My Favorite Temecula Wineries

Temecula is the official Southern California Wine Country. This location is near and dear to my heart because it’s where my family has celebrated several birthdays and where my husband and I got engaged. There are close to 50 wineries in Temecula and even if you’ve been there before, it can be quite overwhelming to figure out where to go. I’ve made the mistake of trying to cram too many wineries into one day, and immediately regretted not being able to truly hit pause and be present. From that experience, I’ve learned not to commit to more than 3 per day. It also helps when you're planning a visit to narrow down the options in advance, so to help I’m going to share with you some of my personal favorites. Please note I am not a wine connoisseur and some of the locations selected are my favorite because of views, vibes or other non-wine variables. Make sure you check out Everything you need to know to plan a trip to Temecula.

Views from Southcoast Winery

5. South Coast

The South Coast Winery is the ideal destination for kicking off your wine tasting tour in Temecula. The brunch at Vineyard Rose Restaurant has some really tasty options and the bananas foster pancakes are absolutely delicious. At the front of the property are arches covered in vines and flowers that make a perfect backdrop.

Walking up to the Briar Rose Winery entrance

4. Briar Rose Winery

The Briar Rose Winery Is a replica of the Disney Snow White’s cottage. Back in the 1970’s, Beldon Fields purchased land in Temecula and built replicas for his wife. Beldon worked for Walt Disney and was one of many imagineers who built Disneyland’s Fantasyland and Toon Town. The stop is a must see for Disney fans. The cottages are super cute and the tasting tour includes the history of the replicas and all the various nods to Disney.

A Doffo wine and the scenery behind the glass

3. Doffo

The Doffo Winery is perched at the top of a hill overlooking other vineyards and valleys. This winery has some of the best views of Temecula. The owner of this winery has been collecting rare and vintage motorcycles which you can also experience in the MotoBarrel Room. The collection has over 200 motorcycles and scooters. The food options are limited but sometimes they have food trucks available. The tastings here can also be a bit on the pricey side.

Entrance to Wilson Creek featuring a long walk through vineyards

2. Wilson Creek

Wilson Creek is probably one of the most popular and recognizable brands in Temecula. Their Almond Sparkling Wine is a must try. Wilson Creek Winery is easily at the top of my must visit in Temecula list. It’s great for first time wine tasters because there are so many flavor options including a large variety of sweet and sparkling wines. Make sure while you’re here you ask a staff member to mix a special wine cocktail for you.

Vineyard views from the Leoness

1 Leoness

Leoness Winery is my personal favorite of all wineries I’ve been to in Temecula. The grounds are beautiful and the photo opportunities are endless. The seasonal food at The Restaurant is delectable and pairs perfectly with their wines. I struggle not to buy everything in the gift shop because it’s all so cute. My last few visits there were live performers outdoors and the ambience was perfect.

These are my top 5 favorite wineries in Temecula. Hopefully you get a chance to visit all of them and come back to tell me what you thought. If your favorite didn’t make it on the list, let me know what your must visit winery is. Also sign up now to get a free copy of my Perfect Day In Temecula Itinerary