Paso Robles winery launches discounted tastings for college students
Students age 21 and older can receive $10 tasting flight
– McPrice Myers Wines in Paso Robles has launched a tasting program offering discounted tastings for college and university students.
The winery announced the launch of a Student Tasting Program that allows students age 21 and older with a valid student identification card from an accredited college or university to purchase the winery’s standard tasting flight for $10.
The discounted tasting fee is lower than the winery’s standard $25 tasting fee. The tasting includes the same wines and service offered to all guests.
The $10 tasting fee can be waived with a $45 wine purchase. The winery’s standard tasting fee is waived with a $75 purchase.
According to the winery, tasting fees across many wine regions have increased in recent years, creating a financial barrier for students interested in participating in wine tasting experiences, including those studying wine, agriculture, hospitality, or business. The Student Tasting Program is intended to provide students with opportunities to experience wine in a tasting room environment.
“My mentor at Trader Joe’s gave me a chance to taste and learn about wine when I was starting out. This is my way of paying that forward,” said McPrice “Mac” Myers, founder and winemaker. “If we can introduce students to wine early, make them feel comfortable in a tasting room, and spark their curiosity, we’re investing in the future of this industry.”
In addition to the $10 tasting program available to all college and university students age 21 and older, the winery will offer complimentary tastings for students currently enrolled in wine and viticulture programs.
Adrienne Ferrara, a lecturer in the Wine and Viticulture Department at California Polytechnic State University, said the program addresses a challenge students face when trying to gain tasting experience.
“I recently had a discussion with my Cal Poly seniors asking why they weren’t out tasting more frequently. The students suggested that they really struggle with the cost of tasting. But we in the industry know that tasting isn’t just about what you can buy tonight, but it’s about learning more about wine and wines from this region. This experience should be for all! I’m so thrilled that McPrice Myers Wines is welcoming and engaging our youngest wine drinkers to share the industry that we love so much.”
The winery said the program is intended to provide hands-on tasting opportunities for students interested in careers in winemaking, viticulture, wine business, hospitality, and wine sales.
The Student Tasting Program is available during regular business hours at the winery’s tasting room, located at 3525 Adelaida Road in Paso Robles. Students must present a valid student identification card at check-in.
The tasting room is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (805) 237-1245.
