Best Time to Visit Temecula Wineries by a Local

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Temecula’s rolling hills and sun-kissed vineyards invite wine lovers and casual sippers alike to discover one of California’s most charming wine regions.

But if you’re wondering about the best time to visit Temecula wineries, you’re in the right place.

From vibrant harvest festivals to serene off-season tastings, each season in Temecula brings its own unique appeal.

In this guide, I’ll help you choose the perfect time to explore Temecula’s wineries based on your preferences—whether that’s bustling crowds and lively events or quiet afternoons among the vines.

Let’s uncork the details and plan your unforgettable Temecula wine adventure. Cheers. 🥂

When is the best time to visit Temecula wineries?

The best time for wine tasting in Temecula is in the fall or spring. Summer tends to be too hot, and winter may bring rain. Winter season in Temecula means reduced hours for wineries and some businesses.

Summer months brings average temperatures typically ranging from the mid-80s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit (about 29-35 degrees Celsius). That’s too warm for drinking wine. 

In the fall, Temecula wineries embark on their grape-harvesting journey. During this period, wineries in the region gather and process grape crops.

The next step is crushing (or, stomping) — think I Love Lucy — destemming, fermentation, aging, and bottling.

Drinking is actually the final step, which is why you’re here in the first place. 🍷

What Are the Best Wineries to Visit in Temecula

Temecula boasts about 50 wineries in the area. 

Hot air ballooning and wine tasting tours are two of the most popular things to do in Temecula for couples or groups of friends.

Below is a list of Temecula’s most popular wineries. It’s not a complete list of Temecula wineries, but these offer some of the best wine tasting in Temecula.

Popular Wineries and Vineyards

Leoness Cellars

At Leoness Cellars, the “Village of Dreams,” you can enjoy an intimate experience by booking a private tasting. 

Here, you will taste six wines chosen by the vintner, accompanied by a charcuterie board and selected library wines upon request.

It offers a beautiful view of Temecula Valley. 

So sit back with a glass of wine; this is a great spot to take in the rolling hills of Temecula Valley.

Address: 38311 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592

Winery Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., • Friday 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., • Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., • Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Reservations are recommended for a large group of 6 or more.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Bolero at Europa Village

Europa Village offers an authentic European experience, specializing in Spanish and Italian wines. 

Bolero, at Europa Village, is a Spanish-influenced winery specializing in bold, vibrant, full-bodied wines.

During your visit, take advantage of their fantastic dining options, such as the Flower Hill Bistro. Their Inn is a unique mission-style country inn where you can spend the night.

Address: 41150 Via Europa, Temecula, CA 92591

Bolero doesn’t take reservations and is seated on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Try the $25 wine-tasting flight of 5 wines or wines by the glass and bottle.

Winery Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last call 5:30 p.m.)

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Fazeli Cellars

Fazeli Cellars is a Persian-influenced winery in Temecula celebrated for its award-winning wines, striking architecture, and delectable Persian cuisine. 

This winery has a diverse selection of over 20 varieties, including popular choices like Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre, Viognier, and Chardonnay.

Address: 37320 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592

Winery Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., • plus Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Dine at Baba Joon’s Kitchen daily from 11 a.m. – to 5 p.m. on a walk-in basis.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Robert Renzoni Vineyards

Rezoni Vineyards boasts many award-winning wines, including their Barbera Reserve, Tra Amici Blend, Barbera, Fiore Di Fano Blend, Petite Syrah, and Blank Di Sangiovese.

Don’t miss their popular restaurant, Mama Rosa’s Trattoria, where you can indulge in delicious Italian cuisine.

You’ll discover a range of artisanal, handcrafted wines at Robert Renzoni Vineyards. 

Visit this hidden gem and experience a delightful mix of exceptional wines and warm hospitality.

BONUS: they have live music regularly 🎶

Address: 37350 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592

Winery Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Reservations are recommended but not required.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Miramonte Winery

Miramonte Winery, located in the heart of wine country, is one of South California’s most respected and award-winning wineries and boasts an elegant ambiance that matches its exquisite wines.

Their outdoor patio provides a relaxing space for sipping wine while enjoying the panoramic views of the vineyards.

Miramonte Winery offers a delightful experience where you can enhance your wine flight by ordering a delectable tomato and fromage board from their on-site bistro.

Alternatively, you can plan your visit for a lively Friday night when live music fills the air and tempts guests onto the dance floor. The tasting room welcomes visitors seven days a week.

With an elevation of 1,400 feet, a fantastic view of the valley can be enjoyed while sipping their award-winning varietals.

Address: 33410 Rancho California Rd., Temecula, CA 92591

Tasting Hours: Mon – Thursdays 11-6, Fridays — Saturdays 11-10, • Sundays: 11-6

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Briar Rose Winery

Briar Rose Winery is the perfect spot for those seeking a unique boutique experience.

The main house where wine tasting takes place looks like a cottage from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. It’s not surprising after you learn that the owner of Briar Rose worked for Disney and helped build Fantasy Land and Toon Town. 

Their passionate staff ensures a memorable visit with delightful wine tasting of award-winning wine collections from Zinfandel to bold reds.

Address: 41720 Calle Cabrillo, Temecula, CA 92592

Reservations are required. Sometimes, same-day reservations are available if it’s a slow weekend in Temecula.

Winery Hours: Friday – Sunday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. (last seating at 4 p.m.), • closed most holidays

Their tasting menu changes, but expect to try wines like Tempranillo, Malbec, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and blends.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Monte De Oro Winery

At Monte De Oro Winery, you can explore their impressive wine collection while dining at the Meritage Restaurant, which offers delectable dishes that perfectly complement their wines.

Monte De Oro is renowned for its 100% estate wines, sourced from its four vineyards spanning over 70 acres, cultivating 12 red grape and five white grape varietals. 

The red wines are thoughtfully barrel-aged for up to 28 months in 100% French Oak, enhancing their vineyards’ unique terroir and grape qualities, while their Zinfandel enjoys the influence of 85% American Oak.

Address: 35820 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591

Winery Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., • Wednesday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Akash Winery

Akash Winery, a labor of love for the Patel family, boasts a sprawling, sun-drenched patio offering picturesque vineyard vistas. 

Established in 2019, it welcomes visitors for tastings and various enjoyable events, including movie nights, comedy shows, and vineyard dinners. They often have live music in the vineyard. 

The tasting room is accessible daily.

Address: 39730 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591

Winery Hours: Monday and Thursday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., • Friday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., • Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Tastings: $30 per person, served at tasting bars.

Special Note: Saturdays are 21+ only, and tastings end at 5 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Bottaia Winery

Bottaia Winery combines modern sophistication with traditional winemaking techniques to create unforgettable wines. This is my favorite on this list. The grounds, pool and winery are truly spectacular – a lovely setting. 

During your visit, experience their innovative tasting options.

Reservations are strongly recommended at this winery, where they offer a range of customizable experiences for guests aged 21 and older. 

Enjoy “Italian-inspired, locally crafted” wines in either the barrel room or on the deck, providing stunning views of the 45-acre estate. 

There’s a guided charcuterie tasting complete with wine pairings and a wine blending lab where attendees can take home their unique creations. 

For a family-friendly experience during the warmer months, they offer a pool, café, and splash pad where you can savor wine and cocktails from your poolside chaise lounge. 

Address: 35601 Rancho California Rd., Temecula, CA 92591

Tastings: The tasting room welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday between noon and 6 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Churon Winery

Churon Winery, a charming winery with beautiful architecture, offers a variety of wines while marveling at its stunning surroundings.

Renowned for its exceptional wines, stunning vistas, and opulent lodging options, it’s a true gem in the region.

Address: 33233 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591

Winery Hours: Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last call 4:30 p.m.), • Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last tasting 5 p.m. and last call 5:30 p.m.), • Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last call 4:30)

Tasting flights, glasses, and bottles of wine are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless your group has six or more people, then you need a reservation.

They play live music on Saturdays from 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Falkner Winery

Falkner Winery is another excellent destination for wine enthusiasts.

This vineyard has been around for 35-plus years, but they have a brand new facility that opened a few years ago. 

When planning your Temecula wine tasting itinerary, start at Falkner, one of the few wineries which opens early at 10:00 a.m. 

Address: 40620 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591

Purchase their $50 per person VIP Wine Tasting Experience, including a short tour of the facility to see the winemaking process, a souvenir wine glass, and six wine tastings. That’s a great deal. Touring at least one winery is required when wine-tasting. 

