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How to Plan the Ultimate Mediterranean-Style Getaway in Temecula Valley, No Passport Required

September is California Wine Month, and there’s no better time to raise a glass to Temecula Valley Wine Country. With its rolling vineyards, olive groves, lavender-scented boutiques, and sun-drenched hillsides, Temecula is the Mediterranean of California. Translation: all the Old World flavor, none of the jet lag.

Here, nearly 50 wineries produce award-winning wines that regularly stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the state. The region’s Mediterranean climate of ample sunshine, warm days, and cool nights, and well-draining soils makes Temecula an ideal home for grapes you’d expect to find in Europe’s most celebrated wine regions. Rhône-style Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre thrive here alongside Italian classics like Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and Vermentino. Spanish varieties like Albariño and Tempranillo flourish in the valley’s abundant sunshine, while Portuguese grapes like Touriga Nacional and Verdelho shine in both sparkling and still styles.

And then there are the views! Stand on a sun-dappled patio overlooking vine-striped hills at golden hour, and you could easily imagine yourself in Tuscany, Provence, or the hills of Rioja. Yet all of this is just an hour from San Diego and 90 minutes from Los Angeles.

So, let’s get to planning that getaway! Read on for the perfect three-night, two-day itinerary for a Mediterranean-style journey through Temecula Valley wine country, complete with where to stay, what to eat, and plenty of Old World-inspired wines.

Where to Stay

• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa — Mediterranean-inspired villas and suites, vineyard views, and the luxurious Grapeseed Spa.
• Europa Village — opt for the cozy Inn at Europa Village or the Bolero Casitas for Spanish-style charm, steps from three European-themed wineries and the vibrant Bolero Restaurante.
• Ponte Vineyard Inn — a boutique, upscale escape surrounded by gorgeous Italian gardens and beautifully maintained vineyards.

Day 1: Arrival & Spanish Evenings

Check In (Around 4 PM)
Settle into your resort, drop your bags, and take a moment to breathe in the vineyard air. Whether you’re overlooking rows of vines at South Coast or sipping a welcome pour at Europa Village, you’ll instantly feel transported.

Evening – A Spanish Sunset
Start your Mediterranean-inspired getaway with dinner at Bolero Restaurante at Europa Village. With lively Spanish-inspired décor, shareable tapas, hearty paella, and bold Temecula wines made from classic Spanish grapes like Garnacha and Monastrell, this meal sets the stage for a weekend of European flavor. Order sangria or a bottle of Bolero Monastrell for the table and soak in the atmosphere — festive, flavorful, and distinctly Mediterranean.

Day 2: Italian Hills, Rhône Romance & Spa Bliss

Breakfast
Begin your day with coffee and a light pastry at your resort or at E.A.T. Marketplace in Old Town, known for fresh, seasonal fare.

Morning Activity – Hot Air Balloon Ride
Kick off the day in unforgettable fashion: a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Temecula’s vineyards. As the sun crests the horizon, the valley glows in golden light, with rolling hills stretching out like Tuscany or Provence. Sparkling wine toast included, of course.

Lunch – La Dolce Vita
Immerse yourself in Italy at Mama Rosa Trattoria at Robert Renzoni Vineyards, where rustic pizzas, charcuterie platters, and hearty salads are paired with Italian varieties like Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano, making for the quintessential Tuscan-style lunch.

Afterward, head to Cougar Vineyard & Winery, a family-owned winery specializing in lesser-known Italian varieties like Falanghina, Arneis, and Primitivo. Their laid-back patio overlooking the vines feels like a sunny hillside trattoria.

Afternoon Tastings – Rhône Elegance
Spend the afternoon at Leoness Cellars, known for its Rhône-style wines. Syrah and GSM blends (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) shine here, paired with panoramic views of the valley. Sip slowly, take in the scenery, and let the French countryside vibes wash over you.

Pre-Dinner Relaxation – GrapeSeed Spa
Head to GrapeSeed Spa at South Coast Winery Resort for a vinotherapy-inspired treatment. Opt for a lavender oil aromatherapy massage or antioxidant facial, then linger by the pool with a glass of local rosé. This is the kind of Mediterranean indulgence you travel for.

