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November Winery Events

There’s a chill in the air now and suddenly we’re planning holiday meals!  Whether your holiday plans keep you close to home or off visiting relatives, plan to sneak in a trip to Temecula Valley Wine Country to stock up on your favorite wine, pick up holiday gifts at one of the wineries’ shopping nights or attend one of the great events going on in wine country!

Akash Winery
Yoga + Wine / November 24 / 9:00-10:00am / $25 pp / The best way to spend your Sunday morning! Class is offered the last Sunday of every month! Includes a glass of wine on the day of the yoga session / Please visit www.akashwinery.com to reserve your spot.

Avensole Winery
Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting /Available on Sunday of each the month / 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.

Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com /res-369934

Baily Winery
Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm / Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at 951-972-9768.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889

Brunch Specials every Sunday at Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally outsourced.

Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001

Annual Wine Barrel Tree Lighting Celebration! / December 13 / 6:00 to 9:00pm / You’re invited to join us for our Annual Wine Barrel Tree Lighting Celebration! Bring the kids to meet Santa and enjoy cookie decorating, a hot chocolate bar, Christmas carolers, discounts on wine, gifts and so much more! Experience a wine country Christmas with us! Complimentary admission; please R.S.V.P. to info@callawaywinery.com or (951) 676-4001

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com  

Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests.  Make your reservation today!  Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / November 16 / 10am-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge; $45/person /$40 Connoisseur/ $20 VIP; $80/person with lunch option.  RSVP’s required 951-676-8231 x.109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Vertical Syrah Tasting Class with George Myers / November 23 / 10:30am-12pm / Only $45 per person/Wine Club Members $40. Includes 5 years of our amazing Syrah!  Rated 90 + points by Wine Enthusiast and all Gold Medal winners! Space is limited and Reservations required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or email to wineclub@falknerwinery.com   

Fazeli Cellars
Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball / November 1 / Doors Open at 7pm / Don’t Miss Our Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball! Tickets Sell Out FAST, Get Yours NOW! / $28 Members | $35 Non-Members Includes Entrance and a Glass of Spooky Sparkling Wine / Drinks & food available for purchase | DJ & Dancing! Masks Desired but Not Required! To purchase your tickets please visit http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391245/Haunted-Masquerade-Ball-2019.html

Lorimar Winery
The Killer Dueling Pianos / November 14 / 6 pm- 9 pm / $20 per person / $18 per wine club member /The Killer Dueling Pianos are back at Lorimar Winery for a night of wine, live music and dancing! 21+ only event / Purchase Tickets – lorimarwinery.com

Academie Du Vin: Wine & Cheese / November 21 / 6pm – 8 pm / $55 per person / $49.50 per wine club member / Explore the worlds of Wine & Cheese with Certified Sommelier Penny Delgado and local Cheese Monger Stasha. New! Includes five wine and cheese pairings along with two surprise tastings! 21+ only event / Purchase Tickets – lorimarwinery.com

Tree Lighting / December 1 / 5pm- 8pm / Join us to kick off the holiday season at our annual Tree Lighting with Santa, Complimentary Cookie Decorating, Hot Cocoa, Spiced Wine, Wine Sales, Special Food Menu, and more! / Please RSVP at lorimarwinery.com

Mount Palomar Winery
Chicago Tribute Band / November 1 / 7pm-10pm / $35 Public; $31.50 Wine Club / Join us for the continuation of our Fall Concert Series! VladLetoPhotography is your NYC elopement dream team, with 4 fabulous photographers and 4 awesome officiants to choose from to customize your perfect NYC elopement! Next up: Kenny Cetera’s Chicago Experience, the ultimate tribute to Chicago. Gather your friends and family for an evening of food, fun and fabulous entertainment at Mount Palomar! / For reservations please visit bit.ly/chicagotributeband

Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band / November 2 / 7pm-10pm / $35 Public; $31.50 Wine Club /Join us for the continuation of our Fall Concert Series! Next up: Garratt Wilkin and the Parrotheads, a tribute to Jimmy Buffett. Gather your friends and family for an evening of food, fun and fabulous entertainment at Mount Palomar! / For reservations please bit.ly/jimmybuffett_tributeband

Ponte Winery
Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend.

Thornton Winery
Cooking Class Series: What to do with Thanksgiving left-overs / November 17 / 1pm-3pm / $75 inclusive / For more information and reservations please visit www.thorntonwine.com

Thanksgiving Dinner at Cafe Champagne / November 28 / 12p-5p / Cost: $64.95 ++ Adults, Children 6-12 years $19.95++ Under 5 years free / For more information and reservations please visit www.thorntonwine.com

Vindemia Vineyards & Estate Winery
Harvest Celebration with Special Guest Chef Drew Deckman / November 2 / 4:30pm- 8:00pm / $75 for Wine Club Members and $95 for non-members We are overjoyed to host Super Chef Drew Deckman here in Temecula Valley! Chef Deckman is the head chef at his restaurant, Deckmans’s in Ensenada and is known for his superb dishes in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. Our November 2 event includes a four-course meal grilled by Deckman himself, paired with unreleased Vindemia wines, live music and more! / Please RSVP to wineclub@vindemia.com by October 18 – spots are limited!

Wilson Creek Winery
Wine Academy Blind Tasting / November 2 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / Cost: $20-$35 / Wine Club Members $20 (limit 4 guests $35) / Come join us for an educational journey through wine. Our top-notch instructors will make your wine experience interactive and interesting. Enjoy wine education while tasting different wines with light appetizers. Reserve Members are complimentary with Wine Passes / Reserve at WilsonCreekWinery.com or call 951-252-8523.

Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

MAC AND CHEESE WITH FRESH PEAS, CAULIFLOWER AND TOASTED GARLIC BREADCRUMBS

You know it’s the start of fall when you start to crave warm comfort food! This mac & cheese recipe is creamy and comes with a few surprising additions—and a crispy garlicky topping. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Chardonnay or Merlot.

