The hIDDeN VINe
Falling into festivities
DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS OF TEMECULA’S WINE COUNTRY
Front Page Photo Credit: Paige Creative, Peltzer Pumpkin Farm, Peltzer Winery
Editor’s Letter
Dear Reader,
As the nights get shorter and the weather grows colder, a new era is upon us.
It’s quite difficult to articulate, but we can feel it all the same. Perhaps it’s the changing leaves or something more practical like the new businesses coming to town. Whatever it is, it’s here and it is exciting.
I’ve been hearing chatter about it; small whispers that describe a new energy that seems to be positively shifting the hearts and minds of the people in the Valley.
I’ve seen it, too. In the way we do business with one another. In the way that we’ve been supporting each other. In the way that we seem to put others before ourselves.
This is certainly nothing new, but for some strange reason, the feeling seems to be running much deeper and much further.
As I flip through the pages of this issue, it is all too clear. the love, the compassion, the desire for shared growth and expansion. What’s beautiful is that it was sheer happenstance that created this.
Or perhaps it truly is the hidden vine at work; the magical connector that brings us all together.
So, as Autumn falls upon us, I ask that you allow this vine to be your tether to all things beautiful, powerful, and positively magical.
Happy reading!
Yours truly,
~Porsché Mysticque Steele
Who We Are
b R ian l E ma R
Founder & Publishing Director
po R schÉ mysti c qu E st EE l E editor-in-Chief
JE nny zulbaata R
Head of Business Development
h E ath ER tuck ER
Graphic Designer
E lb ER n F. calv ER t senior staff Writer
micha E l ang E lo chav E z
Photography/Videography
natali E piga
Photography / Events
kol E w E b ER
social Media specialist
masao st EE l E
video editor
Romel Arreola Sanchez
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Spotlight
ple, moments, and memories. As Jenay puts it, “We get to be a part of everyone’s favorite parts of their lives—weddings, birthdays, gender reveals. It’s such a blessing and such an honor to be able to do all that through cake and sweets.”
Her love for baking started early, at the tender age of 11, when she sold her very first recipe—a batch of lemon bars—to a fine dining restaurant in Dallas, her hometown. With a mischievous grin, Jenay recalls her brother’s playful tease: “He says I peaked at 11,” she laughs, “but we’re still here.”
Indeed, they are. Those lemon bars, with their crisp shortbread crust and tangy, zest-packed lemon filling, were the foundation upon which their bakery was built. LemonBar Bakery has since evolved far beyond those humble beginnings.
6 | thE hiDDEn vinE
LemONBAr BAkery
Meet Jenay and Isaac Fox
When you first meet her, Jenay Fox’s calm and peaceful demeanor might make you believe she’s somewhat shy, but when she begins to talk about her passion—baking— it’s as though her entire being lights up.
Standing on the small bridge at Temecula’s Duck Pond next to her husband, Isaac, she clutches her hands lightly in front of her, an energized smile flickering across her face. She’s donned a chef’s coat, her uniform of mastery, while Isaac, a more blue-collar kind of guy, in a white button-up with the sleeves rolled up, shares her enthusiasm. Together, they are the heart and soul of LemonBar Bakery, a humble yet luxurious dessert haven in Temecula.
LemonBar Bakery isn’t just about sweets—it’s about peo-
Spotlight
LemONBAr BAkery
Today, their expertise spans luxury wedding cakes and gourmet pastries, catering to clients like professional athletes and celebrities, all while still supplying local coffee shops like Press espresso with other delicacies. Isaac looks over at Jenay, unmistakable pride beaming from his eyes and smile. He pushes his hair out of his face as he explains how he handles the business side of things. “I’ve handled a lot of our business administration,” he says, grinning as he speaks. But his role is far more than paperwork. He’s the one who consults with clients and meets with city officials, ensuring that LemonBar is a cornerstone in the Temecula community. His partnership with Jenay goes beyond their marriage—it’s the perfect blend of personal and professional harmony. “What do you love most about working with Isaac?”
we ask Jenay, and her smile softens. “It’s a privilege to work alongside your life partner,” she says. “We already complement each other in our personal lives, and that just naturally carries over into the business. I wouldn’t choose to do this with anyone else.”
Their bond is evident, not just in the way they speak about each other, but in the way they work together. Isaac may handle the business, but Jenay commands the kitchen, each respecting the other’s strengths. their mutual respect and shared vision for LemonBar are what make this bakery truly unique.
