Temecula Valley Wine Country

Ahh… the vineyards… rolling hills with green vines, heavy with succulent fruit. A hot golden sun beating down upon the soil, as the sweet earthy fragrance fills the senses. The vineyards of Temecula Valley are located about an hour’s drive inland from our Carlsbad beach resort where we were vacationing.  We took our time, visiting only 2 wineries while there.

Temecula Valley Vineyards

Leonesse Cellars

Leonesse Cellars was our first visit, located at 38311 DePortola Road, Temecula, CA 92593. The name “Leonesse” means “village of dreams” and truly lives up to its name. The old world charm of the estate has an elegance and appeal that beckons visitors to explore. 

Leonesse Cellars

The tasting room and surrounding outdoor patios are large and spacious, offering stunning views of the vineyard. We actually walked through the sprawling vineyard as we sipped red wine, feeling the soft earth crunch below our footsteps, pausing to touch the vines, gently feeling the grapes, inhaling the heady aroma of a sun-drenched earth.

Leonesse Cellars - Vineyards

It was one of those sublime experiences that stays with you forever. The childen loved running up and down the rows of vines. They got to spend their boundless energy in an idyllic setting with fresh air and sunshine.

Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyard

Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyard was our second stop in Temecula Valley Wine Country.  Located at 35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591, this winery is known for its delicious award winning almond champagne.

Wilson Creek Vineyards - Temecula

The grounds surrounding the tasting room are lovely and were enjoyed by the children where they ran through the lush greenery, while we sampled the wines and toured the estate.  After our tasting, we walked over to the estate’s Creekside Grille (across from the tasting room), where we enjoyed a delicious lunch from their tasteful menu, including salads, sandwiches and specials which we paired with their award-winning wines. 

Tasting Room Wilson Creek Temecula

We made sure to purchase some of their delicious wines, and especially their famous almond champagne, which we enjoyed later that evening .

About the Author: Jocelyn Murray is a travel writer who also writes fiction for older children. She is the author of the teen/young adult historical fantasy fiction series The Gilded Mirror. She holds two university master's degrees in both English and Education. She also has a teaching credential and taught elementary school in the Los Angeles Unified School District.