Your Holiday Wine
Guide, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country Style
It’s the most wonderful time of the year for a very good
reason: the holiday season is filled with deliciousness. From epic family meals,
to festive office parties, to coworkers bringing in all sorts of home-baked
treats, to endless cocktails and tipples – there is plenty to indulge in. There
are also so many occasions that call for wine!
In Temecula Valley, we enjoy a warm, Mediterranean climate
that offers long, sunny days followed by afternoon breezes and cool, crisp
nights; these conditions are ideal for ripening grapes while retaining balance
and acidity. As a result, we are able to produce a wide range of wines from
dozens of different grape varieties – plenty of which are absolutely perfect
for holiday sipping and entertaining. Here are a few of our favorites this
season.
When it’s time to celebrate:
Temecula Valley produces some truly wonderful sparkling
wines in a range of styles from sweet to bone dry. Many Temecula Valley sparklers
are even made in the painstaking “méthode traditionnelle” or Champagne
method, where the wine undergoes secondary fermentation (the one that gives the
wine its bubbles) in the bottle, and spends a long time on its “lees” – the little
yeasty cells that give traditional method sparkling wines those unmistakable
and delicious toasty, brioche-like aromas.
When hosting a party or even just entertaining your family
who doesn’t agree on anything – especially wine – finding a few crowd-pleasing
sippers is essential. You will want to pick a versatile white and an
easy-drinking red that pair with a variety of different cuisines and aren’t
overly heavy or rich. Save the heady stuff for sipping solo after the last dish
has been washed and put away, and you finally have a few minutes to yourself to
lounge by the fire.
This is perhaps the wine that is saved for the main dinner.
You may even opt to decant it tableside for a bit of added drama. Regardless of
what you are serving, you will want a couple of bottles of something truly extraordinary
to mark the special occasion.
Who needs dessert when you can pour yourself a small glass
of dessert wine? There are many wineries in Temecula Valley that are
producing some truly impressive dessert wines. Serve these alongside something
simple like a tray of Italian cantucci or a winter cheese course with
all the fixings, like nuts, candied fruits, honeys and sweet breads. Or, just
pour a taste of the sweet nectar and move to the living room for those long and
spirited post-meal conversations with loved ones.
Spiced mulled wine is a winter favorite — warm, flavorful, and always so comforting! And, it’s incredibly easy to make. We’re definitely going to give this recipe a try over the holidays.
Ingredients:
4 cups apple cider 1 (750-ml) bottle of your favorite Temecula Valley red wine 1/4 cup honey 2 cinnamon sticks 1 orange, zested and juiced 4 whole cloves 3 star anise 4 oranges, peeled, for garnish
Directions:
Combine the cider, wine, honey, cinnamon sticks, zest, juice, cloves and star anise in a large saucepan, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Pour into mugs, add an orange peel to each and serve. Paskolos smulkiajam ir vidutiniam verslui, greitieji kreditai internetu visą parą bedarbiams, automobiliui be užstato su vekseliu, Luminor ir SEB bankų vartojimo paskolos būstui https://paskolos-internetu.eu
In just a few weeks, your tummy will be rumbling and your mouth salivating with the promise of the once-a-year feast that is Thanksgiving. America’s biggest food holiday serves up the chance to do some serious (and seriously fun) fun wine and food pairing. Here in Temecula Valley, Southern California’s Wine Country, we’ve got the perfect wine pairings to go with each Thanksgiving course. No matter what your budget, this simple guide will have your friends and family giving thanks to you for making their holiday meal extra special.
Light Appetizers + Mellow Whites These bright yet mellow whites pair well with lighter dishes to kick off your Thanksgiving meal. The floral notes of a viognier complement a fall salad of pears, blue cheese and walnuts; a selection of fruit and cheeses match nicely with a chardonnay; and light pinot grigio will sing next to your pumpkin soup.
Herbacious Side Dishes + Spicy Reds The spicy notes derived from these unique wine grapes pair especially well with stuffings and gravies seasoned with holiday herbs like sage, thyme and rosemary. Having a vegetarian Thanksgiving? These wines work well with earthy mushroom and winter squash dishes too!
Poultry & Meats + Bold Reds Whether it’s wine or food, everyone looks forward to the main course. The dark fruit flavors in these big reds will enhance similar flavors in your herb-rubbed turkey or peppered roasts. Whether you’re serving poultry, lamb or beef, all three are bold enough to stand up to a rich meat course.
