Something For Everyone
If what you're looking for is a variety of varietals, head to these wineries. Each offers a large selection of both red and white wines. You're sure to find a favorite at each.
Stops: Akash Winery, Avensole Vineyard & Winery, Bel Vino Winery , Danza del Sol Winery, Leoness Cellars, Oak Mountain Winery, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyard
Akash Winery
39730 Calle Contento Rd., Temecula, 92591; 951.888.1393; Open daily;Mon., Wed., Thur. Noon-6p, Tues. Noon-8pm, Fri.11a- 6p, Sat.11a- 8p. www.akashwinery.com
Both 100% estate grown and managed, Akash wines are developed with passion and sophistication. The story of the winery begins at the vineyard. Located in the heart of Temecula's Wine Country, off Calle Contento Road, the vineyard stretches across the parcel where the Patel's, winemaker Renato Sais, and the winery staff give the vines the upmost care all year long.
On the tasting menu: Parlez-Vous Rose, Syrah, Three's Company, Zinfandel Petite Sirah, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tasting fees: Saturday $25pp / All other days $20pp
Avensole Vineyard & Winery
34567 Rancho California Rd. Temecula, CA 92591; 951.252.2003; Open daily 11:00am-5:00pm (last call 4:45pm); avensolewinery.com
Avensole Winery invites you to spend the day at our gorgeous resort-like vineyard estate, featuring one of the oldest original vineyards in Temecula Valley. Enjoy extraordinary views, handcrafted award-winning wines, delicious seasonal cuisine on our lovely patio, craft cocktails, daily Happy Hour and live music at the Tasting Room patio Saturday and Sunday 1-4pm. Avensole is truly the perfect Wine Country destination, where gracious hospitality and elevated service await.
Bel Vino Winery
33515 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (951-676-6414). Open daily 11:00am to 5:30pm; belvinowinery.com
Bel Vino is a boutique winery that uses Old World wine making techniques and offers an authentic winery experience. With live music Friday Nights 6-10 pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 12-4pm.
On the tasting menu: Dolce, Port, Merlot, White Merlot, Field Blend and many other whites and reds $12.95 per person for tasting on the weekdays and $15.95 per person on the weekends.
Danza del Sol Winery
39050 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592; (951) 302-6363; open daily 11am-6pm
This relaxed tasting room evokes an Italian-countryside feel offering people friendly wines - plus a dog and equestrian friendly property. Take your bottle outside to enjoy the comfortable vineyard surrounded patio.
On the tasting menu: Chardonnay Reserve, Viognier, Tres Rose, Tempranillo, Merlot; $15 for six tastes
Leoness Cellars
38311 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92593; (951) 302-7601; Open Mon-Thurs: 11:30am-5:00pm; Fri: 11:30am-6:00pm; Sat: 11:00am-6:00pm; Sun: 11:00am-5:00pm; 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; $15 tasting Monday-Friday; $18 tasting Saturday-Sunday
Oak Mountain Winery
36522 Via Verde, Temecula, CA 92592; (951) 699-9102; open daily 11am-5pm; oakmountainwinery.com
An oasis of Temecula Valley charm, it's immaculately maintained vineyard surrounds the hilltop winery and offers stunning views of the valley below. A sizeable list of acclaimed wines and an outdoor veranda await.
On the tasting menu: No Oak Chardonnay, Meritage, Zinfandel, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; $12 for 6 tastes weekdays; $15 for 6 tastes weekends
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591; (877) 743-8303; open daily 10am-6pm; www.SouthCoastWinery.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. Happy Hour: Monday – Friday 3:00pm-5:30pm; Saturday and Sunday 3:30pm-5:30pm
On the tasting menu: Sparkling Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, GVR/Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Roussanne; $15 for 5 tastes Mon-Fri, $20 for 5 tastes Sat & Sun
Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyard
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 Sparkling, 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 and overnight accommodations at Wilson Creek Manor.
On the tasting menu: Estate Zinfandel, White Cabernet Sauvignon, "Yes Dear" Chardonnay, Estate Merlot.; Tasting fee $20, includes souvenir wine glass and $5 coupon towards wine purchase
