Tag: wine tasting temecula valley

The Perfect Girls’ Getaway to Temecula Wine Country

Some trips are planned months in advance. Others come together over a group chat and a “who’s free next weekend?” We think Temecula deserves both kinds. Whether you’ve been dreaming about this one or you’re winging it, here’s your blueprint for a girls’ trip that covers all the bases: great food, incredible wine, live music, dancing, and a little self-care to send you home feeling like a new person.

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Friday: Set the Right Tone

Lunch at Robert Renzoni’s Mama Rosa’s Trattoria

Start the weekend the way every good girls’ trip should: with food you can share as you catch up on the tea. Mama Rosa’s at Robert Renzoni Vineyards is the kind of place where the portions are made for sharing, so order generously and try it all. The Eggplant Parmigiana Shoots are non-negotiable. Fried eggplant parmigiana with homemade bleu cheese and marinara sauce? Trust us, just get them.

After lunch, step into the tasting room to sample wines made by the Renzoni team led by Olivia Bue, one of Temecula’s most talented winemakers. In a region with a growing legacy of women shaping the industry, Olivia is a name worth knowing, and her wines are even better than her story. March is Women’s History Month, and raising a glass poured by one of Temecula’s finest female winemakers feels like exactly the right way to kick things off.

Wine Tasting at Wiens Family Cellars

If anyone in your group is a Real Housewives of OC fan, prepare for some serious squealing. Wiens Family Cellars appeared in Season 19 when the ladies vacationed in Temecula Wine Country. Beyond their reality-show bragging rights, Wiens delivers a genuinely excellent tasting experience in one of the valley’s most welcoming tasting rooms. We highly recommend their cellar tasting for a behind-the-scenes look into how the wine gets made. 

Line Dancing at Vitagliano Winery

Friday nights at Vitagliano Winery mean one thing: line dancing! No experience necessary, just a willingness to have a great time. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s open to all ages. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere every Friday night.

Nightcap at The Cellar at Ponte Vineyard Inn

When the dancing winds down, and someone inevitably says “just one more,” The Cellar at Ponte Vineyard Inn is your answer. Open late, cozy vibes, food if you’re hungry, and exactly what the end of a great Friday night should feel like.

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Saturday: The Full Day

Breakfast at Mercato Vienza at Europa Village

Saturday starts at Europa Village’s Mercato Vienza, a charming European-inspired breakfast spot that feels like a mini vacation within your vacation. Ease into the morning and fuel your day here before heading out to explore.

Akash Winery

Akash Winery is one of those places with positive energy and phenomenal views. Their weekend schedule changes often – there might be yoga on the lawn, soul music, a DJ, or an art class. Better yet, their wines are just as approachable as their tasting room. Check their calendar before you go so you can plan around whatever fun activity catches your eye.

Happy Hour at Falkner Winery

Falkner Winery‘s Pinnacle Restaurant has one of the best views in the valley, and their weekend happy hour is a genuinely good deal. If you haven’t been, add it to the list. If you have been, you already know this is a gem!

Evening Show at Miramonte Winery

Wrap up Saturday night with live entertainment at Miramonte. Their event lineup tends to be eclectic and well-curated. Check their calendar to see who’s playing during your visit.

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Sunday: Self-Care Sunday

Brunch + Spa at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

You’ve earned this one. Sunday is for slowing down at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, where you can start with weekend brunch at The Vineyard Rose, sparkling wine very much included, and follow it up with treatments at the Grapeseed Spa. It’s the kind of morning that makes heading home feel almost bearable.

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Temecula wine country has a way of surprising people, even those who’ve visited before. A weekend like this one reminds you that the valley isn’t just a day trip destination. It’s a place worth building memories in. So pack a bag, rally the group chat, and make it happen!

Looking for a place to stay? Find our lodging partners HERE.

Your Best Itinerary for 24 Hours in Temecula Wine Country

What to do, what to order, and the little things that make all the difference.

Welcome to Temecula Valley Wine Country, we’re so glad you’re here! This is your guide to an unforgettable 24 hours in Temecula Valley.

Before you go, grab a SIP Passport HERE, which gets you discounted tastings at 30+ participating wineries on weekdays, including several stops on this very itinerary.

