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Father’s Day in Wine Country

Summertime kicks off with a number of exciting events to celebrate Dad at your favorite Temecula wineries! From Father’s Day BBQs to unique wine tastings, special events and brunches – you’ll find a handsome way to say “thank you” to that special father in your life. Here are some Father’s Day events to choose from!

Baily Winery
Shakespeare in the Vines presents Sense and Sensibility / June 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22 / 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. Please note that library tasting will not be available on these specific dates only June 6 or 7.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Father’s Day Fun! / June 16 / 11:00am-3:00pm / $35pp for Wine Club Member, $40pp Non- Wine Club Member, $25pp Children under 12 / We’ve got Dad’s Day covered. Join us in our picnic area for brats, wine, mac-n-cheese (and bacon!), beer, cigars, sundaes and corn Hole / Reserve your spot today. First 25 Dads that reserved will receive a cigar upon check-in. Please email Events@cougarvineyards.com or call 951.491.0825. Entire menu and more details available at our Events page located at www.cougarvineyards

Falkner Winery
Dinner Luau in the Yard Garden / June 15 / 6:00-10:00pm / Members and their guests $49, all other $59 / Perfect gift for Father’s Day! Open to the public! 21+ over only. Wear your favorite Hawaiian outfit!  Includes 2 drink tickets and Hawaiian Dinner. Cocktails, Beer, and wine will be available for purchase.  Live Hawaiian music and Hula Dancing by Heyday productions / Reservations required 951-676-8231 ext. 109 or by email wineclub@falknerwinery.com.

Fazeli Cellars
Father’s Day BBQ / June 16 / Open Seating on the Patio 11am – 4pm / $49.95 $42.95 for members / Includes BBQ lunch & dessert (menu to come) and a glass of House White or Red (beer available for purchase) / Tickets can be purchased online at www.fazelicellars.com or upon arrival

Wilson Creek Winery
Father’s Day Brunch / June 16 / 10:00am-3:00pm / Come celebrate dad with all of his brunch favorites! /Price: $65.95 (with Bubbly) / $55.95 (without Bubbly) / Make Reservations Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416730/Fathers-Day-Brunch.html

It’s Finally Summer! What Wines are YOU Drinking?

While the weather this year has taken a little bit longer than usual to get its act together, and brought lots of rain along with it, the sun is finally starting to heat things up, shorts are moving from the back of the dresser drawer to the front, and grape vines are looking green and full. You know what this means? It’s officially summer wine time.

Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country is certainly known for its rich, full-bodied red wines. However, it’s also home to some pretty incredible whites, rosés, sparkling wines and lighter-style reds. Here’s a few of our favorites for sipping out on the patio on a warm summer afternoon, or while backyard grilling with your friends… or for any occasion, really.

Sparkling:

Carter Estate 2014 Blanc de Blanc Brut, $40

Why we love it: This crisp, clean, bone-dry bubbly is made in the méthode Champenoise, AKA how they do it in the most famous sparkling wine region of the world, Champagne. Made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, it’s light but remarkably complex, with golden delicious apple, apple blossom and toasted brioche on the nose, teensy little bubbles, and a tight, persistent finish. Ring in the 4^th of July with this beautiful bottle, or simply pop it while you celebrate your own heartbeat all summer long.

Oak Mountain Brut NV, $25

Why we love it: Oak Mountain has taken Temecula Valley Roussanne – one of the Rhône Valley’s signature white grapes – and made it sparkle. The result is a pleasantly floral, fresh wine that is delightful as an aperitif or paired with a wide range of cuisines. The beauty of bubbles is they go with just about everything… including nothing at all but the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair.

White:

Danza del Sol 2017 Vermentino, $28

Why we love it: Close your eyes and you are in Italy with this bright, juicy Vermentino, a grape that is equally at home in Temecula as it is in Sardinia, Liguria and Tuscany. Notes of ripe, fleshy stone fruit, lime zest and white flowers give way to a clean, oyster shell finish. The very definition of “quaffable.”

Doffo Winery 2018 Viognier, $32

Why we love it: Viognier shines in Temecula Valley and this bottling is no exception. While Viognier can at times be heavy, luscious and slightly oily, Doffo Winery has captured all of the floral aromatics of the grape variety while maintaining citrusy freshness and a delicate minerality thanks to fermentation in concrete tanks. The result is a light, clean, elegant wine that belongs on your summer dinner table. 

Rosé

Akash Parlez Vous Rosé, $33

Why we love it: Don’t let the deep, almost magenta color fool you – this rosé, made from 100% estate Zinfandel, is light on its feet and bursting with juicy strawberry, red currant, and watermelon Jolly Rancher notes giving way to a totally dry, lime zest finish. Pair this with cedar planked salmon and a sunset.

Hart Winery 2018 Rosé of Sangiovese, $22

Why we love it: Sipping this wine, you could be strolling through Provençal lavender fields with a straw hat and a picnic. We would argue Temecula Valley is just as pretty, and this wine just as perfect as any rosé we’ve tried from Provence. Pale, baby pink in color, with notes of warm, ripe strawberries and raspberries, violet petals and an elegant, wet river stone finish. This is one we could drink all day and well into the night.

Red:

Europa Village 2016 Vienza Montepulciano, $35

Why we love it: Another example of how well Italian grape varieties thrive in Temecula Valley. This Montepulciano is surprisingly light-bodied, with bright red fruit, a touch of baking spice and a soft, warm finish, like the lingering sunshine as you recline in a hammock with a good book at the end of a mid-summer day. A wine made that practically begs for food, you could even try serving this with a very slight chill on it.

Baily Winery 2014 Meritage, $65

Why we love it: If you simply must have a rich, complex red, even during the hottest summer months, then Baily Winery is your go-to for highly structured, elegant red wines. Meritage is their flagship bottling, and they have a library selection that dates back over a decade. A stunning blend of classic Bordeaux grape varieties, this wine is lean but powerful, with ripe berry fruit, plum, sweet baking spices and an intriguing tobacco note.

While all of these wines can be purchased online or direct from the winery, the summer months are a fantastic time to visit Temecula. With plenty to do, from wine tastings to concerts, festivals, hot air ballooning and more, you are sure to find enough to fill several days in Southern California Wine Country. Find out more about what’s going on all summer long in the region Wine Enthusiast Magazine named one of the world’s Top Ten Wine Travel Destinations HERE.

June Winery Events

Join us for an endless summer filled with wine & food events, Father’s Day celebrations, graduation specials and much more! Our wineries are offering mid-week activities along with weekend shindigs which will quickly fill your June calendar.

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 Sense and Sensibility / June 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22 / 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. Please note that library tasting will not be available on these specific dates only June 6 or 7.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Queen Nation – Live in Concert! / June 21 / 7:00-10:00 pm / General Public: $28.00 | Wine Club: $25.20 | V.I.P. Tables Available / Queen Nation’s live production of Queen’s greatest hits preserves the image, sound, and stage persona of vintage Queen. Audiences are amazed at the accuracy of Queen Nation’s live retrospective journey through such Queen songs as We Will Rock You – Bohemian Rhapsody – We Are the Champions – Crazy Little Thing Called Love – You’re My Best Friend – Another One Bites the Dust – Under Pressure and many more. Join us for this spectacular performance! Wine, beer and food available for purchase / Reservation information: Call for info 951.676.4001. Tickets are on sale now at www.callawaywinery.com

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 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 $25 / 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 1pm / 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 / June 23 / 3:00pm – 6:00pm / Prepare your palette for a unique experience pairing 5 custom chocolates from local chocolate shoppe, SugarPlum Farm with five Carter Estate Winery Wines / Purchase your tasting ticket at the door | $25 per person.
Wine Club Members are welcome to use their complimentary tasting tickets. Reservation Information: $25 Per Person. No reservations needed.

