Temecula Valley Wine Country Fun Facts
Temecula Wine Country is located approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego; roughly an hour to an hour and half from either city. The climate for this area is often comparable to that of the Mediterranean; warm dry summers and cool winters with little amounts of rainfall throughout the year. This weather is perfect for getting away from the often oppressive snowy winters of the Midwest or humid hot summers of the lower states as well!
The environment of Temecula Valley has soil mainly composed of decomposing granitic material. This material is light and sandy and perfect for grapevine roots because the material can drain more efficiently than regular soil such as a silty or clay based soil.
The first grapes used for wine making in the area were introduce by Padres from Mission San Luis Rey de Francia. They used these wines for their meals as well as during their sacramental services. Throughout history other Europeans traveled to the region and noticed that the climate was similar to their homelands of Italy and France. They then began planting their own grapevines with similar varieties to those that had back in Europe.
Temecula has the right climate and environment for growing Italian, Spanish and French grapes such as Syrah, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Zinfandel, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Tempranillo.
One of the top wineries to visit is the Baily Vineyard and Winery; owned and operated by the Baily family. This winery specializes in wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and other traditional Bordeaux varieties. Something particularly interesting about this specific winery is the medieval themed restaurant, called Carol’s Restaurant. They also have a dog approved menu on Sundays!
Wineries from this region often win many awards when compared to wines across the country. South Coast Winery was awarded 10 distinctive recognition from the 37th Annual San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge. Other entrants included Napa, Sonoma, Texas, Oregon, Italy, France, Spain, Chile and many other states and countries.
