Tag: Temecula Valley Wine Country

Temecula Valley Winery named California Winery of the Year!

We were so excited to learn that our very own, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, has once again been named California Winery of the Year for an unprecedented 4th time!

Sacramento has just released the results from the nation’s oldest and most prestigious wine competition, and Southern California Temecula Valley’s South Coast Winery Resort & Spa has been named the 2016 California Golden State Winery of the Year.

Records were broken this year at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition as South Coast Winery was the first and only winery in the competition’s history to be presented with a four-time championship, naming it the 2016 California Golden State Winery of the Year. South Coast Winery brought home the first California State Winery of the Year award to its Southern California Temecula Valley home in 2008 and then followed it up with a back-to-back win in 2009. It earned the top title in the California State competition again in 2013 and now celebrates its fourth win for 2016.
South Coast Winery Winery of The Year 2016

Dating back to 1854, the California State Wine Competition premieres only wines made with fruit grown in California; and there were 2,854 wines judged from 750 of the state’s top wineries during this year’s competition.

“South Coast Winery is truly honored to be bringing this recognition to Temecula Valley Wine Country, especially with only 13 years of wine production. This award is a reflection of the dedication and the collaboration between our soil and vines, the vineyard team and our talented winemakers. I’m humbled to be a part of it,” states Jim Carter, the owner/vintner for the Southern California winery resort.

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Carter and the entire South Coast Winery team!

July Winery Events

With so much going on in Temecula Valley during July and throughout the summer, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick just one activity to experience. Enjoy the warm days, cooler nights – and air-conditioned wineries. Take in a summer concert or sign up for a cooking class; attend a live play or see a famous jazz artist.

Avensole Winery
Live Music in the Restaurant and Marketplace
Friday and Saturday from 5p-8p / All free and open to the public / July 1 –Seabaz / July 2 –Danielle Taylor / July 8 –James Wells / July 9 &15 –Harmony Road / July 16 –Tim Walsh / July 22 –James Wells / July 23 –Izon Eden / July 29 –Jim Bianchi / July 30 –Hunter Pea

Live Music on the Tasting Room patio
Saturday 1p-4p and Sunday 2p-5p / All free and open to the public / July 2 & 3 –Izon Eden / July 9 –Old School Band / July 10 –Lucky Daze / July 16 –Michael LeClerc / July 17 –Shultz & Hamilton / July 23 –Lucky Daze / July 24 –Danielle Taylor / July 30 –Old School Band / July 31 –Tim Cash

Baily Vineyard & Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents Hamlet
July 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31 / Showtime starts at 7pm at Baily’s outdoor stage / Tickets: General Seating: Regular $22, Seniors 55+, Students, Military $17, Season Ticket $20. Royal Table Seating: Regular $30, Season Ticket $27 / Baily Winery maintains booth serving wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks / For ticket information please log on to www.shakespeareinthevines.com

Dog Day Sundays
Every Sunday / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / / Live acoustic music on the patio

Bel Vino Winery
Red, White & BBQ
Sunday, July 3rd / 12pm to 4pm / Celebrate Independence Day at Bel Vino Winery / Available for purchase will be BBQ entrées that include hamburgers, BBQ ribs and chicken, Brauts, along with two sides, extras and dessert / Please RSVP at 951.676.6414 or email dayna@belvinowinery.com

Karaoke Night
Every Friday 6p-9p / Free admission / Karaoke every Friday night at Bel Vino Winery in the Barrel Room / Happy Hour from 6pm-7pm; select Bel Vino Bistro menu offered from 6p to 8:30pm / No outside food or drinks allowed.

Live Band every Saturday and Sunday
12pm to 4pm / Admission is always free / Bands play on our Hilltop Terrace Stage / July 2 –The 80’s Brigade / July 3 – Kanan Road / July –Gin Piston / July 10 –The VIB / July 16 –Soul Fire / July 17 –Bill Watson / July 23 –Nathan James / July 24 –Kanan Road / July 30 –Gin Piston / July 31 –The VIB

Briar Rose
Sip Into the Sunset
First Friday of each month / Open until 10pm / Live music from 6p-9m and wine under the stars in our enchanted garden or tasting room / Purchase a glass of wine or a bottle / Outside food allowed at these events only / Reservations required; call 951.308.1098

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Live Music at the Courtyard Patio
Every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm

Friday Night Delights at Meritage at Callaway
Start your weekend off at Meritage every Friday. We have it all, sunset, live music, sangria, savory bites, good vibes and more. Relax and chill with friends on our Vineyard Terrace with panoramic views of wine country / $15 regular / $10 industry / Price includes a glass of freshly made red or white sangria and choice of two farm-to-table hors d’oeuvres prepared by Chef Diamond / For more information please visit www.callawaywinery.com

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $40pp / Available Mid-week 1pm and 3pm; Weekends 1pm and 3pm / Reserve your place for an indulgent wine and food pairing designed to tantalize the senses. Guests enjoy five specially-selected Carter Estate Winery wines paired perfectly with a variety of cured meats, artisan cheeses and accompanied with season accoutrements. Each pairing last approximately 90 minutes and is limited to just eight participants to allow for one-on-one interaction / For reservations call today: 844.851.2138

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Sunday Live Music
2:00-5:00pm / Free to the public / 7/3 –James Holland / 7/10 –Don Brennan / 7/17 –Shaula Walko / 7/24 –James Holland / 7/31 –Aaron White

Friday Night Live Music
5pm-8pm / Free to attend / Happy Hour 2 for 1 glasses of wine from 7-8pm / Industry and Wine Club benefits honored / Deli is open until 7pm / 7/1- Lindsey Carrier / 7/8 –Jeff Brinkman / 7/15 –Joshua Taylor / 7/22 –Jerry Gontang / 7/29 –Frankie and the Invisibles

Danza del Sol Winery
Taco Tuesday
July 12 / 5:30pm -8:30am / Tuesday’s just got tastier! Join us on the Tasting Room Patio for tacos, burritos, and more! Live music and admission is free. Food, wine and selected beer will be available for purchase. Wine club discounts apply to bottle purchases only. Wine Club complimentary glass excluded from this event/ For more details visit www.danzadelsolwinery.com

Food Truck Friday
July 22 / 6:30pm-10:30pm / $7 -$8 / Join us for a fun night of food, Wine, Rhythm and Blues! Live music featuring Missy Andersen / For more details visit www.danzadelsolwinery.com

Live Music on the Patio
1:00-5:00pm / Grab your friends and head over to Danza del Sol for a Saturday afternoon of wine and great music / July 2 –Steroflux / July 9 –Hamilton & Shultz / July 16 –Tralian Rox / July 23 –Danielle Taylor / July 30 –Britt Doehring

Doffo Winery
Live Music on the Patio
Every Saturday in July / 1p-4p / Free to the public / July 2 –Martin Mancuso / July 9 –Camille Marsh / July 16 –Lucy Laforge / July 23 –Alex and the Band / July 30 –Tralian Roslyn

Europa Village
Movie in the Vines – Finding Nemo
July 21 / 7:00p – 9:30p / Free to the public / For more information on this event, please visit www.europavillage.com

Friday Night Entertainment
6:00-9:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / July 9 –Kanan Road / July 22 – Boomer McClenn / July 29 –Blue Fish

Live Music every Sunday
1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / July 3 –Astra Kelly / July 10 –Jimmy Patton / July 17 –Danielle Taylor / July 24 –Luis Andre

Falkner Winery
16th Anniversary Celebration
July 2nd – 4th / 11p – 5p / Live music, yard games and tournaments! Wine raffles every hour – 1 ticket per tasting. 50% off case sales, restaurant special baby back ribs, taco bar and bbq.

