“Who knew vineyards could smell like freshly sliced almonds?” I thought as I stepped out of the car into the gentle slope of rolling vines. Arriving in late afternoon, the air was warm, dry, and full of promise—like sunshine distilled into flavor.

I made my way into the tasting room, its windows open to the vineyards beyond. The staff suggested I start with their signature almond-flavored offering. I raised the glass to my nose and felt my eyes widen: the aroma was soft and sweet, reminiscent of a pastry kitchen at dawn. I thought, “This smells like tomorrow’s breakfast.”

The first sip brought that scent into the mouth—a silky, mild taste that lingered just long enough. I followed it with a pour of a crisp chardonnay, tasting green apple, pear, and a hint of vanilla. With each sip, the warm California sun seemed to press gently against my skin. Mid-taste I reflected, “This feels like summer slowed down.”

Next, I stepped outside to the lawn where clusters of picnic tables awaited. I ordered a cheese platter—aged manchego, creamy brie, and a wedge of tangy blue—paired with honeycomb and fresh bread. The air smelled of cut grass and sun-warmed grapes. I took a bite of cheese, dipped it in honey, and thought, “This tastes like the vineyard wrote a love letter in flavors.”

As the sun dipped behind the hills, the golden light warmed the vines and the cool evening breeze rolled in. I lingered on the lawn with a second pour—this time a zinfandel, rich with blackberry and spice. I closed my eyes and let the day settle around me, thinking, “Here, even the quiet moments taste elegant.”

Wilson Creek Winery At a Glance

  • Drive time from Temecula: 5–10 minutes
  • Address: 35960 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92591
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into early evening—cooler temps and golden light; open year-round
  • Vibe: Relaxed elegance, sun-drenched vineyards, inviting outdoor space
  • Highlights: Almond-scented signature wine, lawn seating, live music weekends, cheese boards
  • Facilities: Indoor tasting room, outdoor seating, lawn tables, gift shop, restrooms
  • Meal Tip: Pair a crisp chardonnay or zinfandel with the honeycomb and cheese selection
  • Cost: Tasting flights around $15–20; cheese boards $12–18; live events may have cover
  • Hours: Typically 11 am–5 pm daily; longer on weekends and summer evenings
  • Food Nearby: On-site light bites; Temecula Old Town nearby has cafés and casual restaurants

Recommended For

Wine lovers & weekenders
Sample award-winning varietals in one of Temecula’s most welcoming tasting rooms

Couples & honeymooners
Stay overnight at the romantic Wilson Creek Manor surrounded by vineyards

Event planners & corporate groups
Host everything from weddings to seminars in lush gardens and custom venues

Gourmet travelers
Dine al fresco at the Creekside Grille, pairing farm-fresh meals with fine wines

Accommodations: Wilson Creek Manor

The elegant Wilson Creek Manor offers nine vineyard-view suites perfect for romantic retreats or group getaways. Guests can also rent the entire Manor for events of up to 24 guests, with exclusive access to the gardens, spa, pool, and more.

  • Riesling, Rose, Viognier, Chardonnay Suites: Located on the 1st floor, each features queen beds, spa tubs, and private patios
  • Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Suites: On the 2nd floor, with king or queen beds, balconies, reading nooks, and vineyard views
  • Grand Almond Champagne Suite: The largest at 1,600 sq. ft., offering a private bedroom, spa bath, and expansive vineyard-facing balcony

Winery Highlights

  • Wine Tastings: Daily 10 AM–5 PM in a floral-filled courtyard
  • Famous Wines: Known for its Almond Sparkling Wine and an award-winning portfolio of whites, reds, and rosés
  • Wine Tours: Saturdays & Sundays at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM (includes 5 tastings, souvenir glass, and 10% same-day discount)
  • Gift Shop: Wine racks, logo apparel, gourmet goods, and unique wine-themed gifts

Culinary Experiences

Creekside Grille offers gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients in a relaxed outdoor setting surrounded by 30-year-old vines.

  • Menu Highlights: Seasonal specials, gluten-free options, and a Sunday Brunch Buffet
  • Chef Steve Stawinski: Crafts inventive, satisfying meals paired with house wines
  • Wine Club Wednesdays: Members enjoy half-price bottles with two entrées

Weddings & Events

Wilson Creek is one of the most sought-after venues in Temecula for weddings, corporate retreats, and celebrations. With over 12,000 sq. ft. of indoor space and 10 landscaped acres outdoors, the winery can host anything from intimate elopements to large conferences.

  • Venues: Pavilion, gazebo, jazz stage, and elegant event rooms
  • Event Services: AV equipment, custom menus, professional event staff
  • Scenery: Country-style architecture, lush vineyards, and sunset backdrops

Wine Club Membership

Joining the Wilson Creek Wine Club is free and offers exclusive perks:

  • Complimentary tastings on every visit
  • Significant wine discounts
  • Bi-monthly or semi-annual shipments selected by the winemaker
  • Access to member events and Wine Club Wednesdays

Plan Your Visit

Address: 35960 Rancho California Rd., Temecula, CA 92591
Phone: 951-699-9463

Driving Directions

  • San Diego: I-8 East ? I-15 North (approx. 1 hour)
  • Orange County: I-91 East ? I-15 South (approx. 1 hour)
  • Los Angeles: I-60 or I-10 East ? I-15 South (approx. 1 hr 20 mins)
  • Palm Springs: I-10 West ? I-215 South ? I-15 South (approx. 1 hr 20 mins)

Exit on Rancho California Road and continue 7 miles—winery will be on your left.

Map: