places
GRAPE EXPECTATIONS The emerging wine region in Temecula, California BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Temecula Valley
PHOTOS BY LEIGH CASTELLI PHOTOGRAPHY
I
f you’re looking to escape the crowds that descend upon Northern California’s major wine countries each year, look no further than Southern California, in the Temecula Valley Wine Country. Located in Riverside County just one hour from San Diego, Orange County or Palm Springs, Temecula Valley Wine Country is the largest and most commercially successful winegrowing region in California’s South Coast area. With a climate similar to Napa, Temecula Valley is particularly well suited to growing grapes such as syrah, viognier, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, zinfandel and tempranillo; however, more than two dozen grape varieties thrive in the region, including sauvignon blanc, malbec, riesling, chardonnay and many others. Altogether, Temecula Valley has more than 40 wineries and 70 winegrowers, as well as luxurious resorts, high-end dining and, of course, amazing tasting tours. Here are some best bets:
Callaway Vineyard & Winery Though it is the oldest winery in Temecula, Callaway Vineyard & Winery (www.callawaywinery.com) is among the most innovative. Founded by Ely
Wilson Creek Winery
Callaway – of Callaway Golf fame – and now privately owned by a local family, the breathtaking estate and tasting room is built high above the city and boasts award-winning chardonnays, pinot gris and sauvignon blanc varietals. The winery offers three types of tasting experiences: a traditional guided tasting with an on-site expert; a “do-it-yourself” tasting using wine stations; and a “behind-the-scenes” private tour, whisking guests behind the winemaker’s curtain for a rare glimpse into the story behind the best bottles.
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa In addition to earning more than 1,800 awards and medals for its wines since its inception in 2003, South Coast Winery (www.southcoastwinery.com) has made its mark as more than just a winery; it’s truly a world-renowned tourism destination. The three-time winner of California State SO SCOTTSDALE! |
SS_94_95Places_Feb16.indd 94
94
Winery of the Year encompasses nearly 40 acres on the east side of Mount Palomar and is home to lush vineyards, the lauded GrapeSeed Spa and traditional hotel rooms in a tower as well as expansive private villas hidden among the vines. In addition to traditional and private tastings, South Coast offers its guests hot air balloon wine experiences, yoga- and spa-themed wine adventures, and regular wine tasting dinners at its Vineyard Rose Restaurant, which is a Wine Spectator and OpenTable award winner.
Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards Not only is Wilson Creek’s award-winning almond Champagne (and other varietals) available for purchase at fine grocery and liquor stores across Arizona, but the picturesque winery has been featured on The Golf Channel and Oprah’s OWN Network. Founded in 2000 by a multigenerational family and still operated by them today, Wilson Creek Winery (www. wilsoncreekwinery.com) has grown from 20 to 70 acres of vineyards, and is always looking to stand out from the pack. Case in point – they offer a white cabernet sauvignon. Still cultivated from red grapes, this lighter version of cabernet offers more fruit-forward flavors. Another point of differentiation is most certainly Wilson Creek Manor (www. wilsoncreekmanor.com). Located directly across the street from the winery, the 12,000-square-foot estate includes eight plush suites, which all have their own private bathrooms and in-room spa tubs. For more information, or to plan your stay in Temecula Valley, visit www.temeculawines.org.
| FEBRUARY 2016
1/25/16 12:47 PM