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 / June 22 / 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

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Father’s Day Fun! / June 16 / 11:00am-3:00pm / $35pp for Wine Club Member, $40pp Non- Wine Club Member, $25pp Children under 12 / We’ve got Dad’s Day covered. Join us in our picnic area for brats, wine, mac-n-cheese (and bacon!), beer, cigars, sundaes and corn Hole / Reserve your spot today. First 25 Dads that reserved will receive a cigar upon check-in. Please email Events@cougarvineyards.com or call 951.491.0825. Entire menu and more details available at our Events page located at www.cougarvineyards.com

Europa Village
French Cooking Class / June 2 / 12:00-2:00pm / Tickets: $59 / Société $53.10 / Embark on a culinary adventure to the Périgord region of France, led by Executive Chef and Certified Culinary Educator Dean Thomas. Discover what historical influences shaped the culture and cuisine of this region while savoring a three-course wine paired lunch / For reservations please visit www.europavillage.com

Wine Education Class / June 9 / 12:00pm / Tickets: $39.99 / Société $35.99 / Let Europa’s Sommelier, Dr. Doug Garman take you on a journey through France, sampling Europa’s C’est la Vie French wines, and savor samples of fine food pairings prepared by Executive Chef Dean Thomas / For reservations please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery
Kick off to Summer! Dinner Luau in the Yard Garden / June 15 / 6:00-10:00pm / Members and their guests $49, all other $59 / Perfect gift for Father’s Day! Open to the public! 21+ over only. Wear your favorite Hawaiian outfit! Includes 2 drink tickets and Hawaiian Dinner. Cocktails, Beer, and wine will be available for purchase. If you’re already counting down the days until your sizzlin’ summer vacay, one way to fill your time is to dip a toe into our hot range of plus size swimwear – This season, it’s all about celebrating your stunning self-image and loving the skin you’re in, so pick up plus size swimsuits to complement your body shape. Buy the latest plus size swimwear for women at cheap prices at Swimwearlux.com and check out our daily updated new arrival sexy and fashion junior plus size swimsuits with underwire and bathing suits at Swimwearlux. Shop Plus Size High Waisted Bikini, Plus Size Mesh Swimsuit, Plus Size Halter Swimwear Live Hawaiian music and Hula Dancing by Heyday productions / Reservations required 951-676-8231 ext. 109 or by email wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Sip N Paint Class “Mason Jars” / June 20 / 6:00-8:00pm / $35 per person and includes all materials / Wine available for purchase by glass or bottle. Members receive applicable discounts / Reservations are required online @ Artfusionbdk.myshopify.com

Wine Appreciation Class / June 15 / 10:00-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45 person; $40 Connoisseur; $20 VIP / RSVP required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Fazeli Cellars
Father’s Day BBQ / June 16 / Open Seating on the Patio 11am – 4pm / $49.95 $42.95 for members / Includes BBQ lunch & dessert (menu to come) and a glass of House White or Red (beer available for purchase) / Tickets can be purchased online at www.fazelicellars.com or upon arrival

Salsa Night! / June 21 / 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 / June 22 / 6:30-9:30pm / The cost is $30.00 Per person, which includes a glass of wine / Call the winery at 951-265-9951 for reservations and information.

Frangipani Winery
Yoga in the Vines / June 1, 15 & 29 / 9am-11am / $35 pp / This class is designed for all levels. Ticket includes class, glass of wine and breakfast bites / For reservations go to eventbrite.com and search Frangipani.

Lorimar Vineyard & Winery
Smoke & Vine: An Evening of Cigars and Wine /June 21 / 7:00pm / Join us for a relaxing evening of cigars & wine! Includes a four-course dinner, paired with Casa Lovo cigars and Lorimar’s award-winning wines/ For reservations please visit https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-409347/Smoke-Vine-An-Evening-Of-Cigars-And-Wine.html

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

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Behind the Scenes 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
B.I.G. Concert / June 14 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission: $15 in advance. $20 at the door / 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!

B-B-Q Cooking Class / June 23 / 1:00-3:00pm / $75pp inclusive / Come join Executive Chef, Ceasar Solarzano, for our fun outdoor BBQ cooking class. Chef Ceasar will show you how to prepare some of Cafe Champagne’s BBQ favorite recipes. His take-home recipes will allow you to recreate these delightful foods in your own kitchen / For reservations please call 951-699-0099.

Elton John Tribute / June 28 / 6:00-9:00 pm / General Admission – $25 in advance. $30 at the door. VIP $40 – First six rows. No table services. 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

Wilson Creek Winery
Father’s Day Brunch / June 16 / 10:00am-3:00pm / Come celebrate dad with all of his brunch favorites! /Price: $65.95 (with Bubbly) / $55.95 (without Bubbly) / Make Reservations Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416730/Fathers-Day-Brunch.html

Carly Pearce Concert / June 16 / 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 Carly Pearce! Honey County returns to Wilson Creek to open the show! /Purchase Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416693/Carly-Pearce-Concert.html

Gin Blossoms Concert / June 21 / Doors Open at 6:00 pm / Join us under the stars for an amazing show spotlighting the Grammy-nominated rock band, Gin Blossoms! / Purchase Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416728/Gin-Blossoms-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). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

Dungeness Crab Frittata

Planning a brunch for Mother’s Day? This recipe would be a hit with Mom! Slice this frittata into thin wedges for a passed hors d’oeuvre or serve more generous portions with a tuft of salad as a first course. To dress it up, top wedges with a dollop of crème fraîche and California sturgeon caviar. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine.

Serves 6

Ingredients
½ pound (250 g) fingerling potatoes
1-1/2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
Kosher or sea salt
6 large eggs
Freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh chives
¼ pound fresh Dungeness crabmeat

Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Put the potatoes in a baking dish just large enough to hold them. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil, season with salt, and turn to coat with the oil and salt. Bake until tender when pierced, 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool, then slice into ½-inch (12 mm) pieces. Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).

In a bowl, whisk the eggs with ½ teaspoon salt, several grinds of pepper, and the dill and chives. Stir in the crabmeat and potatoes, reserving a few larger pieces of crab for placing on the surface of the frittata later.

Heat a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the remaining 1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil. When it is hot, add the egg mixture and use a rubber spatula to distribute the crab and potato evenly. Cook without stirring for about 2 minutes, until the eggs begin to set, then place the reserved chunks of crabmeat on top. Continue cooking without stirring until the frittata is about two-thirds set, with some patches of liquid egg on the surface. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the surface is firm to the touch, about 6 minutes longer.

Remove from the oven and slide the frittata onto a cutting board. Let rest at least 15 minutes. Garnish with chopped dill, then slice into wedges and serve. The frittata is best warm, not hot.

Pairing Suggestions:

Callaway Vineyard & Winery ~ 2016 Special Selection Chardonnay – The palate is lush with fresh tropical fruits, golden delicious apple with a tangy pineapple finish.

Carter Estate Winery & Resort ~ 2014 Blanc De Blanc Sparkling – The 2014 Blanc de Blanc is brimming with fresh apple and delicate floral aromas; a hint of oak shows in the background with a nuance of vanilla, toasty cookie and a rich yeasty character.

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

Thornton Winery ~ NV Brut Sparkling Wine – The Thornton NV Brut has a lot of finesse— apple, pear and tropical aromas meld with toasty yeast flavors, while the finish is long and creamy.

May Winery Events

Temecula Valley is blooming with fun spring events for your friends and family. From art classes to concerts, to brunch, come celebrate Mother’s Day and Memorial Day with a trip to Southern California’s 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
Carol’s Mother’s Day Specials / May 12 / 11am-4pm / Carol’s Restaurant at Baily Winery will be offering Mother’s Day specials on top of their regular menu items. Live Music will be provided from 11am-3pm / Reservations are highly recommended. For reservations call 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

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Mommas and Mimosas / May 10 / 5:00-7:00pm / Wine Club: $45 per adult / $20 per child | General Public: $55 per adult / $25 per child / Treat your mom like the queen she is by enjoying an afternoon of creating your own unique flower crowns at our enchanting Vineyard View Terrace. Enjoy an assortment of light appetizers while sipping mimosas at our mom-mosa bar. Commemorate your afternoon with photos of your floral creations in front of our Mother’s Day photo wall / For reservation: R.S.V.P. to club@callawaywinery.com or call 951.676.4001 x400

Mother’s Day at Meritage / May 12 / 11:00am-8:00pm / Give Mom the love she deserves this Mother’s Day! On Sunday, May 12th, Executive Chef Josh Diamond is offering Mothers and their loved ones a captivating experience with delicious culinary creations!
For cost and reservations call (951) 587-8889 | View the menu online www.callawaywinery.com

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 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 $25 / 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 1pm / 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 at Carter Estate Winery / Every Friday in May / 3:00pm-4:30pm / $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 your pairing at 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

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
1st Annual Kentucky Derby Day / May 4 / 2:00-5:00pm / $35 Wine club, $40 Non-wine club includes food and one glass of wine or beer / Giddy up! Come enjoy the horse races on our big screen in the Barrel Room. We will be celebrating Derby Day at the winery! Wear your favorite Derby Day Attire. Prizes will be awarded for Best Derby Hat or Fascinator, Best Derby Crazy Tie and Best Derby Couple. Bubbly Basil Ginger Beer Juleps anyone? We’ll have them! / Please RSVP to events@cougarvineyards.com or call 951.767.8398.

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Cougar / May 12 / 11:00am-12:30pm and 1-2:15 seating / $40pp Wine club, $45pp Non-Wine club. If available spots day of: $50pp Wine club, $55 Non-wine club / If you are looking for something special to do this Mother’s Day, make Cougar part of your plans. This year we will once again offer a Mother’s Day Brunch for all Mothers, families and anyone else celebrating Mothers everywhere! Long stem rose for Mom with prepaid advance reservation while supplies last / For menu and reservations, please visit events@cougarvineyards.com or call 951.767.8398.

