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Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association’s 2012 Pacific Coastal Wine Cruise

Friday, January 13th, 2012

It’s the end of yet another long, work week, and you’re probably sitting at your desk dreaming of ocean views, great food and wine and soaking up the sun while sounds of the sea. Well, looks like you’re in luck, because we have all of those things rolled into one, fabulous trip, and we’d love for you to join us!

The Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association’s 2012 Pacific Coastal Wine Cruise leaves the San Diego Harbor on May 27 for five nights of fun, and you don’t want to miss the boat (literally!). We’ll be cruising up the picturesque Pacific Coast, making stops in San Francisco, Victoria British Columbia and breathtaking Vancouver British Columbia and you’ll have multiple wine tasting and wine pairing options to choose from during the trip. Make the trip even better with a pre or post-cruise wine tasting tour of Temecula Valley Wine Country.

Here are all of the details so you can make sure not to miss out on what is sure to be an amazing trip:

Date: May 27-June 1, 2012

Rates include the cruise, (2) bottles of Temecula Valley wine per cabin, a private cocktail party with lots of surprises, nightly turn-down gifts, t-shirts and more

Inside cabin starting from $509*
Ocean view cabin starting from $619*
Veranda cabin starting from $769*
Concierge cabin starting from $849*

Reservations: Please contact Ocean One Travel Center at www.oceanone.com or 888-353-1922

We hope to see you on board!

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Wine Country Recipe: Falkner’s Herb Trio Encrusted Salmon

Tuesday, January 10th, 2012

 

(Ed note: The dish pictured is the same dish but served with brussels sprouts)

Feeling the post-holiday slump caused by copious amounts of cake, Grandma’s twice-baked loaded potatoes, candy canes, spiral ham, green bean casserole, turkey, eggnog and pie? We’re feeling stuffed just writing that sentence! Luckily for us (and you!) this month’s Wine Country Recipe is a light, healthy and delicious salmon with fresh vegetables that will boost you right into a clean start for the new year.

Falkner’s Herb Trio Encrusted Salmon with Oven Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Garlic Sautéed Broccolini and a Sherry Red Bell Pepper Sauce

1 cup of panko bread crumbs

1 teaspoon each of dried basil, tarragon and thyme

2, 6-oz pieces of skinless salmon fillet

Olive oil

10-12 fingerling potatoes

1 bunch broccolini

1 teaspoon chopped garlic

1 oz. Sherry

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1 Tablespoon butter

Preheat the oven to 350.

Toss the fingerling potatoes in a bowl with a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes. You’ll put the salmon in the oven in about 10 minutes.

Mix the panko and dried herbs together. Rub a little olive oil on each salmon filet, season with salt and pepper, then and encrust them well with the mixture.  Heat a saute pan, add 2 TBS olive oil, then sear each side until the crust is golden. Put the pan (make sure it’s oven safe!) into the oven with the potatoes for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile,  in a separate pan, heat some olive oil and add the broccolini, 1 teaspoon of chopped garlic and saute for 5 minutes. Transfer the broccolini to a plate.

Using the same pan, heat up 2 teaspoons of olive oil, then add the diced bell peppers and saute until softened. Turn the heat off,, then add the sherry. Turn the heat back on and reduce the sauce for about 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and swirl the butter in until well blended.

Plate the potatoes, broccolini and salmon and serve with sauce. Enjoy a glass of Falkner Winery Amante to complete your meal!

 

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Temecula Valley Wine Country Restaurants

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

January is California Restaurant Month, so we’d like to take this opportunity to preview the month-long event by highlighting the bounty of restaurants right here in Temecula Valley Wine Country. In case you needed another reason to visit beautiful Temecula Wine Country, here are eight more mouthwatering ways to get the most out of your wine country experience!

The Restaurant at Ponte: Recognized as a top 50 restaurant for outdoor dining in the US by OpenTable, the Restaurant at Ponte serves a wide selection of Farmers’ Market salads, grape-wood fired pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, natural beef, sustainable seafood and homemade desserts. Chef Vincent Logan’s seasonally-driven menu uses only what is fresh and available at that time of year. Share a bottle of Ponte wine with friends over the Butcher’s Platter- the Chef’s selection of cured meats, olives, mustards and capers, or treat yourself to the Lobster Macaroni made with three cheeses and topped with herbed breadcrumbs. Whether you decide on one of Ponte’s signature wood-fired pizzas, grilled seafood options or the Chocolate Blackout Cake, you’ll always have a delicious experience at The Restaurant at Ponte.