Dinner – Farm-to-Table Night
Head to The Bistro at Miramonte Winery, where seasonal, wine-friendly plates shine. Try the Mediterranean Nachos, the Miramonte Chicken marinated in Greek seasoning, or simply grab a bottle of their award-winning Tempranillo to sip alongside their Panna Cotta and call it a night. 

Day 3: Spanish Spirit & Portuguese Sparkle

Breakfast
Start with a cappuccino and buttery croissant at Le Coffee Shop, a French café tucked in Old Town. Pair breakfast with a leisurely stroll through the historic district’s shops and weekend market.

Morning Activity – Olive Oil & Lavender in Old Town
Stop by Temecula Olive Oil Company to sample artisan olive oils made from locally grown fruit. Just around the corner, Temecula Lavender Co. invites you into its fragrant boutique, where soaps, sprays, and sachets evoke Provence. Together, they’re a Mediterranean pairing right in Old Town.

Lunch – A Portuguese-Inspired Pause
Head to The Vineyard Rose Restaurant at South Coast Winery. This elegant yet relaxed spot serves California cuisine paired with South Coast’s broad wine portfolio. Here you can sip on Portuguese varieties like sparkling and still Touriga Nacional or crisp, aromatic Verdelho — a nod to Portugal’s vibrant wine culture.

Afternoon Tastings – Your European Tour

• Raul Ramirez Winery: Small, boutique, and proudly Spanish, specializing in well-known Spanish varieties like Albariño and Tempranillo, as well as some lesser known grapes like Xarello and Verdejo.
• Europa Village: Sip across France, Italy, and Spain in one winery — the ultimate European sampler.

Dinner – A Final Feast
Celebrate your last evening with dinner at your resort — whether it’s Ponte, South Coast, or Europa, each offers its own Mediterranean-inspired experience. For an adventurous flourish, stop at Doffo Winery for bold Malbec and Syrah produced by a multi-generational, motorcycle-loving Argentine family. Not Mediterranean, but proof that Temecula embraces global wine traditions and the wine-country lifestyle with passion.

Day 4: Departure Morning

Breakfast & Check-Out
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your resort before check-out. One last vineyard stroll, one last deep breath of Temecula’s golden air — the Southern California’s Mediterranean will be waiting for your return.

Your Guide to California Wine Month in Temecula Valley Wine Country

California Wine Month in Temecula Valley Wine Country offers the perfect blend of harvest tradition, artistic inspiration, and culinary excellence to showcase the best of Southern California’s wine country.

From watching artists paint among the vines to stomping grapes with fellow wine lovers, from intimate vineyard dinners to food-focused festivals celebrating California’s winemaking heritage, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Temecula’s winemaking legacy this month!

September 2025 at a Glance

Early September (1st week) – Art in the Vines plein-air painting
September 12 – Wilson Creek’s Vine to Bottle Experience
September 13 – Grape Stomping at Callaway & South Coast Wineries
September 14 – Europa Village Wine & Food Festival + Danza del Sol Seafood Boil
September 20 – More grape stomping + Raul Ramirez 17th Anniversary
September 24-25 – Robert Renzoni’s Harvest Festa
September 27 – CRUSH 2025
September 28 – Final grape stomp at Ponte Winery

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The Crown Jewel of California Wine Month: CRUSH 2025

When: September 27th | Time: 7:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Where: Monte De Oro Winery

The valley’s most anticipated event, CRUSH, brings together over 30 local wineries for one unforgettable evening. As golden hour light bathes the vineyard in warm hues, you’ll taste exceptional wines, sample cuisine from dozens of local culinary artists, and dance to live music with breathtaking vineyard views.

Pro tip: Get your tickets early, CRUSH sells out every year!

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Art Meets Wine: Art in the Vines

Art in the Vines transforms Temecula’s vineyards into an open-air gallery during the first week of September. Nearly two dozen talented artists set up their easels directly among the grapevines, capturing the valley’s beauty in real-time brushstrokes. The full schedule of artists and locations can be found HERE.

See the finished masterpieces at Lorimar Vineyards & Winery from the second week through month’s end, where visitors can vote for their favorite piece. Who knows? You might discover your next favorite local artist.

