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TEMECULA VALLEY
( CALIFORNIA )
Known for its diversity of wine , Temecula Valley offers visitors over 50 different varietals , from cabernet sauvignon to sangiovese , chardonnay to viognier , and merlot to tempranillo . The wineries are close enough to one another to make touring convenient , and the climate is perfect for other activities like hotair ballooning and golf on one of the area ’ s scenic courses . As 90 % of Temecula wines are sold direct-to-consumer , visiting is the best way to try wines from this region .
THREE TO TRY :
• Callaway Vineyard & Winery . The first winery to open its doors in Temecula in 1974 , Callaway put the area on the map as a serious wine-producing region . Visitors can learn about the company ’ s history , viticultural practices and winemaking process on a walking tour of the lush estate before sipping an extensive menu of reds , whites , rosés and sparkling wines . At Meritage , the on-site restaurant , guests enjoy meals made from many of the ingredients found in Callaway ’ s own greenhouse and garden .
• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa . Situated on 63 acres of rolling vineyards , South Coast offers award-winning wines , accommodations that include 50 guest suites and 82 villas and a three-story full-service spa . The Vineyard Rose Restaurant , featuring farm-to-table California-style cuisine , makes it possible to have a great time without ever leaving the property . Offering 45 wine labels , the majority of which are available for sampling , the winery is the only four-time winner of the California State Winery of the Year award .
• Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards . Without trying the winery ’ s signature Almond Sparkling Wine , no visit to Wilson Creek is complete . If you ’ re even more adventurous , try the Sparkling Peach Bellini , Orange Mimosa , Coconut Nui , Limoncello or Watermelon . Lunch at the on-property Creekside Grill is a lovely way to while away an afternoon .
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