While it’s possible to arrange a seated tasting as part of a tour at many places in Temecula, seated is the default experience at the ten wineries featured on this page. This naturally leads to a more relaxed and elevated atmosphere; all you need to do is sit back and a trained server, sommelier, or winemaker will guide you on your tasting journey. These are wineries that take winemaking seriously, and you’ll find several on our list of the best wineries in Temecula.
Chapin Family Vineyards
At Chapin Family Vineyards you’ll choose your own table outside on a large veranda at the edge of the vineyard, and select French-style wines from the standard and reserve wine lists. Winemakers Steve Chapin and Kristine Overlaur just released a new “Daxon” line of wines that would be fun to try, but don’t miss the Syrah and Summit Blend. They’ve recently started serving Neapolitan-style pizza on weekends out on the patio as well.
Gershon Bachus Vintners
At Gershon Bachus, tastings take place high up on the hill with spectacular views of the De Portola wine trail, so make sure you’re there on a day when it’s nice to sit outside. Wines are aged a minimum of five years before they are poured and are some of the best in the valley. Try the Tempranillo and member favorite Cabernet Franc. Gershon Bacchus is a spot for red wine lovers, there are no white wines on the tasting menu.
Our review of Gershon Bachus »
Voux Wines
Inspired by Bottaia Winery’s modern barn setting, tastings are held poolside at Voux Wines. It’s a small venue, tastings are private and by appointment, but the experience is friendly and low key. The 2021 Petit Sirah is excellent, and winemaker/owner Chad Hughes just released a new dry rosé that’s soft and fruity, perfect for summer sipping. You can pre-order a charcuterie board or a decadent chocolate cake to enjoy with your tasting when you make your reservation.
Uys Wines
At Uys Wines, Dirk and Michelle Uys walk guests through their current releases in an intimate garagiste setting. Favorites from my last tasting were the Grenache Blanc (they have two styles) and the Merus, a blend of Cab and Petit Sirah. Dirk recently mentioned that he’s now growing Pinotage from his native South Africa, so that will be interesting to try too. This is a small, private place. Book your seated tasting in advance.
Lorenzi Estate Wines
Lorenzi Estate Wines offers a few seated tasting options that range from a Discovery tasting of 3 wines to a VIP tasting of 5 wines. Book one of these ahead of time and enjoy the vineyard views as you sip. There’s a long patio outside of the tasting room that sites right at the edge of the vines. Be sure to try an award-winning Cab before you leave.
Our review of Lorenzi Estate »
Carter Estate Winery
At Carter Estate Winery, guests can sit indoors or out to taste wines from their 112 acre vineyard. They have a large wine list of mostly Frensh-style wine, and several tasting menus to choose from, but the sparkling wine is where Carter stands out. It’s made in the Méthode Champenoise from estate vines. So if you’re not sure where to start, opt for the all-sparkling tasting menu. No reservations are required.
Raúl Ramirez Winery
Raúl Ramirez Winery pours Spanish-style wine inside their modern, cheerful clubhouse, or outside on a beautiful patio that overlooks the vineyard. The wines to try here are the Estate Gran Reserva Don Porfirio Tempranillo, Cava made in the traditional method, and Albariño. Reservations recommended.
Briar Rose Winery
Briar Rose is a lovely little spot hidden away on the outskirts of wine country. It was designed by a Disney craftsman and is a life-size replica of Snow White’s cottage. Tastings take place in an enchanted garden setting outside of the home, near what is considered to be one of the oldest olive trees in California. It’s certainly one of the largest. Favorite wines here were the Pinot Grigio and Merlot, and a sweet wine-loving friend adored the Viognier. Reservations are required, but they accept same day reservations.
Wiens Cellars
At Wiens Cellars, there’s table service on the dog-friendly outdoor patio. The winery specializes in bold red blends. Try the 2021 Four Fold, a GSM with a little Petite Sirah, or the 2021 Dualis, a bold and fruit-forward blend of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. White wine drinkers might try Wiens’ award winning 2024 Albariño from nearby La Cresta. Reservations are not required but it’s a good idea on a busy holiday weekend.
Bottaia Winery
At Bottaia Winery, Italian-style wines are available by the bottle, glass, or flight on the outdoor deck. It’s not a traditional tasting, but their trained servers can help you pick the perfect flight to suit your palette so it can feel like it is. You might alternatively book an indoor seated charcuterie and wine pairing where a server will guide you through the entire experience. The Vermentino, Aglianico, and Montepulciano are must-tries. Reserve your experience ahead of your visit.