Serves 6

Ingredients
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (30ml) all purpose flour
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
1 cup (240ml) half-and-half
1¼ cup (143g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup (56g) grated Gruyere cheese
6 cups cooked macaroni (made from 10 ounces/284g dry macaroni)
½ teaspoon (2.5ml) sea salt
2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 cups (200g) cauliflower florets, cut into small pieces
½ cup (80g) fresh or frozen peas

For the topping:
2 cups (128g) fine dry breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
½ cup (56g) grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons (10ml) minced garlic
½ teaspoon (2.5ml) sea salt
1 teaspoon (2.5ml) freshly ground black pepper

Directions
Preheat oven to 375° F (190° C)

Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed, saucepan over medium heat, until sizzling. Add the flour and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Gradually stir in the milk and half-and-half, and continue to stir until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer.

Turn off heat, stir in the grated cheddar and the Gruyere until smooth. Fold in the macaroni and ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt. Set aside.

Heat 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the cauliflower and cook and stir until lightly browned. Stir in the peas and cook for 2 more minutes.

Mix the cauliflower and peas with the macaroni and spread in a buttered 9-by-13-inch (23-by-33-cm) baking dish.

To make the topping, mix the breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl.

Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the macaroni.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until topping is golden brown.

Suggested Pairings:
Callaway Vineyard & Winery 2016 Special Selection Chardonnay ~ This light, crisp Chardonnay opens with aromas of leafy pineapple and citrus fruits. The palate is lush with fresh tropical fruits, golden delicious apple with a tangy pineapple finish.

Falkner Winery 2016 Merlot ~ Enjoy the added dimension of black cherry, blueberry, and slight plum flavors with a smooth finish that provides for a delicious wine.

Leoness Cellars 2015 Signature Selection Merlot ~ This wine is bursting with black cherry and blackberry flavors framed by subtle hints of licorice, tobacco and cedar leading the way to a soft, lengthy finish.

Oak Mountain Winery 2018 Chardonnay ~ This chardonnay is lightly oaked with French oak imparting rich flavors of vanilla, butterscotch, creme brulee and caramel.

Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California.

Perfect Pairings: Pumpkin & Wine

October….it’s the time of year we’re dragging the kids to the neighborhood pumpkin patch, decorating the house for fall and for some of us, already thinking about all of the yummy pumpkin recipes we want to make. From pumpkin soup, to pumpkin pie and everything in between, we’ve got a wine that will pair with it! Here are some tips for pairing wines with your favorite pumpkin dishes.

en the cold weather returns, there’s nothing better than a nice, big, bowl of soup. This time of year, pumpkin soup is a good choice. We’d most likely pair our soup with Chardonnay, Viognier and even Gewürztraminer. For you red lovers, try a Cabernet or Merlot. Try these: South Coast Winery 2017 Reference Chardonnay, Thornton Winery 2017 Viognier, Frangipani Estate Winery 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lorimar Winery 2016 Merlot.

Pumpkin Risotto would pair well with Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Chenin Blanc. You may want to eat the whole bowl of risotto by itself (and we wouldn’t blame you), but it makes for a great side dish with roasted chicken too. Try these: Hart Winery 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, Robert Renzoni Vineyards 2017 Pinot Grigio “Julia’s Vineyard”, Maurice Car’rie Winery 2017 Chenin Blanc.

And, for our personal favorite….Pumpkin Pie. There are endless possibilities here. A Riesling or Muscat would be amazing. Better yet, get in the holiday celebrating mood and pop open a bottle of bubbly to enjoy with your pie. Try these: Thornton Winery Brut Reserve, Europa Village 2016 Bolero Estate Muscat Canelli, Wilson Creek Winery 2018 Winemakers Select Riesling. Mencari situs taruhan sbobet yang aman dan terpercaya di indonesia. Sip777 merupakan rekomendasi yang tepat bagi kalian yang menikmati taruhan casino dan judi bola yang aman. Melalui website http://loginsbobet.fun/ yang resmi dan ternama maka kalian bisa bermain dengan tenang dan aman. Kami menjadi pusat taruhan olahraga terbesar dengan berkerjasama dengan situs sbobet indonesia.

As you can see, although pumpkin dishes seem hard to pair wine with, there really are a lot of possibilities. Enjoy pumpkin season, all!

October Winery Events

October is peak harvest season and the vineyards are in full wine production and we’ve got some exciting and unique October winery events! Come experience Halloween bashes, grape stomps, concerts, fall wine tours and tastings — and much more!

Avensole Winery
Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting /Available on Sunday of each the month / 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.

Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-369934

Baily Winery
Doggie Costume Contest / October 27 / Join us for our Dog Day Sundays at Carol’s Restaurant located at Baily Winery. Doggie Costume judging at 1:30pm – 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes! Don’t forget to bring your camera! / Carol’s Restaurant is open for lunch 11:30am – 3pm. Reservations recommended by calling 951-676-9243

Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm / Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at 951-972-9768.

Bel Vino Winery
Oktoberfest / October 18 / 6:00-10:00pm / $5pp pre-paid tickets on our website or $10pp at the door / German Band, German Contests, Biergarten, Brat Bar, Dress Contest, Funnel Cakes / For reservations please visit https://www.belvinowinery.com/product/oktoberfest/

Sushi Wine Down / October 23 / 6:00-9:00pm / $50 pp / Featuring: Live Music from Jeff Brinkman. Price includes a Sushi Station featuring fresh premium grade fish such as Hawaiian Bigeye Tuna, JPN’s Yellowtail, Scottish Salmon and others. Prepared with natural and organic ingredients and fresh wasabi (root) / To purchase your tickets please visit https://www.hideawaycuisine.com/events

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Sip, Stomp & Play / October 5 / 6pm to 9pm / $72 pp, $64.80 wine club, $32 for kids ages 4-11; price does not include tax / Grab a bunch of your family and friends and join us for this fun-for-the-entire-family grape stomp and harvest festival! Bring the kids! We’ll have face painting, live music, dinner, dancing, a Lucy look-alike contest, and of course, grape stomping contests! Channel your inner Lucy and dress up for a chance to win prizes! We are serving up some hearty cuisine that’s perfect for keeping your energy up while you stomp and dance the night away! Get your tickets while you can, you won’t want to miss this! Tickets include: Admission to the event, one glass of Callaway wine, dinner, dancing, wine specials and grape stomping! / Purchase your tickets online at www.callawaywinery.com or at the winery.

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889

Brunch Specials every Sunday at Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally outsourced.

Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com.

Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests.  Make your reservation today!  Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Europa Village
Festa! featuring Ruben V / October 19 / 5:30-8:30pm / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Ruben V, benefiting Michelle’s Place! Food Tickets: $18; free admission / please visit www.europavillage.com for additional information.

Falkner Winery
Harvest Paint N Sip / October 13 / 12:00-2:00pm / Open to the Public! $45 per person / Ticket price includes all painting supplies and a glass of “Hot Lips” or Sangria / tickets available online https://store.falknerwinery.com/harvest-sip-n-paint-p199.aspx

Night of Witches n Ghouls Party / October 24 / 7:00-10:00pm / Cover charge $20 per person includes glass of Ghoulish Sangria or Zombie Hot Lips. Wine by the glass and bottle. (Industry and Wine Club discounts applicable) Karaoke by Sing It Like you Mean It, D.J. Lillian Thomas. Food available for purchase And don’t forget about our awesome Costume Contests!

Dia De Los Muertos Festival (Day of the Dead) / October 27 / 12:00-4:00pm Open to the public. Face painter, vendors, games, wine, sangria, and Hot Lips by glass or bottle. (Member discounts applicable) Food and Drink packages available. Picnic menu also available. No need to RSVP!

Fazeli Cellars
Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball / November 1 / Doors Open at 7pm / Don’t Miss Our Annual Haunted Masquerade Ball! Tickets Sell Out FAST, Get Yours NOW! / $28 Members | $35 Non-Members Includes Entrance and a Glass of Spooky Sparkling Wine / Drinks & food available for purchase | DJ & Dancing! Masks Desired but Not Required! To purchase your tickets please visit http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391245/Haunted-Masquerade-Ball-2019.html

Frangipani Winery
Harvest Grape Stomp Party / October 13 / 2pm-5pm / Frangipani Estate Winery Wine club members $20 per person and General Guests $25 per person / Grape Stomping, Corn-Hole, & Bocce Ball tournaments with prizes for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place, live music and food / RSVP by October 10 to 951-699-8845 or email frangipaniwine@yahoo.com

Lorimar Winery
Night of the Living Wine-O’s / October 25 / 7:00-10:00pm / $20 per person; $18 Wine Club / Lorimar’s annual Halloween bash is back and it’s going to be better than ever! Join us for wine specials, live music by Mrs. Jones Revenge, Costume Contest, DJ, candy, and more! / Tickets are pre-sale only and include a glass of Spooky Sangria. (event is 21+, tax is not included) / Purchase Tickets – https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-410159/Night-Of-The-Living-Wineos.html

Movie in the Vines – Hotel Transylvania 2 / October 28 / Doors open at 6pm / Bring the whole family for a scary good time to see HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 on the Sunset Patio! /Pairings Food Truck opens at 6 pm; movie begins at sunset / Complimentary popcorn! Costume contest for the kids! Candy, Soda, & Snacks will also be available for purchase! (No outside food or drinks)/ Please RSVP – https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-409598/Movie-In-The-Vines-Hotel-Transylvania-2.html

Ponte Winery
Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

Somerset Vineyard & Winery
70’s Disco Party / October 5 / 6:00-10:00pm / $95 per person; $76 for members / Enjoy a live musical production by the FUNKY HIPPEEZ, food provided by Southfork catering, contest & prizes for Best Dressed and Best Dance Moves! / Space is limited so reserve early! Please visit our website www.somersetvineyard.com or call 951-365-5522 to purchase your tickets today!

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Country Concert featuring Eric Paslay / October 24 / Doors Open at 6:30pm; Show 7:00-9:00pm / Tickets start at only $35! / Join us among the vines and stars as South Coast Winery Resort & Spa presents an evening with country singer/songwriter Eric Paslay. This Platinum-selling, hit songwriter and dynamic performer has celebrated five No. 1 hits including “Even if it Breaks Your Heart” (Eli Young Band), “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (Jack Owen), “Angel Eyes” (Love & Theft), “Rewind” (Rascal Flatts) and “Friday Night” his smash lead single from his critically acclaimed self-titled debut album. Enjoy great wine, local food trucks and this GRAMMY® nominee, hit songwriter for the wine COUNTRY night event of the year / For reservations please visit https://www.southcoastwinery.com/concerts/october-24-2019-country-concert

Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend.

Thornton Winery
JAZZ CONCERT SERIES
Brian Culbertson / October 5 / 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $95, Gourmet Supper Package: $180

West Coast Jams / October 12 / 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170

Jeffrey Osborne / October 20 / 4:00pmCost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170

To order your jazz tickets, please visit our website: www.thorntonwine.com or Call (951) 699-0099 EXT. 3127 to make reservations.

Friday Live Music – B.I.G. / October 11 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission $15 in advance; $20 at the door. VIP $40 for the first six rows. No food service / Dinner tables available. *All guests at table must order dinner! / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com

Friday Live Music – Bon Jovi Tribute / October 25 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission $25 in advance; $30 at the door. VIP $40 for the first six rows. No food service / Dinner tables available. *All guests at table must order dinner! / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com

Cooking Class / October 27 / 1:00pm -3:00pm / Theme is Scary Desserts & Appetizers / For more information and reservations please visit  www.thorntonwine.com

Vindemia Vineyards & Estate Winery
Harvest Celebration with Special Guest Chef Drew Deckman / November 2 / 4:30pm- 8:00pm / $75 for Wine Club Members and $95 for non-members We are overjoyed to host Super Chef Drew Deckman here in Temecula Valley! Chef Deckman is the head chef at his restaurant, Deckmans’s in Ensenada and is known for his superb dishes in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. Our November 2 event includes a four-course meal grilled by Deckman himself, paired with unreleased Vindemia wines, live music and more! / Please RSVP to wineclub@vindemia.com by October 18 – spots are limited!

Wiens Family Cellars
Refugio Vertical Pairing Dinner / October 27 / 7:00pm-10:00pm / $100 regular; $80 Wine Club Member / A Cabernet lover’s delight! Join us for our Refugio Wine Dinner! At this event we’ll showcase four vintages of our flagship Refugio Cabernet Sauvignon paired with a wonderful dish! / Advance reservation can be made by visiting https://www.wienscellars.com/res-415408/Refugio-Vertical-Pairing-Dinner-2019.html

Wilson Creek Winery
Wine Academy – Wine 101 / October 5 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General $20-$35; Wine Club Members $20 (limit 4 guests $35) / Come join us for an educational journey through wine. Our top-notch instructors will make your wine experience interactive and interesting. Enjoy wine education while tasting different wines with light appetizers. Reserve Members are complimentary with Wine Passes – Call 951-252-8523 to reserve. ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE!

