Monte De Oro Winery offers Tuscan inspired architecture, lush vineyards, panoramic views, and a tasting room over 21,000 square feet! Monte de Oro tasting room is a glass floor offering a unique view of the barrel cellar just below which houses over 900 barrels of wine. Monte De Oro will also be hosting our highly anticipated CRUSH event in September!
Main Tasting Room Hours: OPEN DAILY 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Main Tasting Room has an ambiance that is sophisticated and elegant, yet at the same time relaxing and comfortable. A warm, inviting atmosphere elevates everyone – from the wine novice to the experienced wine connoisseur – even before glasses have been filled. Whether it be the view of our Barrel Cellar from above, through the glass-floored tasting room, or the panoramic view of Temecula Wine Country from our outside patio, Monte De Oro Winery and its Tasting Room provides the perfect place to sit, sip and enjoy Southern California’s Premier Wines.
While you come for the wine, stay for the food! Monte De Oro also offers a casual lunch fare, pizzas, and appetizers. The Bistro is led by Executive Chef, Alfred Fierro.
The BistroHours of Operation: Monday & Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday – Friday: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
A Few Wines To Try:
2019 Dulce De Verano ~It’s aromas consist of sweet rose flowers along with fresh macerated strawberries, watermelon, peaches and sweet cherries with just very slight hints of sage.
2017 Tempranillo ~Inviting aromas and flavors of ripe morello cherries, black olive, leather, espresso, and toasted almonds.
2016 Zinfandel ~ This wine initially offers aromas of raspberries and dried cranberries with a transition to spices – pronounced cinnamon and nutmeg with slight smoky oak.
Zucchini and Carrot Salad with Toasted Almonds and Arugula recipe
Save this fresh, colorful salad for early summer, when markets have small, tender zucchini. For the best results, look for zucchini that are no more than 6 inches (15 cm) long, and choose straight ones that will be easy to shave into ribbons. You can shave the zucchini with a vegetable peeler, but a mandoline or V-slicer makes the job easier. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley rosé.
Ingredients:
1/3 cup (30 g) sliced almonds
3 tablespoons (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (30 ml) white wine vinegar, or more as needed
1 clove garlic, grated or finely minced
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 small zucchini, preferably 2 green and 2 yellow, about ¾ pound (350 g)
2 small carrots, peeled
2 large handfuls arugula (2 to 3 ounces/60 to 90 g)
Chunk of semi-firm pecorino cheese or crumbled cotija cheese (you’ll use about 3 ounces/90 g total)
Serves 4
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (190°C). Toast the almonds on a baking sheet until lightly colored and fragrant, about 8 minutes. Let cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, wine vinegar, garlic and salt and pepper to taste.
Remove both ends of the zucchini and carrots. With a V-slicer, mandolin or vegetable peeler, shave the vegetables lengthwise into thin ribbons. Discard the first and last slices of zucchini, which are mostly skin. Add the vegetables to the bowl and toss well to coat with the dressing. Let stand until the vegetables soften slightly, 5 to 10 minutes. The zucchini should be pliable enough to twirl with a fork without breaking. Do not let them stand too long or they will release liquid and water down the dressing.
Add the arugula and toss gently. With a cheese plane or vegetable peeler, shave about 3 ounces (90 g) of semi-firm percorino cheese, or crumble cotija cheese into the salad. Add the almonds and toss gently. Taste for salt and vinegar, then serve immediately.
Hart Winery ~ 2019 Grenache Rosé – This wine offers one of the most widely planted red grape varietals in the world and has flavor profiles of spice, pepper and red fruit.
Robert Renzoni Vineyards~ 2021 Lyric Rosé– Filled with a pale salmon hue, delicate bouquet of rose petals and peach skin exuding with flavors of guava and ripe peach.
Bottaia Winery Father’s Day at the Pool | June 19 | *Reservations Highly Recommended. Please visit www.bottaiawinery.com for additional information & reservations.
Carter Estate Winery & Resort Thursday Late Nights | Live music from 5pm – 8 pm | Food provided by various food truck / popup vendors. Crêpes & Champagne Sundays |Every Sunday April 3 – June 26th | 11am – 1pm (Not Available Easter Sunday) Get a taste of France at Carter Estate Winery. Start your day of wine tasting off with one of our delicious sparkling wines, paired with sweet or savory French Crêpes from The Catered Kitchens! No Reservations Required. For more information please visit www.CarterEstateWinery.com
Cougar Vineyard & Winery Father’s Day BBQ | June 19 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Hamburgers on the grill cooked by the winemaker!
