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White Wine and Cider Brined Roasted Turkey with Swiss Chard, Sausage, Apple, and Dried Plum Stuffing

A fruity cider and white wine steeped brine is key to this moist and flavorful turkey. Begin the brining process 2 days before roasting. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Chardonnay or Merlot.

Serves 8

Ingredients:

A fruity cider and white wine steeped brine is key to this moist and flavorful turkey. Begin the brining process 2 days before roasting. Pair with California Chardonnay or Merlot.

Serves 8

Ingredients:

Brine:
8 cups water
1 cup kosher salt
1 cup sugar
1 small yellow onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves
3 bay leaves
1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns
4 cups apple cider
1 bottle white wine

1 (12 to 14 pound) turkey, neck and giblets removed
1 small yellow onion, quartered
1/2 lemon, halved
1 bunch thyme
1 bunch sage
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Brine and air-dry the turkey:
Bring the water, salt, sugar, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns to boil in a large pot, stirring to dissolve the salt and sugar. Remove from the heat, add the cider and wine, and cool to room temperature. Place the turkey, breast-side up in a large container. Pour the brine over the turkey, adding more cold water, as needed, to cover. Refrigerate the turkey for 24 hours, turning the turkey once or twice in the brine.

Remove the turkey from the brine, discard the brine, and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place the turkey, breast-side up, on a rack in a roasting pan and refrigerate, uncovered, at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the skin to thoroughly dry out. Remove from the refrigerator 1 hour before roasting.

Roast the turkey:
Heat the oven to 350°F.
Loosely stuff the turkey cavity with the onion, lemon, thyme, and sage. Tie the legs together with kitchen string. Roast the turkey in the oven, about 15 minutes per pound, or until the juices run clear when pierced at the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the turkey with the melted butter at first, and then the pan juices every 20 to 30 minutes. If the breast browns before the turkey is fully cooked, loosely cover with foil.

Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Loosely cover with foil and let rest 30 minutes before carving. Serve with Swiss Chard Stuffing (see below).

Swiss Chard, Sausage, Apple, and Dried Plum Stuffing:
12 ounces pitted dried California plums, about 20, halved
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 (1-pound) loaf sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed, crumbled
2 Granny Smith apples, cored, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 large yellow onion, chopped
8 green Swiss chard leaves, about 12 ounces, ends trimmed, leaves coarsely chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup chicken stock

Directions:

Combine the pitted dried plums and wine in a small bowl. Let stand while you prepare the stuffing.

Heat the oven to 400°F. Butter a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
Toss the bread with 1/4 cup oil and spread on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the oven until light golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove and cool.

Decrease the oven temperature to 350°F. Heat the 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until golden brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer the sausage with a slotted spoon to a large bowl. Do not discard the fat from the skillet.

To the same skillet, add the apples and onion and sauté over medium heat until the onions soften, about 5 minutes. Add the chard and cook until the leaves wilt, about 5 more minutes. Stir in the dried plums and wine, the butter, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring, until the butter melts. Remove from the heat and add to the sausage, then add the bread and chicken stock; stir to thoroughly combine.

Pour the dressing into the prepared baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake until brown and crisp on top, about 30 more minutes.

 

Recipe and photo courtesy of The Wine Institute of California 

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Holiday Wine Pairing Guide

Mom’s stuffing, Aunt Nancy’s cranberry sauce and your sister’s sweet potatoes.  Menu: done!  But what about the wine?  Choosing a bottle (or two!) of wine to bring to the holiday table can be tricky.  Appealing to not only your menu, but to a cross-section of practiced palates and novice wine drinkers may seem challenging.  But don’t stress out over one of the simplest tasks of the holiday season. Make it simple.  Any wine you enjoy is a good wine!

One certainly doesn’t need to look to others to rate, score or direct you to make a particular wine choice. Bring a wine you’re familiar with to the table.  Chances are it’ll be just fine – and maybe even sublime!

First and foremost, don’t worry about pairing with the herbaceous, the tart or the sweet accompaniments to your turkey, ham or prime rib.  It’s much simpler to match the wine to the main protein dish.  Here’s a few tried and true varietal selections for some classic holiday main dishes:

Wines to Serve with Ham
Ham just begs for a something lightly sweet.  Look for wines with a touch of residual sugar like a Baily Vineyard & Winery Riesling or a Maurice Car’rie Winery Gewurztraminer.  Both are lighter in style, a bit lower in alcohol and still offer plenty of food-friendly acidity and crowd-pleasing palate appeal.  If you’re looking for an easy to pair red, go for a lighter style like Tempranillo.  Great examples can be found at both Robert Renzoni Vineyard & Winery and at Danza del Sol Winery.

Wines to Serve with Turkey
Although an array of whites work perfectly well, Sauvignon Blanc is an all-time, hands-down favorite pick that holds up well to turkey – and all it’s side dishes. Temecula Valley provides the perfect playground for growing this varietal, so you’ll find many great examples of it here.  Beautifully aromatic offerings from the musqué clone can be found at Hart Winery and at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa. Soft red varietals like Syrah also make suitable partners; you can find some fabulous ones at Falkner Winery and Leoness Cellars.

Wines to Serve with Prime Rib
White wines will have a hard time keeping up with the likes of Prime Rib, but there are so many reds to choose from that make impressive cohorts, you’re sure to find one you’ll all enjoy.  Choose an affable Cabernet Sauvignon from Callaway Vineyard & Winery, a food friendly Italian varietal like Montepulciano or Sangiovese from Cougar Vineyard & Winery or an amazing Super Tuscan blend, Due Rossi, from Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery.

Happy Holidays!

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2nd Annual People’s Choice Blind Tasting & Awards

What is Temecula Valley’s best wine? You Decide!

On Sunday, November 12, join fellow wine enthusiasts and Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country movers and shakers at the second annual People’s Choice Blind Tasting and Awards!

Let your palate guide you through dozens of Temecula Valley’s best wines. Rate them and help crown the region’s favorites at a 5-course wine dinner and celebration. Never been to a blind tasting? Rest assured you won’t be blindfolded. You will simply not know which wines you are tasting until they are revealed after the event, allowing for total objectivity in your tasting.

