Yes Cocktail named Best Craft Mixer in America by USA Today.
Paso Robles tasting room is a one-of-a-kind experience
—Paso Robles might be known for wine, but Yes Cocktail Co. is bringing cocktails to the party. Lauren and Brandon Alpert were theater people who spent years traveling the world directing musicals and teaching improv. When they weren’t in rehearsals, they were in bars obsessing over the local drink culture. They had bourbon in Kentucky, aquavit in Denmark, and mezcal in Mexico. Brandon Alpert says, “It became this shared passion we couldn’t shake.”
When they settled down on the Central Coast, they wanted to recreate all of those special drinks, but quickly realized the mixers on the store shelves weren’t cutting it. “Everything was artificial, overly sweet, full of stuff we didn’t want. So, we started making our own using local produce and the flavors we’d fallen in love with on the road.”
They set up a booth at the Cayucos Farmers Market in 2015, and it grew from there. Yes Cocktail Co. is now one of the most recognized craft mixer brands in the country. USA Today named them the Best Craft Mixer brand in America. Recognized by Oprah Daily and Martha Stewart, the brand is sold around the world in more than 3,000 stores.
The mixers are still made locally in Paso Robles. Alpert explains, “We follow what’s growing. Living on the Central Coast makes that pretty easy. The produce here is extraordinary.” Following the seasons keeps them creative and their offerings fresh and exciting. For example, their Meyer lemon products are made only after the lemons are harvested at their peak.
They are passionate about quality. “We use 100% all-natural fruits, herbs, botanicals, and spices —no artificial ingredients, no high fructose corn syrup, no shortcuts. Ever. We believe the best cocktails deserve the best ingredients, and that philosophy runs through every single product we make.”
Cocktail flights and mixology parties
It’s easy to taste the difference, and it’s easy to see why they’ve been voted best in America. The tasting room in Paso Robles is a one-of-a-kind experience. They offer cocktail flights featuring seasonal drinks you won’t find anywhere else.
They also offer mixology classes, guiding guests to craft their own cocktails and mocktails. Classes such as the Hands-On Mixology Lab, Seasonal Sips, Tiki Time, and Margarita Lab use artisan mixers, fresh citrus, bitters, and premium spirits. They also offer private mixology parties, bachelorette mixology parties, and wedding consultations for couples who want a special wedding cocktail.
Of course, you can also visit the tasting room and simply sit on the patio with something beautiful in your glass. Everything is available with or without alcohol.
Local favorites include Yes Cocktail Co’s branded Cucumber Jalapeño mixer and Charred Oak and Maple syrup. They were honored as national winners by the Good Food Awards in 2024. Amarø is their zero-proof option for people looking for a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative.
No matter what you choose when you’re there, you’re guaranteed to have a seasonally delicious time.
Yes Cocktail Co. is located at 2915 Union Road in Paso Robles. Open Monday-Thursday from noon-4 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 2-5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 .pm. For reservations or more information, visit yescocktailco.com or call (805) 591-4735.
—Karen Lycan