Wine Appreciation Class
July 16 / 10a-12:30p / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45 per person, $40 Connoisseur, $20 VIP. $70 per person with lunch option / RSVP required at 951.676.8231 ext. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Funday, Sunday in the Yard Garden
Every Sunday in June / 12:00-3:00pm / Game Competition starts at 1pm as well as other limited availability lawn games. Taco bar, carafes of sangria, and beer will be available for purchase / Must be present to register prior to 1:00 pm for the game competition

Leoness Cellars
Annual Wine & Vine Symposium
July 15 / 5p-7pm / Featuring Los Caballos Vineyard. Sip & learn with our expert panel as they take you through a cheese paired tasting of our exceptional Merlots and share insights into the farming and winemaking process. Our panel Gary Winder, Stage Ranch Founder & Leoness Co-Owner, Mike Rennie, Leoness Co-Owner, Tim Kramer, Winemaker, Pete Mousis, Associate Winemaker, Billy Bower, Director of Agriculture, Daragh Matheson, Chef & Directory of Culinary Operations / Pre-purchase tickets at $79, Wine Club Members $69. Limited availability on tickets so reserved now by calling 951.302.7601.

Live Music in The Restaurant at Leoness
Every Friday 5pm-8pm & Saturday 5-8pm / Free and open to the public.

Live Music in the Barrel Room
Sunday 1pm-4pm / Free and open to the public.

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery
Smoke & Vine: A Night of Cigars and Wine
July 24 / 6p – 8p / Tickets are $85 / $76.50 for Wine Club Members / Tickets include three course dinner, two cigars paired with Lorimar wines / Tickets are available in the tasting room or online at www.lorimarwinery.com

Live Music
Friday & Saturday / 6p-9p / Free to the public

Live Music Sunday
2p-5pm / Free to the public

Masia de la Vinya Winery
Live Music on the Patio
12:00-4:00pm / July 2 –Dustin Jake / July 9 –Sean Wiggins / July 16 –Michael SG / July 30 –JD Priest Free to the public

Maurice Car’rie Winery
Let’s Dance!
July 9 / 7p-10p / Come join the fun and celebrate our 30 year anniversary! Dance with the dynamic Live Remedy! Liver Remedy is a Souther California based band who love to play fun and energetic Country and Rock music. They always leave the fans wanting more! Local artists will also join us to display their incredible photography and paintings / Food and award-winning Maurice Car’rie wines will available for purchase / No cover charge for the public / For additional information call 951.676.1711 or visit www.mauricecarriewinery.com

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment
Every Friday and Saturday / 7p-10p / Every Sunday 4p-7p / Free to the public / Friday, July 1st, JD Priest / Saturday, July 2nd, DevOcean / Sunday, July 3rd, The Counterfeits / Friday, July 8th, Ruben V- Latin & salsa music / Saturday, July 9th, Bluefish / Sunday, July 10th, Lindsey Carrier / Friday, July 15th, Mickie Arnett / Saturday, July 16th, Indica Roots/ Sunday, July 17th, Rhonda Parish & Vince Mendoza duo / Friday, July 22nd, Nathan James / Saturday, July 23rd, Midnight Satellites / Friday, July 29th, Big Truth Band / Saturday, July 30th, Tricia Freeman / Sunday, July 31st, Twofish / No reservations required. For more information please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
Sounds of Sunday
1:00-5:00pm / Come, relax and end the weekend with a glass of wine and a Bistro entrée. Live music program every Sunday on our outdoor patio / For additional information please visit us at www.montedeoro.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Murder…Without a Clue
July 15 / 7pm – 10pm / Catch a killer over cocktails in the Mount Palomar Winery barrel room! This interactive murder mystery event is hosted by the talented performers from Dainty Dames Events and includes a delectable 3 course meal, a glass of champagne, and a mystery to solve. Don’t miss it! / Tickets are $120++, $110++ for wine club members / Tickets and more online at www.MountPalomarWinery.com/MurderMysteryDinner

Paint Nite – Coco Caliente
July 17 / 1pm – 3pm / Raise your glass to a NEW kind of night out! Paint Nite® invites you to create art over a glass of wine at a Mount Palomar Winery, guided by a professional artist and party host. Grab your friends and spend two hours drinking, laughing, and flexing your creative muscles. There’s no experience necessary and we’ll provide all the supplies, so you don’t have to worry about a thing (except having a great time!) / Tickets $45, includes supplies / More online at www.MountPalomarWinery.com/Upcoming-Events

Noise Pollution: The AC/DC Experience
July 22 / 6pm – 10pm / Live at Mount Palomar Winery
Playing all the hits such as: Back In Black • Dirty Deeds (Done Dirt Cheap) • Highway To Hell • Thunderstruck • You Shook Me All Night Long • TNT • Hell’s Bells For Those About To Rock…and so many more! / Tickets $25, $30 at the door / Tickets online at Heyday.com

Ponte Family Estate Winery
Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn
Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar open late every day, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn. The Cellar offers live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night! Sip to the sounds of a variety of musicians, from jazz sax and alternative contemporary to rock blues! / Time and Entertainment schedule varies / Free to attend / Visit www.pontevineyardinn.com for an entertainment schedule.

Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn
Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-7pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour for specials on craft beer, flatbreads, wine and more!

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Chef’s Wine-Down Wednesday Food & Wine Paired Dinner / July 20 / First seating at 7pm / Vineyard Rose Restaurant’s Executive Chef Jason Rivas presents this exciting four-course, locally-sourced dining experience, with ultimate award-winning wine pairing with each course. Space is available for 40 people only and the first seating will begin promptly at 7 PM. $90++ per person / Reservations required. Call 951.587.9463 Ext. 7226 /All sales are final.

Wine, Dine & Painting Class
July 24 / 10am-2pm / This exclusive package comes with three-hour instruction and supplies to paint your masterpiece, and follows with a select lunch menu to redeem at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant / $75 per person / $70 Wine Club / Purchase tickets online at SouthCoastwinery.com or call 951.587.9463 Ext. 5250

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours
Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday/ $40pp; $35pp Wine Club Member / Because you’ve got good taste…Get up close and personal as you learn more about our spectacular Southern California winery with a behind-the-scenes tour. From vineyards to crush pad, each tour concludes with a specially prepared wine and food pairing. Due to the limited sizes of each tour, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. Call 800-539-1375 Ext. 350 to reserve your spot today.

Happy Hours at Vineyard Rose Restaurant
Monday-Friday 3:00p-5:30p Join us in the Vineyard Rose Lounge for reduced priced selected appetizers, award winning select glasses of South Coast wines and local drafts. PLUS corkage fees are waived for any South Coast Winery wine bottles brought in to the Vineyard Rose Restaurant and consumed while dining on Wednesdays too! / Visit www.WineResort.com to view menus and find out more.

