Sip and savor award-winning varietals this season at these Temecula Valley vineyards.
Altisima Winery
By honoring Gaspar De Portola, the Spanish explorer who memorialized this historic California wine region, Altisima Winery celebrates its Spanish roots with a modern touch. Just as De Portola made new discoveries while journeying through Las Californias, Altisima is committed to finding new and inventive ways to bring Spanish culture to Temecula. Spanish wines cultivated in the on-site vineyards and served in the tasting room, restaurant and members lounge include whites, reds and reserves—all of which have elegant notes suited to any wine drinker’s palate. Pair the uniquely curated Spanish wines with intricate tapas and grill items at Spanish fusion restaurant Gaspar’s. 951.422.2525, altisimawinery.com
Avensole’s award-winning wines, created in a new-world California style, focus on zinfandel. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Akash Winery
This family-run winery founded by a mother, father and son was the longtime dream of the Patels. In 2010, they purchased 20 acres of vineyard land in the Temecula Valley, and just like the vines they planted on Calle Callento, their dream blossomed. Now, their scenic winery boasts award-winning unique and familiar varietals—which the Patels craft with renowned winemaker Renato Sais. Sample whites, rosés and strong estate reds, plus Dreamville varieties from other vineyards and seasonal draft beer, alongside eats from rotating local food trucks. In 2019, Akash opened a tasting room and open-air patio, where the Patels welcome guests as part of their growing family. 951.888.1393, akashwinery.com
Avensole Winery
Inspired by their childhood travels through Europe and love of rolling vineyards in the Italian, French and Austrian countryside, the Lytton family bought a hilltop winery with arresting views in 2014. They renamed it Avensole—a combination of aventurra, Italian for adventure, and sole, meaning one of a kind—and sought to honor its historic roots while creating a welcoming, modern experience. The reimagined property features a new tasting room, a hilltop restaurant with evolving menus, and a wedding venue complete with a peaceful pond—not to mention award-winning wines created in a new-world California style with a focus on zinfandel. 951.252.2003, avensolewinery.com
Take a dip at The Pool at Bottaia, where you can swim and sip with views of the vineyard THE POOL AT BOTTAIA PHOTO COURTESY OF BAY BIRD INC./BOTTAIA WINERY
Bottaia Winery
After operating a Temecula winery for 15 years and identifying the best technology and Italian varieties for these soils, the Ponte family built Bottaia, naming it after their winemaking philosophy. Italian for “cask aging room,” Bottaia features Italian-inspired, locally made wines in a refined environment that channels Northern Italy, modeled after the 16th century Veneto country houses designed by Andrea Palladio. Sample the Spumante, sangiovese or Cartuccia Red at four different interactive wine experiences, or relax at The Pool at Bottaia—a calming oasis with private Italian-style cabines, chaises and a poolside Café + Cocktail Bar surrounded by the vineyards. 951.365.3388, bottaiawinery.com
Europa Village, a multi-winery resort, boasts wines inspired by French, Spanish and Italian traditions PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Europa Village
After falling in love with the European countryside in the 1970s, 30 years later, businessman Dan Stephenson and a friend purchased over 300 acres of land in the Temecula Valley wine country. Planting European-style varietal grapes, their multi-winery resort now boasts wines inspired by French, Spanish and Italian traditions as well as two winery destinations—a French C’est La Vie concept, and Bolero, a lively new Spanish experience. An expansion will add a new Italian countryside-inspired winery, Vienza, to the European-style venues, all connected by a village of restaurants, boutiques, tasting rooms, walking paths and a central 40-room resort and spa. 951.506.1818, europavillage.com
Bizhan “BJ” Fazeli wanted to reflect his Persian heritage with Fazeli Cellars Winery. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Fazeli Cellars Winery
Bizhan “BJ” Fazeli wanted to reflect his Persian heritage with the purchase of this grand winery, which produced its first vintage in 2006 and now boasts more than 20 varietals of award-winning wines including cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc, petite sirah, mourvedre, viognier and chardonnay. Set in the rolling hills of the De Portola Wine Trail, Fazeli Cellars combines modern Moorish architecture and ancient Persian traditions while paying tribute to contemporary California. Panoramic windows offer picturesque views of the grounds, a popular pick for weddings, and the winery also houses Baba Joon’s Kitchen, a Persian-Mediterranean lunch spot. 951.303.3366, fazelicellars.com
