FOOD & WINE
TEMECULA
Valley Vino Sip your way across this emerging scene By Alison Bailin Batz
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very summer, Valley residents flock to Southern California, often to the beaches across San Diego. Many who visit, however, have no idea they are less than a mile from one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the world. T h e Te m e c u l a Va l l e y American Viticultural Area (AVA) is less than 60 miles north of San Diego’s many oceanfront communities and is already home to approximately 2,500 acres of planted wine grapes. There are more than 40 licensed wineries and 80 growers in the region, each of which names Valley residents as its best customers. New to the wines of Temecula? Here are some sips to get you started this summer, either when visiting California or in the comfort of your own home:
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South Coast 2019 Chardonnay Sans Chêne Aged in stainless steel without oak, do not expect a buttery chardonnay here. Instead, the butter flavor commonly used to describe California chardonnay is replaced with tropical fruits and apples followed by luscious honey and pear notes, then, finally, a kiss of bright citrus. $19.99 Wilson Creek Winery 2021 Roussanne While this i c o n o f Te m ecula is best known for its almo nd c hampagne, this herbal and floral varietal is well worth your time this summer. Refreshing to
the sip, the more tea-like flavors give way to a touch of delightful melon and pear on the palate. $26.99 Cougar Winery 2019 Falanghina Falanghina (pronounced fah-lawn-GHEE-nah) is a take on an ancient grape from Italy, and Cougar was the first winery to get this variety recognized in the United States. It roars on the nose and to the taste with Asian pear, sun-sweetened apple, bright lime and even a touch of zesty pink grapefruit. $28 Carter Estate Winery Blanc de Noir Bubbles are a must this summer, especially these toasty nose ticklers with hints of toffee, nuts, ginger, and even toast and