GrapeSeed Stretch
Yoga at the GrapeSeed Spa / Saturdays: 8am Harmonizing Hatha / Sundays: 8am Hot Yoga / Resorts Guests $10 / Non-guests $20 / Spa Members: Complimentary / Call to reserve at 951.587.9463 ext. 3513

Thornton Winery
Friday Live Music
6pm-9pm / Free to public / July 1 –“ Jason Lohrke as Neil Diamond”- The Early Years / July 8 –Crimson Crow / July 15 – Little Lies Band with Big Truth / July 22 –“Mick Adams & the Stones – Rolling Stones Tribute Band” / July 29 –B.I.G. / Call (951) 699-0099 to reserve a table!

Jazz Concert Series
Al Jarreau / July 16 / 7pm / $85 Gen. Adm.; $160 GSP
Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown / July 23 / 7pm / $85 Gen. Adm.; $160 GSP
For reservations call 951.699.0099 ext. 3127 or ext. 129

Wilson Creek Winery

Doors Tribute Band Concert – Wild Child / July 8 / Doors open at 6pm/ $35 / An Amazing Doors Recreation Live in Temecula Wine Country Live re-creation of a 1960’s Doors concert right here in Temecula Valley Wine Country. With over 20 solid years of world tour experience, Dave Brock’s Doors Experience has flourished in the competitive L.A. Music Scene faithfully re-creating a live Doors Concert on stage. The music and voice is painstakingly reproduced to give the essence of Jim Morrison live on stage / Purchase online at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

Wine Academy – Portugal Wines / July 10 / 1 pm – 3pm / Instructor: Mick Wilson
$45 non members; $30 members / Please call to make reservations: 951-699-9463

Weekend Entertainment / 12p -4p / Free to the public / July 2 – JD Priest / July 3 – Anthony Suraci / July 9 – Smoothie Jones / July 10 – Buzz Campbell / July 16 – Dustin Jake / July 17 – Jeff Tucket / July 23 – Anthony Suraci / July 24 – Justin Bourdreaux / July 30 – Michael LeClerc / July 31 – Lindsey Carrier

The Art of Wine Labels

You can’t judge a wine by its label—but a beautiful “cover” certainly can’t hurt. Temecula Valley wineries are putting just as much creativity and originality into their label designs as they are in their wines. And the results are inspiring.

Wine labels are the first thing that attracts a consumer when contemplating which wine to choose. Some first-time shoppers even choose a wine by the label–after all, the label builds the anticipation of what’s inside the bottle. It’s the quality of the wine itself that makes customers loyal fans.

Temecula Valley vintners are adorning their bottles with art that is not only beautiful, sometimes even fun, but often tells a sentimental story. The label of Lorimar Winery’s 2014 Chardonnay bears scenic photographs of the vineyard from which it came, in each of the four seasons. The images were taken by Temecula-based photographer Bodhi Smith, and the four-image work, called “Seasons of Del Oro,” is for sale on coasters and as an art piece at the winery.

Oak Mountain Winery’s Double Trouble 2013 Riesling has a bright blue label depicting Buddy and Bandit, the two beloved Queensland Heelers of vintners Valerie and Steve Andrews. The label is a watercolor painting by local artist Tamra Gerard. The artwork also can be found in “Winery Dogs of USA” book #3.

Robert Renzoni Winery’s 2013 Fiore di Fano, a Super Tuscan blend of estate-grown Cabernet, Sauvignon, Brunello Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, has special meaning to owner and winemaker Robert Renzoni. The classically styled painting that adorns the label was a gift from a special friend he met on a journey to his family’s hometown, Fano, Italy.

Wiens Winery’s Red Crowded is a red-wine blend so-named for the “crowd” of varietals in each vintage, such as the Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Barbera, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Cabrenet Franc, Sangiovese and Syrah in the 2014. Red Crowded is one of a series, which also includes White Crowded and Pink Crowded (rosé) blends, fancifully designed featuring appropriately colored red, white and pink birds by local artist Kelly Vivanco. All three designs are available on posters and t-shirts. Do you love busty girls as we do? We offer you to browse our amazing library of bosomy chicks. Enter the world of big-breasted women at TheyAreHuge the site ! Enjoy frequent photo and video updates with famous slutty pornstars and unknown shy amateurs.

Falkner Winery’s 2014 Risque Riesling is illustrated with a sleek black pump and tube of vibrant red lipstick in a classy nod to consumers, often women, according to owner Loretta  Falkner, who like a bit of sweetness in their white wine. Risque Riesling is part of Falkner’s sweet Seductive Series, which also includes a red blend and rosé.

South Coast Winery vintner Jim Carter commissioned artist Tamra Gerard to paint a portrait of his dear Aunt Ruby as she might have looked in the 1920s for his Ruby Cuvée. Both the label and the carefully crafted sparkling Syrah in the bottle are intended to capture the effervescent charm of Ruby Carter, who was always the belle of the ball. The art can be found on t-shirts, posters, coasters and magnets in South Coast’s gift shop.

Newly opened Fazeli Cellars pays homage to owner BJ Fazeli’s homeland with a series of wines named for acclaimed Persian poets. The 2012 Ferdowsi Cabernet Franc is named for Abu Ferdowsi, widely known as the most influential figure in Persian literature, and is designed by BJ’s daughter, Romy Fazeli. The artwork features a stylized grapevine symbolizing Fazeli’s “Our Roots Run Deep” motto.

These are just a few of the beautifully designed wine labels from Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. Not only are the wines carefully and passionately crafted, so are the labels.

Temecula Valley Winegrowers Hall of Fame

The Temecula Valley Winegrowers were excited to introduce the first Hall of Fame inductees at the 33rd Annual Grape Day conference on April 21, 2016 at South Coast Winery in Temecula, California. The inductees honored were Vincenzo and Audrey Cilurzo, and John Moramarco.

“The recent passing of wine country pioneer Vince Cilurzo prompted the TVWA Board of Directors to consider ways we could honor his memory,” stated Phil Baily, TVWA Board member. “In discussing this, we realized that other pioneers should be recognized, most notably Audrey Cilurzo, because Vince and Audrey partnered in their accomplishments. John Moramorco was unquestionably the key leader of our rise in the 1960s and for the following thirty-plus years.”

Vincenzo and Audrey Cilurzo planted the first commercial wine grape vineyard in the Temecula Valley. They established Cilurzo Vineyard and Winery as one of the first wineries in the Temecula Valley. As husband and wife, they championed the growing of red wine grapes, most notably Petite Sirah. They offered help, encouragement and support to all the wineries that followed them.

John Moramarco planted one of the first commercial wine grape vineyards in the Temecula Valley in 1968 while working for Brookside Winery. In the late 1980s his efforts helped Riverside County create the citrus/vineyard zone which preserved agriculture and laid the foundation for the remarkable growth of wineries over the ensuing years. Moramarco also worked to mobilize Riverside County, the City of Temecula, State and Federal efforts to successfully combat the spread of Pierce’s Disease in Temecula Valley vineyards.

Future inductees will be chosen from submissions that meet specified criteria, which will be announced in the coming months.

May Winery Events

May is a big month for wine and dine celebrations! Mother’s Day, Cinco de’ Mayo, Memorial Day, weddings and spring birthdays…just to name a few!  Check out what’s happening in wine country this month!

