Paso Robles Wine University Brings Winemakers, Grape Growers and Wine Enthusiasts Together September 9, 10, 11, 2005 -- Tasting, Touring and Teaching.

PASO ROBLES, Calif. -- For the second year, the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (PRWCA) is sponsoring its Paso Robles Wine University program, September 9, 10, 11. The event will be held in Paso Robles Wine Country and kick off at the Park Ballroom in the downtown community, with registration followed by a wine and cheese reception on Friday, Sept. 9. The three-day event is open to all wine enthusiasts interested in learning about what makes the Paso Robles American Viticulture Area (AVA) distinct and different.

The interactive University program will be led by local winemakers and grape growers, and will offer two separate tracks -- 101 and 201, depending on wine knowledge of each participant. The three days incorporate a wine reception, seminars about viticulture and winemaking, vineyard and winery tours, wine tasting analysis, a grand tasting featuring more than 50 wineries and a series of specialty courses to complete the experience. Admission is $300 and includes all course materials, seminars, breakfast, lunch, entrance to the grand tasting and a commemorative glass. There may be additional fees associated with some of the specialty courses.

"The Wine University is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn firsthand from the industry leaders here in Paso Robles," said Dennis Collins, event chairman and Vice Chairman of the PRWCA. "In this unique forum, winemakers and wine grape growers share their intimate knowledge of the climate, soils, and grape varieties grown in Paso Robles and how these key components are reflected in the region's world-class wines."

New in 2005 are Paso Bucks. Working with the restaurants in Paso Robles, University students are encouraged to dine locally as a variety of restaurant incentives will be offered during the weekend. Paso Bucks are designed to encourage students to round out their Paso Robles Wine Country experience by taking time to enjoy the local community and restaurant scene. Coupons offering a variety of restaurant incentives will be valid throughout the event weekend and students will pick them up at registration.

Paso Robles Wine University Schedule:

Friday, September 9 -- 5:30-7:30 p.m. -- Registration, wine reception and opening presentation at the Park Ballroom (1232 Park Street).

Saturday, September 10 -- 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. -- From Terroir to Taste -- Viticulture overview at Paso Robles Inn Ballroom (1103 Spring Street) then students split into small groups for vineyard and winery tours, lunch and wine tasting analysis to be held at winery sites, assigned at registration in Paso Robles Wine Country. Grand Tasting begins at 5:30 p.m. at Hunter Ranch Golf Course (4041 Hwy 46 East) featuring more than 50 wineries.

Sunday, September 11 -- 10 a.m.-Noon -- Select a specialty course (food and wine pairings, harvest tour, comparative tastings, blending exercise, etc.)

For tickets and more information, call the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance at 800-239-8463, or go to www.pasowine.com.

The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (PRWCA), formerly Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association (PRVGA) represents wineries, growers and businesses in Paso Robles Wine Country. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California's Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country is California's fastest growing wine region. It encompasses more than 25,000 vineyard acres and nearly 100 wineries. With a greater day-to-night temperature swing than any other appellation in California, Paso Robles is an optimal area for producing more than 25 wine varieties. For more information, visit www.pasowine.com.