Get to Know Lindsey Simpson, Danza del Sol Winery
I’ve lived in Temecula for 14 years and love it here! I’m happily married to my husband Matt and we have two amazing teenagers, Jake and Finnley. We moved here because of the wonderful community and opportunities Temecula has to offer. When I’m not at Danza I’m driving my teens around or on a Football field or Volleyball Court! Currently I’m in the busiest, yet most wonderful, time of my life and I wouldn’t change any of it for the world. My greatest joy is being a Mom.
I have always loved wine, and in 2021 decided to give Temecula wine country a shot. I quickly learned that I can sell wine but wanted much more. My dear friend Patricia O’Brien brought me in to Danza del Sol in 2022. Within the first few months I knew I was in the right place. The opportunities presented at Danza have been life changing. Within the first year of my employment, I served in the Tasting Room, Clubhouse, worked weddings, special events, and super fun off-site events. My friend and Director of Operations, Walter Carter has invited me to several special & private events to pour at and some to play at, including CRUSH, Galway and many more. It’s been such a gift! This is a dream job. In late 2023 I got CHIP certified through TVWGA and just last year passed my WSET Level 2 course, with Merit! The achievements have been overwhelming and very exciting. I wouldn’t have considered these certification courses had they not been offered or presented. I have Danza to thank! The management team continually strives to maintain the greatest, (wine) educated and most hospitable team in the valley and I truly couldn’t be more proud to be one of them.
If you could recommend one must-try experience at your winery what would it be?
I’d recommend the Grapes & Gears UTV Tour! It’s a guided UTV tour through our vineyards including carefully crafted pairings with 7 different wines throughout the tour. We have an incredibly knowledgable tour department that delivers 5-star experiences every time.
Who has been a mentor or major influence in your career?
Aside from my husband who is my ultimate life mentor and full supporter in my career, I’d have to tip my hat to Mr. Walter Carter. He’s been a huge influence on my goals, growth patterns and ultimately my successes here at Danza. He genuinely wants everyone here to win. He’s an opportunist, a dreamer and a doer. Watching him grow and promote through his own position at Danza and in Temecula Valley as a whole has been extremely inspiring! I’m proud and lucky to know him and learn through him.
How has your role evolved since you started in the industry?
In 2021, I started as a server in the members lounge at a different winery in Temecula. Since coming to Danza I have grown more than I’d imagined was possible in just three years. Aside from my main role as a Tasting Room Server, I have worked countless off-site events, been a UTV tour guide for a hot minute, earned & received 2 very special certifications through TVWGA and have just recently been promoted to Tasting Room Key/ Lead Server. I love my job!
Describe your ideal wine and food pairing.
The setting would be in Tuscany… Ha! I’d start with a splash of sparkling Espumosa, bubbles to open up the palate. Then move to savory and pair my favorite varietal, Danza’s Sangiovese with a tomato based penne pasta and aged cheeses & prosciutto. Actually any charcuterie assortment! I’d finish sweet, with Masia de la Vinya’s Magrana paired with a pearl-sugar brioche waffle bite, topped with whipped cream. Flavor explosion overload!
Where would you love to see Temecula Wine Country in the next 5 years?
I’d love to see Temecula Wine Country continue to thrive and grow through the development of new and innovative experiences, winery and restaurant offerings including curated wine and food pairings and elevated guest and industry experiences, all while preserving Temecula Valley’s culture. We have so much fun out here and I can see this valley continuing to get better and better with age…