Lauren Alaina Country Concert / October 11 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General Admission $60; Wine Club Members $54 / Join us under the stars in the heart of wine country for an amazing up close and personal show with LAUREN ALAINA and Opening Band Honey County! / For reservations please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

Harvest Festival – Grape Stomp / October 18 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / General Admission $75; Wine Club Members $67.50 / Fall is a time to gather! Join us for our Harvest Festival! Buffet Style Dinner, Pumpkin Carving Contest, Grape Stomping, & Live Music! Enjoy all of these fun activities included with your ticket. LIVE ENTERTAINERS: Kodi Lee & Midnight Satellites /  For reservations please visit www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

September Winery Events

It’s September – and you know what that means? California Wine Month – and it’s time to celebrate, Temecula Style! From CRUSH to grape stomps and harvest celebrations, it’s always a busy time in Temecula Valley Wine Country!

Avensole Winery
Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting Available on Sunday of each the month 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.

Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-369934

Baily Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents Comedy of Errors / September 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21 / Doors open at 6:30pm. Show starts 7:30 (ends around 10p) /Outdoor stage at Baily Winery / Tickets: $22 / To purchase your tickets please visit http://www.shakespeareinthevines.org

Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm / Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at 951-972-9768. Please note that library tasting will not be available on these specific dates only June 6 or 7.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Sip, Stomp & Play / October 5 / 6pm to 9pm / $72 pp, $64.80 wine club, $32 for kids ages 4-11; price does not include tax / Grab a bunch of your family and friends and join us for this fun-for-the-entire-family grape stomp and harvest festival! Bring the kids! We’ll have face painting, live music, dinner, dancing, a Lucy look-alike contest, and of course, grape stomping contests! Channel your inner Lucy and dress up for a chance to win prizes! We are serving up some hearty cuisine that’s perfect for keeping your energy up while you stomp and dance the night away! Get your tickets while you can, you won’t want to miss this! Tickets include: Admission to the event, one glass of Callaway wine, dinner, dancing, wine specials and grape stomping! Purchase your tickets online at www.callawaywinery.com or at the winery.

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889

Brunch Specials every Sunday at Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally outsourced.

Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests.  Make your reservation today!  Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Churon Inn Winery
Variety Act – Live Music, Comedy, Magician / September 14 / 6:00-10:00pm / Guests $28; Wine Club $25; meal included alcohol available for purchase / For all our events please visit our website www.innatchuronwinery.com / To purchase tickets at http://shop.innatchuronwinery.com/reservation-events

Ruben V. & The Latin Sounds Havana Night / September 28 / 6:00-10:00pm / Guests $10 / Live band, Brazilian dancers and salsa dance Lessons / Guest musician, wood dance floor, food and alcohol available for purchase / For all our events please visit our website www.innatchuronwinery.com / To purchase tickets at http://shop.innatchuronwinery.com/reservation-events

Cougar Vineyards
Cougar Craft Night / September 22 / 3:30-5:30p / Wine club $45pp, Non-wine club $50pp / We’re making Reversible Blocks or Scarecrow crafts.  Samples displayed at the winery. All materials needed to create your Blocks or scarecrow will be provided plus expert help from the Craft Barrel Ladies! Craft and sip the afternoon away! / For reservations please call the winery 951.491.0825 or visit www.cougarvineyards.com

Wine and Dogs / September 12 / 3:00-6:00pm / Come and join in on the fun picnic area at Cougar winery!  Dog sitters, doggy day care, dog boarding, groomers, pet nutrition, specialty pet treats, pet safe toys, dog trainers, dog friendly dining, local rescues, specialists in care and health of your dog and so much more…no cost to attend. Those in attendance can purchase two-for-one tastings during the event / For more information please visit www.cougarvineyards.com

Europa Village
Festa! Big Truth / September 20 / 5:30p-8:30p / Free admission; Food tickets $19 / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Big Truth, benefiting Jacob’s House! / For reservations and information please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery
Vertical Meritage Tasting Class with George Myer / September 14 / 10:30am -12:30pm / $45 per person, $40 Wine Club Members per person / Rated 90+ points by Wine Enthusiast and all Gold Medal winners! Designed for all levels of wine knowledge; RSVP’s required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Fazeli Cellars
Salsa Night Black and White Party! / September 7 / No partner or experience needed! Doors Open at 6:30 with 45-minute Salsa Lesson / Admission fee is $20 for non-members (+ tax) and $15 (+ tax) for wine club members – Includes a glass of Sangria. Special Food Menu Items! Wine, Beer, Sangria available for purchase! / Tickets sold at front door ONLY!

Ponte Winery
Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-6pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour specials on craft beer, flatbreads, Ponte wine on tap and more! Menu items $6 and up / For more information please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

Somerset Vineyards & Winery
First Annual Grape Stomp / September 21 / 4:30-7:00pm; music until 9pm / $35 per person and includes a glass of wine, or $130 for a team of 4 and includes a bottle of your choice / Come participate in our first Grape Stomp Competition! Come as a team of 4, or as an individual and become part of a team. All participants get to stomp. Teams are encouraged to dress – best team costume wins a prize! / Please visit the following site to reserve your spot https://shop.somersetvineyard.com/res-424601/1st-Annual-Grape-Stomp.html

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Jazz Series – Michael Paulo, Blake Aaron, Tateng Katindig & Vocalist Lynne Fiddmont / September 1 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Join us at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa as Rhythm on the Vine® returns with the third of a six-concert jazz series! Featuring Saxophonist Michael Paulo and friends! / Reservation Information: Purchase tickets at SouthCoastWinery.com. Please email marketing@wineresort.com or call (833)366-3112

Jazz Series – Marc Antoine & Brian Simpson Concert / September 29 / 6:00pm – 9:00pm / Join us at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa as Rhythm on the Vine® returns with the fourth of a six-concert jazz series! Featuring Guitarist Marc Antoine and Pianist Brian Simpson / Reservation Information: Purchase tickets at SouthCoastWinery.com. Please email marketing@wineresort.com or call (833)366-3112

Grape Stomp 2019 / September 15 / 5:00-9:00pm / It’s that time of the year again! Time to get your stompin’ on! Grab your friends and join us on Sunday, September 15th for South Coast Winery’s annual Grape Stomp. Your ticket includes a glass of wine, live music, sparkling wine toast, harvest blessing, dinner buffet, and of course, grape stomping! Reservation Information: Tickets on sale at SouthCoastWinery.com/stomp. 

Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend.

Thornton Winery

JAZZ CONCERT SERIES
KEIKO MATSUI & SAX TO THE MAX / September 7 / 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS SUMMER HORNS / September 14 / 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $95, Gourmet Supper Package: $180 (sold out)

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS SUMMER HORNS / September 15 / 5:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $90, Gourmet Supper Package: $175

NORMAN BROWN SUMMER STORM / September 21 / 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170

JONATHAN BUTLER & KIRK WHALUM SUMMER GROOVE / September 28 7:00pm
Cost: General Admission: $85, Gourmet Supper Package: $170

To order your jazz tickets, please visit our website: www.thorntonwine.com or Call (951) 699-0099 EXT. 3127 to make reservations. en.natashaescort.com

Friday Live Music – Featuring Killer Dueling Pianos / September 13 / 6:00-9:00pm / Cost: $15 cover fee / Dinner tables available. Please call (951) 699-0099 to make reservations. *All guests at table must order dinner!

Friday Live Music – Rolling Stone Tribute / September 27 / 6:00-9:00pm / Cost: General Admission – $15 in advance.  $20 at the door. VIP $30 / Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com

Dinner tables available. Call (951) 699-0099 to make table reservations. *All guests at table must order dinner!

Wilson Creek Winery
Symphony in the Vines Pop Concert / September 15 / 7:00pm – Gates open at 6pm / $35 / Temecula Symphony presents vocalist Jonathan Hawkins & Guest and John Mario, conductor / Music from John Williams, Game of Thrones, Ed Sheeran, The Greatest Showman, Andrea Bocelli, Broadway, Freddy Mercury, Beethoven and more… / Food and beverage available to purchase at the event / For tickets www.wilsoncreekwinery.com

Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

GRASS-FED BURGER WITH AVOCADO AND CHIPOTLE MAYONNAISE

Buttery avocados make any sandwich better, and they put this burger over the top. Grass-fed beef can be lean, but the sliced avocado and spicy chipotle mayonnaise ensure that this burger is a luscious, moist, flavor-packed experience. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

Burgers:

• 1 1⁄2 pounds (750 g) grass-fed ground beef chuck
• Scant 1 1⁄2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt
• 3⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper

Chipotle Mayonnaise

• 1⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (90 ml) mayonnaise, homemade or store-bought
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, if using store-bought mayonnaise
• 1 small clove garlic, grated with a rasp grater or very finely minced
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons very finely minced chipotle chile in adobo, or more to taste
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 4 hamburger buns, split
• 1 ripe but firm small avocado
• 1⁄2 lime
• About 1⁄2 cup (20 g) loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
• 4 large, soft lettuce leaves

Directions:

Make the burgers: Put the beef in a bowl and add the salt, garlic powder, and several grinds of black pepper. Mix quickly with your hands; try not to overwork the mixture. Divide into four equal portions, each 6 ounces (185 g), and shape into balls. Flatten each ball into a round patty about 3∕4 inch (2 cm) thick. Make the patties a little thinner in the center. They shrink a bit when cooked, and this step ensures they will be of even thickness after cooking. Place them on a tray and refrigerate.

Make the mayonnaise: Put the mayonnaise in a small bowl. If it is store-bought, whisk in the olive oil to improve the flavor. Whisk in the garlic and chile. Taste and add more chile if you like. Cover and refrigerate until needed.

Preheat the broiler. Heat a large cast-iron frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, add the patties and fry until nicely browned and done to your taste, flipping them with a spatula two or three times and adjusting the heat to keep them from getting too crusty on either side. For medium doneness, the total cooking time will be about 10 minutes.

Set the burgers aside on a platter to rest for about 3 minutes. Meanwhile, toast the buns, cut side up, under the broiler. Halve, pit, and peel the avocado and slice thinly.

Spread chipotle mayonnaise on both halves of the toasted buns. Top the bottom half of each bun with a burger. Divide the avocado slices evenly among the burgers. Sprinkle the avocado lightly with salt and a squeeze of lime. Top with a tuft of cilantro leaves, then with a lettuce leaf, and finally the top half of the bun. Cut in half with a serrated knife and serve immediately.

Suggested Pairings:

Baily Winery ~ 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon – It offers warm, rich tones with subtle, herbaceous qualities and a hint of mint.
Miramonte Winery ~ 2015 Estate Syrah – Dusty boysenberry, wild cherry, fresh violet, sweet french oak, spiced mocha and a long graceful finish.
Oak Mountain Winery ~ 2013 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – Bold fruit flavors and subtle nuances of toffee, espresso and dark chocolate
Wilson Creek Winery ~ 2015 Family Reserve Syrah -Cedar and spice are prominent in the aroma of the wine whereas cherry and sour plums are revealed on the palate.

Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California.

Temecula Valley Wine Country Lands in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice as Best Wine Region

Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country has been named by USA Today as a 10Best Readers’ Choice for “Best Wine Region.” Out of 20 nominees across the United States, Temecula Valley Wine Country ranked number three in the country by an expert panel and the public.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our winegrowers and winemakers. Our wine region is beginning to get the recognition it deserves for its award wining wines, dining, and experiences,” says Kimberly Adams, President and CEO, Visit Temecula Valley.

“From our talented winemakers to chefs to tasting room staff and everyone in between, Temecula Valley is filled with passionate people who work tirelessly to make the region so special,” said Krista Chaich, Executive Director of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association. “We are delighted to be counted among so many other great wine regions in this 10Best list, and that visitors everywhere have fallen in love with our community and our world class wines, just as we have.”