Another thing that sets LemonBar apart is their relentless commitment to quality and craftsmanship. In an era when shortcuts and artificial ingredients are becoming the norm, Jenay and Isaac have taken the road less traveled, handcrafting each item with real, locally sourced ingredients. “We were in San Diego for a while, and when we came to Temecula, we made it a priority to connect with local farms,” isaac explains, his voice elevated and more stern. it was clear that he and Jenay insist on remaining steadfast in
LemONBAr BAkery
their principles.
“We believe that food ties people together, and we wanted to build a community around that.”
He looks over at Jenay who nods in agreement.
Their cakes are made entirely from scratch—no boxed mixes, no shortening, no pre-made buttercream. “It’s tempting to cut corners, especially with inflation,” Jenay admits. “But knowing our clients can taste the difference makes it all worth it.” This unwavering integrity is not lost on their customers, many of whom return time and again, the Hidden vine team included, not just for the cakes but for the experience LemonBar offers.
When asked what they hope people take
Spotlight
away from their bakery, Isaac answers with a sentiment that seems to encapsulate everything the bakery stands for: “People above product,” he says firmly. “Yes, we’re setting out to make the best cake you’ve ever had, but what matters more is the people. We want to honor them in the most important moments of their lives.”
in that moment, it becomes clear that LemonBar Bakery is more than a business. it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and Jenay & isaac’s desire to make a difference in their community. As they continue to grow their business, they do so with a focus on connection—one cake, one pastry, and one unforgettable moment at a time.
Check out LemonBar Bakery at lemonbarbakery.com and follow them on instagram at @ lemonbar.bakery.
All orders can be placed via IG or email at inquiries @lemonbarbakery.com Or via phone at 951-514-5372
LOVe LeTTer TO Temecula
Dear temecula,
Twenty years ago, I left San Diego searching for peace and found a home in you. From the first drive through your sun-kissed vineyards and rolling hills, I knew I had found something special. Your beauty is undeniable, but it’s the warmth of your people that has truly captured my heart.
In these two decades, I’ve watched you grow, yet you’ve held onto that small-town charm that makes everyone feel welcome. I’ve strolled through Old Town countless times, each visit reminding me of the history and heart that runs through your veins. I’ve seen children grow, families blossom, and friendships deepen, all under your golden skies.
There’s a spirit here that’s hard to put into words—a sense of belonging that wraps around you like a comforting embrace. It’s in the friendly smiles of strangers, the laughter at summer concerts, and the quiet peace of your starlit nights.
Temecula, you’ve been more than just a city to me. You’ve been my sanctuary, my joy, my true home. Thank you for twenty wonderful years, and here’s to the many more memories we’ll create together.
With all my love,
- eVeLyN GrACe
Hidden Gem
rOse hAVeN
herITAGe GArDeN
Did you know we have a three-and-a-half-acre rose garden right here in Temecula, California?
this hidden oasis captivates the senses and soothes the soul. the Rose Haven Heritage Garden stands as a testament to nature’s artistry and the dedication of local rose enthusiasts.
As you step through the white wood fence enclosing this botanical treasure, you’re immediately enveloped by a tapestry of colors and fragrances. Over 2,000 roses of various varieties paint the landscape, from elegant hybrid teas to charming miniatures, each bloom telling its own story.
The garden, lovingly tended by the Temecula Valley Rose Society since 1991, offers more than just a visual feast. Winding pathways invite visitors to explore, leading to unexpected delights around every corner. Quaint gazebos and benches provide perfect spots for quiet contemplation or intimate conver-
sations amidst the floral splendor.
At the heart of the garden, a serene pond with a gentle water feature adds a soothing soundtrack to the experience. Here, vibrant koi fish glide through the waters, adding another layer of life to this already thriving ecosystem.
Rose Haven isn’t just a place of beauty; it’s a living classroom. The society hosts workshops in January and February, sharing their expertise on pruning, fertilizing, and garden maintenance with the public.
For many locals, the garden holds a special place in their hearts. it has been the backdrop for countless
prom and homecoming photos, weaving itself into the fabric of Temecula’s community memories. Yet, it remains a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by visitors and rediscovered by residents alike.
Open from sunrise to sunset, Rose Haven Heritage Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own garden, a tranquil spot for a picnic, or simply a moment of beauty in your day, this floral haven delivers in abundance. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most precious gems are those hidden in plain sight, waiting for us to take a moment to stop and smell the roses.
Discover this hidden gem yourself at 30592 Jedediah Smith Rd, Temecula.
Spotlight
Some clients need her because they feel overwhelmed by sentimental attachments to their belongings. Others might struggle with conditions like ADHD or depression that make organization an insurmountable task. No matter the reason, Stacy’s approach is always the same: calm, patient, and deeply empathetic.