Avensole Winery
Live Music /Free to the public / Shultz & Hamilton, May 1st 2-5pm / Lindsey Carrier, May 7th 3-6pm / Brian Stodart, May 8th 2-6pm / Brian Stodart, May 14th 3-6pm / Shultz & Hamilton, May 15th 2-5pm / Michael LeClerc, May 21st 3-6pm / Midnight Satellites, May 22nd 2-5pm / Hunter May, 28th 3-6pm / Shane Hall, May 29th 2-5pm

Baily Vineyard & Winery
Mother’s Day at Carol’s Restaurant / May 8 / 11:30am-3:00pm / $44.95 pp, children 12 and under $15.95, 5 yrs. and under are free / Includes choice of soft drink, iced tea, coffee, or tea / Reservations Only; credit card is necessary for reservations / For information and reservations please call 951.676.9243

Dog Day Sundays / Every Sunday / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / / Live acoustic music on the patio.

Estate Club Private Wine Tasting / Thursday-Sunday / 11:00a-2:30p / Tours and vertical tasting of library wines. Sit down with bread and cheese plate; $30 (Reservations required 24 hours in advance) / Bar Tasting; $20. Call for reservations: 951-972-9768.

Announcement: Carol’s Restaurant will be closed for vacation on May 23rd – June 5th

Bel Vino Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 8th / 9am-3pm / Buffet will consist of over 15 different breakfast and lunch offerings plus mimosas and non-alcoholic beverages. DJ music by DJ Austin. Wine and beer available at extra cost / $59.95 Adult, $54.95 Wine Club Member Adult, $22.95 Children 12 and under, $19.95 Wine Club Member Children 12 and under / Reservations are recommended. Please call 951.676.6414 to reserve.

Karaoke Night / Every Friday 6p-9p / Free admission / Karaoke every Friday night at Bel Vino Winery in the Barrel Room / Happy Hour from 6pm-7pm; select Bel Vino Bistro menu offered.
Live Band every Saturday and Sunday / 1:00-5:00pm / Free / May 1-Michael SG Band / May 7- Kings of Rhythm / May 14- Steven Ybarra / May 15- Kanan Road / May 21- Gin Piston

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $40pp / Available Mid-week 1pm and 3pm; Weekends 1pm and 3pm / Reserve your place for an indulgent wine and food pairing designed to tantalize the senses. Guests enjoy five specially-selected Carter Estate Winery wines paired perfectly with a variety of cured meats, artisan cheeses and accompanied with season accouterments. Each pairing last approximately 90 minutes and is limited to just eight participants to allow for one-on-one interaction / For reservations call today: 844.851.2138

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Mother’s Day / May 8 / Wondering what to do for that special person in your life? Treat Mom to an enjoyable day wine tasting! Enjoy a glass of wine, share a meat and cheese platter, and finish with our triple chocolate Ghirardelli brownies all for only $45. What a great way to spend the day with Mom! Live music from 2-5p so plan on making a day with her. No reservation required.

Sunday Live Music / 2:00-5:00pm / Free / May 1st Smooth jazz, acoustical guitarist Will Sumner / May 15th Steel drum, island vibe Shaula Walko / May 22nd Acoustical guitarist Don Brennan / May 8th acoustical guitarist James Holland

Friday Night Live Music / 5pm-8pm / Free to attend / Happy Hour 2 for 1 glasses of wine from 7-8pm / Industry and Wine Club benefits honored / Deli is open until 7pm / May 6th Pop/Rock/Tribute Kenny Hale / May 13th and May 27th Indie, Pop, Rock and R&B singer-songwriter Evan Diamond-Goldberg / May 20th Instrumental Rock and Roll Frankie and the Invisibles / May 29th acoustic melodies and jazzy grooves Britt Doehring

Danza del Sol Winery
Live Music on the Patio / 1:00-5:00pm / Grab your friends and head over to Danza del Sol for a Saturday afternoon of wine and great music /

Europa Village
Mother’s Day Lunch / May 8th / 12:00-3:00pm / Gourmet three-course champagne lunch prepared by Europa’s Chef Dean / Live music by Jimmy Patton / Adults $54, Children 12 and under $15 / Tickets can be purchased through www.europavillage.com or by calling Events Dept. at 951.695.7175

Friday Night Entertainment / 6:00-9:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / May 6th – Big Truth / May 13th – Kanan Road / May 27th – JD Priest
Live Music every Sunday at the Veranda / 1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / May 1st – X Panse / May 15th – Michael LeClerc / May 29th – Joe Baldino

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / Saturday, May 21 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45pp; $40pp Connoisseur; $20pp VIP; $70pp with lunch option / Reservations required 951.676.8231 x.109

Funday, Sunday in the Yard Garden / 12:00-3:00pm / Game Competition starts at 1pm as well as other limited availability lawn games. Taco bar, carafes of sangria, and beer will be available for purchase / Must be present to register prior to 1:00 pm for the game competition / May 1 – Jenga Fire / May 8 – Washer Toss / May 15 – Bean Bag (Cornhole) Toss / May 22 – Wine Pong / May 29 – Jenga Fire

Leoness Cellars
Live Music in The Restaurant at Leoness
Friday 5-8pm, Saturday 5-8pm, Sunday 1-4pm

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment / Every Friday and Saturday / 7pm-10pm / Free to the public / No reservations required. For more information please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
Sounds of Sunday / 1:00-5:00pm / Come, relax and end the weekend with a glass of wine and a Bistro entrée. Live music program every Sunday on our outdoor patio / For additional information please visit us at www.montedeoro.com

Oak Mountain Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch in The Cave / May 8 / 12:00-3:00pm / A wonderful brunch menu awaits you in The Cave. Brunch includes unlimited sparkling wine / $65 pp, Members $60. Children, ages 3-12 $24 (3yrs and under are free). Plus tax and 20% gratuity / For a complete menu please visit www.oakmountainwinery.com. For reservations and menu information call 951.699.9102 or email events@oakmountainwinery.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Wine Country Wiener Fest / May 1 / 11am-4pm / It’s time for the annual Wine Country Wiener Fest! Mount Palomar Winery is proud to host this yearly event to support local Dachshund rescue groups. The event is free to attend, but donations are appreciated! For more information about the event, go online to http://wienerfest.info/ Admission: Free to attend

Born Jovi – A tribute to Bon Jovi / May 6 / 6:00-10:00pm / Live concert at Mount Palomar Winery in Temecula / Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Annata Bistro/Bar will be closing early at 5pm for the concert. / Tickets are online at heyday.com; $25 pre-order, $30 day of show.

Mother’s Day Special / May 7th & 8th / 11am-7:30pm / Mount Palomar Winery is running a special Mother’s Day menu, and we’re offering one free mimosa to any Moms with their Mother’s Day meal, all weekend May 7th & 8th / Full menu and reservations available online at MountPalomarWinery.com/MothersDay

Dionysus Dash 5k / May 15 / 8:15am / Time to run with the Greek god! The Dionysus Dash features music, food, fun, and of course, wine / Register online at http://www.dionysusdash.com/
Registration fee: $45 Optional lunch preorder: $12

Happy Hour ant Annata Bistro / Bar / 3:00-6:00pm / Wednesday – Friday (except for holiday & special events) / $2 off draft beer and starters, $3 off craft cocktails.

