Have you ever loved a winery so much that you wished you could move right in? At Chapin Family Vineyards in Temecula Wine Country, you can — at least for a few nights. Travel writers often use the phrase “hidden gem,” but the apartment at Chapin is indeed just that. On the second floor of a small building on the vineyard is a lovely apartment available for stays of two nights or more. Surrounded by palm trees, it’s just a bubbling coy pond away from the tasting room and rated “Exceptional” on VRBO. Reviewers say the apartment looks even nicer than the website photos. Having seen it in person, I can attest to that being true (so we took our own).
Decorated by Susan Hicks, sister to winemaker Steve Chapin, the apartment has a classic wine-country feel, simple and elegant in a mix of dark woods and neutral tones and textures. The living area is inviting, with plenty of room for two seating areas, a large dining area, and a full kitchen. There’s even a washer and dryer, should the need arise. The two bedrooms are comfortably furnished and well kept — the larger has a king bed, the smaller a queen. Separating them is the single bathroom with a generous walk-in shower. The suite is frequented by couples seeking a cozy getaway and serves as a bridal suite for couples hosting their wedding at the vineyard.
A small bistro table on the balcony is a lovely touch. With views of Cabernet vines and Temecula Valley’s rolling hills, it makes for a beautiful setting to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or to watch the sun go down with a bottle of Steve Chapin’s handcrafted wine. There is privacy there, too. It’s the only apartment in the building, and the tasting room doesn’t open until 11 am, so there should not be winery guests below in the morning.
If you’re looking for wine recommendations while there, white wine fans might enjoy a taste of the crisp 2022 Chardonnay or the estate-grown 2023 Viognier, which hints of ripe banana. But where Chapin excels is in bold red wines, like the velvety 2022 Summit Red Blend and 2022 Estate Syrah with its hint of blueberry. The 2021 Petit Sirah is gorgeous with a cocoa finish, or if you’re looking for something different, ask for Chapin’s Tannat — the winery is one of only 160 wineries in the US that grow it. Chapin also has a new premium wine named after the youngest Chapin family member, Daxon, which is releasing soon. If that is available, you might give it a try.
I was enchanted by my first visit to Chapin last summer: the wine, the views, and the friendliness of the staff, including winemaker Steven Chapin. So much so that it’s included in our Editor’s Picks itinerary, which features the best of the best in the valley. The first day concludes at Chapin’s winery, making this apartment a perfect place to stay if you find yourself following along on that self-guided tour.
Things to know: Rooms start at $390, and the minimum stay is two nights. Access to the apartment requires climbing a flight of stairs. No pets. Available to book on VRBO. 36084 Summitville Street, Temecula Valley, CA 92592