Cheers!
The Temecula Wines Team

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A Few Things Worth Knowing Before You Go

Two or three wineries per day is the sweet spot: The magic of wine country happens when you slow down enough to really take it in and relax. Give yourself permission to linger.

Remember to Eat: Be sure to eat before drinking. A proper lunch between tastings makes the whole day better. A list of wine country restaurants can be found HERE.

If you fall in love with a winery, ask about their wine club. Many offer great same-day perks when you join, including free tastings, member events, and discounts on bottles. Just take a look at the details before signing up so you know what you’re committing to.

Staying Overnight?: A list of wine country hotels can be found HERE.

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DAY ONE

Wine Tasting: Callaway Winery & Vineyard

Callaway Winery is the perfect place to start your visit, because this is where it all began! Callaway opened Temecula’s first tasting room back in 1974.

What to order: The Sangiovese shines here in Temecula, and be sure to ask about their Reserve Chardonnay, which took Double Gold at the OC Fair and deserves way more attention than it gets.

The move: If there’s live music on the patio, grab a bottle instead of doing the tasting and stake out a spot overlooking the vines. Callaway has a gorgeous vineyard view, perfect on a sunny SoCal day.

Grab a Bite at Miramonte Winery Bistro

Miramonte Winery sits on a hill with a breathtaking view. With vineyard rows stretching out below you and the mountains in the background, it’s one of the most beautiful places in wine country. Make your reservation for golden hour, and you’ll see exactly what we mean!

What to drink: Miramonte shines with Rhône-style blends, but be sure to sample their award-winning Touriga Nacional.

Pro Tip: Miramonte often stays open later on weekends for concerts. Be sure to check their events calendar!

Enjoy the Night Life at Peltzer Winery

Here’s a wine country secret: some of the best nights in Temecula happen on a Thursday. Peltzer Winery regularly hosts live concerts and movie nights under the stars, complete with food trucks, award-winning wine, and the kind of easy, everyone’s-welcome energy that’s just really fun to be around.

What makes it special: It’s less tasting room, more backyard party with really great wine.

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DAY TWO

Breakfast: Ponte Vineyard Inn Restaurant

Take your time and savor brunch at Ponte Vineyard Inn’s Bouquet Restaurant. Morning light on the vineyard is one of those simple pleasures worth actually sitting with. If the morning is nice (and in
Temecula, it usually is), take your coffee and sit on the terrace. You’ll be surrounded by manicured gardens with vineyard views on one side and a private one-acre pond on the other.

Pro Tip: Order bubbles to go with your California Benedict. Morning mimosas are a wine country necessity.

Wine Tasting: Chapin Family Vineyards

Chapin Family Vineyards is a gem that locals tend to keep quietly to themselves. Chapin offers an intimate, seated tasting experience overlooking their estate vineyard, and the Chapin family is genuinely hands-on in the best possible way. This is a real family winery with real passion behind it, and you
feel that the moment you sit down.

What to order: Be sure to try their Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s the wine that started it all for Steve Chapin.

Book ahead: Chapin requires reservations for seated tastings, especially on weekends.

Final Stop: Lunch at Leoness Cellars

The restaurant at Leoness Cellars has been named Best Winery Restaurant by USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Awards two years running. Once you taste what Executive Chef Johnathan Gelman is creating using classic French techniques applied to modern California cuisine, you’ll understand why!

Think inventive flatbreads, fresh seasonal salads, beautifully executed seafood and pasta, and desserts worth saving room for. All of it is designed to pair perfectly with Leoness’ award-winning wines.

5 Ways to Enjoy Wine and Wellness in Temecula Valley

January loves a hard reset. No sugar. No alcohol. No days off from the gym. New rules, new promises, new personality.

But in Temecula Valley, wellness and wine were meant to peacefully coexist. With such a gorgeous climate that practically begs you to get up and get outside, how could it not?

Wine here isn’t about excess—it’s about place, people, and passion. And that makes January a surprisingly good time to lean in, not opt out.

If you’re not interested in going dry—but still want the month to feel intentional— here’s what that can look like in Temecula Valley.

1. Start With the Obvious (and Often Ignored): Drink Better, Not More

One of the simplest ways to align wine with wellness doesn’t involve cutting wine out—it just means paying attention.

January is a great excuse to skip the autopilot pours and actually sit with a single glass of something well-made. Temecula Valley’s small-production wines are built for this kind of drinking. They have texture. Personality. A sense of place that rewards slowing down rather than refilling.