Doffo Winery
Doffo Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12 / 11am-2pm / Celebrate Mother’s Day here at Doffo Winery! Enjoy a gourmet brunch buffet featuring French toast bake, a breakfast “strata” casserole, quiche, bacon and sausage, and don’t forget the mimosas made with our Paulina Sparkling wine! Tickets are $70 per person and include brunch and 2 glasses of Paulina Sparkling (bottomless mixers for mimosas included). Seating begins at 11am and will be based on family style tables of 6. Last seating is at 1pm. If you have a party of 6 or more, please include a note during checkout so we can accommodate your party / For tickets: https://shop.doffowines.com/mothers-day-brunch-p241.aspx

Europa Village
Mother’s Day Lunch / May 12 / 12pm-3pm / Adult Tickets: $54.99 / Société $49.49; Children tickets $18; Société $16.20 / Treat the Mom’s in your life to a lovely afternoon experience and show them how much they are truly appreciated! / For reservations please visit www.europavillage.com

Festa! featuring Endeavor / May 24 / 5:30-8:30pm / Free admission; Food tickets: $19; Children tickets: $19 / Société $17.10 / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Endeavor, benefiting Hospice of the Valley! / For reservations please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery
Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch in the Pinnacle / May 12 / 10:00-3:00pm / $74.95+/person (Wine Club $64.95+/person) Children (3-10) $30.50+/child (Wine Club $25.95+/child) / Entertainment provided by Brandon & Amanda / For full menu please visit www.falknerwinery.com / Reservations required, please call 951-676-8231 option 4

Wine Appreciation Class / May 18 / 10:00-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45 person; $40 Connoisseur; $20 VIP / RSVP required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Frangipani Winery
Rose & Rise Yoga Class / May 4 & May 18 / 9am / $35 pp / Yoga class, glass of wine and breakfast bar included in price / To reserve and purchase your tickets please visit www.eventbrite.com

Fazeli Cellars
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12 / Champagne Greeting for all Moms, 3 Course Meal in our Banquet Room with Live Music / 2 Seating – Limited 11:30am | 2:00pm / $59.95 Non-Members | $49.95 Members; $19.95 Kids (12 & Under); $19.95 Bottomless Mimosa or Belini / Please email kellie@fazelicellars.com with your main course meal selection – if we do not receive your selection before the event a meal will be chosen for you.
http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391071/Mothers-Day-2019.html

Salsa Night! / May 25 / 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! Purchase Tickets Here: http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391042/Salsa-Night-42019.html

Monte De Oro Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12 / 1st Seating: 9:30am – 12:30pm; 2nd Seating: 12:30pm – 2:30pm / $65 / WC $55 / Child (3yr-10yr) $25 / Celebrate Mother’s Day with family and friends at Monte De Oro with our annual Mother’s Day Brunch. Enjoy a buffet-style brunch with unlimited mimosas. Plus, all mothers in your group leave with a bottle of Monte De Oro award-winning wine! / Please reserve via http://shop.montedeoro.com/reservation-events

Meritage Blind Tasting / May 24 / 6:00-8:00pm / $70pp; Wine club $65 /A red Meritage is a blend of two or more of the red “noble” Bordeaux varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and the rarer St. Macaire, Gros Verdot and Carmenère. Join as we sample over 10 different Meritage offerings from various California wineries, including Temecula Valley, Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles, etc. Epicurean appetizer, cheese and dessert pairings will accompany your tasting as well! Please reserve via http://shop.montedeoro.com/res-394927/Blind-Tasting-Meritage-Blend.html

Mount Palomar Winery
Rocky’s Comedy Live / May 4, 10, 11 & 18 / 6:00pm (early show) 8:00pm (late show) / Catch your favorite “A-List” and celebrity comics live, on-stage, inside Annata Bistro/Bar. Last dinner reservations for the bistro will be at 4 PM, snacks and drinks will be available during the show
For pricing and to purchase your ticket, please visit https://rockyscomedylive.com/ Ticket prices will increase if purchased at the door.

Mother’s Day at Annata Bistro/Bar / May 11 and May 12 / 11:00am-7:00pm; last seating 6:00pm / Celebrate Mom with a delicious Mother’s Day meal at Mount Palomar Winery’s on-site bistro! We will be offering signature dining items from Annata Bistro/Bar along with Italian classics like Pollo Farcito and Linguine with Scampi. The Mother’s Day menu will run all Mother’s Day weekend, and all Moms will receive one complimentary mimosa. Reservations are highly recommended. For pricing & reservations and to view the full menu please visit us online at http://www.MountPalomarWinery.com/MothersDay

Paint Nite in the Barrel Room hosted by Yaymaker Events / May 5 / 1:00-3:00pm / Tickets $38 / Grab your friends and unleash your inner artist at the Original Paint Nite! “Drink Creatively” in the Barrel Room (with our own bar…ooooh yeah) at Mt Palomar Winery. You’ll go from a blank canvas to a masterpiece of your own, with plenty of laughs along the way. Guided by a talented and entertaining artist, you’ll be amazed at what you create, and how much fun you have doing it. Yaymaker events give you everything you need to get up, get out, and get making! Instruction is provided by an expert host, so no experience is required, and everything you need is supplied. Grab your friends to paint, plant, tinker, and build—and give your week something to shout about / Sign up at https://www.yaymaker.com/us/ca/temecula/2456/venues/mt-palomar-winery-133232

Ghost in the Machine Concert: A Tribute to the Police / May 17 / 6:00-10:00pm / $28 online, ticket prices will increase if purchased at the door / Live in concert! In the vineyards, under the stars. Playing all the classics such as: Roxanne • So Lonely • Message In A Bottle • Every Breath You Take • Don’t Stand So Close To Me • Walking On The Moon…and so many more! / Reservations at https://www.heyday.com/events-1/a-tribute-to-the-police-live-in-concert

Peltzer Family Cellars
Paint & Sip with Pretty Paints to benefit Our Nicholas Foundation / May 9 / 6:00-9:00pm / $50 per ticket / Create your own beautiful succulent on a wooden mini pallet with help from an experienced instructor. Choose a word or quote that speaks to you. We’ll help with that! We’ll all be finding our creative side in the Crush House. Doors for our class will open at 5:55, and class will start promptly at 6:10 / Seats will be assigned, so please include the names in your party at checkout / All painting supplies, easels, paints and aprons will be provided! Wine & food is not included, nor can be brought in. Class is approximately 3-hours long, which includes a break mid class. MUST RSVP, No Walk Ins. No Sharing Boards / Payments are non-refundable but can be transferred as a courtesy one time if a notice is given at least 48 hours prior to class time / Must be Ages 18+ to attend, 21+ to purchase and consume alcohol. Please purchase tickets through https://www.etsy.com/listing/654157594/may-9-6-9-peltzer-winery-paint-sip-for?ref=shop_home_feat_1&frs=1

Peltzer Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12 / 1:00-3:00pm / $60 and includes a glass of our Prosecco mimosa. Additional glasses can be purchased for $12 / Tickets for kids under 12 is $45. Kids 4 and under are free! / Gather the whole family and join us underneath the mulberry trees to celebrate those lovely ladies! Before you take a seat, mosey on over to our flower crown station. Kendall Farms will create a gorgeous crown using fresh cut flowers and greenery from their farm so your mom can be the queen that we all know she is. Then, let’s start with a gourmet brunch by Mastiff Sausage Company with a crisp Prosecco mimosa in hand and listen to the acoustic sounds of Brian Stodart. After brunch, snag a themed sweet treat from The Sweet Apron! Once your belly is all full, let’s do a little shoppin’ with Market Detour and snag a complimentary photo in the Gonzalez Productions and Rentals photo booth so you can have your memories forever / 2nd Seating Tickets: https://bit.ly/2STYMWu/ 2nd Seating Tickets | Kids: https://bit.ly/2H5qqi1

Oak Mountain Winery
Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12 / Seating times from 11am-4pm / Members $53; Guests $59; Children 10 & under $17 / Includes a variety of brunch menu items and beverages. For a complete menu items, please visit our website www.OakMountainwinery.com / For reservations please call 951.699.9102 or order tickets online.

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

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant / May 12 / 10:00am-3:00pm / Celebrate Mom with a brunch buffet at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant. A la carte mimosa flights are available for purchase / Reservation and Menu Information: Make your reservations today! | 833.493.0896 or visit www.wineresort.com

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 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
Neil Diamond Tribute / May 31 / 6:00-9:00pm / General Admission – $15 in advance. $20 at the door / 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!

