NEW ADVENTURES
Southern (California) Comfort Temecula emerging as a preeminent SoCal sojourn By Alison Bailin Batz
P
aradise—when it’s safe—awaits in one of Southern California’s hidden gems: Temecula. Located just an hour from San Diego, Temecula is the largest winegrowing region in California’s South Coast. It is particularly well suited to growing syrah, sangiovese, viognier, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, zinfandel and tempranillo; however, more than two dozen varieties thrive in the region. Altogether, Temecula boasts more than 40 wineries and 80 winegrowers, as well as other attractions, high-end dining and—of course—amazing tasting tours.
Accommodations
One of the ways to do Temecula right is by renting a home or manor in the heart of wine country. Temecula Vacation Rentals (TVR) is among the top options in the area, with six premiere properties able to accommodate from 10 to 24 guests, not to mention cozy condos and other specialty spaces available based on needs, wants and date. TVR’s most fabulous property is Wilson Creek Manor. And if the name Wilson Creek sounds familiar to Valley wine lov-
The Wiens family not only has a bustling tasting room, they have their own brewery as well. (Photo courtesy the Wiens family)
ers, it should. Not only is Wilson Creek’s award-winning almond champagne (and now other varietals) available for purchase across Arizona, but the picturesque winery has been featured on “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” “Blind Date,” The Golf Channel and Oprah’s OWN Network. Rumor has it Mario Lopez has been known Carter Estate offers sky-high tours.
(Photo courtesy Carter Hospitality Group)
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to show up from time to time for a game or two of bocce ball at the winery’s on-site court as well. Located directly across the street from the famed winery, the 12,000-square-foot estate sleeps up to 24 guests and features 10 well-appointed bedrooms—including a 1,600-square-foot master suite—11 bathrooms, a game room, private outdoor pool and spa, barbecue, gazebo, workout area, basketball court, commercial-grade kitchen and more. For smaller groups, notable options include the Sangiovese Estate—sleeping up to 14 and with its own putting green, home theater and game room—the Palazzo Del Sol Estate—also sleeping 14 and with nearly unrivaled mountain views—and the Meritage House—sleeping 10 and with its own grapefruit grove. The prices vary based on property and season but can often be less than $60 a day per person, making it one of the sneaky best deals in California in addition to one of the chicest. There are also a dozen TVR packages, which provide excursions, meals, wine tastings and other curated experiences. temeculavacationrentals.com
