Grape Connections

Stroll, sip, and swirl, in whatever order you please. Temecula’s wineries are best explored by foot in the fall, when temperatures are warm but not sizzling and autumn paints the landscape golden. Start your walk at Wilson Creek Winery, where the delicious GSM blend is a smoky combination of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Wander the vineyards and grounds, decorated in giant wine bottles and finessed by the fall colors glowing on the vines. Head south on the dirt path along Rancho California Road, passing Monte de Oro Winery and groves of citrus trees. Your next stop is Wiens Family Cellars, a comfortable winery widely known as the home of big reds.

Shortly down the path is the Ponte Winery, offering perhaps the most beautiful grounds to meander through with a glass of Beverino sweet red. The gardens are impeccably manicured, and the vineyards are labeled so you can inspect your grape favorites. Just across the street is your final destination, South Coast Winery, consistently awarded California State Fair winery of the year (including in 2016). Sample the popular Ruby Cuvée and their reserve collection, including the outstanding Carter Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. Wander the vineyards, home to chirping local finches and juncos. Before heading back to your car (or continuing south on Rancho California for endless wineries), admire Palomar Mountain to the southeast as soaring red-tailed hawks soar across Temecula skies. Cheers.

BONUS: If you need a place to stay, Ponte offers a luxury hotel experience, and South Coast is famous for being an incredibly relaxing spa resort.

To get to the Wilson Creek Winery, take the I-15 and exit Rancho California Rd. Head east for 7.5 miles, and the signed parking lot will be on your left. Dog-friendly in outdoor areas!