“Your home should serve you,” she explains. Her legs are crossed and she sits shifted to the side, fully comfortable in her space. With a single sentence and a small wink, Stacy sums it all up, “The objects in your home should serve you, not the other way around.” Her method is practical, but her impact is emotional. Stacy isn’t just organizing things; she’s helping people regain control of their lives. “I’ve had clients in tears at the end of a session,” she shares, her voice softening. “When they see the transformation, it’s more than just about the physical space. It’s about a weight being lifted off their shoulders. That’s what’s really special.”
sTACy mAPLeTON
Transform Your Space and Mindset with Stacy
When you meet Stacy Mapleton, you instantly feel a sense of calm. It’s not just the way she carries herself with quiet confidence, but it’s the warmth in her smile and the ease with which she speaks about something many of us struggle with: the clutter in our homes and lives.
Stacy is the founder of Stacy Sorts, a personal organizing company, where she turns chaos into calm, one space at a time. But what makes Stacy remarkable isn’t just her knack for organization; it’s the heart and passion behind her work. “I help people get their homes in order,” Stacy said with an understated tone, sitting in her beautifully curated living room looking as if it were pulled right from an HGtv set. It might sound simple, but for her clients, it’s life-changing. Every project is unique, whether it’s a busy parent drowning in toys and paperwork, or a cluttered office where employees are buried under folders, papers, and more. Stacy understands that a cluttered space can represent deeper challenges—mental, emotional, or physical.
Her passion for organizing didn’t come from years of planning or a childhood dream, though looking back, there were hints. As a kid, Stacy was known for making lists—lots of lists. She laughs now, remembering how she would dump out her penny jar and sort the coins by year, lining them up in perfect grids.
“I was probably a little odd,” she says, laughing as she scratches her eyebrow, showing slight embarrassment. “But I’ve always been this way.”
it wasn’t until 2020, during the pandemic, that she decided to turn her love for order into a business.
Spotlight sTACy mAPLeTON
“I was ready for a change,” she said, recalling how she had worked with her husband, Shinoo, at his small business for over a decade. With her youngest child finishing high school, Stacy found herself in a transitional moment. That’s when she stumbled upon Get Organized with The Home Edit on Netflix, a show that would unknowingly spark her next chapter. “A light bulb went off,” she says. “I realized I was good at this—and it looked like so much fun.”
Three months later, Stacy Sorts was born.
In the early days, her husband Shinoo helped with the marketing and logistics—websites, logos, and business cards— while Stacy dove deep into the world of organizing. She read every book she could find and honed her skills, all while raising their three daughters. Today, her business is thriving, and Stacy lights up when she talks about the joy she finds in her work.
But it’s not just about tidying up a space or adding labels to bins (although she’s quick to admit she loves the satisfaction of a well-placed label). For Stacy, the most rewarding part is knowing that her work brings peace to her clients’ lives. She helps them reconnect with their homes in a way that brings joy and functionality back into the everyday. One particularly touching story she shared involved a client who had been struggling with a playroom overrun by toys. The room had become a symbol of stress and frustration for the parents, who didn’t even know where to begin. Stacy came in, asked pertinent questions, categorized the chaos into manageable piles, and created functional zones that made sense for their lives. By the end, the parents were emotional, realizing how much lighter they felt now that the room served their family’s needs again.
For Stacy, stories like this are what drive her. “It’s more than just putting things away,” she explains. “It’s about creating a space where people can live and breathe again.” Whether she’s working with a business to streamline their office or helping a family reclaim their living space, Stacy’s goal is always the same: to make life easier, less stressful, and more functional. And she’s just as passionate about it today as she was when she started. “You’re never too late to start something new,” Stacy says, reflecting on her journey. “I never thought I’d find a passion like this in my career, but here I am.”
For anyone looking to bring order to their lives, Stacy is ready with her heart and expertise in hand, ensuring that every home she touches becomes a sanctuary of calm and efficiency.
Jenny ZuLbAATAR
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T he re S ulTS are I n...
Which annual event in Temecula do you look forward to the most?
30%
We have a three-way tie for the winners! the temecula Rod Run, CRUSH Wine & Culinary Showcase and the Temecula Bluegrass Festival all came in at 30%, while the temecula Balloon & Wine festival came in at 10%.
this poll’s qu E stion:
If you could design the ultimate Temecula home, which unique feature would you choose?
options
q A Rooftop Garden Oasis
q An indoor Wine Cellar
q A secret Reading Nook
q A Home theater with vintage Charm
Scan here to vote
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Bluegrass Festival Temecula Rod Run
CRUSH Wine & Culinary Balloon & Wine Festival
T EMECULA V ALLEY W INE C OUNTRY
Spotlight
at the prestigious Hotel Del Coronado. it was there that his passion for oenology was truly ignited, as he was exposed to the world’s most celebrated vintages. This experience sparked an almost obsessive passion for wine, leading him to become what he fondly refers to as a “wine geek.”
