We can't say enough about how great Rick was!! Rick was far more than a driver. He was a welcome party, a tour organizer, a local wine and food expert, and a wonderful conversationalist! This was our first trip to Paso Robles, and our first trip centered around wine tastings. We could not have done it without Rick, and Rick made it amazing. A friend who had been to Paso Robles referred us to Rick and we're so thankful for the connection!
Over our four-day trip, Rick was able to get us to 16 thoughtfully curated tastings (including one phenomenal olive oil tasting!). Ahead of the trip, Rick consulted with us about what we wanted to get out of the trip, what wines we liked, etc. He then designed the best trip itinerary--location-sensitive, background/picture ready, time-aware, palate-sensitive. Nothing felt rushed, redundant, or poorly sequenced. When our plans shifted slightly mid-trip, he pivoted effortlessly and rearranged some tastings without missing a beat.
Importantly, Rick is deeply knowledgeable about all things Paso Robles (food, wine, what to do) and clearly very knowledgeable about wine in general--vintages, varietals, producers, and bottles. He speaks about wine naturally and fluently, and it's obvious he's a frequent taster himself. Just as importantly, he's extremely well connected. He knows the wineries and the people behind them, and because of that, we consistently received exceptional service. He never hovered, always gave us space, but quietly made sure we were given the five star treatment, including getting extra tastings we wouldn't have had otherwise. He was also invaluable beyond the wineries. Rick knew exactly where to eat and what we should order (can't recommend the focaccia bread at Niner enough!!), and somehow got us into places we couldn't get into on our own. That kind of access isn't accidental!
A few extra touches worth mentioning: his wife's homemade brownies were an incredible end to our tasting days, and Rick also happens to be a great photographer who knows all the best spots.
He's affordable, highly people-aware, and has a genuinely high social EQ. It should go without saying that of course he was an excellent driver as well (no car sickness whatsoever and knew how to navigate the hilly roads of Paso)!! We would recommend Rick without hesitation and fully intend to call him again when we return to Paso Robles!! Thank you, Rick!! read more