Get Your Feet Purple: Grape Stomp Adventures

Nothing captures the playful spirit of harvest season quite like grape stomping! Compete for prizes, dance to live music, indulge in seasonal culinary creations, or simply relax with a glass of classic Temecula wine as you watch the purple-stained fun unfold.

Your September Stomp Schedule:

• Callaway Winery – Saturday, September 13th
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa – Saturday, September 13th
• Bella Vista Winery – Saturday, September 20th
• Ultimate Vineyards at Maurice Car’rie – Saturday, September 20th
• Ponte Winery – Sunday, September 28th

What to bring: Clothes you don’t mind getting stained, a sense of humor, and your competitive spirit! 

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Harvest Experiences Worth Savoring

Wilson Creek’s Vine to Table Tour and Dinner

September 12th | Wilson Creek Winery

Your adventure begins with a scenic tractor ride to beautiful Merlot Mesa, where Vineyard Manager Greg Pennyroyal will lead a hands-on grape picking lesson, and then be captivated by a falcon demonstration showcasing Wilson Creek’s birds in action. Savor a chef-prepared dinner grilled to perfection right on Merlot Mesa with a hosted bar throughout the evening.

The experience concludes in the production area with exclusive barrel tastings and an intimate look into the winemaking process. Each guest takes home a bottle of Block 9 Cabernet Sauvignon, your souvenir of an unforgettable night.

Europa Village’s Great Taste of Europa

September 14th | Europa Village

Over 50 exceptional wines spanning from Italian varietals to Portuguese pours, plus a dedicated beer and spirits garden featuring craft selections. Award-winning chefs present gourmet bites that perfectly complement each pour. Your ticket helps benefit Mission Hope, empowering local culinary students and assisting families in need. It’s good wine for a great cause.

Danza del Sol’s Seafood Boil

September 14th | Danza del Sol Winery

The 3rd Annual Seafood Boil brings ocean-fresh flavors to wine country. Picture steaming platters of fresh seafood paired with Temecula’s finest wines, plus exciting raffle prizes!

The 17^th Annual Harvest Party at Raul Ramirez Winery

September 20th | Raul Ramierez Winery

Experience the elegance of an Andalusian Horse Performance, live music, and a specially catered dinner celebrating 17 years of winemaking excellence. Traditional harvest activities include exclusive barrel tasting and fermentation showcases. Perfect for wine enthusiasts eager for a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking.

Robert Renzoni’s Harvest Festa

September 24th & 25th | Robert Renzoni Vineyards

This intimate celebration invites you into the heart of the winemaking facility for exclusive barrel and tank tastings. Meet Owner Robert Renzoni, Winemaker Olivia Blue, and the passionate cellar team who craft each bottle with care. Enjoy a delicious dinner plus two glasses of wine or beer. Proceeds benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

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Get even MORE out of California Wine Month

Save throughout the month: Sign up for a Temecula Valley Wines SIP Passport for mid-week discounts at 30+ participating wineries.

Stay updated: Check out our events calendar for up-to-date information at all of our Temecula wineries.

Welcome Our Newest Members

We’re excited to introduce the latest additions to the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association! These businesses bring fresh energy, valuable services, and a shared passion for supporting Temecula Valley Wine Country. Let’s give a warm welcome to our newest members!

Silver Members

First Citizen Bank

Financing and banking solutions for wineries and vineyards.

Contact: Jodie Rizzo/Nick Wolf
(951) 294-9402
Jodie.rizzo@firstcitizens.com; NWolfe@svb.com

Innovative Light Designs

Specializes in landscape and holiday lighting project. Innovative Light Designs have won 1st place at national conference design challenge.

Contact: Steven Gogatz
(949) 484-5864
innovativelightdesigns.com
steven@innovativelightdesigns.com

Little Bus Tours
Little Bus Tours offers luxury wine tours in Temecula, CA. We provide a fun and educational experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation for all occasions.

Contact: Kurt Miller
(844) 619-1818
littlebustours.com
littlebustours@gmail.com

Paylocity

Paylocity is a cloud-based software platform designed to streamline and centralize HR and payroll operations for businesses of all sizes.