Current selections at Leoness Cellars include viognier, syrah, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and white merlot, shown here. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Leoness Cellars
After building a reputation as a high-quality farmer, in 1989, Gary Winder teamed up with Mike Rennie to focus on their new vineyard operations. In 2002, they founded Leoness Cellars on their 20-acre cabernet sauvignon estate, known as Rolling Hills Vineyard. From their early winemaking efforts came the renowned port and the 2002 meritage and merlot blends, and current selections include viognier, syrah, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, muscat canelli and cinsault port. The vineyard boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a perfect backdrop for wine tastings, tours and California cuisine prepared with French technique at the refined restaurant. 951.302.7601, leonesscellars.com
Masia de la Vinya Winery offers quality Spanish-inspired wine amid scenic views PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Masia de la Vinya Winery
Bob Olson—also behind Danza del Sol Winery—founded the Spanish-influenced Masia de la Vinya, which translates to “manor house of the vineyard.” Formerly Masia de Yabar, this picturesque property offers quality Spanish-inspired wine amid scenic views and a casual wine tasting atmosphere. Chardonnay, malbec, syrah and cabernet sauvignon are the varietals grown in the vineyard, which sits at the end of the De Portola Wine Trail. Masia’s philosophy is to create unique, fruit-forward sips that pair well with food, so be sure to sample the charcuterie options and fare from local food trucks. 951.303.3860, masiadelavinya.com
Sample Masia de la Vinya Winery’s chardonnay, malbec, syrah and cabernet sauvignon PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Ponte Winery
After farming their vineyards since 1984, the Ponte team opened this winery in 2003—a sister property to Bottaia in Temecula Valley and Hawks View in Oregon. Imbibe surrounded by 300 acres of mature vineyards and views of the hills, while keeping in mind the Ponte motto: “If you like it, it’s good wine.” Sample vinos from the classic line, the blends, the sweet, the sparkling and the fortified in the tasting room, or enjoy the garden-set restaurant serving fresh California dishes. The property also contains a 90-room, Spanish-style inn with a pool, dining concepts and more. 951.587.6688, pontewinery.com
A bubbly tasting at South Coast Winery’s sister property, Carter Estate Winery and Resort CARTER ESTATE WINERY AND RESORT PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTER HOSPITALITY
Robert Renzoni Vineyards
Family traditions and heritage are at the heart of everything at Robert Renzoni Vineyards. The Renzoni family began creating wines in 1886 along Italy’s northern coast, and today, guests are invited to join the famiglia for an authentic Italian wine tasting experience with Temecula Valley’s breathtaking Valle de los Caballos as a backdrop. The diversity of the property and unique, high-quality fruit contribute to exceptional reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling and sweet wines, plus riserva and grappa options. Enjoy them alongside Italian-imported cheeses and charcuterie in the tasting room, or paired with Italian comfort food at Mama Rosa’s Trattoria. 951.302.8466, robertrenzonivineyards.com
Robert Renzoni Vineyards offers an authentic Italian wine tasting experience in Valle de los Caballos PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
This family-owned and -operated winery established in 1995 is known for award-winning wines made from estate-grown grapes. However, founder Jim Carter wanted to offer guests the complete wine country experience—where they could stay in a private villa within a vineyard. Hence the birth of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, a full-service winery-resort on 63 acres of rolling vineyards. Enjoy a treatment at GrapeSeed Spa, swim in the heated saltwater pool or dine at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant—all while savoring reds, whites and sparkling wines. A summer concert series will feature live music in the garden and courtyard. 855.821.9431, southcoastwinery.com
Ponte Winery is surrounded by 300 acres of mature vineyards. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEMECULA VALLEY WINEGROWERS ASSOCIATION
Head North to these L.A. hotels for your next weekend escape.
