Your Guide to California Wine Month
What it is and How You Can Celebrate in Temecula Valley
California Wine Month is upon us! For the entire month of September, wineries throughout the state of California celebrate the annual harvest, as well as the remarkable impact the California wine industry has on the economy, the lives of all the people employed by it, and, of course, the amazing wine fans – like you! – who get to enjoy the delicious wines that make it to their dinner tables and homes.
What does this mean for you, dear wine lover? Not only does it mean you can find lots of fun events and promotions throughout Temecula Valley, but it also means there is a wonderful sense of excitement that permeates our region, as well as other winemaking regions throughout the state.
What Is California Wine Month
California Wine Month is a promotion created by The Wine Institute as a tribute to America’s top wine-producing state. Now 18 years running, the month-long program raises a glass to the California grape-growers and winemakers, as well as tasting room staff, vineyard crews, lab workers, distributors, salespeople, marketers, hospitality staff, and others who have helped to propel California’s wine industry to its vital role in our economy and identity.
In celebration of the rich history of California wine that dates back more than 250 years, as well as the 147 different winegrowing regions within the state, wine lovers can enjoy harvest festivals, winery promotions, immersive wine tastings, and fun events all month long.
Things To Do:
As South Coast’s largest and best known American Viticultural Area, Temecula Valley is absolutely abuzz with exciting Wine Country festivities throughout California Wine Month.
In addition to events and activities happening at individual wineries throughout Temecula, our annual CRUSH Wine and Culinary Showcase is officially back! Taking place on Saturday, September 17 at 7:30 PM (7:00 PM for early admission ticket holders) at the picturesque Monte de Oro Winery, this can’t-miss event features the wines of over 30 Temecula Valley wineries, along with delicious culinary creations from some of the region’s best restaurants. It’s a true feast for the senses, and a wonderful, totally immersive way to celebrate California Wine Month. For more information and tickets CLICK HERE.
Check the websites and social media pages of your favorite wineries to see how they are ringing in the harvest season. Or, browse our regional winery events calendar HERE.
How Else to Get Involved:
In addition to taking part in the events and festivities throughout the region, there are other ways to show your love for Temecula Valley wines this California Wine Month.
- Get Social!
Be sure to follow along with the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association social media channels as well as those of individual wineries to join in the conversation about California Wine Month! We will be launching some fun and interactive content in partnership with our member wineries and can’t wait to share it with you! We invite you to like, comment, share, and post your own California Wine Month celebrations. Don’t forget to tag @temeculawines and use the hashtags #DrinkTemecula and #CaliforniaWineMonth so we can follow along with your wine-sipping adventures!
- Sip and Share Temecula Valley Wines
With nearly 50 wineries growing and producing nearly two dozen different grape varieties, California Wine Month is the perfect time to discover a new Temecula Valley favorite or revisit an old one. This month, check out a winery you’ve never visited before, or get out of your comfort zone with a grape variety that’s a first for you! Most wineries have online shopping as well as warm and welcoming tasting rooms with knowledgeable staff who make it easy and fun to explore new wines.
- Pair Temecula Valley Wines with Classic California Cuisine
There are few things in life more satisfying than discovering the perfect wine and food pairing. One of the main principles behind the magic art of pairing food and wine is to match local wines to local cuisine. This year, The Wine Institute has partnered with the California Grown organization as well as Visit California to create a free e-book to help you do just that! Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month features recipes for dishes that evoke the state’s sunny and relaxed vibe. Get cooking, and dip into your Temecula Valley wine selection to find the perfect pairing. The free e-book can be accessed HERE.