DATE AND TIME:
Sun, November 12, 2017
Beginning at 11AM

LOCATION:
Leoness Cellars
38311 De Portola Road
Temecula, CA 92592

Three ticket levels allow you to take part in some or all of this exciting event:

People’s Choice Temecula

Estate Pass – $40: Entrance to the walk-around blind tasting from 11 AM – 1 PM of Temecula Valley’s best wines. Rate them all and help determine the region’s favorites. Enjoy light appetizers while you sip & mingle.

Reserve Pass – $175: Entrance to the walk-around blind tasting (11 AM – 1 PM) + seat at the People’s Choice awards dinner (6:30 PM – 9:30 PM), including 5-course tasting menu and wine pairings.

Grand Reserve Pass – $225: The ultimate wine-lovers package! From 3:30 – 5:30, enjoy a Temecula Valley wine seminar and seated/guided blind tasting led by Master of Wine Roger Bohmrich. Then head straight into an intimate winemaker reception including open wine bar and gourmet passed hors d’oeuvres from 5:30 – 6:30 PM. The reception will be followed by the People’s Choice awards dinner, including 5-course tasting menu and wine pairings from 6:30 – 9:30 PM, where the winning wines will be announced. Grand Reserve Pass holders will also receive a VIP gift bag and are welcome to attend the walk-around tasting (11 AM – 1 PM).

For tickets, click here

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September Winery Events

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

Live Music in the Restaurant and Marketplace every Saturday from 6p-9p / Guests of Avensole’s Restaurant are in for a culinary treat. Avensole offers a charming place to savor eclectic foods and delicious wines in a lively atmosphere. The vibrant indoor and outdoor setting creates a perfect venue to gather and relax with your friends and family while you sip you favorite Avensole wines and enjoy the wide array of craft beers and cocktails offered / All free and open to the public. Please feel free to call our Concierge 951.252.2003 x301 and reserve table for dinner or join our bartenders for drink at our bar / For a list of entertainment schedule please log on to www.avensolewinery.com

Live Music on the Tasting Room patio Saturday & Sunday from 1p-4p / Enjoy live music at the Tasting Room patio with views over the vineyards. Mangia gourmet cheeses are available for purchase to complement Avensole wines in the Tasting Room/ All free and open to the public. Open seating at the Tasting Room patio.

Baily Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents The Importance of Being Earnest / Sept 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16 / Show time 7pm – 9:30pm / Directed by Chris Pittman / General seating $22, Seniors 55+, Students, Military, $17, Season Tickets, $20 / Royal Table Seating $30 regular, $27 Season ticket holders. To purchase your tickets, please visit http://shakespeareinthevines.org/ For more info call 866.653.8669

Exclusive Complimentary tasting of Library Red wines at Baily Estate Tasting Room / Sept. 23 / 11am-5pm / Meet owner and winemaker Phil Baily and enjoy tastings of three aged library red wines in the barrel room! Taste wines from the tank and find out how the 2017 harvest is going! Special discounts on bottles and cases too! Reservations required call 951-972-9768 hours 11am – 4pm. Our address is 36150 Pauba Road. Parking is limited so reservations are recommended. No Limos or Busses allowed.

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.

Dog Day Sundays / Every Sunday at Carol’s Restaurant / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / Live acoustic music on the patio / For more information please contact the restaurant at 951.676.9243

Bel Vino Winery
Forever Endeavor Laser Light Show and Tribute Concert / Sept. 2 / 6pm-10pm / Bel Vino Winery Invites you to Join us for A Laser Light Show and Tribute Concert to Boston, The Eagles and Journey / General Admission-$25 per person, Wine Club-$15 per person, VIP Tables (Seat 8)-$150 ea. table /Tickets available for pre-purchase only. Please contact Ashley by phone or email ashley@belvinowinery.com, (951)428-2358

Escape a Tribute to Journey / Sept. 22 / 6pm-10pm / Laser show and Journey Tribute Band / Cost and reservation information may be found on https://www.heyday.com/escape
Friday Nite Live at Bel Vino / Every Friday 6p-10p / No Cover / Wine & Beer / Bel Vino Bistro open until 9 pm/ 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. For a list of scheduled performers please visit https://www.belvinowinery.com/events/

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
An Evening of Latin Tropical Jazz & Salsa Featuring La Cura / September 15 / 6pm to 10pm / $25.00, VIP Tables Available / Ticketing: https://www.heyday.com/lacura / No outside food or drink allowed.

Grape Stomp: Sip, Stomp & Play / September 23 / 6pm to 9pm / Grab a bunch of your family & 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! Our Executive Chef is firing up the grill and 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! View the menu online / $68.00 per person, $61.20 wine club price does not include tax / Ticketing: http://www.callawaywinery.com/res-402392/Sip-Stomp-Play-2017.html / No outside food or drink allowed

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 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 $25 / 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 1pm / 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

Live Music at the Courtyard Patio / Every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm / Please check our website for a list of scheduled performers.

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
Friday Night Live Music / 5pm-8pm / Happy Hour 7-8p two-for-one glasses of wine / Free to the public

Sunday Live Music / 2:00-5:00pm / Free to the public / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.cougarwinery.com.

Danza del Sol Winery
Happy Fri-YaY! / Sept. 1 / Extended hours until 8pm / Harvest is here and we are extending our tasting room hours on Friday, September 1st until 8pm. Scugnizzi Neapolitan Pizza Truck will be here from 4-8pm and will have delicious food for purchase. Come dance the night away with live music by Brennen and Amanda. September wine club shipments will also be available for pick up.

Roll Out the Barrel / Sept. 3 / 11am-5pm / Join us down in the Barrel Room for wine tasting and sample wines selected by our winemaker, Art Villarreal right out of the barrel. Seoul Man Food Truck will have food available for purchase. Live music will be featured from 11:00am – 4:00pm. September wine club shipments available for pick up.

SUNDAY FunDay at Danza Del Sol / Sept. 24 / 1pm-5pm / Grab your friends and family and head to Danza del Sol winery for Sunday Funday! An afternoon of wine, food, and fun featuring Devilicious food truck (from 12p-4pm), live music, and of course, award winning Danza Del Sol wine! / No reservations required.

Live Music on the Patio at Danza del Sol / Every Saturday from 1pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Please check our website www.danzadelsolwinery.com for additional information.

