We all deserve time to unwind, enjoy a glass, and take in a vineyard view. And it’s even better when you feel good about what you’re spending. On Saturdays and Sundays, popular wineries in Temecula fill up and most hotels require a two night stay, so if you’re seeking a more affordable (and serene) getaway, opt for a midweek visit. Tasting room servers have more time to spend with you, a winemaker might stop by to chat, and wineries, hotels, and restaurants offer incentives to entice visitors.
Mid-Week Local Deals
Cougar Winery
Buy 1 bottle of red wine or 2 bottles of white & get a free pizza
Monday – Wednesday
WHERE TO STAY
Hilton Garden Inn Temecula
The Hilton Garden Inn Temecula, just north of Old Town Temecula is the newest and nicest of the corporate hotels in town. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and outdoor lounge and pool. Rooms start at $100 per night midweek.
Pechanga Resort Casino
Pechanga Resort Casino on the west side of the valley has modern, resort-style rooms that start at around $200 per night. The resort pool is included in your stay, and there are dining options for all budgets.
Weekday
WINE TASTING Itinerary
DAY 1
Have a SIP Passport but need a plan? Follow this itinerary and visit some of the most popular wineries in the valley.
Robert Renzoni Vineyards
Start your escape with a visit to Robert Renzoni’s grand Tuscan-style winery. Be sure to try one of our favorite well-priced red wines, 2022 Big Fred’s Red. It’s a well-balanced Sangiovese and Zinfandel blend and a bargain for a small-batch winery at $29 a bottle. 37350 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592
Cougar Winery
You could your SIP passport for free tastings or take advantage of Cougar Winery’s weekday offer for a free pizza with wine bottle purchase. Either way, it’s a gorgeous view from their outdoor patio. 39870 De Portola Rd, Temecula, CA 92592
Carter Estate Winery
End your day at Carter Estate Winery and Resort in the tasting room located at the front of the property. Carter specializes in sparkling wine made in the traditional French method. 34450 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591
Dinner at The Cellar Bar
For the a wine country dinner that’s easier on the wallet, sneak downstairs to the The Cellar Bar at Ponte Vineyard Inn for shareables starting at $12. It’s industry night on Wednesdays, so you’ll likely get to hang out with a few locals. 35001 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591
WEEKDAY
WINE TASTING ITINERARY
DAY 2
Doffo Winery
Start your day at Doffo Winery—no reservations necessary. Doffo wines are on the more expensive side, but lucky you, your tasting is included as part of the passport. Brunch is served Thursdays through Sunday in the back garden. On the menu, you’ll find decadent waffles, various French toasts, egg dishes, and a few burgers and sandwiches. 36083 Summitville St. Temecula, CA 92592
Leoness Cellars
For the last tasting with your SIP Passport, make your way over to Leoness Cellars on the De Portola wine trail for one of the best mountain views in the valley. The Leoness member patio is open the public on weekdays, and they have a more budget-friendly lunch menu than the main restaurant. 38311 De Portola Road, Temecula, CA 92592
Marshall Stuart Wines
Still going strong? Your SIP Passport is now done after five tastings, but Marshall Stuart’s barn-chic tasting room at Vail Headquarters is home to some of the best and most affordable wines in town. Vail HQ also has quite a few affordable dining options from pizza, to burgers to tacos. It’s perfect if you’re visiting with a group an need to please a variety of palates.