Ponte Family Estate Winery
Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar open late every day, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn. The Cellar offers live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night! Sip to the sounds of a variety of musicians, from jazz sax and alternative contemporary to rock blues! / Time and Entertainment schedule varies / Free to attend / Visit www.pontevineyardinn.com for an entertainment schedule.

Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-7pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour for specials on craft beer, flatbreads, wine and more!

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Mother’s Day Brunch at the Vineyard Rose / May 8th / 10am to 3pm / $65 per adult, includes Sparkling Wine Toast . $22 for Children 12 and under. Plux tax & gratuity / Reservations are limited and required. Call 951-587-9463 ext. 7230 / Visit SouthCoastWinery.com for full menu details.

Wine, Dine & Painting Class / May 22nd / 10am-2pm / This exclusive package comes with three-hour instruction and supplies to paint your masterpiece, and follows with a select lunch menu to redeem at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant./ $75 per person; $70 Wine Club / Purchase tickets online at SouthCoastWinery.com or call 951.587.9463 Ext. 5250

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday/ $40pp; $35pp Wine Club Member / Because you’ve got good taste…Get up close and personal as you learn more about our spectacular Southern California winery with a behind-the-scenes tour. From vineyards to crush pad, each tour concludes with a specially prepared wine and food pairing. Due to the limited sizes of each tour, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. Call 800-539-1375 Ext. 350 to reserve your spot today.

Happy Hours at Vineyard Rose Restaurant Monday-Friday 3:00p-5:30p / Join us in the Vineyard Rose Lounge for reduced priced selected appetizers, award winning select glasses of South Coast wines and local drafts. PLUS corkage fees are waived for any South Coast Winery wine bottles brought in to the Vineyard Rose Restaurant and consumed while dining on Wednesdays too! / Visit www.WineResort.com to view menus and find out more.

April Winery Events

Spring time is here!  The vines are budding out providing a beautiful backdrop of lush, green hills.  What a perfect time to come out and visit our three new wineries, as well as a few of your favorites! While you’re here, take in a special event or two.  Check out these winery events happening in April:

Avensole Winery
Grand Opening / April 9 / 10:00am-8:00pm / Open to the public / Situated on the hilltop above Rancho California Road, Avensole is Temecula’s newest winery. The Lytton Family invites you to experience Avensole Winery. Please join us in celebrating our Grand Opening with live music and specials all day such as 2 for 1 tastings and 2 for 1 beverages. Limits and restrictions apply.

Baily Vineyard & Winery
Dog Day Sundays / Every Sunday / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / / Live acoustic music on the patio.

Estate Club Private Wine Tasting
Thursday-Sunday / 11:00a-2:30p / Tours and vertical tasting of library wines. Sit down with bread and cheese plate; $30 (Reservations required 24 hours in advance) / Bar Tasting; $20. Call for reservations: 951-972-9768.

Bel Vino Winery
Cigar Dinner / April 9th / 6:30p-9:30pm / $65.95 General tickets; Club Member price is $55.95 / Includes a three course gourmet dinner paired with Bel Vino wine, accompanied by hand rolled cigars from Casa Lovo. Live Classic American rock music / For reservations call Bel Vino Winery at 951.676.6414

Karaoke Night / Every Friday 6p-9p / Free admission / Karaoke every Friday night at Bel Vino Winery in the Barrel Room / Happy Hour from 6pm-7pm; select Bel Vino Bistro menu offered.

Briar Rose
Sip Into the Sunset / First Friday of each month / Open until 10pm / Live music from 6p-9m and wine under the stars in our enchanted garden or tasting room / Purchase a glass of wine or a bottle / Outside food allowed at these events only / Reservations required; call 951.308.1098

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Live Music at the Winery Tasting Room / 1pm – 4pm / No charge / Enjoy live music in the main tasting room /

Happiest Hours / Friday’s from 3:00p-6:00p in the lounge at Meritage at Callaway / Grab your friends and join us for a marvelous time! 20% all tapas, 20% off bottles of Callaway wines and available domestic, import and craft beers.

Sangria Sundays at Meritage at Callaway / Every Sunday at Meritage at Callaway / 4pm-8pm/ Enjoy sipping on our very own Watermelon Sangria while soaking in the sunset vineyard views in our main dining room. Live music from local musicians begins at 6pm / No cover charge / Reservations for parties of 5 or more are required.

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $40pp / Available Mid-week 1pm and 3pm; Weekends 1pm and 3pm / Reserve your place for an indulgent wine and food pairing designed to tantalize the senses. Guests enjoy five specially-selected Carter Estate Winery wines paired perfectly with a variety of cured meats, artisan cheeses and accompanied with season accoutrements. Each pairing last approximately 90 minutes and is limited to just eight participants to allow for one-on-one interaction / For reservations call today: 844.851.2138

After Hours at Carter Estate / 6:00-9:00pm / Available Fridays and Saturdays / The oh-so-popular Carter Estate “After Hours” is back and you’re invited to come out to the winery tasting room on weekends this spring to enjoy wines by the bottle or the glass with live entertainment.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Friday Night Live Music / 5pm-8pm / Free to attend / Happy Hour 2 for 1 glasses of wine from 7-8pm / Industry and Wine Club benefits honored / Deli is open until 7pm / April 1st – Soul/blues/rock singer-songwriter Joshua Taylor / April 8th – Local singer song writer Jasmine Seek / April 15th – Original acoustic singer-songwriter Jeff Brinkman / April 22nd – Instrumental Rock and Roll Frankie and the Invisibles / April 29th – Indie, Pop, Rock and R&B singer-songwriter Evan Diamond-Goldberg

Danza del Sol Winery
Get Sauced / April 3rd / 3:00 – 6:30 PM / $60 per person | $54 Wine Club / Put a little Spring in your step and GET SAUCED! Join us for a fun filled afternoon of food, wine, and culinary entertainment in our Club House! / Call Kelly at (951) 302-6363 ext. 26 or purchase your tickets online

Taco Tuesday / April 19th / 5:30 – 8:30 PM / Free admission / Tuesday just got tastier! Join us on the Tasting Room Patio for Tacos, Burritos, and Live music! / Wine and selected beer for purchase. Wine club discounts apply to bottle purchases only

Food Truck Friday / April 29th / 5:30pm to 10:00pm / $8 Presale | $10 at the door | $7 Inter-winery / Little Bit of Country – Live performance by JD Priest / Food Trucks: Local Favorite – Devilicious & Urban Eats from San Diego / Beer and wine available for purchase. No outside food or alcohol permitted. No wine club complimentary glasses allowed. Wine Club discounts on bottles only. Only bottles purchased during event are permitted. / This is not a dog friendly event. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend / Call (951) 302-6363 ext. 26 or purchase your tickets online

Live Music on the Patio / 1:00-5:00pm / Grab your friends and head over to Danza del Sol for a Saturday afternoon of wine and great music / April 2 – Desert Rose / April 9 – Vivien Gaines / April 16 – Rosewood & Rye / April 23 – Sean Wiggins / April 30 – The Roamies / Free admission /

Europa Village
Friday Night Entertainment / 5:30p- 8:30p / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / April 1- Jason Weber / April 15- JD Priest / April 22- James Wells / April 29- Michael LeClerc
Live Music every Sunday/ 1pm- 4pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / April 3- Sam & Stacy / April 10- Jimmy Patton / April 17- X Spanse / April 24- Joe Baldino

Frangipani Winery
Cigar Night / April 2 / 5:30pm-9:00pm / $49 pp; Frangipani Wine Club Members $39pp / Enjoy Casa Lovo Cigars and food catered by Mad Mike / Call winery at 951.699.8845 for more detailed information and reservations. RSVP is required.