Contact: Marci Lipp, Jenny Lane
(951) 440-8532
JLane3@paylocity.com; mlipp@paylocity.com

Growers

Pauba Ranch
Varietals: Malbec, Syrah

Contact: Ken Creighton
(248) 463-8788
ken.creighton@dmeha.com

We’re proud to have these outstanding businesses join our community and look forward to the collaboration and innovation they’ll bring to Temecula Valley Wine Country. Be sure to connect with them and explore how they can support your winery or event!

Welcome aboard!

Get to Know Michael Mohammad, Altisima Winery

My name is Michael Mohammad, and I’m 36 years old. My family moved to Temecula, CA in 1992, back when there was only one stoplight in town and just a handful of wineries. I grew up playing inline hockey and graduated from Temecula Valley High School.

I’ve been in hospitality since I was 16, starting as a dishwasher at Tony Roma’s and working my way through every corner of the industry. Before stepping into wine country, I spent nearly 12 years bartending, connecting with incredible people while crafting cocktails.

About three years ago, I joined the Altisima family, and it’s been amazing to see us honored as Winery of the Year by the Xenia Hospitality Awards. I love being part of a team that’s pushing Temecula’s culture forward — blending elevated wine experiences with authenticity and genuine connection. Whether I’m suggesting wine pairings or sharing stories with guests, my goal is always to make people feel seen, heard, and welcomed.

Outside the winery, I freelance as a graphic designer under the name @themohamz, also known as MOHAMZ Studio. My work spans branding, illustration, and physical product design — everything from logos and T-shirts to digital illustrations and murals. (Fun fact: While working at Temecula Coin-Op, I designed the packaging for their Power Punch — the adult version of Capri Suns.) I’m drawn to projects that blend culture, identity, and storytelling; always chasing that spark where design meets purpose.

At the end of the day, I’m passionate about bold red wine, meaningful conversations, and creating work that resonates with people on a deeper level.

What wine trend are you most excited about right now?

I don’t know if it’s a “trend,” but I’m really excited about the younger generation of winemakers coming up. They’re not afraid to take risks, break the rules, and bring something new to the table. You can tell they care more about expression and community than chasing points or prestige. I see a lot of creativity and purpose in what they’re doing — and that’s something I really connect with.

What do you love most about working in wine country?

What I love most about working in wine country is how it brings everything I care about together — good wine, good people, and good vibes. Every day is a mix of hospitality and creativity, whether I’m pouring a glass, having a real conversation, or just taking in the views. There’s something special about this place — it turns everyday moments into something memorable.

If your personality were a wine varietal, which would it be and why?

If I had to pick a wine that matches my personality, I’d say Cabernet Franc. It’s bold, creative, and a little unexpected — kind of like me. It blends well with others. It’s got depth and complexity, but there’s also this wild side that doesn’t always follow the rules. I’m not the loudest in the room, but I try to bring something unique that’s memorable.

What song would you pair with your favorite glass of wine?

“The World Is Yours” by Nas — that’s my go-to track with a bold glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s smooth, confident, and layered — just like a good Cab. The jazzy beat has this mellow, reflective vibe that hits different when you’re sketching, thinking, or just enjoying a quiet moment.

He might be sipping Dom P in the lyrics, but I’m posted with a Cab — same energy.

It’s a classic track that holds up over time, and that’s what I love about it. It’s got depth, it’s intentional, and it sticks with you — just like the wine.

What’s something new you’re hoping to learn this year?

This year, I’m looking forward to getting back into more hands-on design. I’ll be taking a screen-printing class and a ceramics class this fall — both are new for me and a chance to explore different ways of working with form and texture. I’m also planning to pick up a laser cutter soon, which will open up a lot of possibilities for more custom, physical design work through MOHAMZ Studio.

Get to Know Silvana De Robertis, Wiens Cellars

Originally from New Jersey, I spent 12 years living in Argentina before moving to Temecula in 2001. Since then, Wine Country has become my home in every sense. I’ve spent the last 20 years working in the industry, with the last five years dedicated to Wiens Cellars—a place that continues to inspire me every day.

If you could recommend one must-try experience at your winery, what would it be?
A must-try experience would be our Cellar Room! It’s truly one to remember—an elevated wine tasting where guests savor our Reserve and Vineyard Designated wines, each perfectly paired with curated cheeses and meats. It’s a beautiful way to experience Wiens.