Yappy Hour | June 24 | 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm- Bring your pooch or adopt one, Doggie Deli Menu available. Raffle – proceeds will go to the participating rescue. For additional information and reservations, please visit www.cougarvineyards.com
New Member Tour | June 26 | 11:30am | Tour our Barrel Room, Library Room, Members Clubhouse and Production Facilities While tasting a selection of great wines led by our Director of Hospitality, Walter Carter. For ticket information visit: www.danzadelsolwinery.com/events
Doffo Winery Friday Night Late Nights | Enjoy LIVE Music – Every Friday from May 27-August 26: Doffo Winery will be open until 9pm with LIVE music & food truck. Free to attend, open to the public.
8th Annual Caselli Fundraiser Event | June 11 | 4:00-10:00pm, raffles, silent auction, live band, food vendors, wine & Beer. Funds raised go to continue to fulfill the Kurt Caselli Foundation’s mission of protecting and supporting the lives of off-road riders. For more information on pricing and reservations, please visit www.doffowines.com
Europa Village Wineries & Resort Culinary Adventures with Chef Hany Ali | June 7 & 8 | 6:00pm | – Transport yourself into the beautiful country of Egypt with a beloved family recipe from Executive Chef Hany Ali. Learn how to make Fire Roasted Eggplant & Shishito Peppers, a classic Egyptian dish with a modern Spanish twist. Tickets: $69 pp | $62.10 for Wine Club Members | Europa Table Members: $29 (Maximum of 2 tickets) https://shop.europavillage.com/Shop/Events/Culinary-Adventures
Savory Brunch & Barbeque | June 19 | 10 am – 3 pm |Join us at Bolero Restaurante on June 19, 10 am to 3 pm, for a savory brunch and barbecue all-you-can-eat buffet. The buffet will feature an array of selections including a pastry bar, breakfast selections, salad bar, fresh seafood, a live BBQ station, and other barbecue favorites! Plus, enjoy $5 pints of beer and a special $5 beer float. For reservations, please call us at 951.414.3802.
Latin Nights | June 21 | 7:00 pm | Featuring live music from Kimba Light, dance lessons, and select menu offerings, you won’t want to miss out on a spicy evening of fun. Learn more at https://shop.europavillage.com/Shop/Events/Latin-Nights
Foot Path Winery Food Wine and Music event | June 25 | 7:00 to 9:30 pm. $40.00 per person plus tax. Visit www.footpathwinery.com for reservations and information for this event or call 951.265.9951.
Lorimar Vineyards & Winery Father’s Day BBQ family Day! | June 19 | 11am – 5pm | Winery will be family friendly all day. Special BBQ menu items! Live Music from 1-4pm. Reservations are recommended, walk-ins are welcome | https://www.lorimarwinery.com/dining
Smoke and Vine: An Evening of Cigars and Wine | June 24 | 7:00-10:00pm | $125/$112.50 | 5-day advanced booking is required. Join us for a relaxing evening of cigars & wine! Includes a four-course dinner, paired with cigars and Lorimar’s award-winning wines. (21+ event, tax not included) https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-415074/Smoke-And-Vine-An-Evening-Of-Cigars-And-Wine.html
Masia de la Vinya Winery Family Movie Night | June 17 | 6-10 pm, Adults $10 Kids Free (12&under) | Food Truck, Popcorn Vendor, Drink Specials.
Karaoke Night | June 24 | 5:30-9:00pm |Food Truck, Drink Specials.
