Your private Temecula wine tasting tour begins with hotel pickup by H1 Hummer. Enjoy the views as you depart Palm Springs and travel over the mountains, looking out on the valley’s dramatic landscape. Soon you’ll arrive in the Temecula wine country.
Some of Southern California’s best wines are produced in this valley southwest of Palm Springs, thanks to its Mediterranean-like climate (warm days and cool nights). Grapes for making syrah, grenache, tempranillo and sangiovese thrive across the region’s more than 3,500 acres (1,416 hectares) of vineyards. Upwards of 40 wineries showcase the best of the best in upscale tasting rooms, but don’t expect a Napa vibe; Temecula is more casual than its northern counterpart, and people often pass on fine wines for the popular almond-infused sparkling wine.
While the almond wine might flow, your tour focuses on classic red and white varietals at three wineries. The tour operator specializes in going to hard-to-get-into vineyards that have won 4 stars or more for their wines. Let your nose and taste buds, and the sommeliers, guide you through the differences, as you taste up to 18 wines throughout the day. Listen as your friendly, knowledgeable guide offers insider tips and information about the wines and the region.
Midway through the day, relax at one of the wineries as you sit down for a leisurely lunch of sandwiches and beverages. Continue tasting wines after lunch until it’s time to head back over the mountains to Palm Springs, with drop-off at your hotel.
Please note: Dress comfortably in light, layered clothing. Temperatures can vary as much as 50 degrees between the desert and the wine country.