Doffo Winery
Live Music every Saturday and Sunday / 1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.doffowines.com

Europa Village
Wine Education Class – French / Sept. 10 / 2pm- 4pm / Let Europa’s Sommelier, Dr. Doug Garman take you on a journey through France, sampling Europa’s C’est la Vie French wines, and savor samples of fine food pairings prepared by Executive Chef Dean Thomas / Cost: $35 plus tax / For reservations please visit www.europavillage.com

Friday Night Entertainment / Sept. 15 / 6pm-9pm / Featuring Blue Fish; live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / Free to public, optional food tickets $18 plus tax. Portion of proceeds to benefit Fine Arts Foundation non-profit organization.

Live Music every Sunday / 1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / Sept. 16 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45/person /$40 Connoisseur/ $20 VIP; $70/person with lunch option / RSVP’s required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Labor Day Weekend-Sales / Sept. 2-4 / Weekend lunch for 2 in the Pinnacle $59. Reservations required 951-676-8231 Option 4. Lawn Games, BBQ, Sangria, Specialty Drinks, Beer & Wine available. 50% off case sales (Limited wines) as well as 2 for 3 bottle sales (all wines) in the tasting room

FUNday SUNday in the Yard Garden / Every Sunday from 12pm-3pm / Lawn Game competition “Cornhole” (starting at 1pm) Giant Jenga, Wine Pong, and other limited lawn games available / BBQ to order, Sangria, Signature Drink, Beer available for purchase

Fazeli Cellars
Salsa Night / September 9 / 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm / Doors open at 5:30 with a free 45 min. salsa lesson. No partner or experience needed / Admission fee is $10 wine club member & $15 non-member; includes a glass of Sangria / Special Food Menu Items! Wine, Beer, Sangria available for purchase! / To purchase tickets, please visit our website at http://shop.fazelicellars.com

Live Music at our Tasting Room / Every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Check our website www.fazelicellars.com/events for a schedule of performers.

Longshadow Ranch Winery
Bonfire Saturday Nights / 6p-10pm every Saturday through October / Free Admission / Come on by and bring the family out to enjoy Live Music with different artists each week along with our fine wines and craft brews, mechanical bull rides, petting zoo, full snack bar and tons of family fun! / No outside beverages or coolers allowed. Dinner available with RSVP ~ Menu varies but is usually ranch style fare. $8 to $10 approximately / Call or email for table reservations which is highly recommended (951) 587-6221 or info@longshadowranchwinery.com

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery
Grape Stomp & Harvest Festival / September 10 / 3pm-7pm / Admission tickets include one glass of wine and all access pass to Grape Stomp activities, including live music, hay rides, face painting, lawn games, tractor photos and more / Cost: $35. $31.50 Wine Club Members / Dinner tickets are pre-sale only and sold separately / Reservations required. Check out all the details at www.lorimarwinery.com
Music Friday & Saturday / 6p-9p / Free to the public

Live Music Sunday / 2p-5pm / Free to the public
Please check our website www.lorimarwinery.com for a list of scheduled of performers.

Masia de la Vinya Winery
Live Music on the Patio at Masia de la Vinya / Every Saturday from 12pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Please check our website www.masiadelavinya.com for additional information and a list of scheduled performers.

Maurice Car’rie Winery
Arts & Craft Fair / Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11a-5p / Maurice Car’rie Winery offers a charming arts and crafts fair every Friday – Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5 PM. Located on the front picnic grounds at the beautiful Maurice Car’rie Winery are craft vendors with wares that are handmade such as jewelry, paintings, and ceramics along with fun items like great handbags and designer-style sunglasses/Open to the public, free admission

Saturday Live Music Outdoors Under the Lights / June 10 & 24 / 6p – 9p / Various local artist performances. Admission is free for this concert / For a schedule of performers, please visit www.mauricecarriewinery.com

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment / Every Friday and Saturday / 7p-10p / Free to the public / No reservations required/For a list of scheduled performers, please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
Sounds of Sunday / Every Sunday / 1pm-5pm / Live music program on our outdoor patio. Come listen to local artists each Sunday afternoon while enjoying a refreshing glass of wine and lunch. Free admission. For a list of scheduled performers, please visit www.montedeoro.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Strangelove: The Ultimate Depeche Mode Experience / Sept. 8 / 6:00 – 10:00pm / Truly evocative of a Depeche Mode arena/stadium stage show; the scale of Strangelove’s theatrical stage production is unparalleled, save for the real article. Los Angeles based Strangelove delivers a career spanning, pitch perfect “best of” concert that transports the listener through time and touches on several key points in Depeche Mode’s illustrious career/ Cost: $25 online or $30 at the door. Purchase online at https://www.heyday.com/strangelove

Live Music at Mount Palomar Winery / Sunday, Sept. 3, 17 & 24 / 1:00 – 4:00pm / Mount Palomar Winery is now hosting free live music Sundays from 1:00 – 4:00 PM! You can enjoy our delicious wine, premium tequila, draft beer, craft cocktails or dine at our on-site restaurant Annata Bistro/Bar while listening to amazingly talented musicians / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.mountpalomarwinery.com / No tickets or reservations required, admission is free

Tequila Tastings / Saturdays and Sundays / 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM / Mount Palomar Winery is hosting Temecula’s only tequila tastings on our beautiful outdoor patio! Enjoy samples of top shelf Asombroso tequilas, made from 100% blue agave. You’ll enjoy 5 samples of fine tequila, including San Francisco World Spirits Competition double gold award winners and a bonus margarita sample / Prices and availability subject to change, more at http://www.mountpalomarwinery.com/Annata-Bistro/Bar/Tequila-Tastings / Tickets: $25 at the door

Peltzer Winery
Live Music – Block Party / Sept. 1 / 7:00pm – 10:00pm / Featuring local wine, local food and local music by Old School the Band / RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/product-details/0478/91-Block-Party–Old-School-the-Band

Bridal Open / Sept. 17 / 1:00pm -3:00pm / Mingle with wedding vendors and get some wedding inspiration for your big day at the Peltzer Bridal Open / RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/product-details/0446/917-Bridal-Open

Live Music – Block Party / Sept. 22 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Featuring local wine, local food and local music by Little George Band / RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/product-details/0479/922-Block-Party–Little-George-Band

Anniversary Celebration / Sept. 29 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Come join us for wine, food trucks, photo ops, live music, sweet treats, and everyone’s favorite pig races! / RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/product-details/0521/929-Anniversary-Party

Ponte Winery
Live Music in The Restaurant at Ponte / Every Friday and Saturday night / 5:30pm-8:00pm / Enjoy a gourmet meal and stunning views while listening to a variety of talented musicians / Entertainment is free while dining / Visit www.pontewinery.com for a list of scheduled performers

Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday / 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-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.

