Alternative Tastes Wine Fest: Celebrating Paso’s Unique Varieties

Join us for the return of the Alternative Tastes Wine Fest, a celebration of Paso Robles’ rare and remarkable grape varieties, returning March 28th, 2026. Start the day with a Blind Tasting of rare white and red wines led by Hal Schmitt of Volatus and Carl Bowker of Caliza and End of the Day. The Grand Tasting Experience at Pavilion on the Lake in Atascadero will follow the seminar.

Presented by CRUSH Vineyard, Alternative Tastes shines a spotlight on 20+ boutique winemakers crafting wines from uniquely Californian grape varieties—with fewer than 1,000 acres planted statewide.

2026 Schedule of Events:

Saturday, March 28th –
11:30am - 1pm - Red, White and Blind Winemaker Seminar - Join Hal and Carl to Taste and learn about rare white and red grape varieties grown and produced in Paso Robles.

1pm - 4 pm - Grand Tasting and Silent Auction - Join 20 local winemakers to Taste and learn about rare white and red grape varieties grown and produced in Paso Robles.

A Note About the Silent Auction:
We'll be hosting a silent auction during the Grand Tasting. Proceeds will benefit the Flag Ranch Foundation, a SLO County-based horse sanctuary and horse and human collaboratory.