Temecula Valley Wine Country is located in the center of Southern California, just 60 minutes from San Diego, Orange Country, and Palm Springs, and 90 minutes south of Los Angeles. There are now nearly 50 wineries in the significant and diverse Temecula Valley AVA, a major AVA in Southern California. The wine region continues to gain recognition for its award-winning, premium varietal and proprietary blended wines.

More than three million travelers visit Temecula Valley to enjoy the region’s welcoming wineries, learning experiences, concerts and signature events, outdoor activities, and exceptional dining. Less-busy weekdays provide potential opportunities to converse with talented winemakers and friendly winery owners. Hotels, resorts, bed and breakfast inns are available among the vineyards, in and near Old Town Temecula, within the canyon, and along hotel row in Uptown.

For more information about Temecula Valley Southern California or to start planning your trip, go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.

POTATO FOCACCIA WITH OLIVES AND ROSEMARY

Welcome guests to your home for dinner with a glass of your favorite Temecula Valley rosé and a slice of warm olive focaccia. If you’ve baked the focaccia hours before, you can reheat it quickly in a hot oven, although it’s plenty tasty at room temperature, too. Pack it on a picnic or a hike with your favorite salami and cheeses. Or adapt the topping to showcase a seasonal fresh vegetable like halved cherry tomatoes or strips of roasted sweet pepper. Adding cooked potato to the dough produces an especially moist and tasty result.

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 pound (250 g) Yukon Gold potatoes, unpeeled
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 3⁄4 cups (465 g) unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
• 2 1⁄2 teaspoons (8 g) kosher or sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
• 1⁄4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, plus more for coating and brushing
• 24 California olives, pitted and halved
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons finely minced fresh rosemary or dried oregano, finely crumbled

Directions

Put the potatoes in a small saucepan and add water to cover by 1 inch (2.5 cm). Do not add salt. Bring to a simmer over high heat, adjust the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced, 15 minutes or more, depending on size.

Remove from the heat, set aside 1 1∕3 cups (330 ml) of the potato water, and then drain the potatoes. When cool enough to handle, peel the potatoes and pass them through a ricer or food mill fitted with a fine disk into a bowl. If you don’t have a ricer or food mill, mash the potatoes well with a potato masher.

Refrigerate the potato water until it cools to 105° to 115°F (40° to 46°C). Put 1∕3 cup (80 ml) of the cooled potato water in a large bowl and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let soften for about 3 minutes, then whisk with a fork to dissolve and let stand until bubbly, about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the flour and salt and whisk to blend.

Add the olive oil, riced potato, and the remaining 1 cup (250 ml) potato water to the proofed yeast. Stir to combine, then add the flour gradually, stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough clears the sides of the bowl. Keeping the dough in the bowl, knead it gently by hand until smooth, adding just enough additional flour to keep it from sticking to your hand. You should not need more than 1 to 2 tablespoons. Shape the dough into a ball and coat lightly with olive oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rise until doubled, 1 1∕2 to 2 hours.

Punch the dough down. Using 1 tablespoon olive oil, grease the bottom and sides of an 11-by-17-inch (28-by-43 cm) rimmed baking sheet. Transfer the dough to the baking sheet. With well-oiled fingers, poke and prod the dough into a rectangle that fits the pan. The dough is elastic and will want to spring back. If it resists your attempts to flatten it enough to cover the pan, let it rest for 5 minutes and try again. If it still springs back from the edges, let it rest for 5 minutes longer and try once more. You should be able to flatten it sufficiently after a couple of rests, but don’t worry if the dough doesn’t completely fill the pan. Let rise, uncovered, until puffy, about 1 1∕2 hours.

While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a pizza stone (or baking tiles), put it in the oven on the middle rack to preheat—ideally for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Arrange the olives, evenly spaced, on the surface of the focaccia, then gently press them into place. Brush the surface of the dough with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then scatter the rosemary and a little salt on top. Place the pan on the baking stone, if using, and bake until the focaccia is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet back to front halfway through.

Immediately slide a long metal offset spatula under the focaccia to make sure it is not sticking to the baking sheet, then slide the focaccia onto a rack to cool. Slice into desired portions with a bread knife and serve warm or at room temperature.

Makes one 11-by-17-inch (28 by-43 cm) focaccia

Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California

Plan Your Mid-Week Visit

Whether you can get away overnight, or just want to take a day trip, a mid-week visit to Temecula Valley Wine Country should prove to be a relaxing and enjoyable break.

There are many advantages to visiting wine country during the week. Much less busy weekdays are the perfect opportunity to allow yourself time to enjoy our 35+ member wineries’ offerings. At a slower pace, you’ll be able to enjoy more one-on-one time with the knowledgeable wine servers (or even the winemakers and/or winery owners themselves if you’re lucky) at each of your stops.

For a less expensive wine tasting experience, take advantage of the weekday SIP Passport. This passport allows you to visit any five wineries (of the 30 participating wineries) of your choice for $45. Visit our website at www.temeculawines.org to purchase your passport.

And, if we haven’t convinced you yet….there’s no waiting in line to dine at our wonderful wine country restaurants that are very busy on the weekends. If you’d like to spend the night you’ll be pleased with the selection of hotels and their reduced mid-week rates. Go here to how to play craps information Hotels in the area are generally booked months in advance on the weekends.

While we’d love to see you at any time here in Temecula Valley Wine Country, give us a try on a Wednesday sometime….we think you’ll be glad you did!

July Winery Events

Ahhh….summer! 4th of July events, outdoor concerts and wine and food pairings are just a few of the summertime offerings in Temecula Valley’s wine country. Whatever day you choose to visit, you’ll be sure to find something fun to do!

Avensole Winery
Dueling Pianos / July 26 / 7:00pm – 10:00pm / $32 / $25 Wine Club / Avensole Winery invites you to a lively evening of Dueling Pianos. Q’s Tacos Food Truck – available for purchase / For reservations please visit http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-391859/Dueling-Pianos.html

Hosted Tour & Wine Tasting /Available on Sunday of each the month / 2pm-3:30pm / For every adventure, there is discovery, for every unique place, there is a story. Take a guided journey through our lush vineyards and experience our rich heritage and handcrafted Avensole wines / Cost. $35 / Reservations required. Please call 951.252.2003 x312 to reserve.