Dessert + Sweet Wines Your Thanksgiving meal isn’t complete without dessert, and no dessert is complete without wine – at least that’s how we feel! Apple pies and pear tarts are practically made to pair with a sweet moscato, where red delicious apples, kiwi , pears, and apricots come together nicely with honeysuckle and jasmine undertones.
One Meal, One Wine On a wine-buying budget? Or just looking to simplify your evening by serving one wine from start to finish? Any of these four, well-priced wines fit the bill. Each is lighter on the palate, with only subtle hints of sweetness making them suitable to drink from appetizers all the way to dessert. Bon appetit!
Cooking duck breasts slowly, skin side down, helps eliminate almost every speck of fat. After about 20 minutes, the skin will be crisp and the flesh as rosy and tender as a fine steak. A silky port and cherry sauce makes this a restaurant-caliber dish. Serve with wild rice and your favorite Temecula Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Serves 4
Ingredients Seasoning Rub: 8 juniper berries 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme 2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 4 boneless duck breasts, about 1⁄2 pound (250 g) each
Sauce: 1 cup (250 ml) Zinfandel Port or Ruby Port 1 shallot, minced 3 fresh thyme sprigs 1 strip orange zest, removed with a vegetable peeler 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 24 cherries, pitted and halved 1⁄2 cup (125 ml) strong chicken broth, reduced from 1 cup (250 ml) 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Directions Make the seasoning rub: Put the juniper berries, thyme, salt, and peppercorns in a mortar or spice grinder and grind to a powder. Duck breasts vary tremendously in size; scale up the spice rub if the breasts you buy are considerably larger.
Slash the skin of each breast in a crosshatch pattern, stopping short of the flesh. (The slashes help render the fat.) Sprinkle the seasoning rub evenly onto both sides of each breast. Put the breasts on a flat rack and set the rack inside a tray. Refrigerate uncovered for 24 to 36 hours. Bring to room temperature before cooking.
Choose a heavy frying pan large enough to accommodate all the duck breasts comfortably. (If necessary to avoid crowding, use two frying pans.) Put the breasts, skin side down, in the unheated frying pan and set over medium-low heat. Cook until the skin is well browned and crisp, about 15 minutes, frequently pouring off the fat until the skin no longer renders much. (Reserve the fat for frying potatoes, if you like.)
Turn the duck breasts and continue cooking flesh side down, turning the breasts with tongs to sear all the exposed flesh, until the internal temperature registers 125°F (52°C) on an instant-read thermometer, about 3 minutes longer. Transfer the breasts to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
While the duck cooks, make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the port, shallot, thyme, orange zest, vinegar, and half of the cherries. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and simmer until reduced to 3∕4 cup (180 ml). Add the broth and sugar and simmer until the liquid has again reduced to 3∕4 cup (180 ml). Remove from the heat and, with tongs, lift out the thyme sprigs and orange zest and discard.
Puree the sauce in a blender. Set a very fine-mesh sieve over the saucepan and pass the sauce through the sieve, pressing on the solids with a rubber spatula. Return to medium heat, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until reduced to 1∕2 cup (125 ml). Stir in the remaining cherries and remove from the heat. Add the butter and swirl the saucepan until the butter melts.
Slice the duck on the diagonal. Spoon some of the sauce on each of four dinner plates, dividing it evenly. Top with the sliced duck. Serve immediately.
Thornton Winery 2014 Merlot – Cherry, black berry currant and blueberry notes along with a fruit-driven entry that is complemented by oak barrels from France, Eastern Europe and North America.
Mac & Cheese with Fresh Peas, Cauliflower and Toasted Garlic Breadcrumbs
You know it’s the start of fall when you start to crave warm comfort food! This mac & cheese recipe is creamy and comes with a few surprising additions—and a crispy garlicky topping. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Chardonnay or Merlot.
Serves 6
Ingredients 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter 2 tablespoons (30ml) all purpose flour 1 cup (240ml) whole milk 1 cup (240ml) half-and-half 1¼ cup (143g) grated sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup (56g) grated Gruyere cheese 6 cups cooked macaroni (made from 10 ounces/284g dry macaroni) ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) sea salt 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 cups (200g) cauliflower florets, cut into small pieces ½ cup (80g) fresh or frozen peas
For the topping: 2 cups (128g) fine dry breadcrumbs (preferably Panko) ½ cup (56g) grated sharp cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons (10ml) minced garlic ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) sea salt 1 teaspoon (2.5ml) freshly ground black pepper
Directions Preheat oven to 375° F (190° C)
Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed, saucepan over medium heat, until sizzling. Add the flour and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Gradually stir in the milk and half-and-half, and continue to stir until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer.
