When the Los Angeles Times ran a feature story that glowingly proclaimed Paso Robles “A Napa Just Waiting to Happen,” Paul Hoover, owner and winemaker of one of Paso Robles newest wineries, Still Waters Vineyards, just didn’t see it. “We’re not Napa Valley, unless you compare us to Napa 30 or 40 years ago,” says Hoover, who opened to the public last May. “When you visit our tasting room, you’ll often find me there giving tours and pouring wines.”

That’s the attitude that makes Paso Robles wine country so inviting. More often than not, you’ll find winemakers like Hoover in the tasting room enthusiastically discussing their wines and sharing their stories. Hoover, himself, has fulfilled a dream of both growing grapes and hosting a tasting room — where he is often seen commingling with people who come to taste his Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Still Waters has three wine clubs, including a “Barrel Club” that allows members to bottle their own wines. At the tasting room, visitors can buy freshly picked olives in the fall season, with recipes provided by Hoover’s wife and partner, Patty. – Kathy Marcks Hardesty

Still Waters Vineyard, 2750 Old Grove Lane, Paso Robles, CA
(805) 237.9231