The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars: Chef Daragh Matheson crafts Italian and French provincial cuisine for this 3,800 square foot restaurant overlooking the vineyards at Lenoness Cellars. Hailing from Ireland, Chef Daragh is a classically trained chef who has worked in some of the world’s top restaurants, including the Michelin-named Whites on Green in Dublin. Guest favorites include the Mac ‘n Cheese with Truffle Oil, Hand-cut French Fries Topped with Crispy Bacon and Parmesan,  and Rack of Lamb with Tomato and Mint Sauce. Next time you’re in the mood to be swept away on a wine and culinary experience, try The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars.

The Pinnacle at Falkner Winery: Voted 2010 Best Restaurant and Best Chef by readers of Inland Empire Magazine, The Pinnacle offers Mediterranean-style cuisine and outstanding service, in addition to Falkner wines. Appetizers include Fresh Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto, Ancho Spiced Shrimp and Avocado, and the Trio of Mushroom Soup. For heartier appetites, the Baked Chicken Cannelloni, topped with alfredo sauce and parmesan cheese, is the perfect choice to satisfy that craving for comfort food. For California Restaurant Month in January, Chef Gianni Ciciliot will be offering The Winemaker’s Pasta- fresh pasta tossed with jumbo shrimp and fresh herbs- for only $15.00.

Meritage Restaurant at Callaway Winery: Executive Chef Michael Henry creates diverse, seasonal menus that accentuate Callaway’s long history of fine Temecula wine. Having worked at many top fine dining establishments, including a stint at Cesar’s in Atlantic City for Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, Chef Michael focuses on freshness and seasonality for the menu at Meritage. Share a variety of tapas (small plates) like Crispy Steak Fries with Parmesan, Parsley & Peppercorn Aioli, Ceviche “Mixto” with Ahi, Octopus, Clams, Mussels & Blue Crab and Asparagus Risotto Fritters with Gorgonzola & Roasted Garlic Cream with a group. The Kobe Beef Cheese Steak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms, Provolone, Peppercorn Aioli & Fries and Spaghettini & Carlsbad Manila Clams & Mussels with an Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Fennel & Baby Tomato Sauce are both popular entrees that can be enjoyed while looking out onto Callaway’s gorgeous vineyards. In January, for California Restaurant Month, guests will have the opportunity to order a Roasted Pork Belly or Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Kebob with taste of paired wines for just $20.

Carole’s Restaurant at Baily Vineyard and Winery: Carole’s Restaurant menu incorporates local produce, fruits and herbs, honey, olive oil, and estate grown produce. Nosh on some Mushroom Drops- Crimini mushrooms stuffed with basil and sundried tomato cream cheese- while trying to decide between the Duet of Raviolis, the Tri-Tip Skewers with Gorgonzola Butter, the BBQ Pork Loin Sandwich and the other mouthwatering offerings on Carole’s entree menu.  Sit near the fireplace, enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday and finish off your meal with a glass of Baily’s 2006 Vintage Port. What an amazing evening!

Shorty’s Bistro at Mount Palomar Winery: Shorty’s Bistro’s Mediterranean inspired appetizers, sandwiches, homemade soups, freshly made hummus, stone oven pizzas, delicious entrees and elegant desserts make it an ideal choice for wine country guests looking for variety.  Meat-lovers would be thrilled with the Braciole Beef Baguette, a sandwich of seasoned roast beef, charred tomato, whole grain mustard, gouda, lettuce and onion while vegetarians can delight in The Quattro Fromaggio, a stonebaked pizza topped with mozzarella, cheddar, monterey jack, feta and parmesan cheese with fresh rosemary and extra virgin olive oil. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Shorty’s is opened for dinner, and the eclectic menu features a Sweet Onion & Chicken Tart, Seared Salmon with Sofrito and Tri Tip Roast with Portabella Mushroom. Mark your calendars for January’s California Restaurant Month, since Shorty’s will be offering Scallops and Shrimp Skewers Over Risotto, served with wine and cheesecake for a set price of only $30.

Vineyard Rose Restaurant at South Coast Winery and Spa: Vineyard Rose offers wine country visitors a taste of Southern California with a hint of Tuscany. Start your day off with a delicious breakfast (served Monday through Friday from 7:00-10:45am) of Rolling Hills Bananas Foster Pancakes, Country Biscuits With Sausage Gravy or a California Spa Omelette. The lunch menu has something for everyone, with items ranging from Coconut Shrimp all the way to Lamb Osso Buco. Planning a romantic dinner? The Vineyard Rose Restaurant not only offers the ambiance, but dishes like Gnocchi al Fresco and Butter Poached Scallops will help set the mood for a meal to remember.

