If you read Wednesday’s blog post you know that we got ourselves a babysitter last weekend and went out to a couple of wineries. One was Law Estate Wines and the other was Michael Gill Cellars. We chose these two spots because we had never been but also because they are located right near each other on Peachy Canyon Road on the west side of Paso Robles.
This is another unique spot in Paso. The tasting room was inspired by French hunting lodges which makes sense as Michael Gill has filled the room with many trophies from his adventurous hunts. If you’re in to that sort of thing you will be quite amazed by the collection.
It’s a great spot with a big patio off the tasting room. Perfect for a picnic, enjoying the wines, and marveling at the landscape. Here’s what we tasted:
2012 Tuxedo Viognier $38.00
2012 Michael Gill Cellars Counoise $40.00
2012 Michael Gill Cellars Tempranillo ‘Tantrum’ $42.00
2010 Big Rock Syrah $42.00
2010 Black Tie Syrah $65.00
2010 Tuxedo Syrah $65.00
The Syrahs were nice but I was really feeling the Viognier, Counoise, and Tempranillo. It’s always interesting to come across a 100% Counoise, a very intriguing variety. And the Tempranillo was much smoother and drinkable than I normally find Tempranillos to be…or maybe I’ve been drinking the wrong ones.
Overall it was a great experience. The only note I would make about this winery for some of you is that if you are against hunting you may not enjoy the tasting room filled with trophies. Beyond that, a beautiful spot. I’d love to go back and hang on that patio some time. Peachy Canyon Road is really an under mentioned wine road. Most folks talk about 46 West and Vineyard Drive…Peachy Canyon is awesome.
A side note, they have a Vineyard Cottage that you can rent on your travels to Paso Robles so be sure to check that out if you are in need of a place to stay. Cheers!
Great post guys! I’m glad you enjoyed it. These are really good people and long time advertisers in our visitors guide http://www.slovisitorsguide.com. The owner is very hospitable and loves to share the stories about the trophies.
Unique spot for sure, Scott…and beautiful. We did not see Michael while there but his wife was great! 🙂
They did a fabulous pop-up at Second Press. He and his wife are great story tellers. So funny and really delicious wines. I’m a huge fan of the Cunoise.
That’s cool…we missed that pop-up at Second Press. I agree, that Counoise is very nice! 🙂
100% Counoise? Interesting! Sounds like another great Paso spot…thanks for the virtual taste of it.
Yes indeed, David. There are 2 or 3 100% Counoise locally if I’m not mistaken. Really fun trying lesser known varieties. 🙂