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / Saturday, April 16 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45pp; $40pp Connoisseur; $20pp VIP; $70pp with lunch / Reservations required 951.676.8231 x.109

Sunday Funday in the Yard Garden / April 17 & 24/ 12:00-3:00pm / Lawn game competition, Taco Bar, Sangria, Luscito, Beer / Free admission

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery
Spring Art Show at The Gallery/ April 8 & 9 / This two day art show will run both days from 12pm – 8pm with special artist receptions from 5-8pm. RSVP requested through the website. Event is free! http://www.lorimarwinery.com/reservation-events

Academie Du Vin / April 14 / 6:00-8:00pm / Learn about the Bordeaux wine regions and taste Lorimar varietals paired with cheese and charcuterie from Pairings / Tickets are $25/$20 WC and on sale now http://www.lorimarwinery.com/feat-event-157439/Academie-Du-Vin.html

Movie in the Vines / April 25 / Watch The Big Lebowski under the stars on our Vineyard Lawn / Admission is free. Movie starts at Sunset.

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment / Every Friday and Saturday / 7pm-10pm / Free to the public /
April 01, Nathan James-winner of the International Blues Challenge /April 02, DevOcean- local reggae-rock band / April 08, Ruben V- Latin and salsa music / April 09, Bluefish- big rock sounds from the 70s, 80s, and 90s / April 15, Mickie Arnett- 90s rock and covers / April 16, Missy Andersen- known as Southern California’s top blues diva / April 22, Midnight Satellites- Gutsy, modern rock performers. Big sound! / April 23, JD Priest- wildly soulful, all-American rock / April 29, Cougrzz Rock- all girl group, pop, rock, high energy dance band / April 30, Mercedes Moore- old school soul, blues, R&B / No reservations required. For more information please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
Sounds of Sunday / 1:00-5:00pm / Come, relax and end the weekend with a glass of wine and a Bistro entrée. Live music program every Sunday on our outdoor patio / For additional information please visit us at www.montedeoro.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Murder Mystery Dinner at Annata Bistro/Bar / April 1 / $120 per couple (+ gratuity + taxes) / Doors open at 7:00 pm / Show and dinner start at 8:00 pm / Enjoy a three course meal and drinks while solving a mystery at Annata Bistro/Bar! The year is 1949, and YOU a member of Tinsel Town’s elite, are invited to the world premiere of “The Hollywoodland Murder”, which has stirred up some controversy. Critics claim it is an exploitation of the infamous murder of “The Black Dahlia,” only a few years since it shocked the nation. Unbeknownst to YOU and other premiere attendees, guests have entered a one of a kind hostage situation, as they innocently mingle & dine on a delectable 3 course meal. The Killer has arrived and carefully constructed a twisted game, where guests must work together by participating in various challenges and tests of wit to solve this murder mystery, before the body count grows! / This event is RSVP only; you can register online at http://www.mountpalomarwinery.com/Murder-Mystery-Dinner or in the Mount Palomar Winery tasting room.

Sunrise Stretching at Mount Palomar Winery / $60 / starting April 2nd every Saturday and Sunday morning Mount Palomar Winery will host a Sunrise Stretch class. The class will be led by a professional trainer, and exercise mats will be provided. Cost of class includes breakfast with a mimosa and after class wine tasting. Class starts at 9:00am, breakfast is served at 10:00am, and wine tasting starts at 10:30 / For more information contact Alan Shields, 951-515-3692 or email weddingsandevents@mountpalomar.com

Paint Nite in the Barrel Room / April 3rd & April 10th : 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM / $45 / Raise your glass to a NEW kind of night out! Paint Nite® invites you to create art over cocktails at a local restaurant or bar, guided by a professional artist and party host. Grab your friends and spend two hours drinking, laughing, and flexing your creative muscles. There’s no experience necessary and we’ll provide all the supplies, so you don’t have to worry about a thing (except having a great time!) / Must be 21+. Food and drink may be purchased at the event. Tickets online at https://www.paintnite.com/events/1063639.html

Sinatra-Esque, a celebration of music from the Rat Pack / April 22nd: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM / $30 (+ $3 credit card fee) / Enjoy a beautiful evening in the vineyards, under the stars at one of the Temecula Valley’s most renowned wineries: MOUNT PALOMAR WINERY! This will be a very special evening as the band plays selections from FRANK SINATRA, DEAN MARTIN, TONY BENNETT, BOBBY DARIN and more greats from the golden era of music.

Wine Country Wiener Fest / May 1st / 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM / Free to attend / It’s time for the annual Wine Country Wiener Fest! Mount Palomar Winery is proud to host this yearly event to support local Dachshund rescue groups. The event includes Dachshund races, other doggie games, silent auctions, raffles, door prizes and more. For more information about the event, go online to http://wienerfest.info/

Ponte Family Estate Winery
Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar open late every day, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn. The Cellar offers live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night! Sip to the sounds of a variety of musicians, from jazz sax and alternative contemporary to rock blues! / Time and Entertainment schedule varies / Free to attend / Visit www.pontevineyardinn.com for an entertainment schedule.

Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-7pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour for specials on craft beer, flatbreads, wine and more!

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Blessing of the Vines / April 10 / 4:00-7:00pm / $45 for adults, $15 for children / Spring is in the air and South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is kicking off its winegrowing season in the grand celebration. Come and celebrate in pure unabashed South Coast splendor as our vines get blessed by a special invocation and prepare to light up our world with new growth and the promise of a fruitful harvest. Big kids and little ones join in the fun with plenty of games and fun-filled activities / Reservations are limited and required. Call 951.491.8077 or visit SouthCoastWinery.com to reserve today!

Wine, Dine & Painting Class / April 25 / 10:00am-2:00pm / $75 per person; $70 Wine Club / This exclusive package comes with three-hour instruction and supplies to paint your masterpiece, and follows with a select lunch menu to redeem at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant / Purchase tickets online at SouthCoastwinery.com or call 951.587.9463 Ext. 5250

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday/ $40pp; $35pp Wine Club Member / Because you’ve got good taste…Get up close and personal as you learn more about our spectacular Southern California winery with a behind-the-scenes tour. From vineyards to crush pad, each tour concludes with a specially prepared wine and food pairing. Due to the limited sizes of each tour, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. Call 800-539-1375 Ext. 350 to reserve your spot today.

Why Limit Happy to an Hour? / Happy Hours at Vineyard Rose Restaurant Monday-Friday 3:00p-5:30p / Join us in the Vineyard Rose Lounge for reduced priced selected appetizers, award winning select glasses of South Coast wines and local drafts. PLUS corkage fees are waived for any South Coast Winery wine bottles brought in to the Vineyard Rose Restaurant and consumed while dining on Wednesdays too! / Visit www.WineResort.com to view menus and find out more.

