Updated November 2022
Where to taste wine in Edna Valley
One of the premier wine regions below California’s central coast is not very well known. Located just 20 minutes south of the increasingly popular Paso Robles region, Edna could not be more different. While Paso produces powerhouse Cabs, Zins and Syrah, Edna is known for lighter bodied varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling.
Climate plays the key role in the difference: Paso is further inland and reaches much hotter temperatures than the cool, coastal area of Edna. If whites and lighter bodied reds are your jam, you must put Edna Valley on your list.
Don’t miss our guide to Paso Robles
Facts about Edna Valley AVA
- Grape varieties grown: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling (plus a few others)
- Soil: Rich volcanic soil, clay, shale and sand
- Climate: Moderate sunshine, cool maritime fog
- Best time to visit: Year round
How to get to Edna Valley
San Luis Obispo (or SLO) is the closest town to Edna Valley and we recommend setting your home base here. SLO is a beautiful little town roughly halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and the exit is just off the highway 101.
The happy little city is comprised of mostly students and retired folks. Fun fact: Jesse’s alma mater is Cal Poly SLO (Go Mustangs!).
Where to stay when visiting Edna Valley
When looking for housing, we recommend one of three options: Downtown, Uptown and the beaches.
Downtown
Downtown is for those who want to be walking distance to the bars and restaurants on Higuera street. Check out the newly renovated, centrally located Hotel San Luis Obispo.
Uptown
Uptown allows for some larger, more luxurious hotels but are a longer walk from the restaurants (just about 20 minutes). These hotels usually offer a pool, happy hour and breakfast buffets. We like the Quality Inn Suites and La Quinta.
By the Beach
Those who would prefer a beach getaway, checkout the Cliffs in Pismo Beach. They have a great happy hour and live music overlooking the pacific ocean.
Best Wineries in Edna Valley
Tastings are not as formal as ones found elsewhere in California. Wineries are all too familiar with college kids causing mayhem in the cellar door. Many of the producers cater to this crowd, but we’ve selected those who stay small in size and focus on making beautiful juice.
Claiborne & Churchill
Old school producer (founded in 1983) consistently producing high quality wines. Founders Claiborne and Fredericka Churchill Thompson found inspiration in the fruity, high acid and dry wines of Alsace, France which pair incredibly well with meals.
Their Pinot Noir has a bouncy red-fruit aroma yet on the palette is dynamic and though provoking. Our second favorite in the lineup is their dry Riesling; an incredible buy at the $25 price point and can be aged upwards of 15 years.
Kynsi
If Pinot is your jam, then don’t miss this family-run estate. While there is also Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Syrah and red blends, Pinot is the bread and butter here.
We always love it when producers create a clonal horizontal tasting; in non wine speak: tasting the subtle differences amongst different types of vine cuttings (each have their own personality).
Wolff Vineyards
Minimal intervention winemaking focusing on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. We like that this winery is family owned and operated, giving it a special “mom and pop” feel. We also appreciate that the Wolff family takes risks, working with a rare Italian variety Teroldego.
Where to eat when visiting Edna Valley
Firestone Grill
A staple in the San Luis Obispo community and home to the best Tri-tip sandwich in the world! Do NOT miss this spot. In addition to the tri-tip, the pig sandwich and french fries are a must.
Ciopinot
Those who have spent time in the Bay Area are likely fond of the seafood stew Ciopinno. This play on words reflects the owner’s appreciation for Pinot Noir and the wine list is bursting with local and worldly treasures.
Koberl at Blue
Upscale, French-American cuisine with a great ambiance. The martini’s are to die for as is the rack of lamb. A perfect celebration meal.