Paint n Sip w/Pinots Palette | June 26 | 4:00-6:00pm | $50/WC $55 guests, includes glass of wine. For information and reservations on these events, please visit www.masiadelavinya.com
Salsa Dancing Under the Stars | June 11 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm |We have a great night lined up to shake and move to the unique and powerful sound of SalsaFama! Click Here to head over to their Facebook and see what’s in store! | Tickets: https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-400091/Salsa-Dancing-Under-The-Stars.html
Signature Food & Wine Series | June 12 | 11:30am – 1:30pm |A culinary offering unique to Monte De Oro. Our food and wine experts put together the freshest ingredients and take you through a multi-course showcase featuring Monte De Oro’s award-winning wine | Tickets: https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-400034/Signature-Food-Wine-Series.html
Blind Tasting featuring Zinfandel | June 17 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm | We will be sampling offerings from various world renowned wineries to see how they compare to Monte De Oro’s best Zinfandel vintages |Tickets: https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-400118/Blind-Tasting-Zinfandel.html
Wine Bingo | June 24 | 6:30pm – 9:00pm | It’s time for Bingo, Monte De Oro style! Join us Friday, June 24th, for a night of calling numbers and sipping your favorite MDO wine! | Tickets: https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-400117/Wine-Bingo.html
Peltzer Family Cellars Annual Father’s Day Cornhole Tournament | June 19th from 9am-5pm | $50 per team | Cash Jackpot | Ages 16+ can enter | Tickets live on www.peltzerwinery.com
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Save-the-Date! Annual Rhythm on the Vine® | Jazz concert series returns this summer offering jazz lovers memorable Sunday evening entertainment. New Sunday Jazz Line-up offers concerts scheduled from July 10 to September 25, 2022. Ticket prices are $65 for general admission, chair seating only; $85 for preferred seating, includes a table and is situated behind VIP seating; $150 for VIP Tickets, which are close to the stage and include a table. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.southcoastwinery.com/concerts
Wilson Creek Winery Golden Hours every Friday night! Have a night out with friends in Wine Country! Enjoy wine, delicious food, and live music. No reservations needed – just come on in from 5pm – 8:30pm.
Dinner at the Creekside Grille every Thursday and Friday Night. Reservations highly recommended at www.WilsonCreekWinery.com
Altisima Winery Cinco De Mayo | May 5 | Special ceviche & beer pairing all day at our Gaspar restaurant from 11am-4pm | Live Music & Food truck in our Olive Grove from 5:00 pm-9:00pm for Cinco de Mayo | Learn more at https://altisimawinery.com/upcoming-events /
Carter Estate Winery & Resort Crêpes & Champagne Sundays – Every Sunday April 3 – May 29th | 11am – 1pm (Not Available Easter Sunday) Get a taste of France at Carter Estate Winery. Start your day of wine tasting off with one of our delicious sparkling wines, paired with sweet or savory French Crêpes from The Catered Kitchens! No Reservations Required.
Danza del Sol Winery LAST Trivia Night | May 6 at @7:00PM | Doors open at 6:30pm | Food Trucks | Wine & Beer | Prizes for 1st & 2nd place!
Save-the-Date! Danza del Sol and Trattoria Toscana Dinner | May 22 | Danza del Sol winery is partnering with local Trattoria Toscana restaurant to bring a delicious five-course Italian culinary experience | Please visit www.danzadelsolwinery.com
Europa Village Wineries & Resort UNOde50 Trunk Show | May 1 | 1:00pm – 5:00pm | Join us at Prelude at Europa for a special UNOde50 Trunk Show. Explore the new 2022 Collection as well as other variety of new arrivals. Admission is free.
Latin Nights at Bolero | May 3rd & May 17th from 7:00pm – 9:00pm | General Admission: $15 (Members $13.50) | Dance the night away at Latin Nights at Bolero! With a variety of Latin music, dance lessons, and select menu offerings, you would not want to miss out on a spicy evening of fun | Learn more: https://shop.europavillage.com/Shop/Events/Latin-Nights
Frangipani Winery Triple Threat Productions presents Diva’s on Broadway | May 1 | Doors Open 6:30pm, show starts at 7:00pm | $45 per person plus tax | A night of musical theater entertainment with the valley’s own Diva’s | Purchase tickets by April 28 at www.Frangipanievents.com
Signature Food & Wine Series | May 22 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | Ticket information coming soon! www.montedeoro.com
Oak Mountain Winery UNICEF Fundraiser | May 13 | 6:30pm – 9:30pm | $50 per person | 100% of ticket sales will be donated to the victims of the conflict in Ukraine | For more information www.oakmountainwinery.com
Barrel Tasting & Paella | May 30 | 1:00-5:00pm | A Day to Remember event at Raul Ramirez Winery! Join us for Memorial Day for our Wine Barrel tasting & Paella prepared by Chef Alvaro Baez. Live Flamingo Music provided by David Maldonado | 21+yr old event only. Cost $95pp general admission; wine club discount applies. For reservations, please visit www.raulramirezwinery.com
Wilson Creek Winery Yoga in the Vines | May 1 | 9:00am-12:00pm | Tickets includes a wine tasting! | $45 | $40 wine club members | To make your reservations please visit www.WilsonCreekWinery.com
Mother’s Day is around the corner and Wine Country is ripe with so many opportunities to surprise and delight your mom this time of year. The vineyards are slowly filling out with bright green foliage, the weather is warming up yet still pleasantly breezy, and wineries are offering everything from festive Mother’s Day brunches to curated offerings that moms will love.