Turn off heat, stir in the grated cheddar and the Gruyere until smooth. Fold in the macaroni and ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt. Set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the cauliflower and cook and stir until lightly browned. Stir in the peas and cook for 2 more minutes.
Mix the cauliflower and peas with the macaroni and spread in a buttered 9-by-13-inch (23-by-33-cm) baking dish.
To make the topping, mix the breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the macaroni.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until topping is golden brown.
Suggested Pairings: Callaway Vineyard & Winery 2016 Special Selection Chardonnay ~ This light, crisp Chardonnay opens with aromas of leafy pineapple and citrus fruits. The palate is lush with fresh tropical fruits, golden delicious apple with a tangy pineapple finish.
Falkner Winery 2016 Merlot ~ Enjoy the added dimension of black cherry, blueberry, and slight plum flavors with a smooth finish that provides for a delicious wine.
Leoness Cellars 2015 Signature Selection Merlot ~ This wine is bursting with black cherry and blackberry flavors framed by subtle hints of licorice, tobacco and cedar leading the way to a soft, lengthy finish.
Oak Mountain Winery 2018 Chardonnay ~ This chardonnay is lightly oaked with French oak imparting rich flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, creme brulee and caramel.
October is peak harvest season and the vineyards are in full wine production and we’ve got some exciting and unique October winery events! Come experience Halloween bashes, grape stomps, concerts, fall wine tours and tastings — and much more!
Avensole Winery Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting /Available on Sunday of each the month / 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.
Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-369934
Baily Winery Doggie Costume Contest / October 27 / Join us for our Dog Day Sundays at Carol’s Restaurant located at Baily Winery. Doggie Costume judging at 1:30pm – 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes! Don’t forget to bring your camera! / Carol’s Restaurant is open for lunch 11:30am – 3pm. Reservations recommended by calling 951-676-9243
Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm/ Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at 951-972-9768.
Bel Vino Winery Oktoberfest / October 18 / 6:00-10:00pm / $5pp pre-paid tickets on our website or $10pp at the door / German Band, German Contests, Biergarten, Brat Bar, Dress Contest, Funnel Cakes / For reservations please visit https://www.belvinowinery.com/product/oktoberfest/
Sushi Wine Down / October 23 / 6:00-9:00pm / $50 pp / Featuring: Live Music from Jeff Brinkman. Price includes a Sushi Station featuring fresh premium grade fish such as Hawaiian Bigeye Tuna, JPN’s Yellowtail, Scottish Salmon and others. Prepared with natural and organic ingredients and fresh wasabi (root) / To purchase your tickets please visit https://www.hideawaycuisine.com/events
Callaway Vineyard & Winery Sip, Stomp & Play / October 5 / 6pm to 9pm / $72 pp, $64.80 wine club, $32 for kids ages 4-11; price does not include tax / Grab a bunch of your family and friends and join us for this fun-for-the-entire-family grape stomp and harvest festival! Bring the kids! We’ll have face painting, live music, dinner, dancing, a Lucy look-alike contest, and of course, grape stomping contests! Channel your inner Lucy and dress up for a chance to win prizes! We are serving up some hearty cuisine that’s perfect for keeping your energy up while you stomp and dance the night away! Get your tickets while you can, you won’t want to miss this! Tickets include: Admission to the event, one glass of Callaway wine, dinner, dancing, wine specials and grape stomping! / Purchase your tickets online at www.callawaywinery.com or at the winery.
Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889
Brunch Specials every Sunday at
Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa
with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is
farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally
outsourced.
Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001
Carter Estate Winery and Resort Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com.
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com
Europa Village Festa! featuring Ruben V / October 19 / 5:30-8:30pm / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Ruben V, benefiting Michelle’s Place! Food Tickets: $18; free admission / please visit www.europavillage.com for additional information.
Night of Witches n Ghouls Party / October 24 / 7:00-10:00pm / Cover charge $20 per person includes glass of Ghoulish Sangria or Zombie Hot Lips. Wine by the glass and bottle. (Industry and Wine Club discounts applicable) Karaoke by Sing It Like you Mean It, D.J. Lillian Thomas. Food available for purchase And don’t forget about our awesome Costume Contests!