Café Champagne at Thornton Winery prides itself on its “Contemporary Fusion Cuisine,” which has won the Gold Award for Contemporary Cuisine for eleven consecutive years from the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. The Vineyard Tapas Plate, comprised of Tuscan Salami, Garlic Herb Shrimp, Marinated Mushrooms, Roasted Tomato, Olives, Goat Cheese Spread and Cracker Bread pairs perfectly with Thornton’s 2010 Tempranillo, while the Baby Spinach and Honey Roasted Pear Salad goes well with Thornton’s 2010 Mouvedre. Dinner entrees such as the Butter Poached Lobster Panini and the Pan Roasted Maple Glazed Salmon are two of the many reasons why Café Champagne was granted 5 stars for contemporary cuisine from the Southern California Restaurant Writers.

 

Creekside Grille at Wilson Creek Winery: Executive Chef Steve Stawinski brings 20 years of experience to the newest member of the Temecula Valley Wine Country restaurants. The Fall menu features a California Cheese Plate, Red Curry Pumpkin Dip in addition to an array of salads and sandwiches. When owner Mick Wilson discovered an allergy to gluten, he had Chef Steve develop a gluten free menu, which includes Flatbread with Zinfandel Soaked Dried Cherries, Creekside Garden Rosemary, Fresh Mozzarella, CA Olive Oil and Blackberry Balsamic Vinegar and a Creekside Burger served on a gluten free bun. Surrounded by the lush 30 year old Cabernet grapevines, herb garden and flower-filled baskets, the view and ambiance set the scene for an enjoyable day in the wine country.

Anyone hungry yet? Contact any one (or all) of these fine, wine country restaurants to check hours of operation, seasonal menu items and special offers. Make your reservation today!

 

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SoCal Wine TV: Tour Monte de Oro Winery

Thursday, December 1st, 2011

Monte de Oro Winery is one of the newest and most modern of the Temecula Valley wineries.  The winery offers state-of-art winemaking facilities, an enormous patio with a grand view of the vineyards, and a delicious selection of red, white, and sparkling varieties.  Their newest addition is the MDO Wine Bar & Bistro, open Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm.

 

 

Monte De Oro Wine Tast­ing Experiences

Tra­di­tional Tast­ing Expe­ri­ence — Enjoy your tast­ing in the Main Room or on the patio, includes 6 tastes. $10 per per­son (glass not included.)

Pri­vate Tast­ing Expe­ri­ence - 60 minute tasting in a pri­vate set­ting, includes 6 tastes, imported & domes­tic cheese plate.
Reser­va­tion Required - $25.00 per per­son, 10 per­son min­i­mum (glass not included.)

The Tast­ing Room at Monte De Oro is open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Mon­day through Sun­day. For direc­tions to Monte De Oro Win­ery, click here.

Tours at Monte De Oro

For $16, take a tour of the beautiful property and winemaking facilities.

Tour Includes:  Bar­rel room tour, tour of the grounds, wine mak­ing edu­ca­tion, bar­rel tast­ing and tra­di­tional tast­ing (glass not included.)

Available on week­ends 11am & 1pm; call for reser­va­tions

*For more infor­ma­tion, please call 951–491-6551 or email info@montedeoro.com

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November Winery Events

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

There’s always fun and festive events going on in Temecula wine country, and November events include wine night, special sales, and Thanksgiving dinners. The only hard part is deciding which one of these to attend!

 

Briar Rose Winery

November 11th-13th

Teacher Appreciation Weekend: In honor of teachers, we’re including a special cupcake pairing just for you at a price of $15.  Enjoy a special wine and cupcake pairing off our Premium Library Collection menu (regularly priced at $25).  Reservations are required by calling 951.308.1098.

 

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

November 26th

4th Annual Temecula Turkey Trot: 5k run- 8:45am / 10k run 8:30a m– Free wine tasting after the race for participants 21 and older.  100% of the money raised will provide funds to sustainable energy projects in east Africa.  Contact 619.537.9185 or TemeculaTurkeyTrot.com for more information.

NFL Football on the big screen every Sunday afternoon
Keyways Winery

Wednesdays, 7-9:30pm

Wine Down Fridays: Includes dinner and a glass of wine and cover charge for live entertainment. $15 Members; $25 non-Members. To make reservations, click here.