This is when splurging is encouraged. Spring for a reserve offering. Open that bottle you’ve been laying down for a special occasion—because what could be more special than your heart beating? Quality over quantity isn’t a slogan here. It’s how the wines are meant to be enjoyed.

2. Remember That Wine Country Is Physical

Wine tasting doesn’t have to mean being glued to a barstool. In Temecula Valley, some of the most compelling experiences right now involve movement—walking, exploring, and spending time outdoors before wine even enters the picture.

At Akash Winery, wellness isn’t a buzzword—it’s part of the experience itself, with offerings that connect wine to mindfulness, like Pilates and candlelight yoga. These activities may be followed by wine, but they allow you to find balance in the enjoyment.

At Doffo Winery, the New Adventures in Vineyard Production Tour shifts the emphasis away from the tasting bar and onto the land as you ride through vineyards on Kawasaki NAVs, learning about the history of the Valley and the Doffo family. By the time you taste, the wine feels earned—part of a bigger experience, not the whole point of it.

And yes, that naturally leads to more mindful drinking.

3. Let the Season—and the Alcohol Level—Do Some of the Work

Moderation doesn’t have to mean abstinence. Sometimes it’s just about choosing wines that feel lighter and more refreshing by nature.

Many Temecula Valley wines—especially those built around freshness and acidity—naturally come in at lower alcohol levels while still delivering plenty of flavor. Crisp whites, bright rosés, and more restrained, elegant reds tend to feel easier at the table, more versatile with food, and far more inviting to sip slowly.

Producers like Wiens Cellars and Robert Renzoni Vineyards have leaned heavily into these restrained yet ultra expressive styles. These are wines that don’t demand attention—they reward it. And they make January drinking feel balanced rather a compromise.

4. Get Back to the Land (and the Why Behind the Wine)

January is also one of the best times to slow down and learn something. Cooler weather. Fewer crowds. More space for meaningful conversation and chance encounters with winemakers doing their thing.

That’s what makes experiences like the Regenerative Agriculture Tractor Tour at Wilson Creek Winery or South Coast Winery’s Executive Production Tour especially compelling this time of year. You’re not just tasting wine—you’re learning how healthier soils, thoughtful farming, and long-term stewardship shape what ends up in the glass.

When wine is framed through the lens of land and sustainability, consumption naturally becomes secondary to understanding. And that shift alone can change how—and how much—you drink.

5. Put Wine Back Where It Belongs: With Food

Wine makes the most sense when it’s part of a meal, not a standalone activity. One of the most unique things about Temecula Valley wine country is the robust restaurant scene woven into the wineries themselves. From elevated cuisine at the Restaurant at Leoness Cellars or Domenico’s Italian Chophouse at Truffle Pig Winery to casual comfort food at Sangio’s Osteria at Cougar Vineyard & Winery to BOTTAIA’s seated charcuterie and wine pairing experience, it’s easy to nosh while sipping in Temecula Valley.

When wine is paired with real food, everything slows down. The glass lasts longer. The experience feels integrated instead of indulgent. It’s how wine has been enjoyed for centuries, long before anyone thought to “quit” it for a month.

The Bottom Line

Dry January works for some people. For others, it just creates a rebound in February.

Temecula Valley offers another option—one rooted in intention rather than restriction. Drink less, but better. Choose wines that feel lighter by nature. Move your body. Get outside. Learn something. Eat well.

Wine doesn’t have to be the thing you give up to feel good in January. Sometimes it just needs to be enjoyed more thoughtfully.

Your Temecula Valley Holidays: Winery Hours for Christmas and New Year

The holidays are here, and Temecula Valley Wine Country is ready to help you celebrate! Whether you’re looking for a festive tasting experience on Christmas Eve, planning a romantic New Year’s Eve dinner, or starting 2026 with a glass of bubbly, our wineries have you covered.

Below you’ll find the complete holiday hours for all our member wineries and restaurants. We recommend calling ahead to confirm, as hours are subject to change.

