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Temecula is a city about an hour south of LA (give or take traffic), and it’s really a hidden gem for anyone looking for wineries near LA! The Temecula wine scene has grown a lot over the past several years, and there are a ton of amazing wineries that offer delicious wine, food, tours, and activities like horseback riding and hot air balloon rides. There are two Temecula wineries in particular that I’d definitely recommend checking out, so read on for all the delicious details…

Wilson Creek Winery

Tasting & Winery Tours

Wilson Creek winery started here in Southern California in Temecula, and has really skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade- so you might already have seen this winemaker in grocery stores, restaurants, and even Costco!

Here are some things that make this winery special:

• Friendly, laidback atmosphere- no pretentiousness here! This winery was very welcoming, and ready to share wine knowledge and pairings in a non-intimidating way for beginners and casual wine drinkers.
• Best Temecula Winery Tour- we took a tasting tour of this winery where we got to sample several different wines, and go behind the scenes to where the wine itself is actually made!
• Great atmosphere- this winery has lots of space for seating, picnics, and lounging, while also being friendly for families. They have an accessibly-priced restaurant on site too, which is great for large groups or celebrating milestones.

Insider tips:

• This Temecula winery can and does get busy on weekends, so plan in advance and make reservations early if you want to dine or take a tour!
• This was definitely not an adults-only winery, and there were plenty of families hanging out and picnicking when we went. You have to be of legal age to enjoy the wine or go on the tasting tours (obvi), but just be aware that this winery is a little less quiet and tranquil than others due to its family friendly atmosphere.

Doffo Winery

Vintage Motorcycles + Craft Wine

This has to be hands down the most UNIQUE winery I’ve ever been to- it’s equal parts vintage motorcycle museum and craft winemaker with some unique wines that you don’t see very often. The family who started Doffo winery are originally from Argentina and have a family history of racing motorcycles, particularly Ducati bikes. Their curated collection of vintage motorcycles is the coolest, and you can enjoy your wine in multiple spots around this small winery in view of these beautiful bikes.

Here are some things that make this winery special:

• Moto GP screening parties- during the Moto GP season, Doffo winery hosts casual screening events where motorcyclists and wine lovers from anywhere and everywhere are welcomed to their outdoor screened patio to watch the races on their XL projector screen! They serve light breakfast pastries and coffee from their vintage cart (since the races are usually televised in the morning) and offer wine by the glass or bottle if you just can’t wait!
• Wine club memberships- I have to admit, I’m not hugely into wine or wine clubs, but some friends of ours are Doffo wine club members and it’s relatively affordable and you get selections of wines periodically delivered, plus access to special events and wines on their menu.
• Food truck onsite- Doffo winery has a food truck onsite (check their website for times!) that serves light bites, some of which feature the family’s homemade chimichurri sauce! I am personally a fan of the cauliflower tacos for a light and healthy lunch! They also offer sandwiches from a local deli in their tasting room, but be advised they do tend to sell out or not be available all the time- so call ahead!

Insider tips:

• This is a small winery- I mean you could drive right by it and accidentally miss it! The size of the winery makes for a hidden gem with an intimate environment that is usually pretty quiet (besides when Moto GP is on and the occasional cheer is heard, each time I’ve been here, the environment is tranquil!).
• This winery is (obviously) motorcycle friendly and is a popular spot for riders to meet on the weekends. It mostly attracts people who enjoy upscale European-style motorcycles like Ducatis, BMWs, and café racers, with the occasional touring bike.
• Doffo isn’t really a huge spot for families to visit, so keep this in mind if you’re looking for a family friendly winery.
• There are limited dining options, with menus consisting of snacks, sandwiches, and small bites, so don’t expect to have a formal dinner or lunch here.

I will continue to update this list of the best wineries in Temecula, CA as I visit more- complete with photos and insider tips from first-hand experience! Be sure you’re following along with my blog for more fashion, fun things to do, local California hotspots, and so much more!

Xx Tabi