How has your role evolved since you started in the industry?
I began in Events and Weddings, but my personal passion has always been wine. That love led me to further my education—I completed Level 2 WSET certification and I’m currently studying for Level 3. These past 20 years have been an incredible journey of learning and growing.

What song would you pair with your favorite glass of wine?
Definitely “Roxanne (Tango)” from Moulin Rouge paired with a bold glass of Malbec—intense, dramatic, unforgettable.

What’s your go-to sip after a long day?
A crisp, refreshing glass of Brut Sparkling Wine. It’s my favorite way to wind down and toast the day.

Any dream role or experience you’d love to take on in the industry?
My dream is to keep growing and learning, but above all, I hope to inspire the next generation to fall in love with this industry, just as I have.

Sunset to Starlight: Temecula’s Ultimate Evening Entertainment Guide

You may have heard that wine country shuts down at 5 p.m., but we’re here to bust that myth! From late-night bonfires to food trucks, dancing, and speakeasies, Temecula Valley nightlife is vibrant and thriving. Here’s your complete guide to experiencing Temecula wine country from sunset to starlight.

Escape the Weekday Rush: Mid-Week Evening Magic

The secret to feeling like a Temecula insider? Visit mid-week! Mid-week evenings offer intimate tastings, personalized service, and a more relaxed atmosphere that lets you connect with the wines and the winemakers. Not to mention, SIP Passport holders receive discounts only available Monday through Friday. Here are some of our favorite mid-week, late-night, stops:

Ponte Vineyard Inn

Located at the basement level of the Ponte Vineyard Inn, The Cellar Bar is your sophisticated hideaway seven nights a week. This hidden gem hosts a complete selection of Ponte Wines, a full bar, and gourmet food.

Europa Village

Europa Village feels like a European vacation every day of the week, with select tasting rooms open until 8 p.m. daily. Pro-tip: keep an eye on their events calendar. Europa is known for hosting a range of events, from food festivals and twilight tastings to art exhibitions.

Oak Mountain Winery

Step into a speakeasy-style distillery at Oak Mountain Winery. This prohibition-style bar serves cocktails made with house-distilled spirits that you can actually watch being made!

Jordan Parker Winery

Jordan Parker Winery stays open until 7 p.m. seven days a week, making it perfect for after-work tastings!

Friday Night Adventures: Start Your Weekend Right

Music rings across the vineyards, food trucks are out in force, and great Temecula wine is just a pour away! Friday nights in wine country set the tone for an incredible weekend.

Peltzer Winery

From June through September, Peltzer Winery’s Crush House stays open until 9 p.m. on Fridays and 10 p.m. on Saturdays. Their rotating lineup of food vendors and musicians creates a festival-like atmosphere every weekend.

Miramonte Winery

Miramonte Winery, open until 10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday, is known for stunning vineyard views, southern Rhone grape varieties, and live music. So grab a glass of their award-winning Syrah, and dance the night away!

Mount Palomar Winery

Mount Palomar Winery keeps the pours flowing until 9:30 p.m., making it ideal for those who want to catch the sunset while sampling their renowned Sangiovese and other Mediterranean-style wines.

Saturday Night Spectacular: The Main Event

Saturday nights are when Temecula truly comes alive. Here are some of the not-to-be-missed Saturday experiences.

Longshadow Ranch

Longshadow Ranch hosts a Saturday night bonfire every week, weather permitting! It’s a tradition that’s been drawing crowds for over twenty years. Enjoy live music, BBQ, and exceptional wine around a crackling bonfire. This outdoor gathering captures the essence of Southern California wine country living.

Akash Winery

Akash Winery extends their hours until 8 p.m. on Saturdays, perfect for catching a late night comedy show or live music on the patio. The winery’s elevated location provides panoramic views of the valley that are especially magical during golden hour.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Test your knowledge at Cougar Vineyard & Winery’s weekly trivia night, or soak in the views as you listen to live music and enjoy Italian-style wines in their rustic tasting room.

Other wineries with extended weekend hours include Bella Vista Winery, Fazeli Cellars, Lorimar Winery, Oak Mountain, Somerset Vineyards, and Vitagliano Vineyards.

