New Year, New Temecula Wine Country Resolutions
Forget the gym membership you’ll abandon by February. This year, make resolutions you’ll actually want to keep; ones that involve sunshine, award-winning wines, and unforgettable adventures in Temecula Valley Wine Country.
Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your backyard or planning your first visit, 2026 is bringing fresh ways to experience Southern California’s premier wine destination. Here are five wine country resolutions worth raising a glass to:
Resolution #1: Taste Tomorrow’s Wines Today! Go behind the scenes at Barrel Tasting Weekend (January 31 & Feb 1)
Ever wondered what winemakers taste before anyone else? Barrel Tasting Weekend is your backstage pass to Temecula’s cellars, where you’ll sample wines aging in oak barrels, long before they’re bottled and released to the public. It’s like getting a sneak peek at next year’s greatest hits, plus the chance to chat directly with winemakers about their craft. Fair warning: once you’ve tasted wine straight from the barrel, the regular tasting room experience might feel a little too mainstream.
Tickets Here: https://www.temeculawines.org/events/barrel-tasting-2026/
Resolution #2: Trade Four Wheels for Adventure! Experience vineyards from a whole new perspective
Why settle for a basic vineyard view when you can drive through it? Doffo Winery’s NAV tours take you behind the scenes on an all-terrain vehicle, navigating rows of vines while learning about viticulture and the winemaking process. If you’re craving even more adrenaline, Danza del Sol’s UTV tours take it up a notch with side-by-side vehicles exploring their stunning estate. Both experiences prove that the journey to your wine glass can be just as exciting as what’s in it.
Resolution #3: Find the Hidden Door, Discover Bella Vista’s secret speakeasy
Not all the best experiences in wine country happen in plain sight. Tucked away at Bella Vista Winery, The Cilurzo Speakeasy offers an intimate, Prohibition-era-inspired space where craft cocktails meet wine country sophistication. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special, because you have! Pro tip: make reservations, they don’t let just anyone walk in off the street.
Resolution #4: Run Now, Wine Later! Combine fitness with your favorite refreshment
Who says resolutions have to be all or nothing? Get your endorphins flowing at wine country 5Ks that reward your finish line with, well, wine. Akash’s Run Through the Vineyards (March 1) takes you through scenic estate vineyards, while Vitagliano’s Do It For Her 5K supports a great cause. Both races prove that “running for wine” is not just acceptable, it’s encouraged. Your morning jog has never been this rewarding.
Resolution #5: Explore the New & Reimagined with New Year transformations
Temecula’s wineries are constantly evolving, and 2026 brings fresh reasons to visit familiar favorites. Truffle Pig Winery has unveiled its newly transformed tasting room, offering an elevated experience that’s worth the visit alone. Meanwhile, Baily Family Vineyard has established their new home base on Pauba Road, serving their tried and true Bordeaux-style favorites in a newly revamped space. Sometimes the best adventures come from seeing beloved places with fresh eyes!
Your Next Move
Whether you tackle one experience or collect them all, Temecula Valley Wine Country is ready to make 2026 your most adventurous year yet.
Ready to start checking off your list? Visit our events page at https://www.temeculawines.org/events/ to plan your next wine country escape.
Cheers to resolutions you’ll actually keep! 🍷
