Robert Hall Winery Review

Address: 3443 Mill Rd. Paso Robles,California 93446.
Phone Number: 805-239-1616
Tasting Hours: Winter 10:00-5:00, Summer 10:00-6:00

Region: Paso Robles AVA, Paso Robles Geneseo District AVA, California
Reviewer: Julie Dorris
Review Date: 7/4/2012
Reviewer: Julie Dorris
Rating: 5

The Review

Paso Robles. The name conjures images of rolling hills with rows of grapevines and fields of lavender, as well as a smoky, earthy, flavors created by unique mineral content in the soil. Robert Hall wines eloquently represent all that this region has to offer. Hall, An entrepreneur who became inspired to make wine after a trip to the Rhone Valley, searched California to find the perfect terroir for starting his next business venture. He decided on Paso Robles for its rich soil and wine-growing climate, and cultivated his first vineyard, Home Ranch, in 1995. His production goals were lofty, so he expanded his estate to include Terrace and Bench Vineyards. Today, Robert Hall wines can be found all over the country, allowing people to experience the tastes of Paso Robles from miles away. While in Paso Robles, a visit to the lavish tasting room is a must.

The Place: &nbspThere’s no chance you could blink and miss this place. It is grandiose, set upon a hill overlooking Highway 46. Upon arrival you will be greeted by the sound of water flowing down a multi-tiered fountain into a reflection pool. The arched terrace wraps around the entire facility, which includes the tasting room, event space, and elegant courtyards. Visitors will want to take advantage of the large picnic area adjacent to the tasting room that overlooks the vineyards. And for recreation while sipping, there’s even a Bocce ball court made of crushed oyster shells. The tasting room is spacious with soaring ceilings and four long bars that can accommodate many guests. Even on weekends you wouldn’t feel crowded here. You may notice a giant golden bear in the corner, an award for Best Winery in California, given by the California State Fair.

The Experience: &nbspIt was a warm and windy Paso Robles day, and the tasting room was a nice refuge from the elements. A server promptly greeted me and explained the tasting menu. There seems to be an air of confidence among the staff here. They know the wines are good and are happy to answer any questions, but they don’t bombard you with information. My server gave a simple introduction to each taste, then we ended up chatting about life while I enjoyed the fruits of winemaker Don Brady’s labor.

The Wines: &nbspYou can choose the $5 House Tasting or the $10 Reserve Tasting, and the fee is waved with a purchase. Either way you will taste wines decorated with many honors. Among the whites, I found the 2007 Viognier to be a standout. I enjoyed all of the reds, but my favorite was the earthy 2008 Merlot.

Extras: &nbspRobert Hall is committed to implementing sustainable growing practices at Hall Ranch and eco-friendly systems at the winery. If you have time, take the 30-minute tour of the facilities, which includes 19,000 square feet of stunning cavern space.