Winery Hours: Falkner Winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

best time to visit temecula wineries

Lorenzi Estate Wines

Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Wines offers a wide array of meticulously crafted wines. Most of the wines on their tasting flight are reds, my favorite. 

The buildings here are stunning, and so is the outside area where you can order food and taste wine. 

Address: 36095 Monte De Oro Road, Temecula, CA 92592

Lorenzi Estate is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily for wine tasting indoors and outdoors.

Their wine tastings are $30 per person, and you can expect to spend about an hour here.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Altísima Winery

The Altísima Winery captivates with its contemporary Spanish ambiance, featuring a sleek, angular tasting room adorned with elegant black chandeliers.

In a collaboration, eight Temecula families unite to celebrate their Spanish heritage and the region’s unique terroir.

Visit for a tasting experience, available every day, and afterward, indulge in delectable tapas at the in-house Gaspar’s Restaurant.

Along with their remarkable wines, you can unwind at their 1909 bar and enjoy the friendly atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the valley.

Address: 37440 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592

Winery Hours: Monday – Thursdays – Tasting Room, Restaurant, & Members Lounge: 11 – 5 p.m., • Tuesday -Tasting Room & Members Lounge: 11 – 5 p.m., Restaurant: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Tapas Tuesday Event: 4 p.m.-8 p.m. on lawn & restaurant patio. • Friday -Sunday –Tasting Room, Restaurant, & Members Lounge: 11 – 6 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Longshadow Ranch Vineyard and Winery 

Longshadow Ranch Winery is the setting for “Bonfire Saturday Nights” with its laid-back and down-home vibe. This winery entertains the whole family with award-winning wines, carriage rides, and live music.

Secure a table and relish a glass of their house cinsault or syrah while delighting in live music, a crackling fire, and delectable snacks from a food truck. 

On the ranch, you’ll find an array of animals, including Belgian horses, llamas, and rescue animals in their petting zoo.

During a daytime tasting, you can even interact with these friendly creatures. 

Address: 39847 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591

Tasting Hours: The tasting room is at your service every day. Sunday- Friday 12:00- 5:00 p.m. • Saturday 12:00–8:30 p.m.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Temecula Wine Tours

Temecula wines are award-winning. The cool air coming from the Pacific makes the area the perfect environment for producing great wines.

Temecula wines are award-winning. The cool air coming from the Pacific makes the area the perfect environment for producing great wines.

Many wine tours are available in the region, like the Temecula Cable Car Wine Tour.

Click here for more tour ideas.

Booking a wine tour is a good option when wine tasting is involved because you don’t have to worry about transportation from vineyard to vineyard.

In Temecula, it’s not possible to walk from winery to winery; they’re simply too far apart to make walking conducive.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Best Times to Visit: Weather in Temecula

The first thing to consider is the weather. The best time of year to visit Temecula is in spring and fall.

You want to enjoy the lush vineyards in their prime — spring or during Harvest Season — fall.

Wine lovers tend to visit Temecula during the fall season.  

The hottest months in Temecula are August, September, and July — too hot for wine tasting, and winter brings a higher chance of rain. 

Temecula’s spring and fall seasons not only provide perfect weather for exploring the vineyards but also offer an opportunity to witness a magical sight— a hot air balloon! 

The mild morning temperatures and gentle winds make it an ideal time for a sunrise hot air balloon ride. 

Imagine floating above the vineyards, witnessing the winemakers at work, and taking in the breathtaking views of California’s wine country.

What is the best day of the week for the best Temecula wine tasting?

When planning your trip, it’s also important to consider the day of the week. 

Weekends usually see more visitors at the wineries, while weekdays tend to be quieter. 

If you prefer smaller crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, visiting during the week may be the best option.

After a day exploring the best Temecula wineries, you can relax and unwind in the evenings, experiencing the cool night breezes that gently sweep through the valley from the Pacific Ocean.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Where is Temecula?

Temecula is in Southern California, roughly midway between Los Angeles and San Diego. Here’s the approximate distance and direction from Temecula to both cities:

• Temecula to Los Angeles: Temecula is situated to the southeast of Los Angeles. The distance between Temecula and downtown Los Angeles is approximately 80 to 90 miles (about 129 to 145 kilometers), depending on your specific starting and ending points. The drive usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Temecula to San Diego: Temecula is to the north of San Diego. The distance from Temecula to downtown San Diego is approximately 60 to 70 miles (about 97 to 113 kilometers), and the drive typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Temecula Map

Temecula’s location makes it a convenient getaway for both Los Angeles and San Diego residents and a popular destination for tourists looking to explore Southern California’s wine country and enjoy its various attractions.

