If you’re like most people, when you think California wine tour you think of Napa Valley and Sonoma. But Southern California wineries should be a must-do if you are planning a wine vacation. You’ll discover a whole new world of wine when you take a tasting tour of San Diego, Los Angeles, and Temecula. San Diego Wineries San Diego is a popular tourist city. Most people go for the beaches, the ocean, and of course the renowned San Diego zoo. But not as many come for the wine… and they’re missing out. San Diego county has many wineries nestled in the rural foothills in towns such as Julian, Ramona and Warner Springs. Hop on Highway 15 to discover wineries in Rancho Bernardo, Fallbrook and Escondido. Julian is a historic town, and makes a perfect day trip. Sip your way through six local wineries, and enjoy the picturesque rural countryside at the same time. If you decide to stay for a couple of days, you can cozy up at one of the many quaint bed and breakfasts in town. If you want other things to do while on your San Diego wine tour, you can check out the golf courses, world-class dining, theater and countless other cultural and recreational activities. Los Angeles Wineries Most people associate Los Angeles with the hustle and bustle of the movie business… not with wine. But there are several family-owned wineries that are well worth the trip. If you are staying in downtown L.A., you’ll be making several day trips as the wineries tend to be spread out in various directions rather than concentrated in one area. Head north to taste the Merlot, Syrah and Chardonnay of Agua Dulce Vineyards. To the east, you’ll find amazing Muscat, Riesling, Port and Cream Sherry at the Joseph Fillipi Winery, and sumptuous dessert wines at the Galleano Winery. Head deep into the Santa Monica mountains to sample Malibu Family Wines, or travel 1,400 feet up above the coastal fog to taste Rosenthal’s Cabernet Sauvignon. Temecula Wineries Located about an hour north of San Diego, Temecula is wine country, and you can sample many different wineries all in one place. Take a few days and stay in town to explore the area. The town itself is quaint an beautiful, with wooden sidewalks, antique shops and beautiful lakes and scenery. In addition to the award-winning wineries, you can spend your days on one of the challenging Temecula golf courses. maybe you’d like to take a ride in a hot air balloon, or explore historic buildings? You can do it in Temecula. This is a great destination on its own, especially for serious wine lovers. So never mind Napa. Southern California wineries offer world-class wines, beautiful scenery, and a host of other fun things to do on your wine tasting vacation. Whether you want a day or two of tasting and touring, or a complete romantic wine getaway, Southern California wine tours fit the bill. And you may just discover a new favorite wine while you’re there!

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