grape varieties from Europe and new wineries began popping up to feed this relationship. In 1857, Buena Vista laid the foundation for California’s future as the honeymoon phase began, and California was officially falling head over heels for wine, a love affair that would shape its identity forever.
Paso Robles: The Spark of a New Romance
All romances have offshoots, and for California wine, Paso Robles was destined to be one of its most captivating chapters. In 1797, Franciscan missionaries introduced vines to Mission San Miguel Arcángel, planting the seeds of what would one day lead to a bold and passionate romance. These early humble Mission vines were loyal and steady, but as California wine’s affair with European varieties deepened, Paso Robles began to seek out its own identity.
By the late 1880s, Paso pioneers laid the groundwork for commercial winemaking. Andrew York, a rancher from Indiana, planted Zinfandel. Following his success, the Ernst family came from Illinois and planted 25 varieties and Gerd Klintworth made the first white wine in the region in 1886. Paso Robles was no longer just a quiet partner; it was developing its own flair, personality, and style, ready to captivate the hearts (and glasses) of wine lovers for generations to come.
Modern Growth: From First Sparks to a Lasting Romance
Like any enduring love, Paso Robles proudly announced its relationship as one to follow throughout the world. By 1983, the region officially declared its commitment with American Viticultural Area (AVA) status, staking its claim as a distinct partner in California’s wine history. Over the years, the AVA expanded, now covering more than 600,000 acres of land and approximately 40,000 acres under vine each carrying the passion of generations.
The region’s dramatic diurnal temperature swings act like a spark, continually rejuvenating the romance and creating wines with depth, balance, and intrigue. Downtown Paso Robles serves as the vibrant heartbeat of this love affair, where charming streets and bustling tasting rooms set the stage for new romances to flourish. Each wine is like a love letter sent to the world, proving that Paso Robles isn’t just a side romance; it’s a passionate, unforgettable affair in California’s grand wine story.
Toasting to California Wine Month
California wine has many lovers, each region with its own flavor, personality, and flair. Paso Robles offers something a little wilder; a bold, passionate partner with a story that’s equal parts romance and adventure. While other regions may be the state’s first loves, Paso Robles is the long-lost flame that surprises and captivates, showing that California’s wine romance is as diverse and layered as the state itself. Together, all these regions create a symphony of varieties and personalities, proving that the love affair with California wine is never one-dimensional, it’s a lifetime of passion, discovery, and delight.
As we celebrate California Wine Month, it’s the perfect time to raise a glass to the state’s rich history and the unique love stories of each wine region. From the Mission grapes’ first crush to Paso Robles’ modern-day passion, California wine has grown into a romance that spans centuries and continents. Whether you’re exploring downtown Paso Robles, swirling a glass of exciting Cabernet Franc, or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a bottle, you’re part of this enduring love affair. Here’s to history, to passion, and to California wine.
About Lori Budd
With a passion for wine that bubbles like the finest Champagne, Lori Budd is a wine educator who loves bringing the joys of vino to others. A certified Spanish Wine Scholar and WSET Level 2 Award holder, Lori has mastered the nuances of wines from Albariño through Zinfandel. As a champagne specialist, she can sabrage a bottle open with flair while explaining what makes the region unique. Lori founded Cabernet Franc Day to spotlight this oft-overlooked Bordeaux variety. Based in Paso Robles wine country, she is dedicated to promoting the extraordinary region. When Lori pours, good times are sure to flow; she promises to never tell you what to drink, but she’ll always share what’s in her glass. Follow along her journey through her award winning blog and nationally ranked podcast; Exploring the Wine Glass.
