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Driving out Niderer Road is half the adventure. Rolling green hills give way to tree-covered lanes, and before you know it, you’re winding through walnuts and vineyards. Around one bend, the Italian flags of Pelletiere pop into view — always a sight. Not long after, a modest little sign for G2 Vineyard lets you know you’re in serious wine country. Some of the best fruit in the world comes out of that dirt.

 

Just when you think you’ve gone too far (and trust me, the road does seem to stretch on), the reward appears: a quiet sign for Clos Solène. The property is stunning — each block of vines planted to match its slope, sun, and exposure. You can tell right away how much thought and care went into every decision.

 

We were welcomed with a splash of crisp, refreshing rosé at a small stand near the vines. Glass in hand, we wandered to a shaded table overlooking their soon-to-be-finished caves. The concrete archway and rounded entry feel like the start of a story, hiding a maze of cool tunnels beyond.

 

Our host, Alejandro, set the tone — gracious, relaxed, and with just enough of a French lilt to make the storytelling sing. He shared the tale of Guillaume, the winemaker, who named the winery after his love, Solène — a dream turned into reality, rooted in passion and patience.

 

And then came the wines. We began with La Rosé, bright with red fruit and just enough citrus zing to make you smile. The Rhône-style GSM blend, Harmonie, showed Paso at its best: juicy cherry and plum with a hint of spice, silky and smooth from start to finish. The Syrah, Cabernet, and Grenache blend, Fleur de Solène, brought out the bolder side — the Bordeaux varieties adding deep blackberry, cassis, and espresso notes, all wrapped in fine tannins that lingered long after the sip. Lastly, we tasted L’Insolent, pure Bordeaux at heart — an elegant blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. A big, bold red with a soft mouthfeel and a spectacular finish.

 

Clos Solène is one of those stops that reminds you why Paso is special: big heart, world-class vineyards, and a story behind every glass.