Best Practices for Evening Visits

Make reservations: Popular evening events fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Plan transportation: Consider rideshare or designated drivers for late-night tastings. Options for tours and transportation can be found HERE.

Check event calendars: Many wineries host special evening events with ticketed concerts or themed nights.

Check the Weather Forecast: Some venues are entirely outdoors, and the valley cools down after sunset, so bring layers for temperature changes.

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For the most up-to-date hours and special events, check our Events Calendar. Evening hours may vary seasonally and are subject to change.

Zippy, Zesty, Totally Temecula: Why Albariño Thrives in Sunny SoCal

Albariño might be best known as Spain’s seafood-loving white grape from the misty shores of Rías Baixas, but it’s making serious waves in the sun-soaked vineyards of Temecula Valley. With its crisp acidity, citrusy lift, and stone fruit charm, this variety feels tailor-made for the region’s warm days and cool ocean breezes. And with International Albariño Day landing on August 1st, there’s no better time to pop a bottle!

“Thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Temecula’s diurnal shift creates an ideal microclimate for growing Albariño, allowing the grapes to ripen fully while retaining their natural acidity,” says Europa Village winemaker Blake Miller. “Our well-drained decomposed granite soils give Albariño from Temecula a vibrant, expressive character with bright citrus and mineral-driven complexity that truly stands out. Albariño has quickly become one of my favorite grapes to grow and craft here, earning its place as a standout varietal in the valley with growing recognition and momentum.”

Whether you’re already an Albariño fan or just looking for something zippier than your usual Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, these Temecula wineries are crafting fresh, vibrant takes worth discovering.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“Temecula Valley is rich in winemaking history… Located just 22 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Temecula benefits from daily marine breezes… This diurnal temperature swing preserves acidity and enhances aromatic development, making the region especially well-suited for Albariño.” – Justin Knight, Winemaker, Danza del Sol Winery and Masia de la Vinya Winery

Europa Village 2024 Reserve Albariño, $43

Crafted with a nod to Spain’s “Green Spain,” this Albariño brings a food-pairing-friendly balance of zest and body. Winemaker Blake Miller draws from estate-grown fruit and ages it on the lees for added texture, making it perfect with seafood at Bolero Restaurante, or sipped solo as an aperitif. Classic notes of grapefruit, honeydew, and a slight saline finish. Aged 6.5 months on lees in stainless steel for a rounded texture. Get it here.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“Our well-drained decomposed granite soils give Albariño from Temecula a vibrant, expressive character with bright citrus and mineral-driven complexity that truly stands out.” – Blake Miller, Winemaker

Wilson Creek Winery 2024 Albariño, $28

Wilson Creek’s 2024 Albariño is summer in a bottle – dry, crisp, and packed with tropical charm. It’s the kind of wine you want on hand for everything from fish tacos to burrata nights with friends. Bursts of nectarine and pineapple on the nose, with grassy citrus and clean minerality mid-palate. Zingy acidity makes it ultra food-friendly. Get it here.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“Temecula’s warm days and cool, breezy evenings – thanks to the nearby Pacific Ocean – create the perfect setting for growing Albariño… with vibrant acidity and fresh stone fruit and citrus character that truly stand out.” – Wendy Holder, VP of Marketing

Raul Ramirez Winery 2023 Estate Albariño, $48

Raul Ramirez takes a slightly different approach by aging their Albariño in oak, adding a twist of richness to this otherwise bright, seafood-loving white. Tasting Notes: Notes of grapefruit and nectarine with a crisp, clean profile. Oak aging brings texture without overwhelming freshness. A natural with ceviche, oysters, and scallops. Get it here.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“Here at Raul Ramirez, we oak our Albariño to reflect a different interpretation but maintaining balance with a twist.” – Gabe Torres, Hospitality Manager

Wiens Cellars 2024 Albariño, $36

Wiens Cellars’ 2024 Albariño, with fruit coming from their Waxman Vineyard, offers a vibrant, refreshing style that sits somewhere between the bright energy of Portugal’s Vinho Verde and the aromatic elegance of Spain’s coastal expressions. It’s low in alcohol, high in zest, and packed with personality – “sunshine in a glass,” as Brand Manager Bailey Morris puts it.