Wiens Family Cellars
Mother’s Day Amour Brunch / May 12 / 11am-1pm / $100 per Guest Regular; $80 per Guest Wine Club / Treat Mom on her special day! Enjoy delicious food by Chef Volker, live music by Paul & Tawnie Music, a Mimosa bar with free-flowing Amour De L’Orange sparkling, photo booth, and coffee by Espresso Chauffeur! To purchase tickets please visit: http://www.wienscellars.com/res-413757/Mothers-Day-Amour-Brunch-2019.html

Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary’s “An Evening for the Animals Annual Gala” / May 18 / 6pm-10pm / $125 per guest / Please join us for what promises to be a spectacular evening to benefit the animals of The Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary at the gorgeous Wiens Family Cellars! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and perusing our silent auction tables. Mingle with like-minded supporters who share compassion for all beings. Followed by a delicious wine-infused, vegan dinner. After dinner, dance the night away with music by Kanan Road / Purchase Tickets Here: https://www.saleranchsanctuary.org/2019-fundraiser-wiens?fbclid=IwAR1-OXMzLhMuR5PGA_AufVN_GvT6z2ByO90M–clxNgneLn3kRi9P69lu7E

Wilson Creek Winery
Movie Night in the Vines / May 10th / Doors Open at 6:30 pm, Movie Starts at 8 pm / We will be open after hours! So, come enjoy a nice spin on date night with a Movie in the vines! Come watch the movie Sideways in our courtyard! A picnic-style buffet dinner will be available to purchase for you and your loved one! / Reserve Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416689/Movie-Night.html

Mother’s Day Brunch / May 12th / 10am-3pm / $75.95 (with Bubbly) / $65.95 (without Bubbly) / What do Mother’s Day & Brunch have in common? Both happen on Sundays! Come enjoy both at Wilson Creek Winery with the woman you’ve loved the longest! / Make Reservations Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416700/Mothers-Day-Brunch.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). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

April Winery Events

Spring has officially arrived and we’ve got bud break in the vineyards! We invite you to come out to wine country and enjoy Easter Brunch, take in a concert or food & wine pairing, or simply wind down with a glass of wine and live music.

Avensole Winery
Sommelier for a Day! / April 17 / 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm / Price per person: $42; $33 Wine Club / Sip, Swirl and Savor your wine like a Pro! Let our fabulous Sommelier Jesse Alvarez guide you through the 5 S’s, along with other Sommelier secrets and expert tips! / Tickets must be purchased in advance through our website: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-391738/Wine-Wednesdays-Sommelier-For-A-Day.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
Doggie Easter Egg Hunt at Carol’s Restaurant / April 21 / 1:00pm / Regular Menu plus Easter Specials. All dogs must be on leashes. Plastic eggs are filled with turkey hotdogs. Owner’s responsible to make sure dogs don’t eat plastic eggs / This is a popular event…Reservations Highly Recommended! Please call in advance at 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

Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 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 $25 / 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 sourced.

Callaway Winery Tours offered daily / 11am and 1pm / 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

Cougar Vineyard & Winery
Cougar Craft Night / April 24 / 4:00pm-6:00pm / Wine club $35pp, Non-wine club $40pp / We’re making a Derby Hat, Fascinator or Tie. Why? We’ll be having a Kentucky Derby Party May 4th with best dressed prizes!! All materials needed to create your item will be provided plus expert help from our Event Team! Craft, sip and nibble the afternoon away! Reserve your spot by calling the winery 951.491.0825 or visiting the tasting room.

Carter Estate Winery and Resort
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
Easter Lunch / April 21 / 12pm-3pm / Adult Tickets: $54.99 / Société $49.49, Children Tickets, $19 / Société $17.10 / Join us Easter Sunday for a delicious lunch by Chef Dean, Egg Hunt with the Easter Bunny, Face Painting, a kids Jolly Jumper and live music by Jimmy Patton! / Please visit us at www.europavillage.com for reservations.

Festa! Featuring Mrs. Jones Revenge / April 19 / 5:30pm -8:30pm / Free Admission; Food Tickets: $19 / Enjoy wine, food and live music by Mrs. Jones Revenge, benefiting Fine Arts Network!
Please visit us at www.europavillage.com for additional information.

Falkner Winery
Wine Appreciation Class / April 20 / 10:00-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45/person /$40 Connoisseur/ $20 VIP; $80/person with lunch option / RSVP required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Easter Champagne Brunch in the Pinnacle Restaurant / April 21 / 10:00am-3:00pm / For a full menu please visit our website at www.falknerwinery.com. Entertainment provided by Harmony Road Duo / Price: $59.95+/person (Wine Club $54.95+/person) Children (3-10) $26.00+/child (Wine Club $21.00+/child) / Reservations required 951-676-8231 option 4

Fazeli Cellars
Salsa Night! / April 20 / 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! /Purchase Tickets Here: http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-391042/Salsa-Night-42019.html

Leoness Cellars
Afternoon Tea At Leoness / Begins April 1st Monday through Thursday / 2pm-5pm / $55pp for Tea; $75pp for Tea & Sparkling Wine; $5pp additional for Terrace seating (upon availability) / Chef Daragh has selected only the finest loose leaf, hand picked first flush teas from around the world. Matching that with his experience, his staff has crafted all of the freshly baked pastries and scones in-house and chosen only the finest condiments from Europe and clotted creams from Devon in Cornwall. With unparalleled views of the Temecula wine country and traditional silver service, Leoness will immerse you in a true Afternoon Tea Experience paralleled to that of the finest teas served in London hotels / By reservations only 951.302.7601 ext. 1. Please allow 24 hour notice upon booking.

Lorimar Vineyard & Winery
Winemaker’s Dinner / April 19 / 6pm – 9pm / $85 per person/$76.50 Wine Club / Enjoy 5 courses paired with Award-Winning Lorimar wines, and an opportunity to engage with Winemaker, Marshall Stuart, and knowledgeable Sommelier’s from the Lorimar team in our Lorimar Winery Barrel Room! / To purchase tickets please visit https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res409376/Winemakers-Dinner.html / Space is limited so get your tickets early! (event is 21+, tax is not included)

Easter Brunch / April 21 / Two seating’s: 11:00am and 1:30pm / Join us for a special Easter Brunch Buffet on the Sunset Patio. Live Music, Wine, Amazing Food, Easter Egg Hunt & more! / $45 pp / $40.50 Wine Club / $22.50 (ages 4-12) / Adult Ticket (21+) includes one mimosa or beer! To purchase your tickets please visit https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-409410/Easter-Brunch.html / * Limit of 2 hr. dining time, cancellations must be made at least 48 hrs. in advance

Laugh Your Glass Off / April 25 / Show starts at 7 pm / $20 pp / $18 Wine Club Members / Doors & Pairings Food Truck opens at 6 pm. Join us for a night of good wine, good comedy and good times! Featuring 3 Talented Comedians! / For tickets please visit https://shop.lorimarwinery.com/res-409411/Laugh-Your-Glass-Off.html MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY (21+)

Mount Palomar Winery
Rocky’s Comedy Live at Mount Palomar Winery / April 6 / 6:00pm (early show) 8:00pm (late show) / Tickets $15 in advance and $20 at the door / Catch your favorite “A-List” and celebrity comics live, on-stage, inside Annata Bistro/Bar. Presenting John Caponera with Special Guest Scott Wood. Last dinner reservations for the bistro will be at 4 PM, snacks and drinks will be available during the show / Please purchase your ticket through https://rockyscomedylive.com/

Rocky’s Comedy Live at Mount Palomar Winery / April 20 / 6:00pm (early show) 8:00pm (late show) / Tickets $15 in advance and $20 at the door / Catch your favorite “A-List” and celebrity comics live, on-stage, inside Annata Bistro/Bar. Presenting Karen Rontwoski with Special Johnny Herrera / Last dinner reservations for the bistro will be at 4 PM, snacks and drinks will be available during the show / Please purchase your ticket through https://rockyscomedylive.com/

Wine Country Wiener Fest / April 14 / 11:00am – 4:00pm / The Temecula Valley Dachshund Club proudly presents the 10th Annual Wine Country Wiener Fest at Mount Palomar Winery in Temecula! Featuring family-friendly games, local vendors and services, food, beverages, wine tasting, and races and contests for dachshunds of all sizes, this is the doggy event of the year in Temecula! / For tickets please visit http://www.wienerfest.info/

Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery
Down 2 Earth BBQ / April 28 / 3pm / $25 per person / Sip some great wine, bite into tasty BBQ and hear about our involvement in the California Sustainable Winegrowing Program from our winemaker/viticulturist Nicholas Palumbo where he will delve deeper into the word “Sustainable” and what it means to our lives as well as our business. Also learn how you can support local 4H and FFA kids and fill your freezer with locally and ethically raised, healthy, safe meats / Contact Cindy@palumbowines.com for tickets.Very Limited Seating.