But, more importantly, we love the unique ways the moms of Wine Country have built special traditions around Mother’s Day – and every day – surrounding delicious Temecula Valley wines shared with their families.
“On Mother’s Day, we usually round the men in the family up and make them cook for and cater to us for the day,” says Brand Marketing Partner Devin Parr. “My brother will usually prepare an elaborate spread – a full Thai dinner is our favorite – and my dad keeps our wine glasses filled with some of our top Temecula picks, like Hart Albariño or Robert Renzoni Montepulciano. My husband entertains the kids and will throw a foot massage in there for me for good measure.”
“My mom is more of a margarita gal, but we do have a special tradition my sister, my mom, and I do each year for the 3 of us,” says Bianca Castillo, TVWA Member Relations and Programs Manager. “My birthday is on May 10th and my sister’s birthday is May 11th, and every so often Mother’s day lands on either of our birthdays. So, we always get the three of us together and celebrate our special days. Maybe I’ll start convincing them to ditch the margaritas in favor of wine!”
TVWA Executive Director Krista Chaich has made a point to enjoy every Mother’s Day she can with her mom, other than during her eight-year stint in Dallas, Texas. “For many years we took turns cooking for each other,” she says. “But over the last couple of years, we’ve decided ‘To heck with that!’ and we’ve let someone else cook for us! It helps that we have so many wonderful restaurants in Temecula Valley Wine Country.”
Ultimate Wine Country matriarch and owner of Wilson Creek, Rosie Wilson, loves to take in the natural beauty of Temecula Valley and has made this appreciation a simple, yet special way to enjoy Mother’s Day with her daughter.
“My daughter and I love sitting on the porch overlooking the vines while sharing a glass of wine,” she says. “This is a time for us to really spend time together and catch up. The view is beautiful, and I love the conversation.”
While Mother’s Day is a moment each year to share with family and give thanks to the amazing role the moms in our lives play, sometimes it’s those special or everyday moments surrounding wine and time together that have stood out most among Wine Country mothers and daughters.
“My husband, Mom and Dad all met in Las Vegas to celebrate my parent’s 25th wedding anniversary,” shares Krista. “Before we left, I shipped several bottles of wine to our hotel’s restaurant that I had gotten custom labeled with their picture and a 25th wedding anniversary message. The night we celebrated their anniversary, the waiter brought two bottles of the wine to the table – you should have seen the look on my mom’s face! She was so surprised (and a bit confused for a moment as to why her picture was on a wine label!). We had such a special night sharing those bottles of wine and memories of their 25 years together. We still talk about it to this day.”
“I have many memories with my daughter but one of the funniest we both will always remember is the time Libby dressed up as me,” recounts Rosie. “I frequently visit the winery and have lunch or tend to my flowers. One Halloween, Libby borrowed my clothes, did her hair just like mine, and wandered around the winery greeting guests and tending to the flowers. Everyone thought she was me – even the employees! Until she spoke. It made me realize just how much she resembles me.”
As far as what everyone loves to sip during these moments together?
“Depends on the day,” says Krista. “But, right now, my mom is loving Bolero at Europa Village’s Cava sparkling wine.”
As for Rosie? “My daughter and I love the Wilson Creek Viognier.”
Spending the day in Temecula Valley’s Wine Country……well, we can’t think of a better gift for Mom this Mother’s Day! We’ve got you covered with brunches and lunches and everything in between. Here’s a list of wineries celebrating all of the Mom’s out there:
Altisima Winery Mother’s Day Luxury Picnic | May 7 & 8 | Reservations available at 11:00am and 2:00pm | Partnering with Temecula Picnic Co. for a luxury picnic experience on Mother’s Day weekend | Tickets are $125++ per person or $110++ per person for members | Two special dessert releases with wine pairing for Mother’s Day! New Menu released at the restaurant for the week as well. Additional Information on our website and e-mail reservations@altisimawinery.com to book your picnic.
Avensole Winery Celebrate Mom | May 8 | Celebrate Mom with our delicious Chef’s Mother’s Day special menu 11am-5pm at the Avensole Winery Restaurant https://www.avensolewinery.com/restaurant/ or call us at (951) 252-2003 x301. Reservations are recommended for this special date sells out early every year! Walk-ins are also always welcome!