Saturday evenings; November 26th – December 17th 4-6pm

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides: You’ll be ushered through more than 100,000 twinkling led lights, which transform the vineyards into a Winter Wonderland! Tickets $5; 3 & under free on parents lap

Starting November 26th until Sold Out- 11a-8p

Christmas Tree Lot: These 6-8’ tall trees are being offered at $65-$75 for Keyways Wine Club Members and $75-$100 for the public.



Leoness Cellars

Sunday, November 20, 2-5pm

3rd Sunday Concert Series –Hosted by the Vineyard Troubadour

 

Oak Mountain Winery

Thursday, November 10th - 6-9pm

Cooking Class with Temecula Catering: Join Temecula Catering as they teach you to make a four course gourmet meal. Each course is paired with an Oak Mountain wine. Reservations required, call 951-699-9102 or email Valerie at vandrews@oakmountainwinery.com.

Saturday, November 19th- 6-9pm

Secret Ingredient Chef Cook-Off

Friday, November 25th- 6:00p-9:00p

Black Friday Sale

 

Ponte Family Estate Winery

Friday, November 25th- 9:00a-5:00p

Black Friday Shopping Event: Public is welcome from 9am (we are opening an hour early) and Members only from 5:30pm to 7:30pm (like our normal shopping event only for members). Mimosas will be a tasting option from 9a-12p

 

Robert Renzoni Vineyards

Friday, November 25th- 11am-8pm

Black Friday: Extended hours for wine tasting and holiday shopping!

 

South Coast Resort Spa & Winery
Sundays, 12-3pm

Divas In D’Vines: Escape NFL Sundays and enjoy specially priced Diva Pedis, Massages and Facials at our GrapeSeed Spa.  Or enjoy happy hour on the Vineyard Rose Restaurant’s Grand Veranda with live entertainment, plus ½ off sangrias and mimosas with the purchase of a wide assortment of entrees.

Saturday, November 12th- 6pm: cocktails, 7-10pm dinner

Gold Winemakers Dinner: Experience gourmet bliss at an EXCUSIVE dinner celebrating five-star cuisine, coupled with a flavorsome showcase of South Coast Winery’s 2011 Gold Medal award-winning wines. $200 per couple. Ask for overnight Villa specials Reservations required; Call: 951-587-9463 x7210

Thursday, November 24th

Gourmet Family Thanksgiving Dinner: Let the South Coast Winery master chefs and winemakers treat you and your family to a special gourmet feast in the Vineyard Rose Restaurant, featuring scrumptious presentations of traditional Thanksgiving fare.  For menu and more information, visit SouthCoastWinery.com.

 

 

 

Thornton Winery

Saturday, November 12th- 7:00p

Winemaker Dinner: Executive Chef Steve Pickell and Winemaker David Vergari present an evening of food & wine perfection.$95 per person (plus tax & gratuity). Purchase tickets here.

Thursday, November 24th

Thanksgiving Dinner

Saturday, November 19th- 2:30pm

Harvest Cooking Class with Executive Chef Steve Pickell: Appropriate for all levels of talent and interests, this interactive class features cooking demonstrations, take-home recipes and samples of each course. $70 (inclusive)

 

Wilson Creek Winery

Sundays in November- 10a-3p

Sunday Bubble Brunch: This scrumptious bubble brunch includes an amazing spread of seafood, freshly made waffles, omelets and a carving station.  Best of all, the Bubble Brunch includes delicious cocktails and desserts. $29.95 per person; wine club $26.95 per person; $37.95 per person; wine club $34.15 per person for unlimited sparkling wine. For reservations call: 951.693.9463

Beginning Black Friday, November 25th and every Thursday evening through December 22nd

Sip Savor & Shop ~ Extended Shopping Hours: Wilson Creek Winery’s tasting room will remain open until 9:00pm!

Thursday, November 24- 11a-4p

Thanksgiving Buffet at the Creekside Grille

Nov 1- Dec 24

Holiday Toy Drive

Bring joy to those less fortunate this holiday season.  Bring in a brand new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more and receive an extra taste with your tasting ticket and a complimentary appetizer with any purchase at Creekside Grille!

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Values And Splurges: Wines For Every Thanksgiving Table

Wednesday, October 19th, 2011

We’re officially past the halfway mark in October, which means Halloween will be here and gone in a flash. Before you can say “turkey,” you’ll find yourself staring face to face with the biggest food holiday of the year- Thanksgiving! There’s no need to panic- we’ve got the perfect wine pairings to go with each dish on your Thanksgiving table so you’ll be way ahead of the curve. Just follow this simple guide and your friends and family will be thanking YOU for making their holiday meal extra special no matter what your budget.