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.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Bee Well Earth & Honey Renewal / Offered Monday-Thursday Sept.1-30 / 8am-6pm / Escape for a 50- minute Swedish massage treating your skin to a super serum made with resveratrol from winery grapes and blue agave leaf extract. Includes a golden honey foot treatment! Just for you – $105! Does your skin need some renewing from the summer sun? Add on an express renewal facial including a hydrating eye treatment for just $69 / Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Facial can only be added on, not independently booked / For reservations please call 877.552.1731

Blessing of the Wines/Grape Stomp Festival / September 17 / 5pm-9pm / Join us for our second “Blessing Event” of the year, Blessing of the Wines/Grape Stomp Festival! Enjoy live music by Guilty Conscience, a wine country buffet, photo booth, games, raffles, tractor rides and of course Grape Stomping! / For pricing and ticket information please visit at SouthCoastWinery.com.

CA Wine Month Mixed Wine Flight / Sept. 1-30 / Celebrate CA Wine Month all September long in The Vineyard Rose Restaurant! We have created the ultimate mixed wine flight so you can taste the best of both worlds. Our mixed wine flight includes a 2oz. pour of our South Coast Winery Sauvignon Blanc, South Coast Winery Tempranillo Rosé, Carter Estate Winery Penrose and Carter Estate Winery Brut Sparkling / Cost $16

Golden Bear Wine Tour / Saturday and Sunday / 11am-12:30pm, 2pm-3:30pm / This Tour will highlight why South Coast Winery has been awarded California Winery of the Year for the 4th year. You will be able to experience 8 of our award-winning wines paired with Chef Choice individual plates of California cuisine. You will also receive a logo wine glass to take home to remember your experience with us while you enhance your wine knowledge. Golden Bear Tours are offered Saturday and Sunday at 11 am and 2pm. Space is limited and advance reservations are required. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. This is a 75-minute walking tour followed a 45-minute food and wine pairing / Cost: $60 per person, $55 Wine Club / Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today. 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.

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday/ $40pp; $35pp Wine Club Member / 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, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend. viplviv.com

Sunday’s Live Musical Entertainment in Vintner’s Garden / 1pm-5pm /Join us for live music entertainment in our Vintner’s Garden / For a schedule of entertainment please visit www.southcoastwinery.com

Happy Hour at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant/ Monday – Friday: 3:00pm – 5:30pm, Saturday -Sunday: 3:30pm -5:30pm /Join us in our Vineyard Rose Restaurant lounge for appetizers, lite bites & pizzas / Reservations Recommended. 951.587.9463 ext. 7230

Late Night Happy Hour at The Vineyard Rose / Fridays and Saturdays / 9:00 – 11:00am / Looking for something to do late night in Temecula Valley’s wine country? South Coast Winery’s Vineyard Rose restaurant now has late night happy hour! / Cost: View Happy Hour Menu at South CoastWinery.com / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – 951.491.8077

Thornton Winery
Friday Night Live Music / Every Friday night / 6pm-9pm / Free admission / Please visit our website for a schedule of performers at thorntonwine.com or call 951.699.0099. Reservations are a must for dinner table.

Wiens Family Cellars
Wiens Wine & Words Book Society / Sept. 13 / 6pm-8pm / Our very own book society with a special twist. Every other month, we will select a great book and perfectly pair one of our wines with it. In addition, we will hold a themed meeting/party in which we’ll discuss both the wine and book while enjoying themed appetizers and of course the selected wine! Make sure to get your package early enough to read the book and taste the wine before the next meeting. We want you to be part of the discussion! For pricing and tickets please visit: http://www.wienscellars.com/res-402816/September-Wiens-Wines-Words.html

Wilson Creek Winery
Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling): $46.95, Buffet only: $36.95, Children: $14.95 / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.

Live Entertainment / Every Saturday and Sunday / 12pm – 4pm / Free to the public / For a list of scheduled performers, please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.

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#TemeculaWineChallenge Contest: Experience Southern California Wine Country to Win!

Mid-week is the best time to taste Temecula Valley wines, as your chances of getting a behind the scenes tour, meeting a winemaker, or snagging a barrel sample run high – you just have to ask! This California Wine Month, take your wine knowledge to the next level. From September 1-30, we invite you to explore Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country like a true wine photojournalist…and win a cool prize or two while you’re at it.

How it works:

Step 1: Pick your wine milestone from the list of 10 different challenges below.
Step 2: Take a pic. Make sure we can see the full experience.
Step 3: Post and tag. Post on Instagram & tag @temeculawines, #temeculawinechallenge #tastemidweek & #drinktemecula. Don’t forget to check in at the winery!

Here’s what we’re giving away:

Each week, we will give away (2) SIP Temecula Passports, good for 5 wine tasting flights at participating Temecula Valley wineries, Monday through Friday.

At the end of the contest, we will announce one grand prize winner from the month, who will receive (2) Reserve tickets to the People’s Choice Blind Tasting and Awards event on November 12, 2017.  This prize package includes a walk-around blind wine tasting and seat at the People’s Choice awards dinner including a 5-course tasting menu and wine pairings.

Don’t Forget: You can capture as many wine milestones as you like to up your chances of winning!

Instagram account must be public for your entry to be considered.

View full terms and conditions here: Terms and Conditions

Happy sipping!

Wine Challenges:
1. Take a selfie with a Temecula Valley winemaker
2. Taste a Temecula Valley wine made from a French grape
3. Convince tasting room staff to let you try a Temecula Valley barrel or tank sample
4. Taste a Temecula Valley Sangiovese
5. Document a delicious Temecula Valley food and wine pairing at one of our many wine country restaurants
6. Taste a Temecula Valley Syrah
7. Take a photo of wine grapes on the vine
8. Take a photo with tasting room staff
9. Taste a DRY (not sweet!) Temecula Valley sparkling wine (bonus if it’s made with the Methode Champenoise!)
10. Take a photo with one of the many vineyard dogs out in Temecula Valley wine country

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Wine Country Recipe ~ Fresh California Chopped Salad with Marinated Grilled Steak

When the temps are rising, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven in the kitchen. For a great entree salad, try this crunchy summer salad topped with grilled steak—marinated in Temecula Valley Zinfandel.  It gets its zing from a spicy-mustard vinaigrette. For the ultimate pairing, be sure to serve it with your favorite Temecula Valley Zinfandel!