Callaway Vineyard & Winery Special Mother’s Day Brunch at Meritage | May 8 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm | Live music on our courtyard from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm featuring local musician Shea Givens. Reservations are highly recommended. Reservations: exploretock.com/callawaywinery
Danza del Sol Winery Mother’s Day Run for the Rose | May 7 | Doors open at 1PM | Wine Club: $12; General: $15 | Celebrate Mother’s Day with us with a Kentucky Derby themed party! | Ticket includes Sparkling greeting. Kentucky Derby hat competition, Charcuterie by V&G Charcuterie, New Rosé Releases, Photo ops & Local vendor shopping | Reservations required RSVP online or with Nathalie n.pierce@danzadelsolwinery.com or https://www.danzadelsolwinery.com/res-405355/Mothers-Day-Run-For-The-Rose.html
Europa Village Wineries & Resort Mother’s Day Brunch at Bolero | May 8 | 10:00am – 3:00pm | What mom really wants is what we all want: exquisite food, to spend quality time with loved ones, and the ability to come home to a clean kitchen afterward. Treat mom to an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch at Bolero Restaurante featuring a create your own crepes station, chilled seafood bar, carving station, and classic Spanish cuisine. Price: $89 adult $44 children | For reservations, please call us at 951.414.3802.
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea Party on the Piazza at Vienza | May 8 | 12:00pm – 3:00pm | Treat mom to an extra special day with our Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea party. Delight in delicious baked goods, tea sandwiches, sweet treats, bubbly, and live music from Harpist, Annette Wiles. General Admission: $85 Members: $76.50 Learn more at https://www.europavillage.com/spring-happenings
Falkner Winery Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at Pinnacle | May 8 | 10:00am-3:00pm | Cost is $89.95/person (tax and gratuity not included) Wine Club $79.95/person plus tax and gratuity Children (3-10) $35.50/child++(Wine Club $30.95/child ++); Under 3 is free | Entertainment provided, call for Reservations at 951-676-8231 Ext. 4.
Frangipani Winery Mother’s Day 3-course seated Dinner & Theater Show | May 8 |Doors open 6:30pm, show starts at 7:00pm | $75 per person plus tax, presented by Triple Threat Productions featuring songs from the award-winning musical Mamma Mia! | Purchase tickets by May 4 at www.Frangipanievents.com
Lorimar Vineyards & Winery Mother’s Day Brunch | May 8th | We are offering two seating at 11:00am & 2:00pm | $100 regular tickets /$90WC ($20 child/ $18WC child) | To reserve please visit https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-415096/Mothers-Day-Brunch.html
Monte de Oro Winery Mother’s Day Brunch | May 8 | 4 seating’s offered at 10:00am, 10:30am, 1:00pm, and 1:30pm | For reservations please visit https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-399888/Mothers-Day-Brunch.html
Oak Mountain Winery Mother’s Day Brunch | May 8 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | $69 Non-Members – $59 Members – $17 for Children 10 and under | For reservation information please visit https://shop.oakmountainwinery.com/event-tickets-c11.aspx
Peltzer Family Cellars Mother’s Day Brunch on the Farmstead | May 8th at 10am and 1pm | $75 adults, $45 ages 3-11, 2 and under free | Reservations available on www.peltzerwinery.com
Wilson Creek Winery Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Creekside Grille | May 8 | 10:00am | Enjoy a plated Sunday brunch at Wilson Creek Winery! | For additional information and to make your reservations please visit www.WilsonCreekWinery.com
Wild-caught California salmon is one of the culinary highlights of summer in the Golden State. A fresh corn salad with a Mexican accent is the perfect complement and would be just as compatible with halibut fillets, scallops, or shrimp. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc.
Make the salad: Preheat the broiler. Put the poblano or Anaheim chilies on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil until blackened on all sides. Let cool, then peel, remove stems and seeds, and dice. Turn the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Prepare a bowl of ice water. Add the corn to the boiling water and boil 30 seconds, then remove the ears with tongs and plunge them into the ice water to stop the cooking. Drain when cool and pat dry. With a chef’s knife, cut away the kernels. You should have about 2-1/2 cups (350 g).
In a large bowl, combine the diced poblano or Anaheim chilies, corn, cilantro, red onion, olive oil, and juice of 3 limes. Add the avocado and queso fresco and toss gently.