Thornton Winery
Friday Night Live Music / 6:00 – 9:00pm / Admission is free / April 1- Lifetime Rockers / April 8 – Missy Anderson / April 15- Crimson Crow / April 22- Fleetwood Mac Tribute / April 29- B.I.G / For reservatio
ns call 951.699.0099

In Memoriam ~ Vincenzo Cilurzo

Temecula Valley Wine Country is mourning the loss of one of our pioneers.  Vincenzo (Vince) Cilurzo, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, March 9th, 2016.

Vince first found his love for wine in the 1960’s when his wife, Audrey, bought him a home-winemaking kit. Although, Vince and Audrey’s path to become wine country pioneers happened quite by accident.  In 1967, after spending many years in Hollywood as an Emmy Award-winning lighting director for several television shows and specials, Vince and Audrey decided to join a waiting list to open a McDonald’s franchise in Escondido, CA.  They were on their way to Escondido when they happened upon the beautiful valley of what was then called Rancho California; what we know today as Temecula.  They fell in love with the area and began to research real estate.  In the midst of their research they met Dick Break who had planted a couple of experimental vines in the area and told the Cilurzos that he’d done some climate studies and that the climate was very similar to that in Napa. The rest, as they say, is history.  The Cilurzos hired Mr. Break as a consultant and at his suggestion planted their very first first vines in 1968; Petite Sirah and Chenin Blanc. This would become the first commercial wine grape vineyard in the Temecula Valley.

Vince and Audrey grew grapes for the next ten years and during that time they learned everything they could about growing grapes and making wine. In 1978 they opened Cilurzo Winery, one of the first three wineries in Temecula.  At a time when Ely Callaway, founder of Callaway Winery was touting “White Wine Is All We Make”, the Cilurzos championed the growing of red wine grapes.  In the years after, when Temecula Valley Wine Country was beginning to see a surge in newcomers wanting their own wineries, they spent countless hours mentoring, providing support and encouragement to those who came in search of their own wine country dream.  Throughout the history of our wine country, the Cilurzos have been fierce supporters, and for that, we’re eternally grateful.

Goodbye, Mr. Cilurzo, you’ll be missed, but your legacy will forever remain.

Photo courtesy of Tom Plant and www.lifeandvinemagazine.com

Welcome New Temecula Wineries!

We’re excited to announce the opening of three new Temecula Valley Wine Country wineries!  We’ve been out to visit all three and can say that we were both impressed and enamored with them.  Here’s a brief introduction:

Avensole Winery:

Situated on the hilltop above Rancho California Road, Avensole is Temecula’s newest winery. Formerly Van Roekel Winery, this hilltop estate has long been known for its old-growth vines producing some of Temecula’s finest grapes. The property was purchased by the Lytton family in 2014 and has been extensively remodeled, includes a new restaurant, a marketplace with both wine and craft beer bars, a tasting room, a new indoor-outdoor wedding venue, and park-like setting with pond.  The Lytton Family is committed to using the property’s premium fruit to produce some of Temecula’s finest, premium wines. Their grand opening is on Saturday, April 9th…be sure to stop by!
34567 Rancho California Rd. Temecula, CA 92591

Fazeli Cellars:

Masia de la Vinya:

March Winery Events

Spring has sprung in Temecula Valley Wine Country!  We’ve seen bud break in many of our vineyards, signaling the end of winter and the beginning of a new season.  From St. Patrick’s Day to Easter and everything in between, the wineries have something for everyone!

Baily Vineyard & Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents The Complete History of America Abridged / March 3 (Preview), 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18 and 19 / 7:00pm (Doors open at 6pm) / Playing at Carol’s Restaurant at Baily Winery / Tickets begin at $17. Group discounts available / For information and reservations please call 951.402.7488 or visit the website www.shakespeareinthevines.org

3rd Annual Dog Easter Egg Hunt at Carol’s Restaurant / March 27th / 1:00pm until all eggs are gone! / Plastic eggs are filled with turkey hot dogs. All dogs must be on a leash. Owners are responsible to make sure dogs do not eat the plastic eggs / Free to attendees.

Dog Day Sundays
Every Sunday / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / Live acoustic music on the patio.

Estate Club Private Wine Tasting
Thursday-Sunday / 11:00a-2:30p / Tours and vertical tasting of library wines. Sit down with bread and cheese plate; $30 (Reservations required 24 hours in advance) / Bar Tasting; $20. Call for reservations: 951-972-9768.

Bel Vino Winery
Karaoke Night / Every Friday night 6p-9p / Free admission / Karaoke every Saturday night at Bel Vino Winery in the Barrel Room / Happy Hour from 6pm-7pm; Half off wine and beer and open kitchen.

Live Music / Saturday 12pm – 4pm / Sunday 11am-3pm

Briar Rose Winery
Sip Into the Sunset / First Friday of each month / Open until 10pm / Live music from 6p-9m and wine under the stars in our enchanted garden or tasting room / Purchase a glass of wine or a bottle / Outside food allowed at these events only / Reservations required; call 951.308.1098

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Live Music at the Winery Tasting Room / 1pm – 4pm / No charge / Enjoy live music in the main tasting room

Happiest Hours / Friday’s from 3:00p-6:00p in the lounge at Meritage at Callaway / Grab your friends and join us for a marvelous time! 20% all tapas, 20% off bottles of Callaway wines and available domestic, import and craft beers.

Sangria Sundays at Meritage at Callaway / Every Sunday at Meritage at Callaway / 4pm-8pm/ Enjoy sipping on our very own Watermelon Sangria while soaking in the sunset vineyard views in our main dining room. Live music from local musicians begins at 6pm / No cover charge / Reservations for parties of 5 or more are required.

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $40pp / Available Mid-week 1pm and 3pm; Weekends 1pm and 3pm / Reserve your place for an indulgent wine and food pairing designed to tantalize the senses. Guests enjoy five specially-selected Carter Estate Winery wines paired perfectly with a variety of cured meats, artisan cheeses and accompanied with season accoutrements. Each pairing last approximately 90 minutes and is limited to just eight participants to allow for one-on-one interaction / For reservations call today: 844.851.2138

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
4th Annual St. Patricks’s Day 15K and 5K / March 13th / 8:30am / Start and end the race at Cougar! / A portion of the proceeds from this event will go to the Rose Again Foundation / Race through country roads and vineyards as you wind your way to the finish line and a glass of green champagne in honor of St. Patricks’s Day / 21+ race entry includes a champagne tasting and signature glass to keep. Then, spend the afternoon celebrating (wine country) the Irish way at Cougar Winery. This is a challenging, hilly course, so be prepared for an exhilarating run! / Limited to the first 200 participants so register today at http://sandyfeetevents.com/temecula-st-patricks-day-15k

Friday Night Live Music / 5pm-8pm / Free to attend / Happy Hour 2 for 1 glasses of wine from 7-8pm / Deli is open until 7pm / Mar. 4th – Kenny Hale / Mar. 11th – Jeff Brinkman / Mar. 18th – Frankie and the Invisibles / Mar. 25th – Jerry Gontang