Christmas Eve – December 24 (Wednesday)

Wineries & Tasting Rooms:

• Akash Winery & Vineyards: 11am-4pm
• Altisima Winery: 11am-3pm
• Baily Family Vineyards: 11am-3pm
• Bel Vino Winery: 11am-2pm
• Bella Vista Winery: 11am-6pm
• Callaway Vineyard and Winery: 11am-3pm
• Chapin Family Vineyards: 10am-3pm
• Churon Winery: 11am-5pm (last call 4:30pm)
• Cougar Vineyard and Winery: 11am-3pm
• Danza del Sol Winery: 11am-3pm
• Europa Village – Bolero Tasting Room: 11am-4pm (last call 3:30pm)
• Europa Village – Vienza Mercato: 12pm-4pm
• Europa Village – Vienza Tasting Room: 11am-4pm (last call 3:30pm)
• Europa Village – C’est La Vie Tasting Room: 1pm-4pm (last call 3:30pm)
• Fazeli Cellars: Closing at 3pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery: 10am-3pm
• Gershon Bachus Vintners: Closing at 3pm
• Masia de la Vinya: 11am-3pm
• Meritage at Callaway: 11am-3pm
• Miramonte Winery: 11am-3pm
• Oak Mountain Winery: 11am-6pm
• Peltzer Farm & Winery: 11am-3pm
• Raul Ramirez Bodegas y Vinedos: 12pm-4pm
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards: 11am-4pm
• Somerset Winery: 11am-6pm
• Thornton Winery: 11am-5pm
• Truffle Pig Winery: 11am-4pm
• Vitagliano Winery: 2pm-5pm
• Wilson Creek Winery: 10am-4pm

Restaurants:

• Domenico’s Italian Chophouse: 11am-4pm
• Europa Village – Bolero Restaurante: 8am-9pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery – Oakey Grape Grill: 11:30am-2:30pm
• Mama Rosa’s Trattoria: 11am-4pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, Bouquet Restaurant: 8am-12pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, The Cellar: 5pm-9pm
• Sangio’s Osteria at Cougar: 11am-3pm
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant: 8am-9pm

Closed:

• Bella Vista Winery – The Cilurzo Speakeasy
• Briar Rose Winery
• Doffo Winery
• Halter Ranch
• Jordan Parker
• Julie’s Dream Winery
• Leoness Cellars
• Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery
• Lumiere Winery
• Miramonte Winery – Flower Bistro
• Mount Palomar
• Ultimate Vineyards @ Maurice Car’rie Winery

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Christmas Day – December 25 (Thursday)

Most wineries will be closed on Christmas Day to allow our teams to celebrate with their families. The following are open:

• Ponte Vineyard Inn, Bouquet Restaurant: 8am-3pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, The Cellar: 5pm-9pm
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant: 8am-9pm
• Thornton Winery: 11am-5pm

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New Year’s Eve – December 31 (Wednesday)

Ring in 2026 in Wine Country style! Many wineries are offering extended hours and special celebrations.

Wineries & Tasting Rooms:

• Akash Winery & Vineyards: 11am-4pm
• Altisima Winery: 11am-3pm
• Baily Family Vineyards: 11am-3pm
• Bel Vino Winery: 11am-2pm
• Bella Vista Winery: 11am-6pm
• Callaway Vineyard and Winery: 11am-3pm
• Carter Estate Winery: 9:30pm-12:30am – Jimmy Buffett’s NYE in Paradise
• Chapin Family Vineyards: 10am-3pm
• Churon Winery: 11am-5pm
• Cougar Vineyard and Winery: 11am-6pm
• Danza del Sol Winery: 11am-3pm
• Europa Village – Bolero Tasting Room: 11am-8pm (last call 7:30pm)
• Europa Village – Vienza Mercato: 12pm-6pm
• Europa Village – Vienza Tasting Room: 11am-8pm (last call 7:30pm)
• Europa Village – C’est La Vie Tasting Room: 1pm-5pm (last call 4:30pm)
• Fazeli Cellars: 11am-5pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery: 10am-6pm
• Gershon Bachus Vintners: 11am-6pm
• Masia de la Vinya: 11am-3pm
• Meritage at Callaway: 11am-8pm
• Miramonte Winery: 12pm-3pm
• Mount Palomar: 11am-4pm
• Oak Mountain Winery: 11am-10pm
• Peltzer Farm & Winery: 1pm-12:30am
• Raul Ramirez Bodegas y Vinedos: 12pm-4pm
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards: 11am-4pm
• Somerset Winery: 11am-6pm
• Thornton Winery: 11am-5pm
• Truffle Pig Winery: 11am-4pm
• Vitagliano Winery: 2pm-5pm
• Wilson Creek Winery: 10am-6pm