Staying in Temecula is a great place from which to visit Southern California’s major cities.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

Where to Stay In Temecula

When planning your trip to Temecula, it’s essential to consider the best time to visit and where to stay.

The busiest month for tourism in Temecula Valley Wine Country is August, June, and May.

⭐️If you’re looking to visit during these popular months, be sure to make your reservations well in advance to get the best deals on accommodations. ⭐️

There are plenty of options for accommodations in Temecula, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

One highly recommended option is the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, which offers an array of amenities, easy access to local attractions, and a relaxing on-site spa.

Some other great places to stay in Temecula include:

• Inn at Churon Winery: Best luxury hotel
• Temecula Creek Inn: Ideal for families
• Hampton Inn & Suites: Perfect for business travelers
• Ponte Vineyard Inn: A charming boutique hotel

The busiest month for tourism in Temecula Valley is August, June, and May.

Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance.

Tourists are unlikely to visit Temecula Valley Wine Country in November. Those who visit at these times likely find it the least expensive month.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

The Best Time to Visit Temecula Wineries: Frequently Asked Questions

What month is best for visiting Temecula wineries?

The best time to visit Temecula wineries is in the fall, which is harvest season. The weather is perfect and the grapes are fresh.

Are Temecula wineries worth visiting?

Yes, Temecula wineries are worth visiting. The Temecula Valley stands out as one of California’s most enchanting regions to discover.

When you embark on a wine tasting tours or a hot air balloon tour, you’re treated to an enchanting exploration of the entire valley and its captivating scenery and beauty.

These tours commence in Temecula and typically span from three hours to a half day, allowing you to immerse yourself in the valley’s scenic beauty and charm.

What time is wine tasting in Temecula?

Some wineries, like Falkner, open as early as 10:00 a.m. Most wineries open around 11:00 a.m.

When is the best season to tour Temecula wineries?

The ideal time to visit Temecula wineries is in the fall or spring, as this period offers great weather for wine tasting. 

During these months, temperatures and humidity are generally moderate, ensuring a pleasant experience while exploring the wineries.

What are the peak hours for wine tasting?

Most wineries are open daily and usually welcome visitors from late morning to early evening. 

Peak hours for wine tasting typically occur on weekends, with crowds being smaller on weekdays. 

To avoid the busiest times, consider planning your visit on a weekday, early in the day, or during slower seasons.

How many days do you need in Temecula?

The number of days for your Temecula trip depends on your preferences and how many wineries you want to visit. 

A day trip can give you a taste of the region, but spending 2 to 3 days allows you to fully explore the area and enjoy multiple wineries without feeling rushed.

What is the best day to go to a winery?

Weekdays are generally better for visiting wineries, as crowds tend to be smaller than weekends. This allows for a more relaxed atmosphere and greater interaction with the pourer. 

However, if weekends are your only available time, just be prepared for larger crowds and potentially longer waits at popular wineries.

What is the ideal weather for a winery tour?

The ideal weather for a winery tour is warm, sunny, and dry, with moderate temperatures and low humidity. 

This type of weather, most common between March and May and between September and October in Temecula Valley, provides a comfortable environment for walking through vineyards and enjoying outdoor tastings.

Do wine festivals impact the best time to visit?

Wine festivals can impact the best time to visit Temecula wineries. Festivals typically bring larger crowds, leading to a busier experience. 

If you want to avoid crowded wineries, check the event calendar for the region before planning your trip, and consider visiting outside of the festival periods. 

However, if you enjoy the festive atmosphere and want to participate in special events, a wine festival might be a great addition to your visit.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TEMECULA WINERIES

The Wrap-Up: Best Time to Visit Temecula Wineries

Temecula is Southern California’s best-kept secret. It doesn’t get the attention that larger wine regions, like Napa, get.

It’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway to enjoy a casual tasting at the many local wineries.

Temecula Valley Wine Country offers cool nights, quality wines, pleasant weather, and fun outdoor activities.

Some of the best things to do in the Temecula wine region are visiting the many stunning vineyards and flying over them in a hot air balloon ride. And the best time of the year to experience this lovely gem is spring and fall.

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