Still Waters Vineyards and Tasting Room — Attraction in California

I was really looking forward to this experience. This was my first time going to a California winery, and I wanted this to be a highlight of the trip. Also, Nikki was awesome. This is not about her.

We were on our wedding trip (we told them this) and we thought we were fortunate to get the last slot of the day on Thursday. A business owner all the way in Santa Cruz recommended Paso Robles and its wineries, so we found the top rated dog-friendly winery in the area.

Our dog, on a leash and harness (I was sitting on the leash as many owners do in outdoor settings) got loose because he was scared of the steward (Nikki) coming from uphill, and approached her barking (no harm was done, and my dog has never harmed anyone). He had been in outdoor seating areas of restaurants and breweries many times before, so this was a first.

Paul came out alarmed and on the defense, identifying himself as the owner, and said several things, such as “this is not a dog park” (despite another dog wandering around on the property and approaching us in the parking lot) and he gave the option to either put the dog in the car (I did, the dog barked nonstop because he had never been left in the car before) or tie him to a bench outside and we come inside (this was after I offered to tie him outside with us nearby, which Nikki was comfortable with). The options we got from Paul were not the reasonable options we got from Nikki, who wanted the dog to stay. Our dog had never been in the car alone and tying him outside or leaving him in the car was not a reasonable option as another dog (I assume Paul’s own dog) was wandering around the property without a leash.

We were the only customers there. It honestly seemed like since we got there just before close, he didn’t care if we stayed or left. We did not feel welcome. And yes I did taste the wine (one sip) and it was great. We voluntarily left on our own, and offered to pay for it regardless of the situation.

There were other unprofessional and belittling comments but I really want to go on to enjoy the rest of my wedding trip. This is the worst customer service experience I’ve ever been apart of, and I have been in customer-facing roles for almost 10 years.

Edit - Thanks for your professional response here and the well wishes. There was, however, no verbal mention of bite attempts in this incident, until the...

As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting numerous wineries throughout Paso Robles, I can confidently say that Still Water Family Winery stands out as a true hidden gem. Tucked away in the heart of wine country, this charming winery offers not only amazing wines but also a level of customer service that truly sets it apart.

As a professional in the tour industry, I have seen firsthand the importance of delivering exceptional experiences to guests. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew that the team at Still Water Family Winery had a genuine passion for making every visitor feel welcome and valued. Paul, Nicky, Taylor, and the rest of the staff are some of the most warm, genuine, and hardworking people I have ever met.

The attention to detail at Still Water is impeccable. The tasting room is beautifully appointed, with comfortable seating and stunning views of the vineyards. The staff is always happy to answer any questions and share their extensive knowledge about the winery and the wines. Every visitor is made to feel like a VIP, and the customer service is truly world-class.

Of course, the wines at Still Water are a standout as well. Whether you prefer malbec, sparklingrosé, Still Water offers a range of exceptional wines that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. Their Syrah is a personal favorite of mine, with its bold, rich flavor and silky-smooth finish. And don't miss their delicious rosé, perfect for sipping on a warm summer day.

Overall, I cannot recommend Still Water Family Winery highly enough. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to enjoy some delicious wine, this winery is a must-visit destination in Paso Robles. With its exceptional wines, stunning location, and world-class customer service, it truly stands out as one of the best wineries in the area. Do yourself a favor and plan a visit to Still Water Family Winery – you won't be...

10 Happy Stars!! Such a warm, friendly, beautiful, serene and relaxed setting with views of their vineyards and ancient olive trees, flowers, babbling brooks, and guest-dogs! We were treated with such warmth & helpfulness. We felt like we'd been friends for years!

We brought a to-go order with us for lunch and opted for a glass of Sparkling for me and their Cuvee Blanc for him....and we were so happy to be there, we purchased a bottle to stay longer! As time went on, we signed up for their "Catch of the Month" club with wonderful perks - including outdoor concerts starting this April. (their sign below...concerts on Saturdays also have a taco bar with fresh-caught fish, carne asada, and more!)

It's such a treat to make friends with relaxed (and leashed) dogs and their owners. And we got to pet the winery dogs; Rowdi & Birdie who (amazingly) and obediently waited in their golf cart. Everyone was so warm and friendly.

Special thanks to Nikki for being our server and now our friend too! All the staff are so wonderful. We're Happy...