Dia De Los Muertos Festival (Day of the Dead) / October 27 / 12:00-4:00pm Open to the public. Face painter, vendors, games, wine, sangria, and Hot Lips by glass or bottle. (Member discounts applicable) Food and Drink packages available. Picnic menu also available. No need to RSVP!
Fazeli Cellars Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball / November 1 / Doors Open at 7pm / Don’t Miss Our Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball! Tickets Sell Out FAST, Get Yours NOW! / $28 Members | $35 Non-Members Includes Entrance and a Glass of Spooky Sparkling Wine / Drinks & food available for purchase | DJ & Dancing! Masks Desired but Not Required! To purchase your tickets please visit http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391245/Haunted-Masquerade-Ball-2019.html
Frangipani Winery Harvest Grape Stomp Party / October 13 / 2pm-5pm / Frangipani Estate Winery Wine club members $20 per person and General Guests $25 per person / Grape Stomping, Corn-Hole, & Bocce Ball tournaments with prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place, live music and food / RSVP by October 10 to 951-699-8845 or email frangipaniwine@yahoo.com
Lorimar Winery Night of the Living Wine-O’s / October 25 / 7:00-10:00pm / $20 per person; $18 Wine Club / Lorimar’s annual Halloween bash is back and it’s going to be better than ever! Join us for wine specials, live music by Mrs. Jones Revenge, Costume Contest, DJ, candy, and more! / Tickets are pre-sale only and include a glass of Spooky Sangria. (event is 21+, tax is not included) / Purchase Tickets – https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-410159/Night-Of-The-Living-Wineos.html
Movie in the Vines – Hotel Transylvania 2 / October 28 / Doors open at 6pm / Bring the whole family for a scary good time to see HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 on the Sunset Patio! /Pairings Food Truck opens at 6 pm; movie begins at sunset / Complimentary popcorn! Costume contest for the kids! Candy, Soda, & Snacks will also be available for purchase! (No outside food or drinks)/ Please RSVP – https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-409598/Movie-In-The-Vines-Hotel-Transylvania-2.html
Ponte Winery Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com
Somerset Vineyard & Winery 70’s Disco Party / October 5 / 6:00-10:00pm / $95 per person; $76 for members / Enjoy a live musical production by the FUNKY HIPPEEZ, food provided by Southfork catering, contest & prizes for Best Dressed and Best Dance Moves! / Space is limited so reserve early! Please visit our website www.somersetvineyard.com or call 951-365-5522 to purchase your tickets today!
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Country Concert featuring Eric Paslay / October 24 / Doors Open at 6:30pm; Show 7:00-9:00pm / Tickets start at only $35! / Join us among the vines and stars as South Coast Winery Resort & Spa presents an evening with country singer/songwriter Eric Paslay. This Platinum-selling, hit songwriter and dynamic performer has celebrated five No. 1 hits including “Even if it Breaks Your Heart” (Eli Young Band), “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (Jack Owen), “Angel Eyes” (Love & Theft), “Rewind” (Rascal Flatts) and “Friday Night” his smash lead single from his critically acclaimed self-titled debut album. Enjoy great wine, local food trucks and this GRAMMY® nominee, hit songwriter for the wine COUNTRY night event of the year / For reservations please visit https://www.southcoastwinery.com/concerts/october-24-2019-country-concert
Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and
3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular
Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from
vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual
plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge
and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to
reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are
required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years
of age to attend.
Thornton Winery JAZZ CONCERT SERIES Brian Culbertson / October 5 / 7:00pm Cost: General Admission: $95, Gourmet Supper Package: $180
West Coast Jams / October 12 / 7:00pm Cost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170
Jeffrey Osborne / October 20 / 4:00pmCost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170
To order your jazz tickets, please visit our website: www.thorntonwine.com or Call (951) 699-0099 EXT. 3127 to make reservations.
Friday Live Music – B.I.G. / October 11 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission $15 in advance; $20 at the door. VIP $40 for the first six rows. No food service / Dinner tables available. *All guests at table must order dinner! / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com Friday Live Music – Bon Jovi Tribute / October 25 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission $25 in advance; $30 at the door. VIP $40 for the first six rows. No food service / Dinner tables available. *All guests at table must order dinner! / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com
Cooking Class / October 27 / 1:00pm -3:00pm / Theme is Scary Desserts & Appetizers / For more information and reservations please visit www.thorntonwine.com
Vindemia Vineyards & Estate Winery Harvest Celebration with Special Guest Chef Drew Deckman / November 2 / 4:30pm- 8:00pm / $75 for Wine Club Members and $95 for non-members We are overjoyed to host Super Chef Drew Deckman here in Temecula Valley! Chef Deckman is the head chef at his restaurant, Deckmans’s in Ensenada and is known for his superb dishes in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. Our November 2 event includes a four-course meal grilled by Deckman himself, paired with unreleased Vindemia wines, live music and more! / Please RSVP to wineclub@vindemia.com by October 18 – spots are limited!
