When traveling through Paso Robles wine country, few routes are as scenic and packed with world-class wineries as Highway 46 East. Whether you’re entering or leaving Paso Robles, this stretch of road offers wine lovers a perfect opportunity to explore a variety of unique vineyards and tasting rooms. One standout stop that you won’t want to miss is Bodega de Edgar, a local favorite known for its handcrafted Spanish varietals and welcoming atmosphere.
Why Choose Highway 46 East?
Highway 46 East is the gateway to some of the region’s most exciting wineries, making it the ideal path for both newcomers and seasoned wine enthusiasts. The road is dotted with wineries offering everything from bold red blends to crisp whites, and its convenient location between the Central Coast and Paso Robles means you can easily enjoy wine tastings before heading to your next destination. The route is scenic and calming, with rolling hills and vineyards as far as the eye can see.
Discovering Bodega de Edgar
Located at 3550 Combine Street, just off Highway 46 East, Bodega de Edgar is a must-stop destination. Founded by Edgar Torres in 2007, the winery specializes in Spanish varietals such as Tempranillo, Albariño, and Grenache. What sets Bodega de Edgar apart is not only the exceptional quality of the wines but also the personal touch that Edgar brings to every bottle.
At Bodega de Edgar, you can expect a laid-back and intimate tasting experience. The small-production winery focuses on crafting authentic, small-batch wines with minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to truly express the terroir of Paso Robles. Appointments are recommended for tastings, which offer visitors a chance to learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of limited-release wines.
Other Wineries to Explore Along Highway 46 East
If you’re planning to make a day of it, here are a few other wineries along Highway 46 East that are worth a visit:
- Eberle Winery – One of the pioneers of Paso Robles wine country, Eberle Winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Their cave tours and expansive grounds make for an enjoyable stop on your journey.
- Vina Robles – Offering a mix of varietals, including Petite Sirah and Zinfandel, Vina Robles combines wine with live music events and a relaxed outdoor tasting space.
Why Stop at Bodega de Edgar?
- Unique Spanish Varietals: If you love Spanish wines, Bodega de Edgar is one of the few Paso Robles wineries that specialize in them, offering a unique alternative to the more common Rhône and Bordeaux varietals of the region.
- Authentic Winemaking: Edgar Torres is known for his minimal intervention approach, focusing on quality and authenticity. Each wine tells a story, often featuring labels with family photos that highlight his deep connection to his Mexican heritage.
- Convenient Location: Its proximity to Highway 46 East makes it an easy and convenient stop on your wine tour, perfect for a midday tasting before continuing your journey.
Plan Your Visit
Bodega de Edgar is open Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and reservations are highly recommended due to its small, intimate nature. This ensures you’ll get personalized attention and a deeper understanding of Edgar’s winemaking philosophy.
So whether you’re arriving in Paso Robles or heading out, take the time to explore the wineries along Highway 46 East and make sure to stop at Bodega de Edgar for a truly memorable tasting experience. Not only will you enjoy exceptional wines, but you’ll also experience a bit of Paso Robles’ local charm that makes the region so special.