Light appetizers:

Value: Stuart Cellars 2008 Pinot Grigio- $16.00

Splurge: Briar Rose Winery 2010 Estate Viognier- $25.00

These bright yet mellow whites pair well with light dishes to kick off your Thanksgiving meal. A salad of pears, blue cheese and walnuts or a lemony crab salad in endive leaves would be complimented by the white peach and floral notes of both wines.

Herbacious side dishes:

Value: Mount Palomar 2006 Sangiovese- $26.00

Splurge: Doffo Vineyards 2009 Syrah- $46.00

The bold, black fruit flavors of these reds pair especially well with stuffings and gravies featuring herbs such as sage, thyme and rosemary. Having an all-vegetarian Thanksgiving? Both wines are perfect for earthy mushroom and winter squash dishes as well.

Poultry, meats and heat

Value: Hart Family Winery 2007 Driveway Red- $20.00

Mid-range: Monte De Oro Winery 2007 Merlot- $28.00

Splurge: Weins 2008 Reserve Tempranillo-Petite Sirah- $49.00

Putting a Southwestern spin on your turkey this year? The dark fruit-spice in these big reds will enhance similar flavors in your chile rubbed turkey or peppered roasts. Whether you’re serving poultry, lamb or beef- all three are bold enough to stand up to richer meat courses.

Dessert:

Value: Keyways Vineyard Winery 2010 Muscat Canelli- $19.00

Splurge: Oak Mountain Winery 2005 Vintners Reserve Port- $28.00

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without dessert, and no dessert is complete without wine -at least we feel that way! Apple pies and pear tarts are practically made to pair with Keyways’ Muscat Canelli, in which red delicious apples, kiwi , pears, and apricots come together nicely with honeysuckle and jasmine undertones. Oak Mountain’s port has a nutty honeyed flavor to perfectly compliment the nutmeg and allspice flavors of pumpkin pie.

One Meal, One Wine:

Maurice Car’rie 2010 Chenin Blanc- $12.95

Palumbo Family Vineywards & Winery 2009 Rosato Secco Rose- $18.00

Falkner Winery 2009 Sauvignon Blanc- $18.95

South Coast Winery Ruby Cuvee- $22.00

You’ve spent the better part of Thanksgiving cooking, setting the table and cleaning the house for guests, so perhaps you’re looking to simplify and serve one wine from start to finish.  Any of these four, well-priced wines fit the bill. Each is lighter on the palate, with only subtle hints of sweetness making them suitable to drink with appetizers all the way to dessert.

 

 

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There’s Music in the Air in Temecula Wine Country…

Thursday, October 6th, 2011


Temecula wine country offers beautiful vineyards, a never-ending selection of wines in addition to well-appointed tasting rooms, gift shops and restaurants, but what are those delightful sounds that always seem to fill air? It’s music! With many wineries showcasing both local and national talent, there’s something for the music lover in everyone. If the only tunes you’re hearing these days comes out of a pair of headphones, maybe it’s time to inject some much-needed energy into your repertoire by going to see a live performance! After all, what could be better than spending an evening sipping wine, watching the sun go down and relaxing while listening to talented and creative artists make music? Here are marvelously musical ways for you to get out there and see some incredible musicians:

Do the cool, Autumn breezes make you long for the warm air of summer? Be instantly transported to the tropics by steel drummer Shaula Walko, whose rhythms of the Caribbean will make you feel like breaking out your flip flops and dancing the night away. Cougar Vineyards will feature Walko as well as other performers during the month of October, and you can see these concerts free of charge with the purchase of a wine tasting. Go here for dates, times and other details.

Thornton Winery’s annual Champagne Jazz Series continues to provide a stellar lineup of nationally renowned contemporary jazz artists. Catch sexy sax sensation Candy Dulfer October 15. Dulfer made a splash on the international music scene in 1989 with her #1 hit, “Lily Was Here,” a collaboration with Eurythmics Dave Stewart, and has toured the world stage with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Prince, Marcus Miller, Beyonce, David Sanborn and countless others.  Don’t miss this very special evening- tickets are available here.

