Nestled in between the sprawling cities of Los Angeles and San Diego is the quaint vineyard town of Temecula, California. Forty-plus wineries within a spectacular setting of rolling hills, hot air balloons floating in the sky, and foliage that mimics the wineries of Italy.
While the southern vineyards of California are not what most people think when mentioning California wineries. One day in Temecula is all you need to see that the entire state of California produces some splendid wines. California’s wine production accounts for nearly 90% of the entire American wine production.
Temecula was listed as one of Suntan.com’s Top 10 “Best Weather Cities” in the United States.
Arriving at Carter Winery & Resort the view is so magnificent, you know your stay will be marvelous. With perfectly manicured bungalows situated inside 112 acres of vineyards, it is breathtaking. You can enjoy your own private wine tasting in the footsteps of the vineyard on your private patio with a bottle of wine and never leave the room!
Photo by Carter Estate Winery & Resort
The resort features 60 beautifully-designed private bungalows and suites, a luxurious swimming pool with cabanas, a poolside restaurant, a working winery, a private tasting room, and in-room spa services. Conde Nast ranked it as in the Top 19 Hotels in Souther California, Readers’ Choice Awards 2019. www.southcoastwinery.com
Photo by Carter Estate Winery & Resort
We decided a proper wine tasting at Carter Winery & Resorts Tasting Room was the first thing to do on our trip. The winery is one of the state’s preeminent méthode champenoise sparkling wine producers.
Photo by Carter Estate Winery & Resort
When the sommelier recommended their sparkling wine tasting, we happily obliged. Delicious, light, and refreshing we have settled into our Temecula tastebuds.
It’s time to try some of the local cuisines in Temecula, so we venture over to South Coast Winery Resort & Spa for a scrumptious dinner. Starting with the 4X Golden Bear Charcuterie Platter for two an extravagant spread to share. Assorted dry meats, imported and domestic cheese, dried fruit and nuts make this the quintessential compliment to a glass of wine. South Coast’s winery has some exceptional red wines that go perfect with a charcuterie board and a superbly cooked steak.
Next up, discovering Old Town Temecula. Scenic streets filled with 1800’s historic buildings, antique shops, restaurants, bars, and live music. Visit the Temecula Valley Museum and learn about previous resident Erle Stanley Gardner, author of the Perry Mason Mysteries.
Photo by visittemeculavalley.com
When the wineries close their doors in the evening, the nightlife of Old Town Temecula picks up. Enjoy the night stars at Blackbird with their open roof bar.
It’s time to get a well-rested night after a couple of glasses of Temecula wine and exploring. Awaking in Temecula and looking out the window you can spot hot air balloons lingering in the sky. A terry cloth robe, coffee and watching the picturesque hot air balloons glide by in awe is pretty amazing.
A relaxing twenty-four hours in Temecula isn’t complete without indulging in a spa service. Checking into South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, I am asked which type of wine I would like to be served after my massage. I am starting to think this is Disneyland for adults.
After a relaxing massage, I am greeted by a glass of sparkling wine to savor while enjoying the tranquilities of the spa. A perfect day, with perfect weather, in a perfect vineyard destination, Temecula.