Ingredients:

1 cup Temecula Valley Zinfandel

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon black peppercorns

1 tablespoon ground cayenne

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder

1 New York strip steak (about 14-ounces), 1-inch thick, trimmed of fat

2 large tomatoes, preferably different colors

3 cups chopped, romaine lettuce

1 cup sugar snap peas, stemmed and cut into three pieces

1 cup cooked corn kernels, cut off the cob and cooled

1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

¼ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, plus more for serving

Directions:

Bring the wine and garlic to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Let cool.

Pour the mixture into a medium glass bowl and mix in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, black peppercorns, cayenne, and 1 tablespoon of the dry mustard.

Add the steak and turn it to coat. Cover the steak and marinate it in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours, turning it once.

Preheat the grill to high heat.

Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry.

Grill the steak for 6 minutes on each side for rare to medium rare. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for at least 5 minutes.

Cut each tomato into eight wedges, and set aside.

Put the lettuce, snap peas and corn in a large bowl.

To make the vinaigrette, whisk the spicy mustard in a small bowl with the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and the remaining teaspoon of dry mustard.

Toss the lettuce mixture with the desired amount of vinaigrette.

Slice the steak across the grain into ½ inch strips.

Divide the salad among four plates, and top with tomato and steak slices.

Season with freshly ground black pepper.

Serves 4

Suggested Pairings: 

Maurice Car’rie Vineyard & Winery ~ Van Roekel 2013 Zinfandel

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa ~ 2013 Wild Horse Peak Zinfandel

Wiens Family Cellars ~ 2014 Reserve Zinfandel 

Wilson Creek Winery ~ 2012 Wilson Creek Family Reserve Zinfandel


Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California.

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June Winery Events

June is here! Graduations, Father’s Day, the return of long summer days — what more reason do you need to visit Temecula Valley wine country?  From Shakespeare in the Vines, to “sip and paint” classes to a good ole’ fashion crab boil, we’ve got something for everyone!

Here are some event to check out in June:

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 x305 to reserve.

Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 2pm-4pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our vineyards. Avensole Winery boasts some of the oldest vineyards in Temecula Valley, combined with the newest amenities, and has become the destination for wine lovers. Conclude this tour with a culinary treat pairing 7 Avensole wines with local gourmet Mangia Cheese, guided by our wine experts / Cost: $75 / Reservations required. Please call 951-252-2003 x305 to make a reservation.

Live Music in the Restaurant and Marketplace Friday and Saturday from 6p-9p / Guests of Avensole’s Restaurant are in for a culinary treat. Avensole offers a charming place to savor eclectic foods and delicious wines in a lively atmosphere. The vibrant indoor and outdoor setting creates a perfect venue to gather and relax with your friends and family while you sip you favorite Avensole wines and enjoy the wide array of craft beers and cocktails offered / All free and open to the public. Please feel free to call our Concierge 951.252.2003 x301 and reserve table for dinner or join our bartenders for drink at our bar / For a list of entertainment schedule please log on to www.avensolewinery.com

Live Music on the Tasting Room patio Saturday & Sunday from 1p-4p / Enjoy live music at the Tasting Room patio with views over the vineyards. Gourmet Mangia cheeses are available for purchase to complement Avensole wines, and cheese and charcuterie platters are available to order from the Restaurant / All free and open to the public. Open seating at the Tasting Room patio.
Baily Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents A Winter’s Tale / June 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24 / Show time 7pm – 9:30pm / Directed by Michael Eastman/ General seating $22, Seniors 55+, Students, Military, $17, Season Tickets, $20 / To purchase your tickets, please visit http://shakespeareinthevines.org/ For more info call 866.653.8669

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.
Dog Day Sundays / Every Sunday at Carol’s Restaurant / 11:30a-2:30p / Bring your well-mannered pooch to lunch, doggie treats and special menu items / Live acoustic music on the patio / For more information please contact the restaurant at 951.676.9243

Bel Vino Winery
Friday Night Live at Bel Vino / Every Friday 6p-10p / Free admission / Wine, Beer and specialty cocktails 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. For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.belvinowinery.com

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Prix Fixe Friday at Meritage and Live Music / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889
Brunch Specials every Sunday at Meritage / 11am / Cost is $25 / 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 1pm / 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. For more information call 951.676.4001

Live Music at the Courtyard Patio / Every Saturday from 1pm to 5pm / Please check our website for a list of scheduled performers.

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Wine, Dine and Painting  / June 3 & July 8 / 11:00am – 2:00pm / Wine, Dine and Painting Class hosted by Jill Roberts of Art + Vino, the original and most popular Art and Painting class in the Temecula Valley! Take in the views and tap into your inner Picasso, then enjoy a fantastic lunch with wine. This package comes with two three-hour instruction and supplies to paint your masterpiece, and follows with a select lunch menu and glass of wine to enjoy at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant / Cost: $70 Wine Club | $75 Non-Wine Club / Reservation Information: Purchase online at CarterEstateWinery.com or call Carter Estate Wine Club at 951-587-9463 Ext. 5250

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
Friday Night Live Music / 5pm-8pm / Happy Hour 7-8p two-for-one glasses of wine / Free to the public

Sunday Live Music / 2:00-5:00pm / Free to the public / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.cougarwinery.com.

Danza del Sol Winery
Live Music on the Patio at Danza del Sol / Every Saturday from 1pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Please check our website www.danzadelsolwinery.com for additional information.

Doffo Winery
Backyard Bash 80’s Band -Video Star / June 3 / 6:00pm / Tickets are $20 and food and wine are available for purchase / For additional information and to purchase your tickets, please visit us at www.doffowines.com

4th Annual Kurt Caselli Foundation Event / June 17 / 11am-8pm / Sponsored by KTM- SCore Int’l Racing and Doffo Winery / Event includes Stryder Races for the kids, Live Auction, Motorcycle Vendor row, Live Music, Food and Drinks for purchase / $10 per person – Fort tickets please visit www.doffowines.com

Live Music every Saturday and Sunday / 1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.doffowines.com

Europa Village
Live Music every Sunday / 1:00-4:00pm / Free to the public / Live entertainment on our outdoor Veranda / For a list of scheduled performers please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / June 17 / 10:00am-12:00pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45/person; $40 Connoisseur; $20 VIP; $70/person with lunch option / RSVP’s required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

FUNday SUNday in the Yard Garden / Every Sunday from 12pm-3pm / Lawn Game competition “Cornhole” (starting at 1pm) Giant Jenga, Wine Pong, and other limited lawn games available / BBQ to order, Sangria, Signature Drink, Beer available for purchase

Fazeli Cellars
Salsa Night / June 17 / 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm / Free Salsa lesson at 6:00 and includes a glass of Sangria. $10 wine club member & $15 non-member / For more information and reservations please visit www.fazelicellars.com

Father’s Day Special Menu at Baba Joons / June 18 / 11:00am-6:00pm / Celebrate Father’s Day with us and enjoy a special menu at Baba Joons Restaurant located at our winery / For more information and reservations please visit www.fazelicellars.com

Live Music at our Tasting Room / Every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Check our website www.fazelicellars.com/events for a schedule of performers.

