Initially, the vineyards in Temecula Valley were operated in a small scale. However, during the 1960s a few developers began to promote this region. Following the attempt, several other wineries were developed. Some of the popular vineyards during that time were called Bella Vista Cilurzo (built in 1968) and Callaway Wineries (built in 1969). Today, Southern California has become very popular for its large production of wine and Temecula Valley has been recognized as the largest wine producing region.
There are approximately thirty wineries being present in Temecula Valley. You won't be able to complete your tour if you only stay for a night or two. You should consider spending at least a week in this region in order to explore its variety of vineyards and their different types of wine.
There are various types of wine available in Temecula Valley. Zinfandel wine is one of the popular choices of tourists. Zinfandel wine was introduced around the 1830s and the grapes are grown locally as Zinfandel grapes tend to flourish in a warm climate region like Temecula Valley. The Zinfandel wine is the sweeter and spicier version of wine and it is perfect to be matched with most American cuisine. Zinfandel wine is often used within the first few years after being manufactured because unlike other kinds of wine, it does not age well.
You can also find Cabernet Sauvignon in Temecula Valley. As a matter of fact, Temecula Valley is the second biggest Cabernet Sauvignon manufacturer in California. The wine tastes bolder than most red wines and it ages well. Merlot is another popular type of wine to be found in this region. The best of Merlot wines are available during the cold season. Merlot has always been associated with red wine, but its taste is not as strong as Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, Merlot does not age well so you should consume it during the first six years after it is manufactured.
You must not miss the opportunity to visit some of the magnificent vineyards in Temecula Valley. From all the thirty-eight wineries available in this region, you would want to stop by at the Thornton Winery. This is because the winery has received a lot of recognition in terms of being the best wine producer. You should also stop by at the Wilson Creek Winery. You will be able to enjoy sipping on your wine in the outdoors. There are many attractive areas for you to spread over your blanket and enjoy your wine at Wilson Creek Winery.
There are many other activities for you to enjoy while visiting Temecula Valley. One of the activities that many tourists will likely participate in is watching the sunrise while being up in a hot air balloon. Looking down from the hot air balloon, you will be mesmerized to discover how beautiful the scenery of the vineyards below.
Malibu is another Southern California wine region and that it is very popular for its exquisite wineries. You will discover that the vineyards in Malibu are perfectly situated in the most suitable environment that allows the best of grapes to be harvested. Malibu is a humble region and that initially only two acres of land were planted with grapes in 1985. The pioneer was Michael McCarty, the owner of two established restaurants in Santa Monica and New York. Following Michael's attempt, an entrepreneur and owner of the Movie Studio and Sunset Marquis hotel known as George Rosenthal started his own vineyard in 1988. The Malibu Family Wines followed suit soon after. Apparently, these people are the three great suppliers of wine in Malibu. The rest of the farmers produce their wines in a moderate scale but overall their combined effort is what making Malibu famous for its vineyards and winery tours.
When you are in Malibu, you won't want to miss out the opportunity to hang out at the Malibu Wines Tasting Room. It is open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During summer time, the visiting time is extended until 8:00 p.m. Basically you don't need to make a reservation, but only adults are allowed to enter. Among the popular wines to be found in the Malibu Wines Tasting Room are those produced under the Semler and Saddlerock brand names.
Malibu is also popularly known for its huge production of Chardonnay. Chardonnay is made from hand-picked grapes and then the harvest is fermented in the traditional oak barrels. Only the finest quality of wine is allowed to be released from the vineyard; this makes every wine tasting session a truly memorable event. In the past, the production of Chardonnay was done in a small scale, and the supplies were only sent to local restaurants. However, since the demand is increasing in a great deal nowadays Malibu's Chardonnay is open for public consumption.
Chardonnay from Malibu is specifically made from ripe grapes and thus it tastes strong and sweet. Chardonnay is perfect to be served with fruits, spicy food, seafood and vanilla-based cuisines. The best way to enjoy your Chardonnay is by chilling it at 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Apart from indulging in wine touring, there are many other activities you can do in Malibu. One of the most fascinating activities you should consider doing is to hang out at the beach and watch the sun go down. You will notice that there is a specific down time in Malibu where the beach is particularly quiet especially a few moments after sundown. You can also visit some of the exclusive restaurants serving great food and ambient atmosphere. After enjoying a good meal in a romantic setting, you can always explore the nightlife in Malibu by hitting its bars. If you are looking for a really casual environment there are a few bars where you can really let your guard down and enjoy the night.