Need something a bit heavier? Shoot 4 Tuezday’s set list of classic and contemporary rock may be just what the doctor ordered. Miramonte Winery welcomes this 5-piece October 14, and lead singer Elisha Eddin’s sultry vocals are inspired by Janis Joplin, Melissa Etheridge, Blondie and The Pretenders.  The winery also hosts an array of other artists, ranging from blues to alternative to soul, during the month of October. For a full schedule of performances, click here.

With so many live concerts and performances at most of Temecula’s wineries, there’s always a reason to get out, get down and catch some talented artists in some of the best settings around. Check out each winery’s website to get a full schedule of upcoming music events.

 

 

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Harvest Season in Temecula Valley

Thursday, September 29th, 2011

All over California, winegrowers are picking, racking, and punching down – it’s smack dab in the middle of Harvest Season!

Harvest – or “Crush” as it’s often called in the New World – usually falls between August and October.  Specific times of picking are determined primarily by ripeness of the grape as measured by sugar, acid, and tannin levels, which varies with each winemaker depending on the style of wine they wish to produce.  The weather can also shape the timetable of harvesting with the threat of heat, rain, hail, and frost which can damage the grapes.  Did you know that most harvesting takes place at night?  The grapes need to be cool at the time of picking, so farm crews all over Temecula Valley set up their floodlights and mechanical pickers in the evening and pick until dawn.

You may have heard a particularly odd wine term called “punching down the cap.”  When grapes or grape bits are left in a fermentation vessel, as in red wine making, all the solids—grape skins, seeds, stems, pulp—rise to the surface. This mass of solid matter is called a “cap,” and winemakers want to integrate the cap back into the wine. Think of the cap like a tea bag—if it’s just sitting there floating on top, you’re not going to get the color or flavor that you would if you dunk it in to steep. (Also, leaving the cap floating on top runs the risk of bacterial growth.)

There are two main ways to deal with the cap: pump-overs and punch-downs. Pump-overs are what they sound like: the fermenting juice is circulated, or pumped, over the cap. This doesn’t break up the cap so much as it helps keep it submerged. A punch-down is when a device (think of a big potato-masher) pushes the cap down, breaks it up and submerges it again.

The how (and how often) of dealing with the cap depends on a winemaker’s style. The more aggressive one is with breaking up the cap, the more a wine will be extracted, dark and tannic.  Just an FYI, if a winemaker invites you to help with a punch-down, you’re in for a workout! It takes an extraordinary amount of physical effort to punch down that cap.

 Temecula Valley – Images from Harvest 2011:

 

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October Winery Events and Concerts

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

It’s harvest season in wine country, and October holds many exciting and fun events for you to experience Temecula’s wine region.


All Winery Passport Event: 21st Annual Harvest Celebration Barrel Tasting Weekend – November 5 & 6, 2011

If you missed the 2nd Annual CRUSH Event on September 10, fall brings another amazing opportunity to taste all 34 member wineries for one low passport price.  The Harvest Celebration Weekend is a much-anticipated annual tradition in Temecula Valley Wine Country.  Taking place from 10am – 4:30pm on Saturday and Sunday, this two-day passport event is the perfect wine-tasting day trip or weekend getaway for couples, friends, and groups.  Wine-lovers from Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Palm Springs, and the Inland Empire make the short drive every year to wine country to enjoy meeting winemakers and to sample wines not yet available to the public.

Simply purchase a passport ticket for a self-guided tour of all the Temecula Valley wineries; each stop includes wine-tasting, delicious small plates of food, and a special Best Winery Scarecrow Facebook contest you can participate in!  The winner will receive four tickets to the World of Wine 2012 event.

This event sells out early so order your tickets today!  For more information, please visit our Temecula Valley events page.  Please note, “Sunday Only” tickets and “Designated Driver” tickets are also available at reduced prices.

Also, consider booking a shuttle to remove any worries about driving on your tour.  You can easily purchase your shuttle service and Harvest tickets directly with The Grapeline Wine Country Shuttle.  Click here to reserve and purchase now!

Baily Winery

October 22

25th Anniversary Party- Dinner and wine included. $100 per person. Call for reservations – (951) 676-9463. Limited seating available- Call Today!

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Saturdays and Sundays in October, 2p-5p
Live music. Go to  www.cougarvineyards.com for performers schedules.

Sunday afternoons:
NFL Football on the big screen

October 5, 6:30pm
Winemaker Dinner at the Gambling Cowboy in Old Town Temecula. Five-course dinner paired with Cougar wines.  $60/person. Reservations required, call 951-491-0825.

October 8-10
Columbus Day Weekend Art & Wine. Sample wines and specialty foods while viewing unique works of fine artists and photographers.