Wiens Family Cellars Refugio Vertical Pairing Dinner / October 27 / 7:00pm-10:00pm / $100 regular; $80 Wine Club Member / A Cabernet lover’s delight! Join us for our Refugio Wine Dinner! At this event we’ll showcase four vintages of our flagship Refugio Cabernet Sauvignon paired with a wonderful dish! / Advance reservation can be made by visiting https://www.wienscellars.com/res-415408/Refugio-Vertical-Pairing-Dinner-2019.html
Wilson Creek Winery Wine Academy – Wine 101 / October 5 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General $20-$35; Wine Club Members $20 (limit 4 guests $35) / Come join us for an educational journey through wine. Our top-notch instructors will make your wine experience interactive and interesting. Enjoy wine education while tasting different wines with light appetizers. Reserve Members are complimentary with Wine Passes – Call 951-252-8523 to reserve. ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Lauren
Alaina Country Concert
/ October 11 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General Admission $60; Wine Club Members $54 /
Join us under the stars in the heart of wine country for an amazing up close
and personal show with LAUREN ALAINA and Opening Band Honey County! / For
reservations please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
Harvest
Festival – Grape Stomp
/ October 18 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General Admission $75; Wine Club Members $67.50
/ Fall is a time to gather! Join us for our Harvest Festival! Buffet Style
Dinner, Pumpkin Carving Contest, Grape Stomping, & Live Music! Enjoy all of
these fun activities included with your ticket. LIVE ENTERTAINERS: Kodi Lee
& Midnight Satellites / For
reservations please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.
It’s September – and you know what that means? California Wine Month – and it’s time to celebrate, Temecula Style! From CRUSH to grape stomps and harvest celebrations, it’s always a busy time in Temecula Valley Wine Country!
Grape Stomp Fun!
Avensole Winery Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting Available on Sunday of each the month 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.
Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-369934
Baily Winery Shakespeare in the Vines presents Comedy of Errors / September 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21 / Doors open at 6:30pm. Show starts 7:30 (ends around 10p) /Outdoor stage at Baily Winery / Tickets: $22 / To purchase your tickets please visit http://www.shakespeareinthevines.org
Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm / Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at951-972-9768. Please note that library tasting will not be available on these specific dates only June 6 or 7.
Callaway Vineyard & Winery Sip, Stomp & Play / October 5 / 6pm to 9pm / $72 pp, $64.80 wine club, $32 for kids ages 4-11; price does not include tax / Grab a bunch of your family and friends and join us for this fun-for-the-entire-family grape stomp and harvest festival! Bring the kids! We’ll have face painting, live music, dinner, dancing, a Lucy look-alike contest, and of course, grape stomping contests! Channel your inner Lucy and dress up for a chance to win prizes! We are serving up some hearty cuisine that’s perfect for keeping your energy up while you stomp and dance the night away! Get your tickets while you can, you won’t want to miss this! Tickets include: Admission to the event, one glass of Callaway wine, dinner, dancing, wine specials and grape stomping! Purchase your tickets online at www.callawaywinery.com or at the winery.
Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889
Brunch Specials every Sunday at
Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa
with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is
farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally
outsourced.
Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001
Carter Estate Winery and Resort Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com
Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com
Ruben V. & The Latin Sounds Havana Night / September 28 / 6:00-10:00pm / Guests $10 / Live band, Brazilian dancers and salsa dance Lessons / Guest musician, wood dance floor, food and alcohol available for purchase / For all our events please visit our website www.innatchuronwinery.com / To purchase tickets at http://shop.innatchuronwinery.com/reservation-events
Cougar Vineyards Cougar Craft Night / September 22 / 3:30-5:30p / Wine club $45pp, Non-wine club $50pp / We’re making Reversible Blocks or Scarecrow crafts. Samples displayed at the winery. All materials needed to create your Blocks or scarecrow will be provided plus expert help from the Craft Barrel Ladies! Craft and sip the afternoon away! / For reservations please call the winery 951.491.0825 or visitwww.cougarvineyards.com
Wine and Dogs / September 12 / 3:00-6:00pm / Come and join in on the fun picnic area at Cougar winery! Dog sitters, doggy day care, dog boarding, groomers, pet nutrition, specialty pet treats, pet safe toys, dog trainers, dog friendly dining, local rescues, specialists in care and health of your dog and so much more…no cost to attend. Those in attendance can purchase two-for-one tastings during the event / For more information please visitwww.cougarvineyards.com
Europa Village Festa! Big Truth / September 20 / 5:30p-8:30p / Free admission; Food tickets $19 / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Big Truth, benefiting Jacob’s House! / For reservations and information please visit www.europavillage.com
Falkner Winery Vertical Meritage Tasting Class with George Myer / September 14 / 10:30am -12:30pm / $45 per person, $40 Wine Club Members per person / Rated 90+ points by Wine Enthusiast and all Gold Medal winners! Designed for all levels of wine knowledge; RSVP’s required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com
Fazeli Cellars Salsa Night Black and White Party! / September 7 / No partner or experience needed! Doors Open at 6:30 with 45-minute Salsa Lesson / Admission fee is $20 for non-members (+ tax) and $15 (+ tax) for wine club members – Includes a glass of Sangria. Special Food Menu Items! Wine, Beer, Sangria available for purchase! / Tickets sold at front door ONLY!
Ponte Winery Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-6pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour specials on craft beer, flatbreads, Ponte wine on tap and more! Menu items $6 and up / For more information please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com
Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com
Somerset Vineyards & Winery First Annual Grape Stomp / September 21 / 4:30-7:00pm; music until 9pm / $35 per person and includes a glass of wine, or $130 for a team of 4 and includes a bottle of your choice / Come participate in our first Grape Stomp Competition! Come as a team of 4, or as an individual and become part of a team. All participants get to stomp. Teams are encouraged to dress – best team costume wins a prize! / Please visit the following site to reserve your spot https://shop.somersetvineyard.com/res-424601/1st-Annual-Grape-Stomp.html
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Jazz Series – Michael Paulo, Blake Aaron, Tateng Katindig & Vocalist Lynne Fiddmont / September 1 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Join us at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa as Rhythm on the Vine® returns with the third of a six-concert jazz series! Featuring Saxophonist Michael Paulo and friends! / Reservation Information: Purchase tickets at SouthCoastWinery.com. Please email marketing@wineresort.com or call (833)366-3112
Jazz Series – Marc Antoine & Brian Simpson Concert / September 29 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Join us at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa as Rhythm on the Vine® returns with the fourth of a six-concert jazz series! Featuring Guitarist Marc Antoine and Pianist Brian Simpson / Reservation Information: Purchase tickets at SouthCoastWinery.com. Please email marketing@wineresort.com or call (833)366-3112
Grape Stomp 2019 / September 15 / 5:00-9:00pm / It’s that time of the year again! Time to get your stompin’ on! Grab your friends and join us on Sunday, September 15th for South Coast Winery’s annual Grape Stomp. Your ticket includes a glass of wine, live music, sparkling wine toast, harvest blessing, dinner buffet, and of course, grape stomping! Reservation Information: Tickets on sale at SouthCoastWinery.com/stomp.
Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and
3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular
Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from
vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual
plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge
and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to
reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are
required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years
of age to attend.
Friday
Live Music – Featuring Killer Dueling Pianos / September 13 / 6:00-9:00pm / Cost:
$15 cover fee / Dinner tables available. Please call (951) 699-0099 to make
reservations. *All guests at table must order dinner!
Friday Live Music – Rolling Stone Tribute / September 27 / 6:00-9:00pm / Cost: General Admission – $15 in advance. $20 at the door. VIP $30 / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com
Dinner tables
available. Call (951) 699-0099 to make table reservations. *All guests at table
must order dinner!
Wilson Creek Winery Symphony in the Vines Pop Concert / September 15 / 7:00pm – Gates open at 6pm / $35 / Temecula Symphony presents vocalist Jonathan Hawkins & Guest and John Mario, conductor / Music from John Williams, Game of Thrones, Ed Sheeran, The Greatest Showman, Andrea Bocelli, Broadway, Freddy Mercury, Beethoven and more… / Food and beverage available to purchase at the event / For tickets www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.