BY CLAIRE BARNETT, JENNIFER BUCKLEY, LAUREN NEHORAI AND ABIGAIL WOODS
A king room at Nobu Ryokan Malibu overlooking the ocean PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
In its over 100 years, this oceanside Santa Monica hotel beloved for its breezy elegance has hosted notables from Marilyn Monroe to the Beatles. Set on a sprawling 5 acres, it’s a prime resort located near the Santa Monica Pier. Stay in one of 297 luxurious guest rooms— including 31 beach bungalows—and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at FIG Restaurant, pampering at Exhale Spa and, come summer, relaxation at Miramar Beach Club. After redesigning its lobby lounge and introducing sushi chef Masa Shimakawa’s eight-seat restaurant Soko, the hotel will debut Georgina’s cocktail lounge in the library this spring. Santa Monica, fairmont-miramar.com
FIG Restaurant at Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows serves farm-to-table cuisine. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
Malibu Beach Inn
This serene boutique hotel is set on a strip of coastline nicknamed “Billionaire’s Beach.” Wake up to sounds of ocean waves in one of 47 coastal-inspired guest rooms and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at CURE Daily Spa or local fare from the seaside terrace at Carbon Beach Club restaurant. Opt for private Fliteboard lessons on a premier electric foiling surfboard; a customized beachside picnic for two, catered by Carbon Beach Club chef Ryan Caldwell and designed by The Picnic Collective; or a sound and energy healing and guided meditation experience by a wellness guru from local meditation studio The Mindry. Malibu, malibubeachinn.com
Venice V Hotel’s historic 1915 building is a backdrop in Hollywood films PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
Nobu Ryokan Malibu
Between Carbon Beach and the Pacific Coast Highway sits this tranquil 16-room retreat. Opened in 2017 as the first of Nobu’s Ryokan Collection honoring traditional Japanese Ryokan inns, the sanctuary blends Japanese minimalism and coastal California style with teak soaking tubs, Tatami mats, indoor-outdoor fireplaces, private patios and a natural aesthetic. Guests of the garden, ocean and beachfront rooms can enjoy lush Japanese gardens, food from Nobu Malibu, an on-site gym, and access to CURE Wellness Center and Malibu Racquet Club. Indulge in the new Be Well package from Slip, Be Here + Farm, Detox Market and Malibu Fit Concierge for the ultimate wellness escape. Malibu, noburyokanmalibu.com
The Surfrider Malibu is a 20-room boutique hotel across the street from Surfrider Beach. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Welcome to a looser kind of luxury. Drawing from Santa Monica’s rich history, design visionary Kelly Wearstler curated a clean-lined environment in each of the 271 rooms featuring organic tones, textures of the coastline and commissions from L.A. artists. Stroll to the beach, enjoy the only rooftop pool deck on the west side with a meal at Mediterraneanand Californian-inspired Calabra restaurant and bar, or have a cocktail and bite at Palma lobby lounge. Finally, recharge at the fitness center with outdoor yoga deck or the Eastern-inspired Surya Spa offering custom ayurvedic programs that support all areas of health. Settling for anything else just wouldn’t feel “proper.” Santa Monica, properhotel.com/santa-monica
Shutters on the Beach
This Santa Monica Beach staple channels the cottages of Cape Cod with shuttered doors that open onto sun-drenched balconies. The 198 guest rooms—including 12 suites—in blues and greens are designed to feel like your own private beachside residence. New executive chef Sean Michael Runyon is helming beachfront 1 Pico restaurant and courtyard; Coast Beach Café and Bar is a casual option; and The Living Room offers light bites. Book the hotel’s curated picnic experience, or indulge at ONE Spa, which features an outdoor heated pool, whirlpool spa and more. Santa Monica, shuttersonthebeach.com
The Surfrider Malibu
This 20-room boutique beach house lies on the Pacific Coast Highway, across the street from famed Surfrider Beach. Originally built in 1953 and inspired by Malibu surf culture, this oceanside oasis is a homey place to unwind. Fill your days with the insider expertise of the Surfrider’s Guide to Malibu, a “little blue book” given to guests and filled with local vendors. Enjoy nights under the stars by the fire pit at the Roof Deck Bar & Restaurant, serving organic local cuisine. Wellness menus and picnics are available, and rooms come with complimentary surfboards, paddleboards, beach umbrellas and hybrid Mini Coopers for exploring. Malibu, thesurfridermalibu.com
Terranea Resort
This 102-acre Mediterranean escape along the Palos Verdes Peninsula boasts a natural aesthetic and panoramic seascape views from its position above coastal bluffs—affording guests a front-row seat to observe ocean wildlife. The oceanfront property offers 582 coastal-inspired guest rooms and suites—including bungalows, casitas and villas. Other opulent amenities include nine dining experiences, an award-winning golf course, a full-service spa and fitness center, ecological enrichment programs, four heated swimming pools, and land and sea activities—from archery to horseback riding to hiking. Rancho Palos Verdes, terranea.com
Venice V Hotel
Feel like a Venice Beach local at this hip beachfront lifestyle hotel. Designed in 1915, the historic building—in which Charlie Chaplin once resided—was originally called The Waldorf and used as a backdrop in Hollywood films. Today, the reimagined rooms, suites and seven rooftop bungalows boast original details as well as luxe amenities. No two rooms are alike, and design inspiration comes from beach bohemians, artist studios, and skate and surf culture. From curated art to a lobby mural of Abbot Kinney made of skateboard wheels, the hotel exudes coolness, and guests are immersed into local life through activations like beach yoga, surf and skate lessons, guided bike tours and more. Venice, venicevhotel.com
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