Peltzer Family Cellars
Spring Social / April 6 -11am-10pm / April 7 11am-7pm / Roundup the family and join us for Peltzer’s 2nd Annual Spring Social! On April 6th and 7th, break out your boots and kick some dust up at the Farm for a shindig y’all won’t want to miss. This Two-day event features fun for the whole family: pics with the Easter Bunny, egg hunts (for kids and adults), local food trucks, a local maker’s market, craft beer from Refuge Brewery, live music, train rides, face painting, and mini John Deere carts for the kiddos. We will be raising funds for our local charity partner, Kamali’i Foster Family Agency by selling $5 bar access wristbands for those looking to enjoy a nice beverage at the event / Bar access wristbands are $5 and can be pre-purchased on our Facebook event page or through www.peltzerwinery.com

Supercross Watch Party with Road 2 Recovery / April 13 / 5:30pm-9pm / Tickets for entry are $5 / Come watch the Denver Supercross with us on the big screen. We’re teaming up with the Road 2 Recovery Foundation to fundraise for local small business owner and motorcycle enthusiast, John Fonteyn, and his R2R campaign. The evening will include a DJ, raffles to be held during commercial breaks, two local food trucks, Peltzer wine, beer, motorcycles on display, raising money for a deserving individual, and supporting an awesome foundation / Tickets can be purchased online at www.peltzerwinery.com. All entry ticket and raffle ticket proceeds to straight to charity.

Oak Mountain Winery
Farm to Table Dinner / April 12 / 6pm-10pm / $115 Members; $125 Non-members. VIP Upgrade available / Menu will include ingredients from local artisans including the Salt Sisters, Oak Mountain Winery Avocado Oils, Regional honey & locally sourced cheeses. Each course will be introduced by our in-house Chef with a complimentary wine pairing presented by our Winemaker, Steven Andrews / Tickets available by calling 951.699.9102 or visit us online at www.oakmountainwinery.com/events

Ponte Winery
Ponte Earth Week Sustainability Tours / April 22nd – Friday, April 26th / All tours starting at 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. / Price: $5 per person / At Ponte, we don’t only talk the talk; we walk the walk! Starting on April 22nd (Earth Day!) and continuing through April 26th, take a tour through our working winery to see our sustainable practices in action. Join us for a splash of wine before boarding our 10-passenger tour bus and learn about the rigorous standards we uphold to maintain California Certified Winegrowing Certification for our 8th year in a row. To request a tour, please email tastingroom@pontewinery.com. Space is limited; request your tour today!

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
Blessing of the Vines / April 7 / 5:00pm to 8:00pm / $85 for General Admission; $75 for Wine Club Members / Join us in the Courtyard at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa as we bless and celebrate a fruitful growing season! Rev. Msgr. Thomas Burdick will lead blessings over the vines with a sparkling wine toast. Next, guests can partake in four (4) food and wine pairing stations, dinner + dessert buffets, dancing, and cash full bar. Musical entertainment will be provided by the band, Big Truth. All guests receive a bottle of Gold Medal red or white wine per pair of tickets, with additional bottles available for purchase at the event / For more information and to purchase: https://www.southcoastwinery.com/winery/blessing

Easter Brunch Buffet at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant / April 21 / 8:00am– 3:00pm / Buffet: Adults $65.00 | Children $25.00 (13 & under) / Our egg hunt will take place in our courtyard at 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 1:00pm. Special Appearance by the Easter Bunny / Reservation Information: Make your reservations today! | 866.643.8058

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 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
Easter Brunch / April 21 / 1030am-5:00pm / $64.95; $19.95 Children 12 & under plus tax and gratuity. Under 5yrs. Nesaldainis.lt click kapsulės is free / Enjoy an array of brunch menu items and kid station. Face painting, balloon art and the “Easter Bunny” will be handing out treats. For full menu information and reservations, please call 951.699-0099 or visit www.thorntonwine.com

Friday Live Music “B.I.G.” / April 5 / 6p-9p / Cost: $15 in advance ($20 at the door) / Call Thornton winery @ (951) 699-0099 to reserve a table. Table reservations require each person to order dinner. Please visit us at www.thorntonwine.com or call 951.699.0099 for reservations.

Friday Live Music “KILLER DUELING PIANOS” / April 19 / 6p-9p / Cost: $15 in advance ($20 at the door) / Call Thornton winery @ (951) 699-0099 to reserve a table. Table reservations require each person to order dinner. Please visit us at www.thorntonwine.com or call 951.699.0099 for reservations.

Friday Live Music “LED ZEPAGAIN” / April 26 / 6p-9p / General Admission $25 in advance. VIP tickets – $40 (First 6 rows) / Call Thornton winery @ (951) 699-0099 to reserve a table. Table reservations require each person to order dinner. Advance ticket purchase required online only through our website at www.thorntonwine.com

Wilson Creek Winery
Jazz & Dinner Concert with Paulo & Karukas / April 6 / 5 – 7:30 pm / Price: $95 per person / Wine Club $85.50 / Join us for an evening of Jazz featuring the amazing Michael Paulo & Gregg Karukas! Enjoy sweet music paired with a delicious buffet dinner. Drinks will be available for purchase all night as well. Purchase tickets: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416642/Jazz-Dinner-Concert-With-Paulo-And-Karukas.html

Easter Brunch / April 21 / 10-3 pm / Price: $75.95 (with Bubbly) / $65.95 (without Bubbly) / What do Easter & Brunch have in common? Both happen on Sundays! Come enjoy both at Wilson Creek Winery with your loved ones on April 21st! Make Reservations Here: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416684/Easter-Brunch.html

Dead Man’s Party (Oingo Boingo Tribute) / April 26 / 6-9 pm / Price: $60 per person / Wine Club $54 / Join us for the “Halfway to Halloween” Costume Party with Dead Man’s Party Oingo Boingo Tribute Band! Buffet Dinner included. Purchase tickets: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416694/Dead-Mans-Party-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). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.

VALLEY GIRLS: THE WOMEN OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY

Since our last winemaker Q&A was so popular, we thought it might be time to do another one. For this issue, we caught up with a dynamic group of Temecula Valley rockstars – the women of wine country – to ask them about their inspirations, their aspirations, how they feel about being a woman in a male-dominated industry, and what their day-to-day looks like working in one of the most idyllic places on earth – Southern California.

They are at once businesswomen, multi-taskers, leaders, mothers, daughters, entrepreneurs, creatives, winemakers, farmers, and everything in between, and it’s clear they are ambitious as hell, and very passionate about Temecula Valley.

Here’s what they had to say.

Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association (TVWA): What or who inspires you on a day to day basis in your job?

Cindy Palumbo, Owner, Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery: I am inspired daily by my husband [Winemaker, Nick Palumbo]. I rely on his focus to produce the top quality wine that we have. He makes me think about small details, and it has definitely helped our business.

Patricia O’Brien, VP of Sales & Operations, Danza del Sol Winery and Masia de la Vinya Winery: My staff inspires me on a daily basis. Being surrounded by creative people who share your goals and passion for wine is amazing.

Olivia Bue, Winemaker,Robert Renzoni Vineyards: The energy from other Temecula Valley winemakers gives me inspiration and motivation to keep making the best wine possible. We all have a synergy that allows us to be supporters of each others’ successes rather than competitors.

Krista Chaich, Executive Director, TVWA: Since the day I arrived in Temecula Valley Wine Country almost 15 years ago, I’ve been inspired by the people whose passion led to where our wine country is today. But these days, I’m inspired by a wine country pioneer, Phil Baily who continues to produce beautifully crafted wines (with a bit of help from his winery cats); Joe Hart, whose passion for winemaking has extended to his sons, Jim and Mike; and a multitude of “newcomers” who’ve been drawn to our region because of the foundation that has been laid by the generations before them.

Cori DeHore, Operations Manager, TVWA: Our guests and their enthusiasm in planning their visit with us for the first time.

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TVWA: Have you had any mentors in your career?

Cindy: I always looked up to Joe Hart when I was at Hart Winery. I admired his style of winemaking and he made me feel like part of the family. When I was at Callaway I looked up to John Moramarco. He was so patient with me and taught me a lot about farming and the vineyards. John and Joe played an instrumental role in helping to preserve the region’s agricultural roots. They helped me realize that we really want to help maintain integrity in the Valley by farming and producing high quality wines.

Valerie Andrews, Owner & Vice President, Oak Mountain Winery: My Dad was my mentor in the wine business. Growing up he was so enthusiastic about fine wines and always talked about them at the dinner table. During one visit to our house (which is now the Temecula Hills Winery and production facility), he jokingly said, “You have 10 acres. Why don’t you terrace the hills and plant grapes?” Well that year we did. Once the grapes grew, we had wine barrels everywhere – even our bathroom – and decided to start our wine career. We opened Temecula Hills Winery in 2001. I am very proud we were able to make a great Syrah blend which we named after dad – “Ed’s Red” – which got a silver medal. The best part was that dad was still alive to enjoy the notoriety and did a bottle signing for our customers. Of course I still have mine.