Buttery avocados make any sandwich better, and they put this burger over the top. Grass-fed beef can be lean, but the sliced avocado and spicy chipotle mayonnaise ensure that this burger is a luscious, moist, flavor-packed experience. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
Serves 4
Ingredients:
Burgers:
1 1⁄2 pounds (750 g) grass-fed ground beef chuck
Scant 1 1⁄2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt
3⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
Freshly ground black pepper
Chipotle Mayonnaise
1⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (90 ml) mayonnaise, homemade or store-bought
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, if using store-bought mayonnaise
1 small clove garlic, grated with a rasp grater or very finely minced
1 1⁄2 teaspoons very finely minced chipotle chile in adobo, or more to taste
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
4 hamburger buns, split
1 ripe but firm small avocado
1⁄2 lime
About 1⁄2 cup (20 g) loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
4 large, soft lettuce leaves
Directions:
Make the burgers: Put the beef in a bowl and add the salt, garlic powder, and several grinds of black pepper. Mix quickly with your hands; try not to overwork the mixture. Divide into four equal portions, each 6 ounces (185 g), and shape into balls. Flatten each ball into a round patty about 3∕4 inch (2 cm) thick. Make the patties a little thinner in the center. They shrink a bit when cooked, and this step ensures they will be of even thickness after cooking. Place them on a tray and refrigerate.
Make the mayonnaise: Put the mayonnaise in a small bowl. If it is store-bought, whisk in the olive oil to improve the flavor. Whisk in the garlic and chile. Taste and add more chile if you like. Cover and refrigerate until needed.
Preheat the broiler. Heat a large cast-iron frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the patties and fry until nicely browned and done to your taste, flipping them with a spatula two or three times and adjusting the heat to keep them from getting too crusty on either side. For medium doneness, the total cooking time will be about 10 minutes.
Set the burgers aside on a platter to rest for about 3 minutes. Meanwhile, toast the buns, cut side up, under the broiler. Halve, pit, and peel the avocado and slice thinly.
Spread chipotle mayonnaise on both halves of the toasted buns. Top the bottom half of each bun with a burger. Divide the avocado slices evenly among the burgers. Sprinkle the avocado lightly with salt and a squeeze of lime. Top with a tuft of cilantro leaves, then with a lettuce leaf, and finally the top half of the bun. Cut in half with a serrated knife and serve immediately.
Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country has been
named by USA Today as a 10Best Readers’ Choice for “Best Wine Region.” Out of
20 nominees across the United States, Temecula Valley Wine Country ranked number
three in the country by an expert panel and the public.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our winegrowers and winemakers. Our wine region is beginning to get the recognition it deserves for its award wining wines, dining, and experiences,” says Kimberly Adams, President and CEO, Visit Temecula Valley.
“From our talented winemakers to chefs to tasting room staff and everyone in between, Temecula Valley is filled with passionate people who work tirelessly to make the region so special,” said Krista Chaich, Executive Director of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association. “We are delighted to be counted among so many other great wine regions in this 10Best list, and that visitors everywhere have fallen in love with our community and our world class wines, just as we have.”
Temecula Valley Wine Country is located in the center of
Southern California, just 60 minutes from San Diego, Orange Country, and Palm
Springs, and 90 minutes south of Los Angeles. There are now nearly 50 wineries
in the significant and diverse Temecula Valley AVA, a major AVA in Southern
California. The wine region continues to gain recognition for its
award-winning, premium varietal and proprietary blended wines.
More than three million travelers visit Temecula Valley to enjoy the region’s welcoming wineries, learning experiences, concerts and signature events, outdoor activities, and exceptional dining. Less-busy weekdays provide potential opportunities to converse with talented winemakers and friendly winery owners. Hotels, resorts, bed and breakfast inns are available among the vineyards, in and near Old Town Temecula, within the canyon, and along hotel row in Uptown.
For more information about Temecula Valley Southern California or to start planning your trip, go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.
As summer winds to an end, and pumpkin spice starts creeping into
what seems like literally everything, it’s about that time to turn our palates
to Fall flavors, especially when it comes to wine. Harvest is under way and
this year’s grape crop is getting picked and processed into a new vintage. As
we welcome this change in weather and celebrate the next phase in the life
cycle of the grape, we thought we would put together a list of some of our
favorite wine grapes for fall. Whether you love the classics or are itching to
try something new and unique, you’re bound to find something you like in this
lineup.
Grape: Chardonnay
What it’s like: If you’re part of the “Anything but
Chardonnay” crowd, you need to think again. Chardonnay is a wonderfully
versatile grape that comes in so many different styles, from crisp and clean
with notes of green apple and citrus, to rich and buttery, dripping with
tropical fruit and caramel, and everything in between.