Season well with salt and add more lime juice if desired. If the salad is not spicy enough for you, stir in some or all of the minced serrano chili.
Put 2 tablespoons olive oil in a cast-iron skillet and put the skillet in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Season the salmon with salt. Place the fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and bake until they just flake when probed with a paring knife, about 10 minutes.
Serve salmon immediately with the salad on the side.
Suggested pairings:
Sweet Oaks ~ 2018 Pinot Noir– This popular wine has hints of ripe raspberries and clove, and mingled with a hint of sweet, new French oak and sagebrush. There’s an intriguing note of crushed spices and pomegranate as well.
Wiens Family Cellars ~ 2019 Pinot Noir-This wine offers beautiful aromas of cranberry and rose petal, red cherry on the palate, and cinnamon bark on the finish.
Callaway Winery ~ 2019 Sauvignon Blanc – Filled with crisp and clean aromas of white nectarine, crunchy pear and honeydew melon the palate is all wrapped up with refreshing lemon grass and fresh herbs.
A Moroccan spice rub seasons these chicken thighs, while the chicken flavors the chickpeas and carrots that cook underneath. The cooked lemon slices will be soft and delicious. but you can set them aside if you prefer. Pair with Temecula Valley Zinfandel.
Ingredients
Spice rub:
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
4 bone-in chicken thighs, about 2 pounds (900 g)
1 can (15 oz/425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ pound (225 g) carrots, thinly sliced on the diagonal
½ red onion, thinly sliced from stem to root
1 small lemon, halved lengthwise (quartered lengthwise if large), then sliced
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon sea salt
Extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup (10 g) coarsely chopped cilantro, plus a few whole leaves for garnish
Serves 4
Directions
In a small bowl, combine the spice rub ingredients. Sprinkle all over the chicken and set aside.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 9 x 12-inch (23 x 30 cm) rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine the chickpeas, carrots, red onion, lemon, garlic, cumin, salt and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to mix, then arrange in the baking sheet in an even layer. Arrange the chicken thighs on top, not touching, and drizzle 1 teaspoon olive oil on top of each one.
Bake on a center rack for 40 minutes. With tongs, set the chicken aside on a plate. Add the chopped cilantro to the vegetables and stir to mix and moisten everything with the chicken juices. Remake the bed of vegetables and replace the chicken on top. Bake for 5 minutes longer. Remove from the oven and let rest 5 minutes to allow the chicken juices to settle. Tilt the sheet pan and spoon some of the juices over the chicken.
Transfer to a serving platter or to individual dinner plates and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Suggested pairings:
Doffo Winery ~ 2019 Zinfandel – This popular Zinfandel is sure to delight the senses with aromas of plum, raspberry, figs, and cherries.
Leoness Cellars ~ 2019 Zinfandel – This wine offers beautiful aromas and flavors of sweet blackberry and boysenberry fruit with hints of vanilla, allspice and black licorice framed by soft tannins and a long, silky finish.
Monte de Oro Winery ~ 2016 Zinfandel – This wine initially offers aromas of raspberries and dried cranberries with a transition to spices – pronounced cinnamon and nutmeg with slight smoky oak.
Easter Sunday at Gaspar’s | April 17 | 11:00am – 5:00 pm | Special menu offered at Gaspar’s Restaurant for Easter | Please visit www.altisimawinery.com for menu information and reservation
Carter Estate Winery & Resort Crêpes & Champagne Sundays | Every Sunday April 3 – May 29th | 11am – 1pm (Not Available Easter Sunday) | Get a taste of France at Carter Estate Winery. Start your day of wine tasting off with one of our delicious sparkling wines, paired with sweet or savory French Crêpes from The Catered Kitchens! No Reservations Required | Please visit our website www.CarterEstateWinery.com
Danza del Sol Winery Blind Tasting Event | April 9 from 3:00pm – 5:00pm | Do you know your Danza wine? Come and test out your knowledge at our blind tasting event that will be held in our Barrel Room! | Ticket info coming soon! | Reservations Required | RSVP to n.pierce@danzadelsolwinery.com
Europa Village Wineries & Resort Latin Nights at Bolero | April 5th & April 19th | 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm | General Admission: $15 (Members $13.50) | Dance the night away at Latin Nights at Bolero! With a variety of Latin music, dance lessons, and select menu offerings, you won’t want to miss out on a spicy evening of fun | Learn more: https://shop.europavillage.com/Shop/Events/Latin-Nights
Inspirational Sunrise Service on the Piazza at Vienza | April 17th at 6:00am | Join us at Europa Village for sunrise worship and musical performances with special guest Charles Graham. Admission is free. Breakfast burritos, Pastries, Coffee and Hot Chocolate will be available for purchase.