“Our 2024 Albariño is a vibrant, sunshine-ready white that balances bright citrus and stone fruit with floral lift and zippy freshness,” says Morris. “It opens with aromas of lemongrass and white peach, evolves into juicy lychee and green apple on the palate, and finishes crisp and dry. It’s the perfect bottle paired with seafood, goat cheese, a fresh seasonal salad, or sipped solo on a warm afternoon.” Get it here.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“This region is warm, inland from the coast, and has mostly granitic soils—very similar to [Spain’s] Condado do Tea. This allows Albariño to thrive in our region… with minimal manipulation from the farmer and winemaker.” – Joe Wiens, Director of Winemaking

Somerset Winery 2024 Albariño, $35

Somerset’s 2024 Albariño is all about tropical tang and citrus pop—an ideal match for shellfish and sunny days. It’s got all the charm of coastal Spain with a Southern California soul. Zippy and with tropical and citrus notes and a delightfully acidic finish. A sensational pairing for shellfish and summer salads… or just an afternoon on the patio. Get it here.

Why Albariño in Temecula?
“Temecula is most like the Mediterranean regions of Spain & Portugal… We get lots of sun exposure with afternoon cooling, so this helps this varietal to thrive!” – Janine Cutler, Assistant GM

Albariño Finds Its Moment in Temecula

As Albariño continues to build momentum in Temecula Valley, longtime industry leaders see its potential not just as a trend, but as a grape that genuinely belongs here. Master Winemaker Jon McPherson, of South Coast Winery, doesn’t currently produce an Albariño himself, but he’s bullish on what the variety can do in this region.

“The thick skin of Albariño makes it fairly hearty, and capable of withstanding the summer heat,” he says. “Our May gray and June gloom tend to moderate ripening and picking this variety relatively early here in T-town makes it ideal for acidity retention.”

Temecula’s climate may differ dramatically from Galicia in terms of rainfall, but McPherson points to one essential shared feature: soil. “As I understand the soils of the Rías Baixas, they are granitic-based and decomposed granite-based and drain to the coast – similar geography to what we have in Temecula,” he explains. “Even though ripeness may be less at 21 to 22, I do think we achieve a certain flavor intensity that cooler regions do not achieve at the same brix… And while Albariño isn’t high in terpenes, there are significant amounts present, and there is a need for a certain amount of heat to develop these terpenes.”

Ready to Sip?
With a growing number of Temecula producers embracing the grape, and consumers increasingly reaching for refreshing, aromatic whites, Albariño’s future in the Valley looks not only bright but built to last.

Whether you’re looking for your next seafood pairing, a patio sipper with friends, or just something fun and new to try, Temecula’s Albariño offerings are fresh, food-friendly, and full of character. Celebrate International Albariño Day by popping a bottle from one of these local gems, and discover why this grape is quickly becoming one of the valley’s coolest white wine discoveries.

Discover more Temecula wineries and Mediterranean grape varieties HERE.

Celebrating Recent Features of Our Wineries & Destination

Temecula Valley continues to turn heads—with sunshine, rolling vineyards, and a growing community of passionate winemakers, it’s no wonder we’ve made headlines again. Check out a few recent press articles that spotlight our member wineries and the vibrant charm of Wine Country:

Temecula Valley Plays the Mediterraneans Greatest Hits — And It Works

This Spanish-Style California Town Is One of the State’s Best-Kept Secrets

A Vineyard Escape: 48 Hours of Wine and Wellness at South Coast Winery

Meet Me in Temecula: Summer Wine Tasting

Raise a Glass to Rosé: Temecula Valley’s Pink Powerhouses

Harvest 2025 Begins in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country

Spanish Varietal Albariño Worth A Try At These Temecula Valley Wineries

CRUSH 2025 returns to Temecula Wine Country

We’re proud to see Temecula Valley and our wineries featured so beautifully in the media. Stay tuned for more coverage and stories that showcase the people, passion, and place that make our wine country so special.