Keyways Winery

October 14 and 28, 7-9:30pm
Wine Down Fridays- Includes dinner and a glass of wine and cover charge for live entertainment. $15 Members; $25 non-Members. Make reservations here.

Leoness Cellars

October 16, 3-6pm
3rd Sunday Concert Series –Hosted by the Vineyard Troubadour

Longshadow Ranch Winery

Saturdays, 6-10pm
Bonfire Saturday Nights- Horse drawn carriage rides, mechanical bull riding, face painting for the kids.  Open to the public, families welcome. No admission charge.  Call 877-80-RANCH for more information.

October 7, 6-10pm
Fundraiser for Sophie- Come help us raise money for Sophie, a beautiful 4 year-old battling stage 4 cancer. Wahoo’s will cater the event and we’ll have face painting, live music and a silent auction. Donations can be made at microgiving.com

October 29, 6-10pm
Halloween Extravaganza featuring a performance by White Lightning- Join us for “Trick or Treat” in the vineyard!

Masia de Yabar

October 1, 6-9pm
Argentinean Barbeque- Dine on a selection of grilled meats paired with Masia de Yabar wines. For reservations call 951-303-3860.

Live music every Saturday and Sunday from 1:30p-4:30p

Monte de Oro Winery

Fridays (except Oct 7), 4-8pm
Happy Hour on the Hill – A 180-degree panoramic view of the Temec­ula Val­ley from atop our out­door patio pro­vides a back­drop to what most assuredly will be a won­der­ful expe­ri­ence had by all. Free admission. Note: October 14th Happy Hour on the Hill to benefit Loma Linda Healthcare System.

October 1, doors: 5:30, concert: 7pm
Big Bad Voo-Doo Daddy Live Concert- General Admission $45 (includes concert, souvenir glass and one glass of wine). VIP- $95 (includes reserved VIP seating, plated 3-course meal, souvenir glass and 2 glasses of wine. Purchase tickets here.

October 22, 5:30-10pm
2nd Annual Rocky Horror Halloween Bash – Let’s do the “Time Warp” like you  have never done it before! The movie will be shown along with a live per­for­mence from some local play­ers. Com­pli­men­tary glass of wine;  con­ces­sion food will be available. $35 (adults over 21 and over; no children allowed). Purchase tickets here.

Oak Mountain Winery

October 6, 6-9pm
Cooking Class with Temecula Catering- Join Temecula Catering as they teach you to make a four course gourmet meal. Reservations required, call 951-699-9102 or email Valerie at vandrews@oakmountainwinery.com.

October 16, 12-4pm
Woofs and Purrs in the Vines- Enjoy and afternoon of live music, food, wine, games and a silent auction to raise money for Cause for Paws, an organization that provides funds to veterinarians and animal hospitals that directly benefits the immediate physical well-being of animal diabetes. $35 donation; receive a logo glass. Reservations required, call 951-699-9102 or email Valerie at vandrews@oakmountainwinery.com.

October 21, 6-9pm
Winemaker Dinner- Five-course dinner paired with Oak Mountain wines. Reservations required-951-699-9102.

Live Music every Saturday and Sunday

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa:

Sundays in October, 12-3pm
Divas In D’Vines – Escape NFL Sundays and enjoy special priced Diva Pedis, Massages and Facials for just $99 at our GrapeSee Spa.  Or enjoy happy hour on the Vineyard Rose Restaurant’s Grand Veranda with live entertainment featuring Tony Suraci, plus ½ off sangrias and mimosas with the purchase of a wide assortment of entrees.

Mon-Friday, 11am and 1pm; Sat-Sun, 11am, 1pm, 3pm
Behind the Scenes Wine Tour- Get up close and personal with the real workings of a winery during a harvest crush with the Behind the Scenes Wine Tour. The tour culminates with a private, plated wine & cheese pairing. $25 non members; $20 members. Reservations strongly suggested.  Call (951) 587-9463

October 4, 11am-3pm
7th Annual Wild Women of Wine Country Luncheon- Gather up your girlfriends and wear your most outrageous pink shoes! October is breast cancer awareness month, so please join us for a celebratory harvest lunch and a fashion show. Proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Tickets- $35, available at SouthCoastWinery.com or call 951-587-9463 ext 7210.

Stuart Cellars

October 22, 6:30-10:00pm
9th Annual Harvest Clam Bake- Delicious dinner paired with Stuart Cellars wine.  Live entertainment provided by the Bell Entourage Band.  $70 per person; $60 per person Wine Club. Additional $25 for a pre-ordered Live Main Lobster. Reservations required; call 951-676-6414.