Restaurants:

• Domenico’s Italian Chophouse: 11am-4pm
• Europa Village – Bolero Restaurante: 8am-9pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery – Oakey Grape Grill: 11:30am-5:30pm
• Mama Rosa’s Trattoria: 11am-4pm
• Miramonte Winery – Flower Bistro: 12pm-3pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, Bouquet Restaurant: 8am-12pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, The Cellar: 6pm-1am
• Sangio’s Osteria at Cougar: 11am-6pm
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant: 8am-9pm

Closed:

• Bella Vista Winery – The Cilurzo Speakeasy
• Briar Rose Winery
• Doffo Winery
• Halter Ranch
• Jordan Parker
• Julie’s Dream Winery
• Leoness Cellars
• Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery
• Lumiere Winery
• Ultimate Vineyards @ Maurice Car’rie Winery

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New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026 (Thursday)

Start 2026 with a toast in Wine Country!

Wineries & Tasting Rooms:

• Bella Vista Winery: 11am-6pm
• Callaway Vineyard and Winery: 11am-6pm
• Churon Winery: 11am-5pm
• Cougar Vineyard and Winery: 11am-6pm
• Europa Village – Bolero Tasting Room: 11am-8pm (last call 7:30pm)
• Europa Village – Vienza Mercato: 12pm-6pm
• Europa Village – Vienza Tasting Room: 11am-8pm (last call 7:30pm)
• Europa Village – C’est La Vie Tasting Room: 1pm-5pm (last call 4:30pm)
• Fazeli Cellars: 11am-5pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery: 10am-6pm
• Miramonte Winery: 12pm-6pm
• Oak Mountain Winery: 11am-6pm (Distillery: 2pm-8pm)
• Somerset Winery: 11am-9pm
• Thornton Winery: 11am-5pm
• Vitagliano Winery: 11am-5pm
• Wilson Creek Winery: 10am-6pm

Restaurants:

• Europa Village – Bolero Restaurante: 8am-9pm
• Frangipani Estate Winery – Oakey Grape Grill: 11:30am-5:30pm
• Miramonte Winery – Flower Bistro: 12pm-5:30pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, Bouquet Restaurant: 8am-1pm
• Ponte Vineyard Inn, The Cellar: 5pm-9pm (Trivia: 6pm-8pm)
• Sangio’s Osteria at Cougar: 11am-6pm
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant: 8am-9pm

Closed:

• Akash Winery & Vineyards
• Altisima Winery
• Baily Family Vineyards
• Bel Vino Winery
• Bella Vista Winery & The Cilurzo Speakeasy
• Briar Rose Winery
• Chapin Family Vineyards
• Danza del Sol Winery
• Doffo Winery
• Domenico’s Italian Chophouse
• Halter Ranch
• Jordan Parker
• Julie’s Dream Winery
• Leoness Cellars
• Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery
• Lumiere Winery
• Mama Rosa’s Trattoria
• Masia de la Vinya
• Mount Palomar
• Peltzer Farm & Winery
• Raul Ramirez Bodegas y Vinedos
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards
• Truffle Pig Winery
• Ultimate Vineyards at Maurice Car’rie Winery

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Please note: Hours are subject to change. We recommend calling ahead or checking each winery’s website to confirm hours before visiting. More wine events can be found HERE.

Cheers to celebrating the season in Temecula Wine Country! 🍷✨

12 Mediterranean Grapes You Need to Know in Temecula Valley

Tuscany, Provence, Rioja… Temecula? How SoCal Became a Mediterranean Wine Paradise

Warm days, ocean breezes, and adventurous winemakers have transformed Temecula Valley into a hotspot for European grapes. Here are 12 you absolutely need to try.

You’ve heard the classics: Tuscany and Sangiovese. Provence and its Rosé. Rioja and Tempranillo. Mediterranean wine regions all have their signature grapes — and now Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is carving out its place on that list.

Thanks to a climate that could just as easily be mistaken for Southern Italy as Southern California, Temecula has become a natural home for Mediterranean wine grape varieties. Warm days, breezy evenings, cool mornings, and a spirit of experimentation among winemakers mean that these varieties not only grow here, they thrive.