Cori: During my teens, my mentor was my high school Home Economics teacher. I was her teacher’s aide and it was the first time I felt someone genuinely have confidence in me. She made me feel like I could do anything for a career.

Olivia: I have worked alongside some incredible winemakers in different regions throughout my young career, but my first mentor in Temecula, Gus Vizgirda, stands out as my foremost influencer.

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TVWA: What is the hardest part of your job?

Cindy: The hardest part has been trying to raise our 4 children while building a business. In the early years, the kids were small and didn’t understand that we had to work every weekend. I also had our 4th child after the winery opened. He spent his first few years in a playpen behind the bar.

Patricia: I’m not going to lie! The hardest part of my job is learning how to take criticism and learn from it. Getting it right is important when you are the one in charge, but listening and learning from your mistakes is just as important.

Krista: My job is to promote the whole region as opposed to wineries individually. It isn’t lost on me that many of them have put everything that they have into their businesses. But representing so many people, with differing business models….that’s pretty tough.

Olivia: The hardest part of being a winemaker is continuing to improve each wine, vintage after vintage. After releasing a wine that our wine club members and customers love, it’s my priority to make that next vintage even better. This can sometimes be challenging when weather causes stress on the vines and fruit quality is impacted, but the challenge of constantly improving is what makes this industry most gratifying.

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TVWA: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Cindy: Tasting the final product, and when I hear people in the tasting room enjoying the wines. I also find great satisfaction in raising our own food. Being a totally sustainable vineyard, winery and household, gives me great pride. I love providing food for my family.

Jana Prais, Sales Director, Maurice Car’rie Winery: The satisfaction of introducing Temecula wine to people who had never heard of it, and having them learn that it’s an exceptional product. Most people are unaware of the high quality wines coming out of this part of California. It feels good to witness their surprise.

Krista: Can I say the wine?! I mean, it’s not only the wine, but it’s also that I’ve met so many wonderful people in this business over the years. The wine business is big, yet so small at the same time.

Valerie: The best part of the job is the great people I meet on a daily basis. When customers enjoy the hard work Steve has put into making the wine, the training I have put into our staff and the dream of building the first and only mined wine cave in Southern California, it puts a smile on my face. I see people walking on the grounds, hand in hand for their vacation… They chose to come to us.

Carrie Peltzer, Owner, Peltzer Family Cellars: I love watching people’s faces when they visit us. Their faces tell the story of how much they love the space and enjoy the wine!

Olivia: By far the most rewarding part of my job is the journey from vine to bottle to table. To be able to capture years of hard work in one single bottle is undeniably the most fulfilling part of my job.

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TVWA: Do you feel being a woman has made it harder to be successful in any way? Has it made it easier in any way?

Cindy: It has not made it easier. I wear many hats, being a woman. I am required to run a business, run a household, raise children, raise animals, volunteer in my community, volunteer at the school. I am a chauffeur, a personal shopper and confidant, a tutor and a wife.

Patricia: To be honest, I feel that being a woman in a management position at a winery has made it easier because I’m able to tap into my natural abilities as a mother of three busy children (between the ages of 23 and 7), so I know how to multi-task, while meeting deadlines, collaborate and have fun doing it.

Jana: I’ve observed that women are often great at multi-tasking and can be adaptable to different personalities and situations. I feel these qualities in myself have enabled me to be successful in the job.

Krista: I’ve never measured my successes or failures by my gender. Even though I work in a male dominated field, I’ve never felt challenged by that.

Valerie: When I was 36, after a 19-year marriage my husband died unexpectedly in his sleep. I was left with 2 teenagers, a mortgage, and no real job. I had helped my husband in his painting and home repair business, so I decided to go for a paint contractor’s license and got started on my own business within 6 months. Back then, there were no woman painting contractors. I got involved in a National Women in Construction group, who helped me whenever I got in over my head. For 20 years, I painted schools, restaurants, homes and even a prison. I occasionally butted heads with the good old boys, and had my share of tears on my drive home, but it made me the confident woman I am today.

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TVWA: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What about Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country?

Cindy: I see myself continuing my work for the State of California Agricultural Association. I would like to finish my children’s book series. I would like to continue to teach our children how farm and run a profitable winery.

Patricia: I see myself running a third winery in Temecula Valley, while working to open my own winery consulting firm. In five years, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country will be the “it” wine region to travel to.

Krista: The future is so bright for Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country. I’ve seen it change so much in 15 years. We’ve come from a small, gem of a wine region, to a burgeoning wine destination in a short amount of time. We’ve dealt with many challenges, but I believe that if we are all unified in our vision of becoming a well-known and widely respected wine region, that’s exactly what will happen. And where do I see myself in five years?? Hopefully, leading the charge.

Carrie: In 5 years I hope to be knee deep in our next phase of Peltzer, continuing to tell our story. I have been filing away in my mind all the things that I want to design and share with our Peltzer family customer base. My role at Peltzer will be to communicate the importance of a well-thought-out space, where our customers can come to experience wine country to its fullest, while enjoying the story, the space, the wine, meeting new friends and relaxing with old ones.

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TVWA: Tell us one small anecdote that has had an impact on your career – whether important, meaningful, challenging, funny, memorable… something that stands out:

Cindy: The most challenging thing I did in my career was probably while raising 3 small children. I worked the tasting room all day, and then we had a winemaker dinner that night that I was the server for…while 9 months pregnant. Raising children while running a business has always been challenging, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Running a business with my husband out of our home has had challenges. Our kids have learned that the combination of hard work and respect for each other pays off and is the greatest reward.

Krista: I could probably write a book about my experiences in wine country (although I’d have to change some names to protect the “innocent!”), but one experience stands out. I was attending my first Unified Wine and Grape Symposium in Sacramento, CA, and we were pouring wine at the regional tasting. I felt so proud and excited to be there, and the next thing I knew, Jerry Lohr, (the J. Lohr) came up to me and said, “Hmmm, Temecula Valley, huh?” I poured him a taste of wine, he sipped it, asked for another pour, and then got a huge smile on his face. He said, “You know…. that’s really good. That’s when I knew that I was part of something very special. It was only my second week on the job at the Association.

Valerie: In the early years, we bought a giant fermenting bag for our Merlot grapes. You pump your must into the bag and, as it ferments and heats, up you run cold water in the outer shell of the bag to keep it from getting too hot. Well, the cold water wasn’t working, so the must keep exploding out of the vent pipe so we added 15 more feet to the pipe. When it was finally ready to pump the wine out of the bag, it wouldn’t come out as it was supposed to. So, Steve cut the top of the bag, and in I went up to my waist in must, and handed him bucket after bucket until it was empty. That wine got a gold medal.

Special thanks to these dynamic women who shared their personal insights with us for this article. Next time you feel you can’t do it all, we hope their stories inspire you.

CHICKEN-CHIPOTLE POSOLE WITH AVOCADO AND LIME

A rich broth, moist hand-shredded chicken and smoky chipotle make this posole a standout. And you’ll have some extra poached chicken to enjoy in a salad the following day. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Barbera or Zinfandel.

Serves 4

Ingredients
2 pounds (1 kg) chicken legs and thighs
2 quarts (2 l) water
1 large onion, halved and sliced
1 dozen black peppercorns
3 cloves garlic, peeled and smacked
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon whole cumin seed or ground cumin
1/3 pound (155 g) Mexican-style chorizo
Vegetable oil
1 small onion, minced
½ green bell pepper, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large plum tomato, peeled, seeded, and finely diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1-1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ cup (10 g) chopped cilantro, plus some for garnish
1 can (15 oz/470 g) whole hominy, drained and rinsed
Canned chipotle chile en adobo, to taste
Kosher or sea salt.
1 small avocado, halved and pitted, then sliced crosswise
1 lime, quartered

Directions
Put the chicken and water in a large pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Skim any foam that collects on the surface. When the chicken stops producing foam, add the onion, peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves. Adjust the heat to maintain a bare simmer and cook 1 hour. Cool, then strain. Remove the chicken meat from the bones, discarding the skin. Refrigerate half the meat for another use. Shred the remaining meat by hand. Set aside 5 cups (1.25 l) of chicken broth and refrigerate or freeze any remaining broth for another use.

Put the whole cumin seed in a small dry skillet and toast over medium heat, shaking the skillet often, until the cumin darkens and becomes fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Cool, then pound fine in a mortar or grind in a spice grinder.

Remove the chorizo from its skin and put it in a large pot over medium-low heat. Cook, crumbling it with a wooden spoon, until it has rendered its fat and is fully cooked. Transfer it to a plate with a slotted spoon, leaving any fat behind. Add enough vegetable oil to the pot to make 2 tablespoons fat.

Add the minced onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add the tomato, oregano, and cumin and cook about 3 minutes longer to soften the tomato. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Add the 5 cups (1.25 l) chicken broth and bring to a simmer, stirring. Add the cilantro, hominy, shredded chicken, and chorizo and return to a simmer. Whisk in some of the thick adobo sauce from the canned chipotle chiles, adding as much as you like. Season posole to taste with salt.

