We wanted a different vibe than Napa this year for our wine trip so we decided to fly into San Diego and head an hour north to Temecula. The perks of visiting Temecula is the wineries and properties are much closer together but it has more of a party scene. Another great perk is price. Tastings range from $25 to $50. The biggest difference is most places in Temecula don’t require reservations which is nice if you want to go with the flow.
Stay
We loved our stay at the Carter Estates. Each room has a view of the vineyard. We had room 1861 and had wonderful vineyard views and could see some hot air balloons land while sipping your coffee in the am.
If hot air balloons are your thing, I would request to stay in the odd numbered casitas. On our side, the even, we could see one or 2 but on the other side of the property on the weekends you could see up to 8 landing. Also little tip, be sure to book a regular bed. They offer Murphy bed rooms which aren’t super comfortable.
Other perks to staying at this property include pool to relax by and soak up the sun. You can purchase a bottle of chilled wine at the front desk. I loved their rose bubbles. If you are a bath lover, I recommend packing your bubbles to enjoy their soaker tub.
We have also stayed at South Coast winery and the Hampton Inn and Suites. Many of the wineries have now also expanded into hotels as well. It all depends on your price point and vibe. The Carter Estates rates were around $350/night mid October.
Wineries to Visit
Europa Village
Europa Village is the ultimate place to wine taste. They have 3 different themed wineries; Bolero, C’est La Vie and Vienna. You can purchase a passport for tasting at all 3 locations for $70. They also have multiple restaurants to enjoy lunch or dinner.
Akash
Come for the patio and stay for the fact that your tastings can be wine or beer! Ryan loved that he could switch it up. They also have a food truck serving yummy pizza and sandwiches.
Altisima
Chocolate pairing and a great view is what you come to Altisima for! They have a stunning outdoor patio to sip on 5 wines paired with chocolates from Kollar. They also offer other tasting experiences.
Leoness
We decided to have lunch at Leoness vs doing as wine tasting. The highlight was that each item on the menu had a wine pairing! I enjoyed the Blue fin Tuna Tartare with the 2022 Viognier.
Lorenzi
Lorenzi is a small boutique winery with some amazing red wines. They are not child or big group friendly so it’s the best place to relax and have an intimate tasting.
Wilson Creek Winery
Wilson Creek has an amazing property with a restaurant and tons of events. They are known for their white Cabernet Sauvignon. Also don’t forget to take a photo with the giant wine bottle.
Masia de la Vinya
Sit on their patio and soak up the sun while sipping on your six pours for $28. They have some refreshing whites to enjoy.
You have so many options of wineries to chose from. If you want to make your life simple you can always book the GrapeLine wine tours. Although you are with a group and go to some pretty busy wineries, it’s a great introduction to the area or an easy way to not have to overly plan.
Where to Eat
Le Coffee
The perfect spot for a French cafe vibe. The coffee was amazing and I loved my quiche with delicious cheesy potatoes. Located in Old Town, it’s a very easy drive if you are staying in the valley.
1909
They had a fabulous brunch including these refreshing frozen mimosas with exciting flavors. They are also open all day for lunch and a great dinner spot as well. It was easy for us to walk in which was nice since you never know what time you’re going to wake up after a day of drinking.
Corbeuax Wine and TeaHouse
This was my favorite experience out of everything we did in Temecula. They have a pre fix tasting menu with many options and wine pairings to add. The price point was perfect but go hungry because its so much food. The spot had such a cute vibe and the cocktails were also top knotch. You can also order ala carte.
Kalvaras
Although this place is more of a chain in the area, it was easy to get into and a perfect spot for lunch when you arrive. I had to try their delicious margarita flight and chips guac. You can tell this place is hopping at night.
Leoness
Not only can you taste here but they have an amazing menu for lunch. I highly recommend the pomme frites with Gorgonzola! Soak up that wine!!!