The result? A lineup of wines that transports you straight to the Mediterranean, without the jet lag. Here’s an A to Z of 12 of our favorites that you need to know in Temecula Valley.

Arneis

Italy calls it the “little rascal,” but Temecula has tamed it into a crisp, lively white with pear, citrus, and almond notes. It’s like Pinot Grigio with a bit more oomph and a lot more texture.

Where to try it: BOTTAIA, Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Barbera

A Northern Italian red that’s all about juicy fruit and food-friendly charm. In Temecula, it brings vibrant acidity and structure but often a bit more body than its European counterparts. It’s equally at home as your new favorite pizza wine as it is your fireside contemplative sip.

Where to try it: BOTTAIA, Danza del Sol Winery, Peltzer Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, Thornton Winery, Wiens Cellars, Wilson Creek Winery

Falanghina

This ancient white grape from Southern Italy finds a magical new life in Temecula. Expect citrus, tropical fruit, and a hint of flowers, not to mention mouth-watering freshness for days. And, Temecula Valley was the first to get this tough-to-pronounce but totally delicious grape recognized as a wine grape grown in the United States.

Where to try it: Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Grenache (a.k.a. Garnacha)

One of Spain and France’s most versatile grapes, Grenache is Temecula’s social butterfly — equally delicious on its own or in blends. Bright berries, spice, and endless drinkability.

Where to try it: Danza del Sol Winery, Leoness Cellars, Masia de la Vinya, Miramonte Winery, Raúl Ramírez, South Coast Winery

Mourvèdre (a.k.a. Monastrell)

Bold, earthy, and full of dark fruit, Mourvèdre proves Temecula can hang with any Rhône Ranger. It’s savory, structured, and perfect for slow-cooked dishes. It’s also a must for curling up with a blanket and some Netflix on a chilly evening.

Where to try it: Altísima Winery, Bolero at Europa Village, Masia de la Vinya, Raúl Ramírez

Montepulciano

From Italy’s Abruzzo region to SoCal, Montepulciano sings with juicy red fruit, spice, and refreshing acidity. A crowd-pleaser with pasta or grilled meats.

Where to try it: BOTTAIA, Chapin Family Vineyards, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, Vienza at Europa Village

Roussanne

This Rhône white is all about texture. In Temecula, Roussanne offers stone fruit, honeyed notes, and a silky mouthfeel — proof that whites can be just as complex as reds.

Where to try it: Peltzer Winery, Somerset Vineyard & Winery

Sangiovese

Tuscany’s flagship grape feels right at home in Temecula. Rich, full-bodied, and packed with ripe fruit, these wines often draw comparisons to some of the more serious and revered takes on this variety — minus the transatlantic flight.

Where to try it: Altísima Winery, BOTTAIA, Danza del Sol Winery, Mount Palomar Winery, Oak Mountain Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, South Coast Winery, Vienza at Europa Village, Wiens Cellars

Syrah

Peppery, bold, and brimming with dark fruit, Temecula Syrah rivals some of the best Rhône bottlings. Built for both the cellar and the grill, it’s one of the Valley’s superstar reds.

Where to try it: Chapin Family Vineyards, Doffo Winery, Leoness Cellars, Lorenzi Estate Wines, Monte de Oro Winery, Oak Mountain Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, Wiens Cellars

Tempranillo

Spain’s noble red thrives in Temecula’s warmth, delivering savory spice, red fruit, and silky tannins. Pair it with tapas or a sunset.

Where to try it: Altísima Winery, Danza del Sol Winery, Masia de la Vinya, Miramonte Winery, Oak Mountain Winery, Raúl Ramírez, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, Somerset Vineyard & Winery, Wiens Cellars

Vermentino

A seaside favorite from Sardinia and Corsica, and grown as a quaffable white in parts of central Italy, Vermentino thrives inland here with zesty citrus, peach, and a touch of minerality. Summer in a bottle, and plenty of acidity to wash down salty snacks and shellfish.

Where to try it: BOTTAIA, Danza del Sol Winery, Europa Village, Mount Palomar Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, Wiens Cellars

Viognier

Perfumed, lush, and full-bodied, Viognier is one of Temecula’s signature whites. Expect apricot, honeysuckle, and a finish that lingers. This is a red wine drinker’s white.

