The Temecula Valley in Southern California is a unique wine region that has proven to be exceptionally diverse in terms of grape varieties. From cold-climate grapes such as Riesling and Gewurztraminer to Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, the region has something for everyone. Located just 90 miles southeast of Los Angeles and one hour north of San Diego, Temecula Valley is a popular destination for wine lovers, with nearly 50 wineries and a variety of boutique and full-service resort lodging options. A recent Zoom tasting of ten Temecula Valley wines showed that something special is happening in the area.
With more than 40 vineyards spread across the region, visitors can find something to satisfy any taste, from luxurious wine complexes to small family-run establishments. The valley ranges from 1,000 to 1,400 feet high at the bottom of the valley and up to 1,800 to 2,000 feet high on the west side of the valley in the Santa Rosa Mountains. The Mediterranean climate is perfect for growing grapes, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees between day and night and an average of 276 sunny days and 12 inches (31 days) of rain per year. The first wines produced in Southern California were made by Junípero Serra, a monk from the San Diego de Alcalá Mission in the late 18th century.
The success of these wines led to the consolidation of wineries in 2004 and the purchase of property in Temecula a year later. Winemaker Jon McPherson at South Coast Winery and Carter Estate Winery explains that Temecula wineries are doing their best to keep the wine flowing. For example, Maurice Car'rie Winery offers its world-famous sourdough and brie bread with a glass of wine. 36522 The Distillery is another great option for those who prefer spirits, offering beverages made with its own bourbon, malt whiskey, vodkas (both grape and corn-based), gin, rum and agave liqueurs.
The AAA Four Diamond hotel Ponte Vineyard Inn is an ideal base from which to explore the wineries in Temecula Valley. This Italian-inspired tourist vineyard offers four luxurious, interactive and immersive options for enjoying its wines, as well as a swimming pool (the only section of the property for all ages) with private cabins and loungers for rent, a cafeteria and cocktail bar. If you're looking for an expert on Temecula Valley wines, look no further than Elizabeth Linkogle who serves as the region's ambassador on behalf of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association.
