Mid-Week Visit
Step out mid-week and enjoy a day in wine country away from the weekend crowds. Visit these wineries on the less busy weekdays to enjoy them at their best.
Callaway Vineyard & Winery
32720 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 676-4001; open daily from 10am - 5pm. Meritage Restaurant hours: open daily for lunch 11am-4pm; dinner only on Fri & Sat 5pm-9pm; callawaywinery.com
This famous winery is a popular choice with locals and visitors alike offering an approachable wine list and newly remodeled Estate winery. For a perfect meal, take a patio seat at Meritage Restaurant.
On the tasting menu: Pinot Gris, Rose of Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Calliope Red; $15 for 6 tastes
Leoness Cellars
38311 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92593; (951) 302-7601; open daily 11am-5pm; leonesscellars.com
This stunning property features indoor and outdoor fireplace seating, a comfortable covered patio, self-guided vineyard tours and spectacular views of the valley. The cozy tasting room offers an expansive, critically-acclaimed wine list.
On the tasting menu: Melange de Blanc, Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend, Zinfandel, Estate Syrah, Grenache; $14 for 6 tastes
Mount Palomar Winery
33820 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 676-5047/(800) 854-5177; open Mon-Thurs 10:30-5pm, Sat & Sun 10:30-6pm; mountpalomar.com
This early California style winery is as known for its breathtaking views of the valley as it is for its varied wine selection. Stop by for a taste of Temecula history.
On the tasting menu: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Cream Sherry, Charbono; $10 for 6 tastes with logo glass
Ponte Family Estate Winery
35053 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 694-8855; open daily 10am-5pm; The Restaurant at Ponte hours: Mon-Wed 11am-3pm; Thurs & Fri, 11am-5pm; Sat 11am-8pm; Sun 11am-5pm; pontewinery.com
Tasty wine, charming staff, beautiful gift boutique, incredible restaurant and impeccable grounds await you. Enjoy your favorite wine with an al fresco lunch at the fabulous Restaurant at Ponte for a true delight.
On the tasting menu: Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Super Tuscan, Nebbiolo; $12 for 6 tastes weekdays; $20 for 6 tastes weekends, both with logo glass
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 587-WINE [9463]; open daily 10am-6pm; wineresort.com
The largest and arguably most spectacular winery in the valley handcrafts dozens of finely made varietals in this state of the art facility. A luxurious spa, elegant 'casitas' and a cozy restaurant beckon all.
On the tasting menu: Sparkling Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, GVR/Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne; $15 for 5 tastes, $18 for 5 reserve tastes
Thornton Winery
32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 699-0099 open daily 10am-5pm; Café Champagne Restaurant hours: lunch 11am-3:30pm, dinner 5pm-9pm; thorntonwine.com
Since 1988, this French chateau-like estate winery has been welcoming guests to enjoy it's award-winning wines and restaurant, Cafe Champagne. Check out their Champagne Jazz concert series for a real treat.
On the tasting menu: Sparkling Wine, Chardonnay, Cabernet-Merlot, Old Vine Zinfandel; tastes range from $10-$17; tasting room offers sit-down service & appetizers
Wiens Family Cellars
35055 Via Del Ponte, Temecula, CA 92592; (951) 694-9892; open daily 10am-5pm; wienscellars.com
The sign out front says Big Reds- and they mean it. Offering a broad range of exquisitely crafted red wines along with a meticulously maintained, beautiful property, this popular winery is a must stop.
On the tasting menu: Cabernet Reserve, Merlot, Sangiovese, Pinot Noir; $15 for 6 tastes
Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards
35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951) 699-9463; open daily 10am-5pm, Creek side Grille Restaurant hours: 11am-5pm; wilsoncreekwinery.com
Home to the famed Almond Champagne, this winery offers an extensive wine list and fun behind-the-scenes tours, along with 70 acres of picturesque vineyards. Enjoy alfresco dining at the popular Creekside Grille.
On the tasting menu: Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Merlot, Estate Zinfandel; $12 for 5 tastes weekdays; $15 for 5 tastes weekends
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