Yet, Johnny’s ambitions extended far beyond simply being a wine connoisseur. He yearned to create something of his own. Call it the hustler’s mentality or sheer grit and ambition, but when the opportunity presented itself as Johnny stumbled upon the picturesque property that would become Oak Mountain Winery, he jumped at the chance. From the moment he laid eyes on the sweeping vistas and lush vineyards, he knew this was his destiny.
“When I was looking for a property to purchase here in Temecula, I was looking for a winery that had a few
JOhNNy LeON
The Visionary Behind oak Mountain Winery
As the sun dipped below the rolling hills of Temecula, casting a warm glow over the sprawling vineyards, Johnny Leon stood tall, surveying his kingdom. This was his dream realized - a winery that not only produced award-winning wines, but one that offered an unparalleled experience for all who stepped foot on the property.
Born and raised in the modest suburbs of Chula Vista, Johnny had always possessed an insatiable thirst - not just for fine wine, but for life itself. As a young man, he cut his teeth in the hospitality industry, honing his skills
JOhNNy LeON
things,” Johnny recalled, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “It had to have beautiful views, it had to have good food, but most importantly, had to have great wine. And when I was looking at the property, I found all three. But actually I found much, much more.”
Johnny made a sweeping motion seemingly unveiling the beauty of Oak Mountain as he moved. He paused as his eyes rested on the balcony behind us. In that moment, it was clear that what he found was not just a winery, but a canvas upon which he could paint his vision.
Armed with a lifetime of experience and the unwav-
Spotlight
ering support of his family, he set to work, meticulously crafting every aspect of the winery to reflect his unique perspective.
the true driving force behind Johnny’s success, however, was not his passion for wine, but rather the relentless pursuit of his dreams - a trait instilled in him by his mother from a young age.
“My mom was always kicking my butt to do more. Don’t be okay with mediocrity,” he recalled, a wistful smile playing on his lips.
Momma definitely knew best! It was this unyielding determination that propelled Johnny through the challenges that inevitably surfaced during the winery’s development. from navigating the complex regulations to assembling a team of skilled artisans, each obstacle was met with the suave confidence that Johnny is known for.
When the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to derail his dreams, he refused to be deterred.
“Covid was the one that actually put me
Spotlight JOhNNy LeON
over the edge. But I said, ‘Okay, it’s time to do something if we survive this. This is not going to be a life-ending situation. We have so much work to do.’ And that really was a game changer for me,” he explained.
He frowned slightly at that memory, his voice hinting at a sense of urgency.
With the pandemic raging on, Johnny poured his heart and soul into transforming Oak Mountain Winery into a true oasis - a place where visitors could escape the stresses of the outside world and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences he had meticulously curated. From the moment guests step foot on the property, they are transported to a world of pure indulgence. Johnny has grand plans too!
“I’m going to be expanding the distillery and expanding the pavilion to be able to look at that epic view back there. It’s going to be open-concept and multi-tiered,
so you’ll be able to sit there, enjoy drinking a glass of wine, and look at that gorgeous view. i’m excited,” he shared with a beaming smile.
But it’s not just the physical growth of Oak Mountain that excites Johnny—it’s the stories the winery continues to create. from selling his first $1,000 bottle of wine to helping customers celebrate life’s milestones, Johnny is constantly reminded of why he chose this path. Perhaps one of the most touching moments in Johnny’s career was when his father visited Oak Mountain Winery for the first time. His father, who had once worked the fields picking grapes, now stood in awe at the sight of his son’s flourishing vineyard. “He had tears in his eyes,” Johnny remembers. “To see him look at this place and know the journey we’ve both been on—it was incredible. It felt like everything had come full circle.”
it was clear that, for him, it’s not just about the wine; it’s about the experience, the joy, and the memories created with every sip.
If you want to create a memory of your own, visit Oak Mountain Winery at 36522 Vía Verde Temecula, CA 92592
What Are We Eating?
PIzzA CON PesTO DI PIsTACChIO - eUrOPA WINery
They say there are five taste qualities of food; sweet, salty, savory, bitter, and umami. By some miraculous twist of fate brought on by the food gods, the Pizza Con Pesto Di Pistacchio at Mercato di Vienza in Europa Winery hits ‘em all at once!