Divide the soup among 4 bowls. Top each portion with a few avocado slices and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Pairing Suggestions:

Avensole Winery ~ 2015 Barbera – Dark cherry, strawberry, lavender, vanilla.

Hart Winery ~ 2015 Zinfandel – This fruity, classic Zin has been aged 12 months in premium American oak and blend with a kiss of Petite Sirah.

Robert Renzoni Vineyards ~ 2015 Barbera – Ripened cherry aromas and flavors, this wine is bursting with berries and bright acidity,along with tart blackberry jam and tobacco on the finish.

Wiens Family Cellars ~ 2015 Reserve Zinfandel – Dried fruit, toasted oak, refined tannins.

Photo and recipe courtesy of the Wine Institute of California

WINE COUNTRY RECIPE ~ CHICKEN-CHIPOTLE POSOLE WITH AVOCADO AND LIME

There’s nothing better on a cold winter day than a big bowl of hearty soup! A rich broth, moist hand-shredded chicken and smoky chipotle make this posole a standout. And you’ll have some extra poached chicken to enjoy in a salad the following day. Pair with your favorite Temecula Valley Barbera or Zinfandel.

Serves 4

Ingredients
2 pounds (1 kg) chicken legs and thighs
2 quarts (2 l) water
1 large onion, halved and sliced
1 dozen black peppercorns
3 cloves garlic, peeled and smacked
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon whole cumin seed or ground cumin
1/3 pound (155 g) Mexican-style chorizo
Vegetable oil
1 small onion, minced
½ green bell pepper, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large plum tomato, peeled, seeded, and finely diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1-1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ cup (10 g) chopped cilantro, plus some for garnish
1 can (15 oz/470 g) whole hominy, drained and rinsed
Canned chipotle chile en adobo, to taste
Kosher or sea salt.
1 small avocado, halved and pitted, then sliced crosswise
1 lime, quartered

Directions
Put the chicken and water in a large pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Skim any foam that collects on the surface. When the chicken stops producing foam, add the onion, peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves. Adjust the heat to maintain a bare simmer and cook 1 hour. Cool, then strain. Remove the chicken meat from the bones, discarding the skin. Refrigerate half the meat for another use. Shred the remaining meat by hand. Set aside 5 cups (1.25 l) of chicken broth and refrigerate or freeze any remaining broth for another use.

Put the whole cumin seed in a small dry skillet and toast over medium heat, shaking the skillet often, until the cumin darkens and becomes fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Cool, then pound fine in a mortar or grind in a spice grinder.

Remove the chorizo from its skin and put it in a large pot over medium-low heat. Cook, crumbling it with a wooden spoon, until it has rendered its fat and is fully cooked. Transfer it to a plate with a slotted spoon, leaving any fat behind. Add enough vegetable oil to the pot to make 2 tablespoons fat.

Add the minced onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add the tomato, oregano, and cumin and cook about 3 minutes longer to soften the tomato. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Add the 5 cups (1.25 l) chicken broth and bring to a simmer, stirring. Add the cilantro, hominy, shredded chicken, and chorizo and return to a simmer. Whisk in some of the thick adobo sauce from the canned chipotle chiles, adding as much as you like. Season posole to taste with salt.

Divide the soup among 4 bowls. Top each portion with a few avocado slices and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Suggested Pairings:

Doffo Winery ~ 2016 Zinfandel – 2018 People’s Choice Winner – This always popular Zinfandel is sure to delight the senses with aromas of plum, raspberry, figs, and cherries. The balanced acidity and voluminous mouthfeel leave a long lasting finish

Europa Village ~ Private Reserve Barbera 2014 -Complex nose of ripe wild plums, figs, dried herbs, and bourbon; the mouthfeel is fleshy and powerful, but nicely balanced with proper acidity.

Hart Winery ~ 2015 Barbera – Aged in fine American oak barrels, this Barbera displays typical varietal high acidity with a significant dollop of American oak on the finish.

Wiens Family Cellars ~ 2015 Reserve Zinfandel – Dried Fruit, Toasted Oak, Refined Tannins

Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wine Institute of California

February Winery Events

Love is always in the air in Temecula Valley. This month, your local wineries have especially amorous offerings set against the backdrop of the most beautiful vineyards in Southern California.

Avensole Winery

Valentine’s Weekend Dinner / February 14 through 16 / 5-9pm, Live music 6-9pm / Cost $150 per couple / Indulge your senses with a romantic prix-fixe menu created especially for the occasion. Enjoy an enchanting evening on our beautiful outdoor terrace, where the scene is set for romance with live entertainment and a gourmet four course culinary delight for two. For tickets: http://www.avensolewinery.com/restaurant

Bubbles of the World / February 20 / 4-5:30pm / Cost is $42; $33 Wine Club / Expand your palate with our Sommeliers! Enjoy an intimate guided tasting of bubbly from around the world, including two Avensole sparkling wines. For reservations please visit http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-391445/Wine-Wednesdays-Bubbles-Of-The-World.html

Dueling Pianos / February 23 / 6-9pm / Cost is $42; $35 Wne Club / Avensole Winery invites you to a lively evening of Dueling Pianos! Ticket includes one glass of Avensole’s seasonal Sangria. Street Chef Food Truck available for purchase. For tickets: http://www.avensolewinery.com/res-391625/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

Valentine’s Lunch at Carol’s / February 14 / 11:30am – 2:30pm / $25.00 per person / 3-course lunch. Join us by the fireplace in the romantic Bacchus Hall or on our beautiful vineyard patio. Live acoustic music by Chuck Sacayan / Reservations recommended 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

Callaway Vineyard & Winery

Valentine’s Dinner at Meritage / February 14 / Seating’s at 5-5:30 and 7-7:30 $85 per person non-wine club, $76.50 per person wine club (tax and gratuity not included) / Allow Meritage Restaurant to be part of your love story…bring all your senses alive on the night of February 14th! From striking views, and alluring flavors to enticing smells of gourmet delights, your admirer is sure to be dazzled. The poetic sounds and melodies by Dave Reynolds, a Southern California acoustic artist, will be creating the ambiance for an exquisite evening. Adore your beloved in luxury on a night you will both keep in your hearts forever. To reserve and to view the menu please visit us online at www.callawaywinery.com

Prix Fixe Friday & Sunday at Meritage / 5pm to 8pm / For $35 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 $25 / 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 1pm / 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

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

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

12th Annual Super Chili Bowl / February 3 / 3:00pm-8:00pm / Looking for all of you Chili competitors out there!  Chili tasting, judging, snacks, wine and beer available; $15 competitors (limited to 10 entries), $25 wine club, $30 non-wine club (price increase day of event) / Email events@cougarvineyards.com or purchase through our PayPal link on our events page.

Sweetheart Special Heart-themed Lunch for Two with a View / February 14 / 11:00am-6:00pm / Includes Heart shaped pizza, Caesar salad, 2 glasses of wine or beer, two heart-shaped triple chocolate Ghirardelli brownies and a long-step red rose the first 50 reservations! $30 wine club, $35 non-wine club ($3 more for gluten free pizza). Price increase day of event / Email events@cougarvineyards.com desired reserved time for Adirondacks for availability (space is limited) plus choice of pizza / PayPal link also available on our events page.

Falkner Winery

Sip N Paint Class “California Sunset” / February 13 / 6:00 -8:00pm / $35 per person/$60 for couple / Includes all materials. Wines available for purchase by glass or bottle. Members do receive applicable discounts / Reservations are required online @Artfusionbdk.myshopify.com

Valentine Lunch Specials / February 14 and 17 / 11:30-3:00pm / Valentine Lunch Special for 2 in the Pinnacle Restaurant $65 for two + tax (normal menu available) / For full menu please visit www.falknerwinery.com / Reservations required 951-676-8231 option 4

Valentine’s Dinner in the Pinnacle Restaurant / February 14 / 5:30pm-9:30pm / $129+tax per person ($119+tax wine club) / Early Bird Seating at 5:30pm $109+ tax per person ($99+tax wine club) / For full menu please visit www.falknerwinery.com / Entertainment provided by Guilty Conscience Duo / Reservations required 951-676-8231 option 4

Wine Appreciation Class / February 16 / 10:00-12:30pm / Designated for all levels of wine knowledge / $45/person /$40 Connoisseur/ $20 VIP; $80/person with lunch option / RSVP required 951-676-8231 x. 109 or wineclub@falknerwinery.com

Fazeli Winery

Salsa Night! / February 8 / 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! / Purchase Tickets Here: http://shop.fazelicellars.com/res-390971/Salsa-Night-2819.html

Valentine’s Dinner / February 14 & February 16 / $130 (+ tax) | $110 (+ tax) Members (price is per person) / Doors Open at 6:30pm with Champagne Greeting, 5 Course Meal and Live Music / *Please let us know which entree selection you would like in advance. If we do not get your selection, a meal will be assigned. Purchase Tickets Here: http://shop.fazelicellars.com/reservation-events

Leoness Cellars

Starry Night in Paris / February 14 / Limited seating available beginning at 5:00pm / 5-course menu begins at $99 per person, + tax and gratuity / Make your reservation for a starry, romantic evening in The Restaurant at Leoness / Live entertainment / Reservations are required and available by calling (951) 302-7601 ext. 4

Lorimar Vineyard & Winery

Galentine’s Day / February 7 / 6:00pm-9:00pm / $10 per person / $9 Wine Club / Ticket includes a Special “Galentine’s Day Wine-Cocktail” / Join us for a Ladies Night to celebrate “Galentine’s” with your friends! Featuring Smash-Sparkling wine flights, special food menu, karaoke, photobooth, unique vendors, games, raffles, and more! *Tax is not included. This is an adult only event. Space is limited. Please call 951-694-6699 with any questions.

