Yes, harvest season is over but that doesn’t mean you still can’t enjoy wine country. I absolutely love going to various wineries during winter. This season offers a unique and often underrated experience for several reasons.
During this time of year, crowds tend to thin out and tasting rooms are more free, offering a personalized and relaxed wine-tasting experience. The colder weather creates a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying full-bodied red wines often associated with winter. I personally enjoy the reds at Wiens Cellars in Temecula, specifically the 2022 Merrytage at this time of year. It’s literally a “holiday in a bottle” with notes of cranberry, pine, and cocoa nibs. You have to try it when you go there.
I also look forward to great off-season deals, making it a budget-friendly time to visit, especially after all that holiday shopping. For example, at Ponte Vineyard Inn you can get a discount of up to 24% on the standard room rate when reserving two nights or more AND you also get a free bottle of wine upon check-in!
Winter also allows me to explore the vineyards in a different light. Without the lush foliage, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the vineyards' landscapes and the winemaking process. Whether it’s snow-capped mountains or frost-covered vineyards, depending on the region you visit, you will have the privilege of witnessing a very unique and picturesque scenery.
There are some wineries that offer special winter events or activities like barrel tastings, food and wine pairings, or vineyard tours, providing visitors with really unique experiences that are generally not available during other seasons. If you’re in Temecula, check out "Temecula Chilled" happening all month long, where you can ice-skate, savor wine, enjoy "chilled" menu delights, and immerse yourself in the season.
Overall, winter in wine country offers a quieter, more intimate, and often more affordable experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the region in a different, more relaxed way.
~ Kay Syrah
Wine Country Guru Gal
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