Longshadow Ranch Winery
Bonfire Saturday Nights / 6p-10pm every Saturday through October. Families are welcome and admission is free. No outside beverages or coolers allowed.

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

Live Music Sunday / 2p-5pm / Free to the public
Please check our website www.lorimarwinery.com for a list of scheduled of performers.

Masia de la Vinya Winery
Live Music on the Patio at Masia de la Vinya / Every Saturday from 12pm – 5pm / Enjoy great wine and great music! / Please check our website www.masiadelavinya.com for additional information and a list of scheduled performers.

Maurice Car’rie Winery
Arts & Craft Fair / Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11a-5p / Maurice Car’rie Winery offers a charming arts and crafts fair every Friday – Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5 PM. Located on the front picnic grounds at the beautiful Maurice Car’rie Winery are craft vendors with wares that are handmade such as jewelry, paintings, and ceramics along with fun items like great handbags and designer-style sunglasses Open to the public, free admission

Saturday Live Music Outdoors Under the Lights / June 10 & 24 / 6p – 9p / Various local artist performances. Admission is free for this concert / For a schedule of performers, please visit www.mauricecarriewinery.com

Miramonte Winery
Live Music & Entertainment / Every Friday and Saturday / 7p-10p / Free to the public / No reservations required /For a list of scheduled performers, please visit www.miramontewinery.com

Monte De Oro Winery
Breakfast with the Balloons / June 4 / 6:30am to 9am / Join us for a Breakfast Buffett while we watch (hopefully and weather permitting and being cooperative) hot air balloons float over wine country in conjunction with the 2017 Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival. We will have a hot air balloon tethered at the property for your enjoyment as well / Cost and reservation information $35.00 per person / Tickets and Reservations at www.montedeoro.com

Home Style Dinner Night – An Evening on the Mediterranean / June 15 / 6:00pm to 8:30pm / Join us for our family-style dinner night featuring a Mediterranean spread to satisfy your appetite. Come with family and friends and kick off the upcoming weekend. Ticket price includes 1 glass of wine or beer / Cost and reservation information: $40.00 per person/$35 Wine Club. Tickets and reservations at www.montedeoro.com

Vertical Tasting Lunch / June 25 / 1:00pm to 3:00pm / A culinary food and wine pairing lunch that features a library tasting of Monte De Oro’s Merlot. Come join us to taste 6 vintages of our Merlot from our DePortola Vineyard along with a deliciously paired 3 course lunch / Cost and reservation information: $50.00 per person/$42 Wine Club. Tickets and reservations at www.montedeoro.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Paint Nite in the Barrel Room! / June 11 & 25 / 1:00p-3:00p / 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, available online at https://www.paintnite.com/venues/mt-palomar-winery_133232

Fan Halen Live – The #1 Van Halen Tribute Band / June 23 / 6:00p-9:00p / A tribute to: VAN HALEN – THE DAVID LEE ROTH YEARS! at MOUNT PALOMAR WINERY in Temecula / Performance includes: Hot For Teacher • Running With The Devil • Jamie’s Cryin’ • Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love • Jump • Eruption • You Really Got Me • Ice Cream Man • Panama • and so many more! / Pre-purchase tickets $25, or $30 at the door. Get tickets online at https://www.heyday.com/fanhalen

Tequila Tastings / Saturdays and Sundays / 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM / Mount Palomar Winery is hosting Temecula’s only tequila tastings on our beautiful outdoor patio! Enjoy samples of top shelf Asombroso tequilas, made from 100% blue agave. You’ll enjoy 5 samples of fine tequila, including San Francisco World Spirits Competition double gold award winners and a bonus margarita sample / Prices and availability subject to change, more at http://www.mountpalomarwinery.com/Annata-Bistro/Bar/Tequila-Tastings / Tickets: $25 at the door

Peltzer Family Cellars
Crab Boil – Farm to Table Dinner / June 1 / 6:00pm-10:00pm / Benefiting Our Nicholas Foundation to support autism research. Live seafood boil, wine and music / $99, Wine Club members $89. RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/merchandise/Events

Create Workshop / June 8 / 11:30am-2:00pm / Create a wood serving tray, a shabby fabric & ribbon flag, and a Peltzer cork keychain. Includes lunch, wine tasting, a glass of wine, supplies for your 3 projects, and instruction / $70, RSVP at https://createworkshop.ticketleap.com/createworkshopjune/dates

Create Workshop / June 8 / 5:30pm-8:00pm / Create a wood serving tray, a shabby fabric & ribbon flag, and a Peltzer cork keychain. Includes dinner, wine tasting, a glass of wine, supplies for your 3 projects, and instruction / $80, RSVP at https://createworkshop.ticketleap.com/createworkshopjune/dates

Live Music – Block Party / June 9 & 23 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Featuring local wine, local food and local music / RSVP at http://peltzerfamilycellars.orderport.net/merchandise/Events

Ponte Winery
Live Music in The Restaurant at Ponte / Every Friday and Saturday night / 5:30pm-8:00pm / Enjoy live music while dining at The Restaurant at Ponte Winery / Free to attend / Visit www.pontewinery.com for a list of scheduled performers

Live Music in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday / 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 specials on craft beer, flatbreads, Ponte wine on tap and more! Menu items $6 and up.

