City Guide
Top Wineries in the Temecula Valley
BY : NICHOLE NAOUM
Each year , California produces more than 17 million gallons of wine , accounting for nearly 90 % of all American wine production . While wine aficionados often imagine Napa Valley and Sonoma County when they think of world-class wineries , Temecula Valley ’ s mild Mediterranean climate and unique setting between the desert and the ocean makes it one of the most beloved winemaking regions in the country . Here are the top eight Temecula wineries that should be on every wine lover ’ s radar :
1 .
HALTER RANCH One of Temecula Valley ’ s oldest wineries , founded in 1980 by Joe and Nancy Hart and now rebranded as Halter Ranch Wine Club . Situated 1,500 feet above sea level with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys
Halter Ranch below , this family-run winery is well-stocked with a wide selection of delicious estate-produced wines , including Sauvignon Blanc , Roussanne , Cabernet Franc , Cabernet Sauvignon , Merlot and Tempranillo .
Akash Winery
2 .
AKASH WINERY AND VINEYARD Owned and operated by father and son , Ray and Akash Patel , Akash Winery is one of the newest to the region officially opening its doors in 2018 . Learning the ins and outs of the business , curating the perfect wine selection and creating contemporary , eye-catching labels for their products have become a huge passion project for the duo . With a lively tasting room and spirited wine club pickup parties , Akash is easily set apart from traditional wineries .
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Falkner Winery
3 .
FALKNER WINERY
Since 2000 , Falkner Winery has been a haven where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy the property ’ s Tuscan varietals , panoramic views and aptly named Pinnacle Restaurant . Falkner also features a secret underground tasting room , as well as a tour of the grounds and production facility . Offerings span estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon , Sauvignon Blanc , White Cabernet Sauvignon , Merlot , Sangiovese , Viognier , as well as a few proprietary blends .