Paso’s Cabernets are big and bold because the land gives them no choice — sun-drenched days build power and richness, while cool ocean nights keep the fruit fresh and balanced. Rooted in limestone soils, the vines dig deep, concentrating flavor into dark, plush wines that carry the soul of Paso: generous, vibrant, and unforgettable in every glass.
Big Cabs of Paso Robles
Paso Robles is the land of creative Rhônes, and bold Riojas, but we are in California, so what grape is the dominant grape plated in Paso Robles 11 AVAs you might be surprised to learn about 39% of the grapes grown in the region are Cabernet Sauvignon. So, with so many wonderful and interesting Cabs in the area, let's take a look.
At the heart of Eberle WInery is Gary Eberle, his first wine was a 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon debuting the iconic boar logo, depicting the German origin of the name Eberle, meaning “small boar.” Since then, he and his team haev created an iconic vineyard and tasting room on Paso Robles east side, down 46 East. The cave tours and the terraces make the perfect setting to his legendary Reserve Cab. They also have a very diverse tasting list and live music on the weekends.
Daou winery is certainly known for their many Cabs, but it's the dropdead view from atop "DAOU Mountain" that makes the wine taste just a little more magical. For a big classic Bordeaux blend "Soul of the Lion" roars with a little Cabernet Franc & Petite Verdot to round it out. For a 100% Cab, DAOU's 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is made with 80% new French oak, which gives it some beautiful texture and smooth tannins. They also have a complete menu from snacks to pizzas.
Justin Vineyards first planted in 1981, soon their workhorse cab became a huge hit, and with solid following they grew their little winery in a huge Winery, Vineyard, Inn and Restaurant. Since 1997 they've been known for their beautiful Bordeaux blend, Isosceles, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc & Merlot.
Arriving from Bordeaux in 1998, Winemaker Stephan Asseo fell in love with the unique terroir of Paso Robles’ Westside. SInce that time he and his team and curated some of the finest vineyards from which he creates beautifully indulgent wine using a mix of Rhônes & Bordeaux. Using the bold Syrahs with giant Cabs, the magic is undeniable.
Austin Hope (Hope Family Wines)
Hope Family WInes has 6 labels, but is best known for the owners namesake, Austin Hope, or as they say "I'll have Austin Cab please" for over 30 years farming in Paso Robles once a mixture of apple orchards and grapes, they now produce amazing Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Mourvedre and Grenache. They've recently added a tasting room in downtown Paso Robles. Their tasting rooms and gardens are busy, but you still get the feeling of being in your own little space.
Jerry Lohr founded the his first wine company when he planted his first vineyards in 1973 in Monterey County, selling mainly focused on Chardonnay. In the Early 1980's Jerry saw the potential of Paso Robles for Bordeaux style wines and produced his first Paso Robles Cab, 1987 Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2017, to celebrate Jerry Lohr’s 80th birthday, the winery launched the J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, intended as a high-end, collectible expression of their decades of winemaking experience.
