I Spent an Afternoon of Wine Tasting at 3 Hidden Gem Wineries in Temecula

Like many, I enjoy a good glass of wine; sitting and sipping on a glass of white or red can be a relaxing experience. While I might not know much about wine, I am always willing to learn about the regions and processes of making specific varietals. I get excited to talk to wine connoisseurs, sommeliers, and wine makers.

On a recent trip to Southern California, I took a wine tour to three wineries in Temecula, a major wine-producing region home to approximately 50 wineries. At each of these relatively hidden gem wineries in Temecula, I spoke to either a winemaker or a winery owner. Armed with some newfound wine knowledge, it was an experience I'll never forget.

Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the creator of this content was invited to this location by 62 Above, and some expenses were covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this content are their own.

First Stop: Monte De Oro Winery

My partner accompanied me on this wine-tour adventure, and we were picked up at our hotel in the morning. After the hour-long drive to Temecula, we were dropped off at our first location, Monte De Oro. Not only is its curb appeal pleasant, but walking inside, the space was obviously large at 20,000 square feet, open, and inviting. By the wine bar, there were tables where you could sip wine and dine, or on a nice day, you could go outside onto the patio overlooking grapevines.

We checked in and met with winemaker David Albright who gave us an incredibly informative tour. After an overview of some of the wine varieties, including Monte De Oro's numerous awards, he led us downstairs to the barrel cellar. Racks of oak barrels could be seen just about everywhere we looked; there's nearly 1,000 barrels, after all.

Albright described the wine-making process here at Monte De Oro and the use of French oak barrels. There's also quite a bit of monitoring and chemistry that goes behind each barrel of wine, as well as testing. I was amazed at all of the chemistry and science that goes behind making wine. This winery has very high standards to maintain, and it comes as no surprise that they have won numerous awards since opening in 2010.

After the grand tour of the barrel room, we went upstairs to try several varieties of wine, made from grapes grown right here in the Temecula Valley. We first tried a two-year Vigna Vicini, a red blend with notes of berry, chocolate, and vanilla. We then tried the 2018 Vigna Vicini Reserve, a 50/50 red blend I found to be a bit bolder than the other Vigna Vicini. Both were lovely, though, as was the other wine we tasted.

After our tasting, we sat down for a light lunch before we left for our next stop. I ordered the quinoa salad with chicken, kale, sweet peppers, red onion, and tahini dressing. It was flavorful and light, which is exactly what I wanted.

Second Stop: Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery

The location of Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery is a bit off the beaten path, making it a true hidden gem. When we were dropped off at this family-owned winery, I couldn't help but feel my excitement grow as we walked into the spacious tasting room where we first met the manager, Reynaldo. He warmly welcomed us, took us to the patio out back, and sat us at a table for two overlooking the small but stunning vineyard. A charcuterie board with cured meats, cheeses, and fruit was soon delivered to our table. It was a great accompaniment to the wine tasting we were about to enjoy.

Our server, Tammy, took great care of us as she shared her knowledge of the winery, the grapes, and the wine. This family-operated winery is owned by Don Lorenzi and his wife, Brenda, whom I enjoyed meeting during our visit. Don started making wine in his garage in 2011 and was so passionate that opening a winery was the next logical step. Lorenzi Estate opened in 2013.

Several Zinfandel grapevines on the 15-acre property were cloned from 100-year-old vines. However, 10 varietals, including Merlot, Malbec, Petite Syrah, and Chardonnay, grow on the grounds of Lorenzi. Only around 4,000 cases are produced at Lorenzi, and only French oak barrels are used. I also love this vineyard's sustainability practices as its wine is created.

As for our tasting, we tried the 2024 Viognier, a 2020 Grenache, a 2020 Zinfandel, the Zin Cuvée, a 2020 Malbec, and the Petite Syrah. My favorites were the Malbec and Zin Cuvée, but my partner and I enjoyed every bit of the wine tasting and the setting overlooking the vineyard. It was the perfect place to be on a Sunday afternoon.

Third (and last) Stop: Jordan Parker Winery

As the new kid on the block, Jordan Parker Winery opened in March 2025. This family-owned winery is run by a young couple, Jordan Parker and his wife, Brenna, along with help from family members.

Parker's family is no stranger to this industry as they owned Island Cuvée, a sparkling wine sold mainly in Hawaii. In 2013, the family bought a vineyard, and Parker eventually went to Fresno State after being accepted to its viticulture program. After building a tasting room, a barrel room, and outdoor seating areas, this winery was open for business.

I have to say, I was quite impressed with this small vineyard and its tasting room when I visited. The property is beautiful, while the tasting room has an open, industrial feel. My partner and I tried several of the Jordan Parker Winery as we chatted with Jordan and Brenna Parker. I was impressed by how passionate they are about wine and how new they are to the scene in Temecula. I have no doubt their winery will become quite popular.

During our tasting, we tried the Viognier, made from the only white grapes grown in the vineyard, the fruity yet peppery Mourvedre, the Syrah, created from 50-year-old vines, the Orpheum with its unique fruity taste, and the light, refreshing, and bubbly Sangria. The Sangria was an unexpected find at a winery here in Temecula, and I think it was my favorite. I have to say, I can't wait to return to Jordan Parker Winery!

Temecula has a Mediterranean-like climate, and while it's not on the coast, it's close enough to get an ocean breeze. These factors and the area's mineral-rich soil create ideal growth conditions for grapes. This visit to Temecula may have been my first, but it's certainly not my last. I am excited to return to this beautiful town to revisit the wineries I've already visited and, perhaps, try a few more.

If you plan to visit one of California's other wine regions, check out this mini road trip through Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County. Cheers!