Paso Robles named the No. 1 wine region in the nation by USA Today readers
Paso Robles is home to the best wine region in the nation, according to USA Today’s 2023 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award contest.
“We are thrilled and honored to be named the best wine region,” executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance Joel Peterson said. “This recognition is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of our winemakers and the warm hospitality of our community.”
A panel of experts selected nominees for the best wine destinations in the United States, then USA Today readers voted on their top 10 favorites, the publication wrote.
Paso Robles was one of two California wine regions that made it on the list, joined by Temecula Valley in Southern California — which USA Today called “a great alternative to the pricey Napa area.”
USA Today praised Paso Robles for a wide variety of tasting options and its “gorgeous views.”
“This region offers everything from small batch tasting in the vineyard with tiny family wineries to some of the most breathtaking vistas with the capacity to welcome a crowd,” USA Today wrote. “Plus, there’s a grape for every style preference growing in Paso Robles vineyards. In other words, no one leaves this place unsatisfied.”
Here’s the full list of USA Today’s 10Best reader’s choice winners for best wine region:
Paso Robles, California
Temecula Valley, California
Grand Valley, Colorado
Finger Lakes, New York
Augusta, Missouri
Snake River Valley, Idaho and Oregon
Walla Walla Valley, Washington
Crest of the Blue Ridge Henderson County, North Carolina
Dahlonega Plateau, Georgia
Texas Hill Country, Texas
DAOU named best wine-tasting room
USA Today readers also named DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles the No. 1 wine-tasting room in the country.
“This Tuscan-style estate high atop a hill in Paso Robles has incredible views, terrific wines and good food — all served on a large outdoor patio,” 10Best contributor Jenny Peters wrote.
The winery offers tastings for members each first Friday of the month. In addition, general events are hosted for the public at a starting cost of $210.
Three other California spots also made the list.
Top five wineries include:
No. 1: DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles, California
No. 2: Corner 103 in Sonoma, California
No. 3: Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery in Hammondsport, New York
No. 4: Stoller Family Estate in Dayton, Oregon
No. 5: Long Shadows Vintners in Walla Walla and Woodinville, Washington
Other SLO County properties make USA Today lists
Also making USA Today’s reader’s choice lists:
Best winery restaurant: The Restaurant at Justin in Paso Robles ranked No. 2.
Best wine tour: Eberle Winery in Paso Robles ranked No. 2.
Best wine country hotel: Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles ranked No. 3.
Best roadside travel motel: San Luis Creek Lodge in San Luis Obispo ranked No. 7.
Best Vintage Trailer Hotel: The Trailer Pond in Paso Robles ranked No. 3.