Easter Brunch at Bolero Restaurante | April 17 at 10:00am – 3:00 pm | Hop on over to Bolero Restaurante this Easter for a delightful brunch complete with traditional holiday cuisine and other Spanish favorites. Price: $79 adult $39 children | For reservations, please call us at 951.414.3802. Learn more at https://www.europavillage.com/spring-happenings/
Falkner Winery Easter Champagne Brunch at The Pinnacle Restaurant | April 17 | $69.95 per person | For reservation and menu information, please visit www.falknerwinery.com/events
SalsaFama | April 16 | This is a free event! No reservations needed | Salsa class at 1:00pm; Dance, Dance, Dance from 2:00-4:00pm | Beer, wine, frozen margaritas, Sangria and delicious TAP’s Tacos will be available for purchase. *No outside food allowed* Dj Andre SalsaFama will be providing the music and a salsa lesson to start off the day! Seating is first come first served and the yard area will open at noonAll ages are welcome! | Please feel free to call with any questions 951-676-8231 ext. 101.
Frangipani Winery Triple Threat Productions presents Diva’s on Broadway | April 30 | Doors Open 6:30pm, show starts at 7pm | $45 per person plus tax | A night of musical theater entertainment with the valley’s own Diva’s | Purchase tickets by April 28 at www.Frangipanievents.com
Karaoke Night | April 1s & 15th from 5:30pm-9:30pm | Hosted by Lillian Thomas of Sing It Like You Mean It and Daniels Creperie serving tasty crepes during the night.
Lorimar Vineyards & Winery Murder Mystery Dinner | April 13 7:00pm-9:00pm | I love the 80s to death! | $75 / $67.50WC | https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-415029/Murder-Mystery-Dinner-2022.html
Laugh Your Glass Off | April 14 7:00pm-9:00pm | $25 / $22.50WC | https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-415122/Laugh-Your-Glass-Off.html
Easter Brunch | April 17 | 2 seating’s at 11am & 2pm | $100 / $90 WC | https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-414975/Easter-Brunch.html
Tribute Thursday- Stevie Nicks Illusion | April 21 | Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm | To make reservations please call 951-694-6699 x109 or visit: https://www.lorimarwinery.com/dining
Monte de Oro Winery Wine Bingo – Baseball Edition! | April 9 | 6:30 – 9:00pm | Join MDO as we celebrate Opening Day weekend for the MLB by repping your favorite team (hat, jersey, etc.)! We’ll be featuring 6 bingo games at this fan favorite event with wine prizes totaling over $1,200 (not counting raffle prizes)! Our Bistro is serving up a “Ballpark” inspired menu for the evening and we’ll have some fun baseball trivia throughout the night as well | Reservations at https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-399642/Wine-Bingo-Baseball-Edition.html
The Essence of Spring Dinner | April 16 | 7:00-10:00pm | Join MDO for a one-of-a-kind dinner experience. Chef Alfred and his team have prepared an exquisite menu that captures the Essence of Spring and celebrates the return of our vines. Each course will be paired with our award-winning wines, hand selected by our team of experts | Reservations at https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-399653/The-Essence-Of-Spring-Dinner.html
Blind Tasting – GSM Blends | April 22 | 6:30 – 8:30pm | We will be sampling offerings from various world-renowned wineries to see how they compare to Monte De Oro’s best GSM vintages. Chef Alfred and team will also be on hand to bring you some culinary creations to pair perfectly with your blind tasting! | Reservations at https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-399654/Blind-Tasting-Gsm-Blends.html
Signature Food & Wine Series | April 24 | 11:30am-1:30pm | Our Signature Food & Wine Series is a culinary offering unique to Monte De Oro. Our food and wine experts put together the freshest ingredients and guide you through a multi-course showcase featuring Monte De Oro’s award-winning wine | Reservations at https://shop.montedeoro.com/res-399655/Signature-Food-Wine-Series.html
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Blessing of the Vines | Sunday, April 10th | 5:00pm-9:00pm | Five Food & Wine Pairing Stations, Dinner Buffet & Dessert Display, Blessing of the Vines Ceremony & Sparkling Wine Toast. Dance to live music by Anyone’s Guess Band | Reservations at https://www.southcoastwinery.com/blessing
Wilson Creek Winery The Creekside Grille will now be serving Dinner on Friday’s & Saturday’s until 8:00pm, Reservations recommended. Join us for Wilson Creek Golden Hours with live music every Friday night until 8:30pm. For reservations, please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
While many view harvest as the most exciting time of year in Wine Country, Spring is also a season worth celebrating as it marks the start of the growing season for the grapevine. After months of chilly weather and bare vines, the first signs of life in the vineyard begin. It’s a beautiful time to be out in Wine Country! Days are getting warmer, and bud burst has begun, marking the official kick-off to an exciting few months, watching grapes go through several stages of growth before being harvested, pressed, and produced into the delicious wines that grace our tables year-round.