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.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Wine, Dine and Painting at South Coast Winery / June 25 / 10:00am – 1:00pm / Wine, Dine and Painting Class hosted by Jill Roberts of Art + Vino, the original and most popular Art and Painting class in the Temecula Valley! Take in the views and tap into your inner Picasso, then enjoy a fantastic lunch at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant! http://www.live345.com This package comes with two three-hour instruction and supplies to paint your masterpiece, and follows with a select lunch menu and glass of wine to enjoy at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant / Cost: $70 Wine Club | $75 Non-Wine Club / Reservation Information: Purchase online or call Wine Club at 951-587-9463 Ext. 5250

Golden Bear Wine Tour / Saturday and Sunday / 11am-12:30pm, 2pm-3:30pm / This Tour will highlight why South Coast Winery has been awarded California Winery of the Year for the 4th year. You will be able to experience 8 of our award-winning wines paired with Chef Choice individual plates of California cuisine. You will also receive a logo wine glass to take home to remember your experience with us while you enhance your wine knowledge. Golden Bear Tours are offered Saturday and Sunday at 11 am and 2pm. Space is limited and advance reservations are required. Must be over 21 years of age to attend. This is a 75-minute walking tour followed a 45-minute food and wine pairing / Cost: $60 per person, $55 Wine Club / Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today. 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.

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday/ $40pp; $35pp Wine Club Member / 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, advance reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend.

Sunday’s Live Musical Entertainment in Vintner’s Garden / 1pm-5pm /Join us for live music entertainment in our Vintner’s Garden / For a schedule of entertainment please visit www.southcoastwinery.com

Happy Hour at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant/ Monday – Friday / 3:30pm – 5:30pm /Join us in our Vineyard Rose Restaurant lounge for appetizers, lite bites & pizzas / Reservation Information: Reservations Recommended. 951.587.9463 ext. 7230

Late Night Happy Hour at The Vineyard Rose / Fridays and Saturdays / 9:00 – 11:00pm / Looking for something to do late night in Temecula Valley’s wine country? South Coast Winery’s Vineyard Rose restaurant now has late night happy hour! / Cost: View Happy Hour Menu at South CoastWinery.com / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – 951.491.8077

Summertime Sublime / Every Tuesday and Wednesday through June / Start your day at the GrapeSeed Spa for your signature massage or facial, then continue your day to our 3:00pm Behind the Scenes wine tour. This 90-minute tour takes you through the process of our wine making and ends with food and wine pairing education that is sure to make you a pro! All yours for $114! Space is limited! Offer valid Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s in June 2017. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions / Cost: $114 / Reservation Information: Call to book today! (877) 552-1731. Service cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Expires June 2017.

Thornton Winery
Thornton’s Jazz Concert Series
June 10th 7:00 pm / Candy Dulfer & Grace Kelly
Cost: $85 General Admission, $160.00 Gourmet Supper Package
June 17th, 7:00 pm / Keiko Matsui & Poncho Sanchez
Cost: $75.00 General Admission, $150.00 Gourmet Dinner Package
For Reservations: THORNTONWINE.COM or call (951) 699-0099 ext. 3127 or ext. 3129

Friday Night Live Music / Every Friday night / 6pm-9pm / Free admission / Please visit our website for a schedule of performers at thorntonwine.com or call 951.699.0099

Eric Clapton Tribute Band / June 30 / 6pm / Cost: $10 cover; must be purchase online or in our Gift Shop prior to the event / Reservations highly recommended for a dinner table / Call 951.699.0099 or on Open Table online reservations.

Wilson Creek Winery
A Thousand Horses Concert / June 11 / Doors open at 6pm / Join us for a wine country concert at Wilson Creek Winery with the acclaimed country music band “A Thousand Horses”. Dubbed “Country’s coolest band” by Rolling Stone Country, A Thousand Horses serves up a helping of Southern rock and contemporary Country mixed with rowdy jams. Their working-man’s anthem “Preachin’ to the Choir” will be introduced to Country radio later this month and follows their successful debut “Smoke.” For more info on the band, visit their site http://www.athousandhorses.com/. For more information and to purchase your tickets go to www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

Father’s Day Brunch / June 18 / 10a-3p / Buffet + Sparkling Wine $64.95. Buffet Only $58.95
Children $14.95 / Reservations are required, online at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or by calling 951-699-9463.

Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling): $46.95, Buffet only: $36.95, Children: $14.95 / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.

Live Entertainment / Every Saturday and Sunday / 12pm – 4pm / Free to the public / For a list of scheduled performers, please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com.

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Grilled Chicken and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

All the flavors of summer come together with this light and refreshing salad.   It is packed with some of our favorite savory flavors and tossed with a dazzling lemon vinaigrette. For the perfect pairing, be sure to pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Rosé.

Serves 2 to 4

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless half chicken breasts

extra virgin olive oil

salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

2 teaspoons honey

1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary leaves

½ teaspoon minced garlic

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3 large avocados, peeled, seeded, and cut into bite-size pieces

3 cups baby or regular arugula leaves

1 piece Parmesan cheese (for shaving)

Directions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium high.

2. Cut each half chicken breast in half crosswise.

3. Brush the chicken pieces on both sides with olive oil. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

4. Grill the chicken pieces for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.

5. To make the vinaigrette, pour the lemon juice in a large bowl. Whisk in the measured olive oil, lemon zest, honey, rosemary, garlic, and measured salt and pepper.

6. Cut chicken pieces crosswise into strips.

7. Add the chicken, avocado, and arugula to the vinaigrette. Toss gently to combine.

8. Divide the salad among the serving plates.

9. Top with shavings of Parmesan, cut with a vegetable peeler.

Suggested Pairings: 

Baily Winery 2015 Rosé of Sangiovese – Fun, fruity and full of character!

Doffo Winery 2016 Rosario –  A delightful fragrance of fresh strawberries, white rose, and hibiscus are mirrored on the palate.

Hart Winery 2016 Rosé of Sangiovese  – Lightly pink, near-dry, delicately scented and flavored Rose′.

Maurice Car’rie/Van Roekel Winery 2016 Pinot Noir Rosé – Wonderful notes of strawberry short cake, Asian pear, and springtime wildflowers.

Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California

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Mother’s Day in Temecula Wine Country!

