Whether sipping a glass of wine in a vineyard or enjoying a hot air balloon flight at sunrise, there’s something for everyone in Temecula Valley during California Wine Month, which is celebrated throughout September. This is a perfect time to see and experience the makers and mavericks who live and work in wine country, and enjoy onsite tastings, tours, and elevated wine and food pairings.
Here are five ways to make Wine Month in Temecula Valley extra special:
1. Art in the Vines
For many years, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country has been inspiring artists and photographers with its natural beauty, miles of vineyards, and stunning landscapes. During the first week of September, 20 local artists will be live painting at several wineries and vineyards including Briar Rose Winery, Chapin Family Vineyards, Domaine Chardonnay, Frangipani Estate Winery, Gershon Bachus Vintners, Ponte Vineyard Inn, Wiens Cellars, as well as several more. Their artwork will be displayed at Temecula Valley Museum throughout the month and the public is invited to vote for their favorite art piece.
2. Flights and Bites
Discover the perfect pairing of wines and culinary creations during September Wine Month. Participating restaurants and wineries will blend locally selected wines with delicious bites for a truly memorable experience. This is a food and wine digital pass where prizes can be earned.
3. CRUSH Wine & Culinary Showcase
One of the most popular wine country events in Temecula Valley, the CRUSH Wine & Culinary Showcase, will be held at Monte De Oro on Sept. 7. Guests will enjoy live entertainment as well as wine and food pairings from more than 30 wineries and culinary creators.
4. Grape Stomps
The very popular Grape Stomps will be at several wineries this fall, including Wilson Creek Winery on October 27. This includes live music, a buffet dinner, fall activities, costume contest, pumpkin carving contest, and the featured Grape Stomp competition. Other Grape Stomps will occur in September in celebration of Wine Month. These include Callaway Winery, Europa Village, Ponte Winery, South Coast Winery, Somerset Winery, and Temecula Carriage Company, as well as others. There will be food, fun competition, and harvest activities. See the events listing for more information.
5. Europa Village: Great Taste of Europa Wine & Food Festival
Sip, Sip, Hooray! The Great Taste of Europa Wine & Food Festival annual event will be on Sept. 15. Guests will journey through the heart of European gastronomy with more than 50 exquisite European wines, a dedicated beer and spirits garden, and the opportunity to support local culinary talent.
Fall Harvest Events
South Coast Winery and Fazeli Cellars will hold special Harvest Dinners during the month of September. Lorimar Winery and Peltzer Winery will have Harvest events, as well as Big Horse Feed, home of the largest corn maze in southern California.
Where to Stay
During Wine Month, visitors can pair their experience with a stay at one of Temecula Valley’s many resorts, hotels, or short-term rentals. Find rates and availability here: https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/hotels/