“It is bud break in the vineyard, early leaves are emerging after the winter slumber and much-needed rest that all vines require to produce great fruit for great wines,” explains Greg Pennyroyal, Vineyard Manager at Wilson Creek Winery, and Professor of Viticulture at Mt. San Jacinto College. “The vineyards are all starting to develop the beautiful emerald green of early spring.”
“The early ripening white varieties started pushing out around the middle of March, and many more have followed by this time,” continues Baily Winery owner and winemaker Phil Baily. “It’s always exciting to see the dormant vines spring to life, showing little ribbons of green along the vine rows. The next few weeks will see enormous growth, as the vines enter their most photogenic time. This is a great time to visit us!”
Owner and winemaker Nick Palumbo of Palumbo Family Vineyards compares the coming of Spring to the end of a long, restful sleep: “Our Winter pruning is done, the last of the winter storms have rolled thru (we hope!), the vines are yawning and stretching after their winter slumber, and the first few buds have started to pop. Cold mornings are keeping a few varieties in bed but some of the vineyards are reaching out as we keep a close eye on the weather. Not that we control that! Late frost can really change our growth and production, but we are lucky here in the Temecula Valley as that is rarely a problem.”
Not only are the vineyards vibrant with new life, some of Temecula Valley’s most delicious wines are flowing – bright, crisp white wines made from unique grapes like Albariño, Vermentino, Arneis, and Falanghina, gorgeous sparkling wines made in the same method as some of the best Champagnes, and rosés in all hues from pale salmon to deep magenta. Visitors to Temecula Valley can take in the stunning vineyard views at one of the many outdoor tasting areas, while enjoying the dreamy Southern California Spring weather and sipping a glass or two of world class wines.
Pennyroyal encourages wine and nature enthusiasts to look closely for the flowering taking place on the vines at this time.
“Grape flowers are very subtle, you will see them early in the season looking almost like tiny white stars in a new canopy,” he says. “Before opening up, the flower petals are held shut by a structure called the calyptra, which is like a little tight-fitting hat on the petals of the flowers. If you gently blow on them, they will pop off and float down to earth, a surprisingly entertaining pastime, especially after a glass of wine on of warm spring day.”
But so much more goes into managing our vineyards than meets the eye. They may look like they are thriving on their own; however careful attention must be paid every step of the way in order to ensure Temecula Valley wines maintain the quality levels wine lovers have come to expect when they visit.
“This time of the year the vines are experiencing their fastest growth rate, and rapidly go through the stages of bud break, flowering, fruit set, and then canopy development,” says Pennyroyal. “Just as when your children are going through their growth spurts, nutritional support is key in the vineyard. The rapid vine growth and fruit set require a well-balanced full spectrum of macro and micronutrients.”
And, while all of this work is happening, the countdown to the most exhilarating (and exhausting) time of year in a winemaker’s life – harvest – begins.
“As both a vintner and a winemaker, while many are looking at the vines, I am thinking ahead and already planning for harvest and the cellar space needed in the months to come. Exciting times for sure!” says Palumbo.
We encourage you to get out and about to visit Temecula Valley wineries this time of year. When you go, ask to speak to a winemaker, vineyard manager or worker, or even the knowledgeable tasting room staff. Pick their brain about what is going on in the vineyard right now. A glass of wine tastes so much better when you take the time to understand all that goes into producing it, from vine to grape to cellar to glass.
And, while you’re here, there may even be something more magical happening among the vines.
“There is a newly emerging branch of plant sciences called phytoacoustics, which is the study of plants’ ability to sense sound,” says Pennyroyal. “If this is true, I am confident that after a long winter of being alone the vines would love your company and will be listening for the sounds of laughter. We look forward to seeing you in the vineyard.”