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:

Baily Winery
Mother’s Day lunch at Carol’s Restaurant /
May 14 / 3-course lunch from 11:00-3:00 / Menu and prices will be posted on our website on May 1st.  It will be reservation only, credit card necessary for reservation / For reservations call 951.676.9243 or visit www.Bailywinery.com

Bel Vino Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 14 / Two seating’s: 9:30 to 11:30 and 12:30 to 2:30 / Set up on top of Bel Vino’s Hilltop Terrace, we will be hosting a bottomless mimosa brunch, to include an Egg Bar, Bagel Bar, Carving Station. Spring Salad, Chicken and Waffles, Assorted Desserts, Crab Cakes, Yogurt Parfaits, Fruit Varieties, Live Music and more! Wine and Beer Extra. Children 3 and under are free / $83.99 for non-members, $71.06 for Wine Club Members, $29.67 for children / Call 951-676-6414 to make reservation.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Mother’s Day Special Treat
/ May 14 / 11am-6pm / Join us for a Special Treat…Bubbly Peach Sangria Flute Floats! / $8 each; Logo flute INCLUDED. $4 each for Wine Club Members!  The first 25 guests to pre-pay will also receive a long stem rose for Mom!  Come by…call 951.767.8398…or email events@cougarvineyards.com to pre-pay.

Danza del Sol Winery
Mother May I GET SAUCED?!! / May 14 / 1:00p -4p / Treat Mom to a fun filled afternoon of food, wine, and culinary entertainment for Mother May I GET SAUCED?! / Price: $58.50 – $65.00 / Please check our website www.danzadelsolwinery.com for additional information and reservations.

Europa Village
Mother’s Day Lunch / May 14 / 12pm-3pm / Gourmet three-course champagne lunch prepared by Executive Chef Dean Thomas. Live music by Jimmy Patton / Tickets $54 per person, children 10 & under $17. Tickets available via website www.europavillage.com or calling Event Department (951) 695-7175.

Falkner Winery
Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch in the Pinnacle Restaurant
/ May 14 / 10am-3pm / For a full menu please visit www.falknerwinery.com. Live Entertainment will be provided / Cost: $69.95+/person (Wine Club $59.95+/person) Children (3-10) $29.50+/child (Wine Club $24.95+/child) / Reservations required please call 951-676-8231 option 4.

Lorimar Vineyard & Winery
Treat Mom to a Special Champagne Brunch / May 14 / 10am or 12:30pm / Located on our Vineyard Lawn / $60 regular, $55 WC / Tickets available through www.lorimarwinery.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Mother’s Day at Annata Bistro/Bar / May 13 and May 14 / 11:00am – 7:00pm / Celebrate Mother’s Day all weekend at Annata Bistro/Bar! All Moms receive one complimentary classic Mimosa on Mother’s Day weekend, plus we’re running a limited time Mother’s Day menu. / For reservations and information please visit https://www.mountpalomarwinery.com/MothersDay

Oak Mountain Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch in The Cave / May 14 / 11am-4pm / For a complete brunch menu please visit our Events page at www.oakmountainwinery.com / $39 pp., Members $30 plus tax, includes 1 glass new Release Wine. Children, ages 6-12 are $15 +tax – 5 years and under are free. Gratuity not included; no refunds within 24 hours / Reservations 951 699-9102, events@oakmountainwinery.com

Thornton Winery
Mother’s Day Buffet / May 14 / 11am-4pm / Cost: $62.95 plus tax & gratuity (Adults). $22.95 plus tax & gratuity. Child 12- 6 yrs. old $19.95 plus tax & gratuity. Son action consiste à aider la relaxation des vaisseaux sanguins du pénis, favorisant l’afflux sanguin dans le pénis, lors d’une excitation sexuelle. le Viagra Professional vous aidera à obtenir une érection uniquement si vous avez une stimulation sexuelle.(5 years and under – FREE). Call for Reservations: (951) 699-0099

Wilson Creek Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 14 / 10am – 3pm /Enjoy live entertainment, our annual Petting Zoo, and a special bottle of wine to go home with mom! / Buffet + unlimited Sparkling Wine $64.95. Buffet Only $58.95. Children $14.95 / Reservations are required, online at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or by calling 951-699-9463.

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Winter in Wine Country

So, what exactly goes on in the vineyards when it’s winter time?  The annual growth cycle of Temecula Valley’s grapevines consummates in autumn with leaf fall followed by vine dormancy. After harvest, typically August-October in Temecula, the vine’s roots and trunk are busy storing carbohydrate reserves produced by photosynthesis in their leaves. Once the level of carbohydrates needed by the vine is reached, the leaves change from green to yellow and start to fall off the vines. Usually after the first frost, the vine enters its winter dormancy period. During this time, winemakers get a break from the bulk of their farm work as the vines sleep and start to prepare for the next wine season.

During this dormant period, according to Wiens Family Cellars winemaker Joe Wiens, the vines don’t need a lot of attention. Wiens puts on a little water to keep the roots moist and let them sleep. “We get to breathe a sigh of relief after the long hours of crush but have plenty of other things to keep us busy” says Wiens. Blending, barrel work, and bottling, in addition to brushing up on wine knowledge, new techniques, and attending winemaking seminars to continually improve are some of the things that keep him busy.

Nick Palumbo, winemaker and owner of Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery shares: “Winter time is busy! The good news is it gets cold here in Temecula, so the vines go into dormancy and that gives us a chance to get caught up in the cellar after a long harvest season. That means topping barrels, assessing previous vintages and getting ready for bottling as well as general maintenance. Mulching is done if needed and pruning all needs to be done just after the holidays. Weed and pest control (gophers etc) as well as going through the irrigation system and getting that dialed in for the spring are all on the to do list. We also don’t forget to prep for much needed rain events. We need to make sure if and when we do get rain, it doesn’t erode our soils and farm roads. Winter is a good time for winemakers to take off the cellar boots, put on the farm boots, and get out in the quiet cold mornings alone and start making next years wine which will be hanging on the vines sooner than we think.”

At Danza del Sol Winery, Art Villareal, the winery’s winemaker, stays busy during winter processing wines from the recent harvest. This includes filtration, cold stabilizing, racking, and placing wine into barrels. “There is no downtime in winemaking. We are always processing wine from the previous harvest and preparing for the upcoming bottling season” says Villareal. As far as vineyard maintenance goes, Villereal says patience is key and waits for the vines to go dormant and then prunes them back. He also states Temecula is special as the winter keeps the vines asleep only as long as necessary and ensures a longer period of time to mature the clusters during the growing season.

With all the activity in the valley during the winter, a visit to Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is an entertaining winter option. Many wineries offer behind the scenes tours where guests can see some of the winter viticulture and winemaking processes happen in person. While visiting, guests can stay at one of the many local inns, hotels, or resorts.

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