Valentine’s Day Dinner / February 14 / 7:00pm-9:00pm / $150 per couple* / $135 per Wine Club Couple* / Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Lorimar Winery with a sparkling greeting, 4 course prix fixe dinner for 2, and bottle of Lorimar Wine! Music provided by Kenny Rice. *Tax and gratuity is not included. This is an adult only event. Seating is very limited as this event will be inside. Couples will be seated at “Sweetheart” tables for two unless requested to sit in a group. No refunds after 7 days prior to event. Please call 951-694-6699 with any questions.

Monte De Oro Winery

Valentine’s Day Dinner / February 14 /6:30pm-9:30pm / 4-course dinner with live music from pianist Brian Stodart / $200/couple, $180/couple for wine club / For reservations and information, please visit www.montedeoro.com

Cabernet Sauvignon Blind Tasting / February 23 / 6:00pm-8:00pm / $60, $55 for wine club members / We will be sampling over 10 different offerings from various California wineries, including Temecula, Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Paso Robles / For reservations and information, please visit www.montedeoro.com

Signature Food and Wine Series / February 24 / 12:00pm-2:00pm / $55, $48 for wine club members / A culinary offering unique to Monte De Oro. Our food and wine experts put together the freshest ingredients as they take you through a 4-course showcase featuring Monte De Oro’s award-winning wine. For reservations and information, please visit www.montedeoro.com

Mount Palomar Winery

Valentine’s Day at Annata Bistro/Bar / February 14 and 15 / 6:00p-10:00p / $75++ for the general public, $70++ for the wine club / There is nothing more romantic than Valentine’s Day Dinner in Temecula wine country. We are celebrating at Annata Bistro/Bar with two beautiful evenings featuring an exclusive holiday menu, award-winning wines, and delicious craft cocktails / For reservations please visit www.MountPalomarWinery.com/Valentines-Day

Paint Nite in the Barrel Room / February 16 / 1:00pm-3:00pm / Tickets $45. Use the coupon code 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!) / For reservations please visit https://www.paintnite.com/venues/mt-palomar-winery-133232

ACES Comedy Live! / February 9 and 23 / Tickets $15 in advance, $20 at the door / ACES comedy is back in the barrel room at Mount Palomar Winery! Enjoy award-winning wines, cocktails, and delicious finger foods during a hilarious live show. Featuring national headliners that have performed on HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, and more, every show is an unforgettable night of comedy / For reservations please visit https://acescomedylive.com or call 951-821-6262.

Peltzer Family Cellars

Burgers, Burritos, & Brews / February 2 / 6-10pm / $5 wristband donation benefiting the local charity Warfighter Made / Pre-game for Super Bowl Sunday here at the Crush House! Rock your favorite team jersey, grab a cold one from Refuge Brewery and challenge your crew to a *friendly* game of Cornhole. Live music from Groov Undergound 6:30-9:30pm and food truck eats from Mastiff Sausage Company and Q’s Tacos from 12-9pm. Wristbands can be purchased on site as well from peltzerwinery.com.

Paint & Sip for Autism with Pretty Paints / February 14 / 6-9pm / $55 per painter, proceeds benefit Our Nicholas Foundation / Mix up your traditional Valentine’s Day plans with a super fun couples’ step by step Paint & Sip! Create your own Birch Tree scene on a wooden mini pallet with help from a passionate instructor. Create a scene side by side with your date, or one on your own with a group of friends! We’ll all be finding our creative side / Proceeds will go directly to Our Nicholas Foundation’s Autism & The Arts Initiative. This initiative creates the opportunity for children on the Autism Spectrum too attend art courses, summer Camps and other creative outlets! (learn more at: www.ournick.org/news/autismartsinitiative)

Nashville Nights / February 23 / 6-10pm / $5 to ride the mechanical bull. Will be purchased on site / We’re gettin’ down on the farm, NASHVILLE STYLE! Join us for an all-out “Music City” experience! We’re talkin’ honky tonkin’, southern eatin’, and a night out drinkin’. Kick your boots up to the musical stylings of Kanan Road from 6:30-9:30pm. Grub on Nashville style eats from Devilicious and Mastiff Sausage Company from 12-9pm. Can y’all make the 8 second ride on our mechanical bull?! Tickets for the bull are $5 and will be available on site. This is a FREE event, but please be a good neighbor and let us know you’re coming by RSVPing on our Facebook event page. Event is for 21+ only.

Chunky Blanket Workshop with Pretty Paints / February 24 / 11:30-2pm / $85, 50% of proceeds benefit Our Nicholas Foundation. Tickets are extremely limited and sell out fast! / Join Pretty Paints for a fun Chunky Blanket Workshop here on our Crush House Patio! They will guide you step by step through the hand knitting process to create a cozy, snuggly one-of-a-kind blanket! Make one for you or one as a gift! All materials are provided. The blanket requires no needles or knitting experience! You will get 150 yards of chunky cozy yarn. Your blanket will measure about 40″ x 50″. You will have a choice of colors during class! Make a fun striped blanket, or solid! / 50% of the proceeds will go directly to Our Nicholas Foundation’s Autism & The Arts Initiative. This initiative creates the opportunity for children on the Autism Spectrum too attend art courses, summer Camps and other creative outlets! (learn more at: www.ournick.org/news/autismartsinitiative

Seats will be assigned, so please include the names in your party at check out. All supplies will be provided! Wine is not included. Class is approximately 2.5 hours long. MUST RSVP, No Walk Ins. No Sharing blankets. Payments are non-refundable but can be transferred as a courtesy one time if a notice is given at least 48 hours prior to class time. Pretty Paints and Peltzer winery are not responsible for lost or damaged personal items while in class. Must be Ages 16+ to attend, 21+ to purchase and consume alcohol. Tickets can be purchased from Pretty Paints: https://www.etsy.com/listing/661979422/feb-24-1130-2pm-peltzer-winery-chunky?ref=shop_home_active_1&frs=1

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.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant / February 14 / 5:30pm – 9:00pm / $100 per person (drinks, tax & gratuity not included) / Reserve your table and indulge in a specially prepared, romantic Valentine’s Day prix fixe dinner / Reservations are required for any size party. Please make your dinner reservations at SouthCoastWinery.com For parties of 6 or more, please call 888.253.9841 to make a reservation so we can be sure to provide you with the best service and avoid any unnecessary waiting.

Decadent Romance Package at GrapeSeed Spa / February 1 through 28 / Enjoy a relaxing & romantic spa experience with your partner / 50-minute South Coast Classic Massage for two, two glasses of South Coast sparkling wine, one box of truffles / *Based on availability / Reservation Information: Call now to book | 877.552.1731

Behind the Scenes Wine Tours / Tours are held daily at 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.

Wiens Family Cellars

Reserve Zinfandel & Chocolate Dinner / February 14 and February 16 / 7:00pm-10:00pm / $110 Per Guest (20% Discount for Wine Club Members) / Looking for the perfect Valentine’s dinner? Join us for our seventh annual Reserve Zinfandel & Chocolate Dinner! We’ll be pouring three vintages of Reserve Zinfandel plus one vintage of Reserve Primitivo, all perfectly paired with delicious chocolate infused dishes created by Chef Volker/ For reservations please visit http://www.wienscellars.com/reservation-events

Wilson Creek Winery

Valentine’s Day Dinner / February 14 / 6pm- 9pm / Join us for a romantic evening in beautiful wine country. Enjoy an exclusive 3-course dinner designed by our Executive Chef with a special bottle of wine & a red rose to take home to make your evening even more memorable. Price: $150 per couple / Wine Club $135 per couple / To purchase tickets: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/res-416617/Valentines-Day-Dinner.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). Now serving Bloody Mary’s! / Reservations can be made at www.wilsoncreekwinery.com or call 951.699.9463 for additional information.