Doffo Winery
Winemaker Vertical Zinfandel Dinner / March 19 / 6pm / $125 pp / A five course dinner presented by Chef Louie Ortiz from Austin, TX. Chef Ortiz’s bio and will be featured in our blog post through our website on March 2nd / This event is limited to 40 guests. For reservations please visit our website at www.doffowines.com

Europa Village
Easter Lunch / March 27 / 12:00pm – 3:00pm / $39 for Adults, $15 Kids under 12 yrs. / Plated luncheon, Egg Hunt with Easter Bunny, Face Painting, Live Music / Reservations are required. Please visit our website at www.europavillage.com or call 951.695.7175

Friday Night Entertainment / 5:30p- 8:30p / Free / Live music in the Cave / Mar. 4th – James Wells / Mar. 11th -Two Fish / Mar. 18th – Tom Bray / Mar. 25th – Dustin Jake
Live Music every Sunday/ 1pm- 4pm / Free / Live music on Veranda / Mar. 6th – Jimmy Patton / Mar. 13th – Luis Andre / Mar. 20th – Apryle Dalmacio

Falkner Winery
Easter Brunch at The Pinnacle Restaurant / Sunday, March 27 / 10am – 3:30pm / $54.95pp; Wine Club $49.95pp. Children (3-10 yrs.) $24, Wine Club $19 / For full menu please visit www.falknerwinery.com / Entertainment provided by Jeff Johnson / Reservations required 951.676.8231 option 4

Wine Appreciation Class / Saturday, March 19 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45pp; $40pp Connoisseur; $20pp VIP; $70pp with lunch / Reservations required 951.676.8231 x.109.

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery
Dueling Pianos / March 24 / 6pm-9pm / $15 pp / Fee includes a glass of wine from our Premium menu. Pairings will be open at 5:00pm with a special menu for one night only / Tickets are available online http://www.lorimarwinery.com/feat-event-157410/Dueling-Pianos.html, or by calling 951.694.6699 x4

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment / Every Friday and Saturday / 7pm-10pm / Free to the public / Mar. 4th – Mercedes Moore / Mar. 5th – Devocean / March 11th Ruben V / Mar. 12th – Bluefish / Mar. 18th – Mickie Arnett / Mar. 19th – Missy Andersen / Mar. 25th – JD Priest / Mar. 26th Tricia Freeman / No reservations required. For more information please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
WINE Bingo Night / Saturday, March 12 / Doors open at 6:30pm. Game starts at 7:00pm / $30 pp / includes a glass of wine, 10 Bingo games and 3 Bingo cards per game; 30 chances to win! / Additional refreshments and food from our Bistro will be available for purchase / RSVP at montedeoro.com and then go to Online Store – Order Events.

Zinfandel Blind Tasting / Friday, March 18 / Reception at 7:00pm, Tasting at 7:30pm / $60 pp includes tasting, two appetizer courses and a dessert course / At least 10 Zinfandels from Temecula, Napa, Paso and other wine regions will be tasted. Can you guess what region each is from? We un-wrap the brown bags at the end of the night / RSVP at montedeoro.com and then go to Online Store – Order Events.

Mount Palomar Winery
Paint Nite – Butterfly Kisses II / 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM / Sat, March 5 / $45.00 pp /
For reservation contact us at 760-413-5808 or https://www.paintnite.com/events/1033832.html

Paint Nite – Blue Poppies II / 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM / Sat, March 12 / $45.00 pp /
For reservation contact us at 760-413-5808 or https://www.paintnite.com/events/1033832.html

Paint Nite – Bright Lotus / 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM / Sat, March 26 / $45.00 pp /
For reservation contact us at 760-413-5808 or https://www.paintnite.com/events/1033832.html

Ponte Family Estate Winery
Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar open late every day, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn. The Cellar offers live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night! Sip to the sounds of a variety of musicians, from jazz sax and alternative contemporary to rock blues! / Time and Entertainment schedule varies / Free to attend

Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-7pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour for specials on craft beer, flatbreads, wine and more!

First Sundays – Live Music in the Reserve Room*
First Sunday of the month/ 12:00p-4:00p / Jason Weber, Jazz Sax / The Reserve Room will host a variety of live musical artists the first Sunday of each month in 2015. *The Reserve Room is a tasting room for wine club members only. Join the Wine Club and enjoy complimentary tastings in our exclusive venue.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Live entertainment at the Vineyard Rose / Friday and Saturday nights for the month of February / 6:00-9:00pm

Why Limit Happy to an Hour? / Happy Hours at Vineyard Rose Restaurant Monday-Friday 3:00p-5:30p / Join us in the Vineyard Rose Lounge for reduced priced selected appetizers, award winning select glasses of South Coast wines and local drafts. PLUS corkage fees are waived for any South Coast Winery wine bottles brought in to the Vineyard Rose Restaurant and consumed while dining on Wednesdays too! / Visit www.WineResort.com to view menus and find out more.

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours
Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday. $40pp / $35pp Wine Club Member. Get up close and personal as you learn more about our spectacular Southern California winery with a behind-the-scenes tour. From vineyards to crush pad, each tour concludes with a specially prepared wine and food pairing. Due to the limited sizes of each tour, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. Call 800-539-1375 Ext. 350 to reserve your spot today.

Thornton Winery
Champagne Jazz Schedule release date is March 14th! Make sure to check-out our website!

Easter Sunday at Café Champagne / March 27 / 12pm-5pm / Special Easter menu offering at Café Champagne restaurant / Please check our website www.thorntonwine.com for information and reservations.

Drink Now…Or Cellar?? The Real Story on Aging Wine

Think all wine gets better with age?  The truth is, only a tiny fraction of wine is actually designed to stand up to and improve with aging.  In fact, 99% of all wine we buy is meant to be drunk right now. Although, when we say a wine is meant to be drunk now, we mean it is intended to be consumed within five years or so of buying it.  After those five years are up, the wine can actually start to deteriorate and lose many of the qualities that made it so delicious in the first place.

Most wines worth cellaring are considered premium wines.  Expect them to cost at least $30 a bottle.  Now, this doesn’t mean that all $30+ wines are expected to cellar well. The ability of a wine to age is influenced by many factors including grape variety, vintage, viticultural practices, wine region and winemaking style.

What’s the science behind the aging of wine?  In general, wines with a low pH (such as Pinot Noir and Sangiovese) have a greater capability of aging. With red wines, a high level of flavor compounds, such as phenolics (most notably tannins), will increase the likelihood that a wine will be able to age. Wines with high levels of phenols include Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo and Syrah.

The white wines with the longest aging potential tend to be those with a high amount of extract and acidity. The acidity in white wines, acting as a preservative, has a role similar to that of tannins in red wines. The process of making white wines, which includes little to no skin contact, means that white wines have a significantly lower amount of phenolic compounds, though barrel fermentation and oak aging can impart some phenols. Similarly, the minimal skin contact with rosé wine limits their aging potential.

So, you’ve found a wine you love…. how will you know if it’s worth storing? The smart approach is to buy direct from the winery and talk to them about the wine and how long they think it will last. They can definitely give you a good baseline for an expiration date. Of course, we say that wine is meant to be enjoyed, not looked at in a cellar, so pop your corks often!