Winery Spotlight: Get to Know… Mount Palomar

 

The Story

Located at 1400 feet elevation in Temecula Valley wine country, Mount Palomar is a working wine estate with 45 acres of producing vineyards overlooked by the Palomar Mountain range. One of the earlier winery stops along Rancho California Road, the well-known winery was established in 1969 by John Poole. John’s son, Peter, took over operation of the winery in 1985. Peter and winemaker, Etienne Cowper combined creative forces to create top quality, Temecula Valley wines. Peter introduced a number of “firsts” in the Temecula Valley, most significantly beginning the trend to Mediterranean grape varieties, which is so significant today.

The Wines

Mount Palomar makes a range of fine wines with special emphasis on classic, Bordeaux-style blends and Italian varieties. The winery also has a thirty year history of producing Port and Solera Cream Sherry. For their wines, they use two main brands: Mount Palomar and Castelletto. The Castelletto name (“little castle” in Italian) is used for the Italian-style wines.

Mount Palomar offers a good-sized range of red wines, white wines, fruity and dessert wines. Several interesting red blends and unique single varietals like Cinsault, Cabernet Franc and Zinfandel are on the tasting menu and available for bottle purchase. For all Mount Palomar wines, shop here.

 

The Tasting Room

Tasting Room Summer Hours & Pricing
Monday-Friday-10:30-6pm; tastings are $12 for a flight of 6 wines + souvenir logo glass
Saturday and Sunday-10:30-7pm; tastings are $15 for a flight of 6 wines + souvenir logo glass

Reservations are requested for groups of 10 or more.
Please call 951-676-5047 x119 to make reservations.

For more tasting room information, click here.

Shorty’s Bistro Restaurant

Shorty’s Bistro features casual Mediterranean-inspired food and both indoor and outdoor seating.

Restaurant hours: Monday-Thursday, 11am-6pm; Friday-Sunday, 11am-8pm (dinner reservations recommended)

Click here for Shorty’s lunch menu | dinner menu.

Lunch special: Eat at Shorty’s Bistro Monday-Thursday and you can purchase a bottle of wine for half-price.

Learn more here.

Events

Mount Palomar has a a great line-up of live music events – plus a September grape stomp, Oktoberfest and several wedding/bridal events all year long.  Check out the Mount Palomar event calendar here.

 

Future Plans

Current development plans include extensive new vineyard plantings; a larger wine production facility; a new guest facility including restaurants and a world-class, wine country resort and spa; and estate homes. Stay tuned with TemeculaWines.org for details!

 

Welcome Our Newest TVWA Members!

We’re excited to introduce the latest additions to the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association! These businesses bring fresh energy, valuable services, and a shared passion for supporting Temecula Valley Wine Country. Let’s give a warm welcome to our newest Gold and Silver members!

Gold Member

Destination Temecula Wine Tours and Experiences
Destination Temecula has been crafting unforgettable wine country experiences since 1993. From narrated wine tasting tours to sunset winery dinners and corporate team-building events, they specialize in showcasing the best of Temecula Valley with style and hospitality.

Contact: Dave Wilson
(951) 695-1232
destem.com
info@destem.com

Silver Members

Cold Ass Trailers
Based in Temecula, Cold Ass Trailers provides mobile refrigerated trailer rentals for events, emergencies, and business needs. Their all-electric units offer reliable cooling for everything from weddings to disaster relief.

Contact: Anthony Durso
(951) 404-9363
coldasstrailers.com
adurso@coldasstrailers.com

P3 Cost Analysis
P3 Cost Analysts is a cost-reduction firm auditing your existing vendors—utilities, uniform/linen, telecom, waste, and more—recovering cash and lowering overhead for wineries, with no fees unless we deliver savings.

Contact: Morgan Higham
(425) 770-9063
costanalysts.com
mhigham@costanalysts.com

WeShip Express
WeShip Express offers specialized shipping and fulfillment services for wineries and alcohol brands. With end-to-end tracking and expert logistics, they make shipping seamless and secure.

Contact: Mark Murphy
(707) 947-9303
weshipexpress.com
mmurphy@weshipexpress.com

We’re proud to have these outstanding businesses join our community and look forward to the collaboration and innovation they’ll bring to Temecula Valley Wine Country. Be sure to connect with them and explore how they can support your winery or event!

Welcome aboard!