Where to try it: Carter Estate Winery, Danza del Sol Winery, Doffo Winery, Leoness Cellars, Oak Mountain Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards, South Coast Winery

Temecula’s Mediterranean grapes aren’t trying to be Tuscany or the Rhône. They’re too busy being themselves. With the right climate, the right soil, and winemakers willing to take risks on varieties most Americans can’t even pronounce, this valley has become one of the most exciting places to drink Old World grapes in the New World.

So grab a glass of Falanghina, pour some Tempranillo, or try whatever sounds unfamiliar. The best way to understand why these grapes work here is to taste them for yourself.

Celebrating Recent Features of Our Wineries & Destination

Temecula Valley continues to turn heads—with sunshine, rolling vineyards, and a growing community of passionate winemakers, it’s no wonder we’ve made headlines again. Check out a few recent press articles that spotlight our member wineries and the vibrant charm of Wine Country:

Temecula In Bloom: A Rosé Renaissance In Southern California Wine Country

6 Top Wine Regions in California to Visit in 2025

Harvest time in Temecula means wine, snacks and grape stomps

Wine Country Wonders

Foodie Forecast: Cooking class, Taste of Gaslamp, nine-course matcha dinner

We’re proud to see Temecula Valley and our wineries featured so beautifully in the media. Stay tuned for more coverage and stories that showcase the people, passion, and place that make our wine country so special.

Welcome Our Newest Members

We’re excited to introduce the latest additions to the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association! These businesses bring fresh energy, valuable services, and a shared passion for supporting Temecula Valley Wine Country. Let’s give a warm welcome to our newest members!

Silver Members

First Citizen Bank

Financing and banking solutions for wineries and vineyards.

Contact: Jodie Rizzo/Nick Wolf
(951) 294-9402
Jodie.rizzo@firstcitizens.com; NWolfe@svb.com

Innovative Light Designs

Specializes in landscape and holiday lighting project. Innovative Light Designs have won 1st place at national conference design challenge.

Contact: Steven Gogatz
(949) 484-5864
innovativelightdesigns.com
steven@innovativelightdesigns.com

Little Bus Tours
Little Bus Tours offers luxury wine tours in Temecula, CA. We provide a fun and educational experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation for all occasions.

Contact: Kurt Miller
(844) 619-1818
littlebustours.com
littlebustours@gmail.com

Paylocity

Paylocity is a cloud-based software platform designed to streamline and centralize HR and payroll operations for businesses of all sizes.

Contact: Marci Lipp, Jenny Lane
(951) 440-8532
JLane3@paylocity.com; mlipp@paylocity.com

Growers

Pauba Ranch
Varietals: Malbec, Syrah

Contact: Ken Creighton
(248) 463-8788
ken.creighton@dmeha.com

We’re proud to have these outstanding businesses join our community and look forward to the collaboration and innovation they’ll bring to Temecula Valley Wine Country. Be sure to connect with them and explore how they can support your winery or event!

Welcome aboard!

Get to Know Michael Mohammad, Altisima Winery

My name is Michael Mohammad, and I’m 36 years old. My family moved to Temecula, CA in 1992, back when there was only one stoplight in town and just a handful of wineries. I grew up playing inline hockey and graduated from Temecula Valley High School.

I’ve been in hospitality since I was 16, starting as a dishwasher at Tony Roma’s and working my way through every corner of the industry. Before stepping into wine country, I spent nearly 12 years bartending, connecting with incredible people while crafting cocktails.

About three years ago, I joined the Altisima family, and it’s been amazing to see us honored as Winery of the Year by the Xenia Hospitality Awards. I love being part of a team that’s pushing Temecula’s culture forward — blending elevated wine experiences with authenticity and genuine connection. Whether I’m suggesting wine pairings or sharing stories with guests, my goal is always to make people feel seen, heard, and welcomed.

Outside the winery, I freelance as a graphic designer under the name @themohamz, also known as MOHAMZ Studio. My work spans branding, illustration, and physical product design — everything from logos and T-shirts to digital illustrations and murals. (Fun fact: While working at Temecula Coin-Op, I designed the packaging for their Power Punch — the adult version of Capri Suns.) I’m drawn to projects that blend culture, identity, and storytelling; always chasing that spark where design meets purpose.