Gourmet Cheese Artisanal Tour & Wine Tasting / Available on Friday of each month / 12pm / For the ultimate Wine Country experience, delight in an educational tour through our picturesque vineyard vistas and conclude this tour with a culinary treat of artisanal wine pairings featuring 7 Avensole wines / Cost: $75 / Reservations required online at link: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-369934

Baily Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents Measure for Measure / July 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27 / Doors open at 6:30pm. Show starts 7:30 (ends around 9:30) /Outdoor stage at Baily Winery / Tickets: $22 / To purchase your tickets please visit http://www.shakespeareinthevines.org

Estate Library Tasting / Every Thursday-Sunday / Available 11am-4pm / Enjoy exclusive library tasting of 5 different vintages (varietal will vary monthly). Tasting will take place at Baily Estate Tasting Room located on Pauba Road / Tours are available upon request / For reservations and pricing information please call Lisa at 951-972-9768.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Guns N’ Roses Tribute / July 19 / 7:00-10:00pm / General Public $28.00 – Wine Club $25.20 / Appetite 4 Destruction has become, on a consistent basis, the highest audience drawing tribute to Guns N’ Roses on the entire west coast of the United States. Authenticity is everything and Appetite 4 Destruction does not disappoint. Tickets are non-refundable. Tickets are not mailed. There will be a check-in table at the event. Doors open at 6:30pm. Seating is provided but feel free to bring your own. Wine, beer and food available for purchase. No outside food or alcohol allowed. Food provided by Devilicious Food Truck / Purchase tickets at www.callawaywinery.com  

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $40 guests may enjoy a starter, an entrée and a dessert / Live Music offered on Friday nights Reservation is not necessary. For menu information call 951.587.8889

Brunch Specials every Sunday at Meritage / 11am / Cost is $30 / Includes a mimosa with fresh squeezed orange juice, entrée and dessert. All food from Meritage is farm-to-table, either grown on property in restaurant garden or locally outsourced.

Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 2pm / Tour only, $10 per person. Tour with tasting, $25 – tour includes 1 tank sample, 1-barrel sample and 4 additional tastes at the Tasting Bar / Reservations not necessary, but for 10 or more highly recommended / For more information call 951.676.4001

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Wine & Chocolate Pairing / Every Friday of the month / 3:00pm / $45 Per Person ($40 Wine Club) / Your guided pairing experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning wines are made and learn how Carter Estate wines compliment and bring out the unique flavors of chocolate. Our Wine & Chocolate Pairing is approximately 90 minutes & has limited availability to provide a more intimate experience for our guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older. Reservation Information: Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Elegant Food & Wine Pairing / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member / 1pm & 3pm Monday-Sunday / Your guided experience includes a specially selected flight of five of our Carter Estate wines paired with perfectly matched culinary bites from our Chef. Learn about the history of our beautiful Temecula Valley & get a behind-the-scenes look at how our award-winning Sparkling wines are made. Our Wine & Food Pairings are approximately 90 minutes & limited to eight guests. Make your reservation today! Must be 21 or older / Reservation Information: Reservations recommended – Book a pairing on CarterEstateWinery.com

Churon Inn Winery
Latin Music Series / July 20 / 6:00-10:00pm / Cost $25; $20 for Wine Club / Join us on our upper Tuscany patio for live music by Ruben V & the Latin Sounds, dinner, wine and dancing / For tickets and additional information, please our website http://shop.innatchuronwinery.com/reservation-events

Europa Village
Murder Mystery Dinner- Café Murder / July 27 / 6:00pm / Tickets: $80; Société $72 / Join us for an evening of mystery and intrigue. You will need to keep your eyes and ears open, because someone will be ruthlessly murdered by the end of the play, and it’s up to you to guess who-done-it! Performance will take place during a gourmet dinner prepared by Europa’s Executive Chef, Dean Thomas. For reservations please visit https://shop.europavillage.com/event/Murder-Mystery-Dinner—Cafe-Murder-July27

Murder Mystery Dinner – Café Murder / July 28 / 6:00pm / Tickets: $75; Société $67.50 / Join us for an evening of mystery and intrigue. You will need to keep your eyes and ears open, because someone will be ruthlessly murdered by the end of the play, and it’s up to you to guess who-done-it! Performance will take place during a gourmet dinner prepared by Europa’s Executive Chef, Dean Thomas. For reservations please visit https://shop.europavillage.com/event/Murder-Mystery-Dinner—Cafe-Murder-July28

Falkner Winery
19^th Anniversary Weekend Celebration / July 4-7 / 12pm-5pm / BBQ and yard games, live music by Northstar on Saturday, July 6^th. Wine raffles every hour from 12pm-4pm on all days! Huge gift shop sales, 50%-30% off wine by the case sales. Restaurant lunch special for two at $69. Wine, Sangria, beer and cocktails available.

Vertical Amante Tasting Class with George Myers / July 13 / 10:30am-12:00pm / Only $40 per person; Wine club members $35 / Includes 5 years of our amazing Amante! Rated 90+ points by Wine Enthusiast and all Gold Medal winners! / Space is limited, and reservations are required. Please call 951.676.9231 ext. 109 or email wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Havana Nights White Party Salsa Dancing & Live Entertainment / July 19 / 6:30pm-10:30pm / Wear your best dressed whites! Open to the public. Cover charge $25; Wine club members $15 / Includes a glass of Sangria upon arrival. Beer and Sangria, wine & appetizers available for purchase. Free lesson from 7p-8pm and open dancing from 8p-10pm / RSVP is required. Book a table of 8 by emailing rmurgo@falknerwinery.com / Purchase individual tickets online at www.Falknerwinery.com

Fazeli Cellars
Salsa Night! / July 13 / No partner or experience needed! Doors Open at 6:30 with 45-minute Salsa Lesson / Admission fee is $20 for non-members (+ tax) and $15 (+ tax) for wine club members – Includes a glass of Sangria. Special Food Menu Items! Wine, Beer, Sangria available for purchase! / Tickets sold at front door ONLY!

Foot Path Winery
Food, Wine and Music / July 20 / 6:30-9:00pm / The cost is $30.00 Per person, which includes food and a glass of wine / An evening of food wine and music with Jason Weber playing his Sax. Call the winery at 951-265-9951 for reservations and information.

