Rhone Trailblazers in Paso Robles, CA
From boxed wine to big blends, Tablas Creek shows how a luxury winery can lead with both heart and innovation
During our time in Paso Robles, we spent most of our days visiting micro-producers. Tablas Creek, who I’d consider more of a mid-sized producer, was recommended to me by my colleague Boin as a must-stop thanks to the incredible energy and investment they’re putting into inclusivity and sustainability.
Because our decision to visit was last-minute, we made the critical mistake of not having a reservation. Thankfully, the team was able to squeeze us in — but take it from me, make a reservation. While their patio is perfect for soaking in that golden California sunshine, we ended up inside at the tasting bar overlooking one of their tank rooms, which honestly felt just as cool.
Tablas Creek was founded in 1987 as a partnership between the Perrin family of Château de Beaucastel and the Haas family of Vineyard Brands, who imported grapevines all the way from France. Today, they’re proud stewards of over 20 varietals and produce roughly 25,000–30,000 cases per year.
The Vibe
When we pulled into the parking lot, we were greeted by a bright patio shaded with red umbrellas and views that never get old. Inside, a friendly staff member welcomed us — no judgment for not having a reservation — and introduced us to our hostess, who happened to be training someone that day. That meant a little extra attention for us, which made the experience feel even more personal.
The delivery of information was spot-on: approachable, digestible, and never intimidating. With French-style wine, that kind of accessibility makes all the difference.
The Wine
Tablas Creek offers three tasting options: a Classic Flight, a Summer Flight, and a Red Flight. Since it was nearly 100 degrees out, we went for the Summer Flight — five wines in total: three whites (Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, and Esprit de Tablas Blanc), a rosé (Patelin de Tablas Rosé), and a red (Counoise). Our hostess also treated us to a few flagship reds, so in the end we tasted around eight wines.
What stood out was just how drinkable they were. Head winemaker Neil Collins and second-generation proprietor Jason Haas are clearly crafting wines that are crushable, refreshing, and made to be enjoyed. The whites and rosés shine on a warm day, the lighter-bodied reds beg for a chill, and the bigger blends hold their own next to roast chicken or steak.
Honorable Mention
One of the reasons I was drawn to Tablas Creek in the first place was their commitment to the planet. From ethical farming practices — sheep grazing instead of pesticides — to investing in the long-term health of their land, they take sustainability seriously.
But what really blew me away? Tablas Creek is one of the only “luxury” wine brands in California to embrace the boxed wine space. They now offer 3L boxes of their Esprit de Tablas Blanc and Patelin de Tablas Rosé — a move that slashes their carbon footprint by 84%. Insane.
Of course, boxed wine has plenty of consumer perks too (that’s a conversation for another time), but the point is: Tablas Creek is proving that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand.
Tablas Creek gets the full Next Gen Wino stamp of approval — and we can’t wait to go back.
The pricing of the tasting was $25/person and is waived with a purchase of 2+ bottles or is free to wine club members.