Thornton Winery

October 1, 7pm
Champagne Jazz Concert Series- BRIAN CULBERTSON, with special guest. General Admission Ticket $ 75.00, Gourmet Supper Package $ 150.00, Purchase tickets here.

October 9, 4pm
Champagne Jazz Concert Series- THE RIPPINGTONS & ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY. General Admission Ticket $ 65.00, Gourmet Supper Package $ 130.00. Purchase tickets here.

October 15, 7pm
Champagne Jazz Concert Series- CANDY DULFER, with special guest . General Admission Ticket $ 65.00, Gourmet Supper Package $ 130.00. Purchase tickets here.

Wilson Creek Winery:

Sip for the Cure – Entire month of October
Visiting guests will be invited to taste Rosie’s Rose using the additional stub from their tasting tickets and a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Rosie’s Rose will be donated to Michelle’s Place Foundation.  Wine club members are entitled to special pricing for the wine at $10 per bottle!

October 2, 5pm
Sip, Savor, Stomp- Join us for a traditional Wine Country Harvest Celebration featuring hayride tours, grape stomping, live music, harvest buffet and apple bobbing. $65.00 per person; $58.50 per person Wine Club. Call for reservations: 951.699.9463 Purchase on-line: www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

October 14, 6-10pm
Cigar Night- Sit back and relax with the glamour and ambience of Hollywood’s most famous gathering place of the 1940′s.  Sunday, October 14th, Wilson Creek transforms into the infamous Brown Derby. An exclusive night of exquisite dinner, premier cigars, fine wine and live music. $100 per person • $90 Wine Club. Call for reservations: 951.699.9463

October 15th:
Live music from Two Fish Duo
October 22nd:
Live music from Jason Weber
Sundays, 10am-3pm
Sunday Bubble Brunch: There is no better way to ring in the coming week than with a Champagne Sunday Brunch at Wilson Creek Winery.  Our scrumptious bubble brunch is served from 10 am to 3 pm every Sunday.  During that time, you will find an amazing spread of seafood, freshly made waffles, omelets and carving station.  Best of all, the bubble brunch includes delicious cocktails and desserts.  Food only: $29.95 per person;  $26.95 for wine club members. Savor delicious breakfast with unlimited champagne for: $37.95 per person; $34.15 for wine club members.

 

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Wine Country Recipe: Palumbo Pan Seared Filet with Two Cheese Grits

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

We’ve bid farewell to summer and said “hello!” the cooler breezes of the fall season which will soon be ushering in the holidays. With all the things we love about the season-  the slight chill in the air, sight of leaves turning orange and the scent of a wood-burning fireplace- comes the hearty, comforting foods that keep us warm and satisfied – like this Pan Seared Filet with Two Cheese Grits, courtesy of Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery.  The dynamic duo of cheddar and marscapone cheeses make these grits ultra creamy, and a beautifully seared filet of beef is a perfect match.  Paired with either the Palumbo Cabernet Sauvignon or 2008 Merlot-Syrah and you’re in for a four-star feast right in your own home!

Palumbo Pan Seared Filet with Two Cheese Grits



Ingredients:

  • 4 Filet Mignon (Beef Tenderloin) Thick Cut (2-3 in.)
  • Olive Oil
  • Kosher Salt
  • Fresh Ground Pepper
  • Quick Grits (1 box)
  • ½ Cup Cheddar Cheese
  • ½ Cup Mascarpone Cheese
  • Fresh Mushrooms (optional)

 

Filet:
Preheat oven to 400.  Coat both sides of steaks with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Preheat oven proof sauté pan and add steaks. Sear one side of filets till brown (approx. 2 minutes), then flip over and sear for 1 min. Place pan in preheated oven for 10 minutes for medium rare. (Shorten or lengthen time based on your cooked preference)

Grits -

Follow recipe on box for 4 servings and at last minute stir cheese into grits. Set aside and keep warm.

Tip:  If grits get too thick, add a little milk and stir till smooth.

To serve, place large spoonful of grits on plate then set filet on top. Garnish with fresh chopped rosemary or thyme.

(Option: Sautéed Mushroom Garnish)

Remove cooked steaks from pan and set on plate to rest. Place pan on high heat.

Add red wine , beef stock and sliced mushrooms. Sauté to your liking and add to steaks.

 

 


 

 

 

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