Mount Palomar Winery
Paint Nite in the Barrel Room / July 7 & 14 / 1:00-4:00pm / $45 (Use Create30 to save $15) / Raise your glass to a NEW kind of night out! Paint Nite® invites you to create art over a glass of wine at a Mount Palomar Winery, guided by a professional artist and party host. Grab your friends and spend two hours drinking, laughing, and flexing your creative muscles. There’s no experience necessary and we’ll provide all the supplies, so you don’t have to worry about a thing (except having a great time!) To reserve please visit this link https://www.paintnite.com/venues/mt-palomar-winery-133232

Hella 90’s Tribute Fest Music & Fashion Festival / July 26 / 5:00-10:00pm / Tickets $28 General Admission, VIP Table $324. Club members – contact the winery for an exclusive coupon code! / 90’s Tribute Fest with: Faux Fighters (Foo Fighters Tribute), Infinite Sadness (Smashing Pumpkins), Robert Rankin Walker, Caden Levi! / Purchase your tickets at https://www.heyday.com/events-1/90s-tribute-fest-with-green-today-faux-fighters-and-more-tba

Ponte Winery
Ponte Family Fest 2019 / July 18 / 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. / $5 Guests (guests ages 4+) | $4 Members 100% of ticket sales go directly to charity! / Grab your loved ones (& little ones!) and let the good times roll at the Winery for our first-ever Ponte Family Fest! Join us on Thursday, July 18th from 5-9 p.m. for delicious eats from local food trucks, live entertainment, fun-filled activities for the kiddos and of course, plenty of wine for Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa… you get the gist! The best part? All proceeds from admission ticket sales and the Ponte Wine Bar (& a portion of proceeds from our vendors!) at Ponte Family Fest will benefit Rancho Damacitas nonprofit organization, located right here in Temecula Wine Country. So, mark your calendars, get excited and stay tuned for more details to come! / Purchase Tickets: https://shop.pontewinery.com/res-409655/Ponte-Family-Fest-2019.html

Happy Hour in The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn / Every Monday-Thursday / 4pm-6pm / Free to attend / Head to Temecula Wine Country’s only cocktail bar, The Cellar Lounge at Ponte Vineyard Inn, for happy hour specials on craft beer, flatbreads, Ponte wine on tap and more! Menu items $6 and up / For more information please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

Brunch at Bouquet Restaurant / Every Saturday & Sunday / 7:30am-3:00pm / Offering indoor & outdoor seating options, Bouquet is the perfect spot to gather for a gourmet brunch. Enjoy a relaxing ambiance with stunning fountain courtyard, pond & vineyards views / To view menu and for reservations please visit www.pontevineyardinn.com

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
4th of July Concert & Drone Light Show / July 4 / 6:00p-9:00p / Tickets from $15 to $80 per person / Celebrate the Fourth of July with South Coast WineryResort & Spa! We’re bringing back the Rhythm on the Vine® concert series with a spectacular Independence Day showcase. Country-pop duo Brown & Gray, known for their hit single “Top Down”, will headline the show, with local favorite Kanan Road opening. Then, at 9pm, we’re taking fireworks to a new level with Temecula Wine Country’s first ever Independence Day DRONE LIGHT SHOW!!! This show is in partnership with Visit Temecula Valley, and benefits Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County. This is an immersive experience you won’t want to miss / Purchase tickets at https://www.southcoastwinery.com/july4th.

Behind the Scene Wine Tour / Available daily / 11 AM, 1 PM and 3PM, Monday through Sunday / $45pp; $40pp Wine Club Member or Military / Learn more about our spectacular Southern California Temecula winery with a behind-the-scenes wine tour, from vineyards to crush pad. Each tour concludes with 5 wines paired with an individual plate of specially prepared lite-bite foods, designed to enhance your wine knowledge and experience / Reservation Information: Call 866-994-6379 Ext. 7217 to reserve your spot today / Due to the limited sizes of each tour, reservations are required with prepayment, and are non-refundable. Guests must be over 21 years of age to attend.

Thornton Winery
Mediterranean Cooking Class / July 14 / 1:00-3:00pm / $75pp inclusive / For additional information and reservations please call 951-699-0099 or log on to www.thorntonwine.com          

SANTANA Tribute / July 26 / 6:00-9:00 pm / General Admission – $15 in advance. $20 at the door. Wine & Food available to purchase! Must order tickets on our website: www.thorntonwine.com / Dinner tables available. Call (951) 699-0099 to make reservations. *All guests at table must order dinner!

Thornton Jazz Concert Series – The Brian McKnight 4 / July 20 / 7:00pm / General Admission: $95, Gourmet Supper Package: $180 / Please visit our web site for additional Jazz schedule and information www.thorntonwine.com

Wiens Family Cellars
The Alarm with Jay Aston’s Gene Loves Jezebel and Modern English / July 26 / 6pm-10pm / Wiens 2019 Summer Concert Series benefits MSJC Foundation / Tickets are available for general admission, VIP admission, VIP tables of 4 and VIP tables of 10. VIP extras include: VIP Menu • Private wine bar • Reserved Section • Access to V.I.P. area • Additional entertainment in V.I.P. area / General Admission: $65.00; VIP: $99.00; VIP Table of 4: $395.00; VIP Table of 10: $950.00 / For reservations please visit https://harbourproductions.live/index.php/events/alarm

Wilson Creek Winery
Rodney Atkins Concert / July 12 / Doors Open at 6:00 pm / Join us under the stars in the heart of wine country for an amazing up close and personal show with Rodney Atkins! Purchase Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416687/Rodney-Atkins-Country-Concert.html

Scotty McCreery Concert / July 18 / Doors Open at 6:00 pm / Join us under the stars in the heart of wine country for an amazing up close and personal show with Scotty McCreery! Purchase Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416727/Scotty-Mccreery-Country-Concert.html

Bubble Brunch Buffet / Every Sunday 10am-3pm / $51.95, Buffet only: $41.95, Children: $16.95 / Enjoy all your breakfast favorites, omelet stations, waffle stations, seafood stations, carving stations and dessert stations with beautiful vineyard views / Buffet (+ unlimited sparkling). A casino can be great for players from one part of the world, but it can also be terrible for other players with different tastes and habits. For this reason we have created a custom Casino Rating that is relevant for players from India. It consists of our rating of each casino on a global level as well as user-defined factors that will be important for players from India. Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.