When you think of California wine country, what comes to mind? Is it the rolling hills of Napa Valley? The scenic views along the Central Coast? Maybe you picture something more inland, like the Central Valley. For me, the Southern California gem of Temecula Valley is the first that comes to mind, and one that I will recommend to others for years to come.

I’ve always considered myself somewhat of a wine enthusiast (though I couldn’t tell you where a wine is from just by its notes). My love for wine really took off when my fiancé and I met in May 2020, which happened to be peak COVID lockdown. As there wasn’t much else we could do, our first date took place at a park, complete with a bottle of wine and a charcuterie board. Over the years, we’ve built a beautiful life together with one constant: our love and appreciation for good wine. 

After moving to Los Angeles, we decided to take advantage of our Southern California residence and venture out to Temecula Valley — a wine country about 1.5 to 2 hours outside of the city (depending on traffic, of course). We quickly fell in love with this stunning wine region, and came back multiple times before we ended up becoming wine club members at our favorite spot. In fact, we love it so much that we’re now looking at getting married there in 2027.  While we haven’t explored everywhere in Temecula (there are nearly 50 wineries alone!), we’ve found some favorite spots worth sharing.

Monte de Oro

Topping the list is our all-time favorite: Monte de Oro. It was the very first vineyard we visited in Temecula, and it set the bar high from the start. From the moment we stepped into their tasting room, we were captivated by the views on this gorgeous property. And the wine? Even better. Their Synergy 65 might just be my favorite wine of all time. We love Monte so much, we became wine club members here and penciled in an October 2027 wedding date so we can share the beauty of this vineyard with our friends and family.

Europa Village

After getting engaged in Nice, France this past August, my fiancé and I love to visit Europa Village and pretend we’re abroad again. Over the past few years, we’ve watched Europa completely transform into one of the most unique wineries in Temecula Valley, providing an authentic, European experience. Explore and enjoy wines inspired by Spain, Italy and France, with each“village” capturing the essence of its region. Europa Village truly feels like a mini European getaway right in Southern California.

Wilson Creek Winery

Another stunning winery in the Temecula Valley is Wilson Creek Winery. If you have a sweet tooth, as my fiancé does, then this is the place for you. While all their wines are delicious, Wilson Creek is best known for its signature Almond Sparkling Wine and a variety of decadent dessert wines that make every tasting feel like a celebration. Beyond the wine, the property itself is a true experience — with outdoor patios, a lively tasting room and stunning vineyard views.

Corkfire Kitchen

Though it’s not a vineyard, I have to give a special shoutout to Corkfire Kitchen at The Temecula Creek Inn. It’s one of our go-to spots for brunch or a relaxing dinner after a day of wine tasting. Their farm-to-table menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes that pair beautifully with a glass (or two) of Temecula wine.

Wine Tours

After all that wine tasting, safe and stress-free transportation is a must, and Temecula has plenty of great options. Our personal favorite? Van’N Boozy, a wine tour experience that’s as fun as it sounds. For my fiancé’s birthday this year, I gathered a group of friends, and we spent the day cruising through Temecula’s vineyards in vintage VW buses. It was the perfect blend of nostalgia, sunshine and California cool — the ultimate way to explore wine country without worrying about who’s driving.

Overall, Temecula Valley will always hold a special place in our hearts. It’s where our love for wine deepened, where countless memories have been made and where we’ll say “I do” in 2027. Between the incredible wineries, the laid-back Southern California charm and the welcoming community, this region truly embodies what makes California wine country so special. Whether you’re planning your first tasting trip or returning for the hundredth time, Temecula offers something new to fall in love with every visit — one glass at a time.

Do you have a favorite spot in Temecula? Leave me recommendations on where to try next!