Why we love it: Although classically linked to the Burgundy
region of France, Chardonnay is actually the most-planted white grape in the
world, growing in every region wine grapes are planted, including Temecula
Valley. Chardonnay is the perfect departure from the light and zingy whites of
Summer. It’s got a little more body, and takes on a wide range of dishes
depending on the style of the wine.
This Chardonnay is only slightly oaked, imparting delicate flavors
of vanilla, butterscotch and caramel, mingled with apple, pineapple, honey and
vanilla. A dream paired with roast chicken.
Translating to “without oak,” this Chardonnay is bright and clean,
with notes of Honeycrisp apple, citrus zest, and jasmine blossom and a long,
mouth-watering finish.
Grape: Viognier
What it’s like: Viognier is a red-wine drinker’s white. It’s
rich, luscious and full-bodied, with powerful and unmistakable floral
aromatics.
Why we love it: Viognier originated in Southern France and
the Rhône Valley, and thrives equally well in the soils and climate of Temecula
Valley. Like Chardonnay, it tends to have more weight than other whites so can
stand up to some of the richer flavors of Fall.
This vibrant wine’s aromatics
explode with bright floral notes on the nose, delighting the senses as it hits
the palate. An elegant backbone of acidity balances out the soft tones of
honeysuckle and apricot.
Ripe stone fruit meets tropical
aromas and notes of apple blossom in this rich bottling. The luscious and layered
palate of this wine makes it a great match for exotic cuisines like spicy Thai and
Indian dishes.
While Viognier is sometimes fermented in oak, this bottling
was done in stainless steel in order to let the pure, rich fruit character prevail.
Aromas of ripe nectarines, orange blossoms and a hint of fresh herbs flow into
a soft and balanced palate with long-lasting, tingling acidity. This wine is
perfect for sushi night with family and friends.
Grape: Cinsault (also Cinsaut)
What it’s like: If you like lighter bodied wines like Pinot
Noir and Gamay, you will love Cinsault. Hailing from Southern France as well,
this grape is capable of producing elegant, complex wines with juicy red fruit
and unique savory notes when handled well.
Why we love it: It’s not Winter yet, so if you’re not ready
to move to the heavy Syrahs and Zinfandels we crave in cold weather, Cinsault
is the perfect pick. It’s juicy, it’s easy-drinking and it’s great with all
kinds of dishes. If you’re really not ready for Summer to be over, you can even
serve it with a slight chill.
This Temecula Valley Cinsault
displays lively floral and ripe strawberry aromas on the nose, and a lush, warm
palate balanced by an elegant structure. A perfect food wine, pair this with
pizza, pasta, cheese and charcuterie.
This bottling is bursting with aromas
of cherry and raspberry with hints of black licorice and spice. The wine is
soft, elegant and approachable thanks to the addition of a light touch of Syrah
& Grenache and 18 months spent in small French Oak barrels.
The Grape: Cabernet Franc
What it’s like: Cabernet Franc is actually one of Cabernet
Sauvignon’s parents (the other being Sauvignon Blanc), and yet it is often
overlooked in favor of its more famous offspring. Known for its role in
Bordeaux blends, it stands alone quite well, offering savory notes of bell
pepper, green herbs, graphite, berry fruit and cedar
Why we love it: Cabernet Franc has the benefit of being both
age-worthy and drinkable now. Its medium-bodied structure makes it a great food
wine, but it also holds up to serious oak treatment quite well, giving it a
wide range of different possible styles depending on how it is handled.
Baily Winery is known for their traditional, Old World take on
winemaking and this Cabernet Franc is no exception. Ripe berry and plum mingle
with exotic spice and black pepper and a touch of forest floor. This is a wine
to linger over now, or put away for several years to let it develop.
Notes of crushed raspberries,
black currants, violet and graphite are prominent on the nose, backed by a
pleasant green bell pepper note. This Cabernet Franc is medium-bodied with
well-integrated tannins and a smooth mouthfeel.
A balanced wine with crisp acidity and bright fruit reminiscent of
Cabernet Franc wines from France’s Loire Valley. Notes of green olive, clove,
raspberry and violet on the nose are followed by tart berry fruit and licorice,
backed by firm, elegant tannins on the palate.
Share your favorite Temecula Valley wine picks for Fall! Tag us
@temeculawines using the hashtag #DrinkTemecula.