It may have a fancy name (that’s incredibly fun to say), but at the end of the day, you’ve got pistachio pesto, italian sausage, pepperoncini, local honey, and a crazy cheese blend that makes this pizza quite unique. if Leonardo DaVinci were a pizza maker, he’d probably make this one.
Let me break it down for you…
At first glance, the white and green theme of the pizza seemingly brightens your view as the flecks of green from the pepperoncini sparkle against the golden splashes of honey all resting atop a bed of mozzarella and other cheeses.
From the first bite, the saltiness from the cheese along with the Italian sausage ignites your taste buds. Then in jumps the pistachio pesto that somehow dances with the sausage to create a double umami taste causing a lingering savoriness. If you’re lucky enough to get a pepperoncini within the first bite, you’ll feel the spark of vinegar and spice that hits you right in the glands.
It isn’t until the tinge in the back of your throat subsides that you get the final taste of sweetness from the honey, completing the mouthwatering journey.
If your mouth is watering just by reading this, go and grab you a box of the Pizza Con Pesto Di pistacchio at Europa today!
Spotlight The hIDDeN VINe LAUNCh PArTy
The Hidden Vine Publication’s launch event was an unforgettable celebration, full of energy, connection, and community spirit. We were thrilled to welcome so many guests, business partners, and supporters who came out to experience the unveiling of our vision. Oak Mountain Winery was buzzing with excitement as attendees networked, exchanged ideas, and learned more about what The Hidden Vine stands for.
From the live music brought to us by DJ Prophet and DJ Okzay and pianist Sebastian sidi, to the curated desserts gifted by LemonBar Bakery, delicious gourmet pudding by PUDN, and savory dishes by Tisoy Currytive Cuisines, every detail was
Photography by Natalie Piga, So Reel Photo Booth
The hIDDeN VINe LAUNCh PArTy
designed to reflect our publication’s essence—celebrating local businesses, community culture, and excellence in storytelling. We had the pleasure of showcasing one of our incredible featured spotlights, Jonathan Montanez from the September issue along with sharing powerful nuggets as it pertains to business growth and visibility. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we couldn’t be happier!
The hIDDeN VINe LAUNCh PArTy
A special thank you to everyone who made this event a success! To our loyal sponsors, Temecula Wine Society, LemonBar Bakery, and Oak Mountain Winery, featured businesses, and all who attended—your presence truly made this evening special, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. The Hidden Vine is just beginning.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @hiddenvinepublication to catch all the news and fun around Temecula and be the first to get the sneak peek at our upcoming issues. Want
Community sPOTLIGhT NOmINee
Congratulations to rebecca hill of Toto loan processing!
“Rebecca has changed my life and she doesn’t even know it. The very first conversation we had was about her finding out what I needed. At the time, all i needed was a listening ear and a referral and she immediately gave me both without hesitating. I never understood why she took so much time out of her day to talk to me, but she did. Thanks to the referral, I was able to get a much-needed job done. But it was her listening ear that gave me the peace I so desperately needed.”
~Anonyomous
Scan here to nominate a business
eVeNTs IN OCTOBer Temecula
kol E w E b ER upcoming p ERF o R manc E s
Wednesday, Oct 30th @ 5-8pm bolero Restaurant in Europa Village
Friday, Nov 1st @ 4-8pm Carter Estates
p sychic s kills w o R kshop“ c lai R - sE nti E nc E ” at b liss cRystals
Saturday, Oct 19th @ 9:30am Bliss Crystals 40466 Winchester Rd, Temecula
th E conn E ct hallow EE n
pa R ty
Oct 24th @ 6pm Oak Mountain Winery 36522 Vía Verde Temecula, CA 92592
pE ltz ER p umpkin Fa R m Sept 23rd - Oct 31st Peltzer Winery
b ig h o R s E c o R n m az E & p umpkin
patch
Oct 1st - Oct 31
Big Horse Feed & Mercantile
h allow EE n c a R nival
Friday, Oct 25th @ 5:30pm-8:30pm Civic Center 41000 Main St. Temecula, CA 92590 Bring your family and friends for an evening of skele-fun!
tE m E cula b ooz E an D b oos t ou R Aug 29 - Nov 9 Be Good Restaurant
h allow EE n pa R ty
Friday, Oct 25th @ 6:30pm Lorimar Vineyards & Winery 39990 Anza Road
h allowin E pa R ty
Oct 26th @ 7pm Peltzer Winery 40275 Calle Contento
Scan for more events
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