From the moment you arrive at Gershon Bachus Vintners, you realize you’re not just visiting another tasting room. You’ve climbed up high along the De Portola Wine Trail, and the view alone is worth the stop. Rolling vine-covered hills and a stately country home greet you as you step out of your car. That being said, this winery is not about flashy bells and whistles. There’s no restaurant or elegantly designed tasting room. The mansion’s garage serves as the barrel room, and wine tastings take place outside on an unadorned patio at the ridge of the vineyard. But this means that there are rarely crowds, and the wines, service, and view are able to shine–and they do.
The focus here is on red varieties. White wines are nearly absent from the tasting list except for a 2022 Estate Roussanne and Sparkling Cuvee that are reserved for wine club members. Dakota Denton’s winemaking here is distinctive in Temecula: he ferments in concrete, then ages in either of new and neutral Hungarian oak for at least 5 years before bottling. This approach bodes well for those who want more than gentle fruit and easy sipping. Here you’ll find wines with flavor and structure. The 2018 Cabernet Franc is a member favorite, and it was easy to see why, it was velvety smooth with flavors of dark cherry. The 2018 Porta Accanto Tempranillo and 2018 Auster Syrah are also must-tries for fans of bold, dark fruit. All Gershon Bachus wines are made with grapes grown on the estate or within a two mile radius of the winery.
Recommendations aside, you’ll have a chance to try any that peak your interest during your seated tasting. Service is laid-back and casual, packaged snacks are tossed on the table to nibble on alongside your pours. At my last tasting, my server was Assistant Winemaker Jeff Giles, who took the time to quickly taste each bottle before pouring, just to ensure we were tasting fresh wine. If you’re coming to Temecula and are looking for a place that quietly operates at a level above the tourist rush, Gershon Bachus is a strong candidate.
The property also functions as a wedding venue, and if there’s no event going on during your visit, take a peek at the space. There’s a small pond surrounded by a dramatic row of cypress trees. It’s at once striking and peaceful.
Visiting Gershon Bachus Vintners is a winery that rewards a little more time and attention. If your goal is to pop in and move on, this experience might feel a bit slower than some of the more bustling wineries. But if you’re looking for vineyard-driven, thoughtfully made wine in a beautiful hillside setting, then add this one to your list. The combination of elevated views, dedicated winemaking, and a calm tasting experience makes it a standout.
Things to know: Tastings are primarily outside on a shaded patio. The winery does hold tastings in the barrel room on inclement weather days, but there are no windows, heat, or air-conditioning. No reservations are required.
