Chapin Family Vineyards: Smooth Red Wines in a Palm-Lined Oasis

Just beyond Rancho California Road’s main row of wineries is Chapin Family Vineyards, one of the must-visit stops on our “Editor’s Picks” itinerary. Strolling down the palm tree-lined pathway to the tasting room can feel like entering a garden oasis. The idyllic entry experience is beaten only by the view from the tasting room veranda—picture perfect and impossible to capture, with layer upon layer of low mountains in the distance. Find a table out there, and Chapin’s staff will bring your tasting to you. The winery is a casual spot. It’s the wine and the service that makes your experience special.

The walking path that leads to the tasting room.

I visited on a weekday, so it was easy to find a table and a server with time to help me decide what to taste. I sat back under the shade of their awning, gazed out at the view, and let her guide me on my journey.

There’s a large patio that overlooks vines and mountains. It’s the best spot for your tasting.

The patio overlooks Cabernet Sauvignon vines.

Chapin Wines

Chapin first started growing in Temecula in 2002 and released their first vintage, a Cabernet Sauvignon, in 2007. Like many of the best wineries here, Chapin excels at the bold reds that thrive in the valley heat: Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Syrah. They also pour a Tannat, a rare find in this area.

A must-try on the regular red wine list is the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, with its deep color and hints of berry and vanilla, as are the gorgeous 2021 Petit Sirah and 2022 Estate Syrah. I also recommend both the Summit and Eclipse red blends. Truthfully, I enjoyed every red that I tasted. On weekdays, they don’t usually pour from the reserve menu unless a bottle is already open. However, with a smile and some genuine interest in their wine, they might break that rule for you. I was fortunate to try the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, which — after I did what I was told and let it sit a few minutes — was deep in blackberry and mocha flavor, and beyond smooth.

I was also pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the 2022 Chardonnay and the 2023 Viognier — this is not a region known for white wine.

A taste of the 2022 Chardonnay.

The Team at Chapin

Owner and Master Winemaker Steve Chapin came over to chat as I was trying the 2022 Eclipse Blend. He had just come from the blending room and I asked him if it was a fun or a stressful experience creating a new bottle of wine. He responded, “Wine is like music, everyone has their own taste, you try for a hit, but not everything is for everyone.” That seemed like the perfect analogy. Before he returned to work, he said he hoped that I would try his 2022 Summit, a blend of estate-grown Syrah, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, and Montepulciano. I did, it was a hit with me, and the bottle I came home with.

Chatting with Steve Chapin behind the bar at Chapin winery on a return visit.

My overall experience at Chapin was exceptional. When you’re impressed by everything you try, well, that’s something special. The sound system played The Doobie Brothers and “Summer Nights” from Grease which made me fall in love with them. My server brought me Wine Away and a towel when she saw a little red wine on my dress (sigh), it’s clear they care about their guests. You really do feel a world away when you’re there, and that alone may be the reason to visit.

The living area of Chapin’s vineyard VRBO apartment.

P.S. If you’re looking for a special place to stay, Chapin has a two-bedroom apartment right on the vineyard that is available for stays of two nights or more. Read about it here.

At the time of writing, bottles ranged from $29 – $99 for non-members. They sell chips, pretzels, packaged cheese boards, and chocolates in the tasting room, and there’s a separate picnic area if you choose to bring your own food.

36084 Summitville Street, Temecula Valley, CA 92592
www.chapinfamilyvineyards.com