At the end of the day, I’m passionate about bold red wine, meaningful conversations, and creating work that resonates with people on a deeper level.

What wine trend are you most excited about right now?

I don’t know if it’s a “trend,” but I’m really excited about the younger generation of winemakers coming up. They’re not afraid to take risks, break the rules, and bring something new to the table. You can tell they care more about expression and community than chasing points or prestige. I see a lot of creativity and purpose in what they’re doing — and that’s something I really connect with.

What do you love most about working in wine country?

What I love most about working in wine country is how it brings everything I care about together — good wine, good people, and good vibes. Every day is a mix of hospitality and creativity, whether I’m pouring a glass, having a real conversation, or just taking in the views. There’s something special about this place — it turns everyday moments into something memorable.

If your personality were a wine varietal, which would it be and why?

If I had to pick a wine that matches my personality, I’d say Cabernet Franc. It’s bold, creative, and a little unexpected — kind of like me. It blends well with others. It’s got depth and complexity, but there’s also this wild side that doesn’t always follow the rules. I’m not the loudest in the room, but I try to bring something unique that’s memorable.

What song would you pair with your favorite glass of wine?

“The World Is Yours” by Nas — that’s my go-to track with a bold glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s smooth, confident, and layered — just like a good Cab. The jazzy beat has this mellow, reflective vibe that hits different when you’re sketching, thinking, or just enjoying a quiet moment.

He might be sipping Dom P in the lyrics, but I’m posted with a Cab — same energy.

It’s a classic track that holds up over time, and that’s what I love about it. It’s got depth, it’s intentional, and it sticks with you — just like the wine.

What’s something new you’re hoping to learn this year?

This year, I’m looking forward to getting back into more hands-on design. I’ll be taking a screen-printing class and a ceramics class this fall — both are new for me and a chance to explore different ways of working with form and texture. I’m also planning to pick up a laser cutter soon, which will open up a lot of possibilities for more custom, physical design work through MOHAMZ Studio.

Get to Know Silvana De Robertis, Wiens Cellars

Originally from New Jersey, I spent 12 years living in Argentina before moving to Temecula in 2001. Since then, Wine Country has become my home in every sense. I’ve spent the last 20 years working in the industry, with the last five years dedicated to Wiens Cellars—a place that continues to inspire me every day.

If you could recommend one must-try experience at your winery, what would it be?
A must-try experience would be our Cellar Room! It’s truly one to remember—an elevated wine tasting where guests savor our Reserve and Vineyard Designated wines, each perfectly paired with curated cheeses and meats. It’s a beautiful way to experience Wiens.

How has your role evolved since you started in the industry?
I began in Events and Weddings, but my personal passion has always been wine. That love led me to further my education—I completed Level 2 WSET certification and I’m currently studying for Level 3. These past 20 years have been an incredible journey of learning and growing.

What song would you pair with your favorite glass of wine?
Definitely “Roxanne (Tango)” from Moulin Rouge paired with a bold glass of Malbec—intense, dramatic, unforgettable.

What’s your go-to sip after a long day?
A crisp, refreshing glass of Brut Sparkling Wine. It’s my favorite way to wind down and toast the day.

Any dream role or experience you’d love to take on in the industry?
My dream is to keep growing and learning, but above all, I hope to inspire the next generation to fall in love with this industry, just as I have.

Celebrating Recent Features of Our Wineries & Destination

Temecula Valley continues to turn heads—with sunshine, rolling vineyards, and a growing community of passionate winemakers, it’s no wonder we’ve made headlines again. Check out a few recent press articles that spotlight our member wineries and the vibrant charm of Wine Country:

Temecula Valley Plays the Mediterraneans Greatest Hits — And It Works

This Spanish-Style California Town Is One of the State’s Best-Kept Secrets

A Vineyard Escape: 48 Hours of Wine and Wellness at South Coast Winery

Meet Me in Temecula: Summer Wine Tasting

Raise a Glass to Rosé: Temecula Valley’s Pink Powerhouses

Harvest 2025 Begins in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country

Spanish Varietal Albariño Worth A Try At These Temecula Valley Wineries

CRUSH 2025 returns to Temecula Wine Country

We’re proud to see Temecula Valley and our wineries featured so beautifully in the media. Stay tuned for more coverage and stories that showcase the people, passion, and place that make our wine country so special.