Private Temecula Wine Tour – Lake Elsinore

Experience the Best of Temecula Wine Country on a Private Tour from Lake Elsinore

If you’re craving a day of wine tasting, beautiful vineyard views, and a taste of Southern California’s wine scene, this private Temecula wine tour from Lake Elsinore might just be your perfect escape. For $193 per person, you’ll spend about 6.5 hours exploring four different wineries, with the flexibility that only a private tour can offer. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to enjoy guided tours, underground caves, and scenic hilltop estates—all while being driven comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Two features we love: First, the personalized nature of the tour, which is ideal for couples, friends, or small private groups up to 14 guests. Second, the inclusion of guided production and cave tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look at wine-making that you simply can’t get on a regular tasting visit. The only thing to consider is that lunch is not included in the price, so you’ll want to plan for that, especially if you’re hungry after all the tastings.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic wine experiences combined with scenic views and relaxed pacing. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a customizable day out with knowledgeable guides who keep the day flowing smoothly, letting you focus on enjoying the wines and the landscape.

Key Points

• Tailored private experience for groups of up to 14, offering flexibility and intimacy.
• Includes guided tours at Somerset Vineyard & Oak Mountain Winery, along with cave exploration and tastings.
• Scenic stops at Callaway Winery’s hilltop estate, with sweeping vineyard views.
• Flexible lunch options depending on the day, with options at Cougar Vineyard or Bel Vino Winery.
• Transport is covered in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the day comfortable and stress-free.
• Not including lunch encourages you to choose a meal that suits your tastes and schedule.

A Closer Look: What to Expect from Your Temecula Wine Tour

Starting at Somerset Vineyard & Winery: A Warm Welcome and a Guided Introduction

Your day begins at Somerset Vineyard & Winery, where your guide greets you and takes you on a guided production tour. Expect to learn about the winemaking process while sampling some of their award-winning wines. The tasting room is inviting, and the tour’s behind-the-scenes look provides insight into what makes Somerset special—think of it as the warm-up act for the day’s wine adventures.

We appreciated how knowledgeable and personable your guide is here—they’re more than just chauffeurs; they’re storytellers. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide, Emily, made the whole experience fun and informative,” and we agree, a good guide makes all the difference.

Oak Mountain Winery: Underground Elegance and a Cave Tour

Next stop is Oak Mountain Winery, home to the largest wine cave in Southern California. Here, you’ll enjoy tastings paired with charcuterie boards, adding a touch of culinary pleasure. The highlight is the guided tour of the underground wine cave, which offers a cool, atmospheric peek into wine storage and aging.

This part of the tour is often praised for the stunning views from the estate and the unique underground experience. One traveler mentioned, “Walking through the cave was like stepping into a secret world,” which captures the sense of discovery here. The cave’s atmosphere lends a sense of history and craftsmanship—perfect for those who enjoy authentic, tangible connections to the wine.

Lunch Options: Flexibility for Different Days

From Monday to Friday, your group has the option to enjoy a relaxed lunch at Sangios Deli inside Cougar Vineyard & Winery, offering lovely vineyard views and a casual, welcoming vibe. On Saturdays, the scene shifts to Bel Vino Winery, where you can indulge in a bistro-style meal with live music and BBQ.

While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, these options provide a pleasant break in your day, allowing you to soak up the vineyard ambiance and recharge before the final stops.

Callaway Winery: The Grand Finale with Scenic Vistas

Your last stop takes you to Callaway Vineyard & Winery, perched atop a hill with stunning panoramic views of Temecula Valley. This estate embodies the quintessential wine country feel—beautifully landscaped, with wide-open vistas that make for perfect photo opportunities.

Here, you’ll enjoy a final tasting, often described as a fitting conclusion—relaxed, scenic, and celebratory. One reviewer shared, “Ending at Callaway with a glass of wine while watching the sunset was the perfect way to finish the day.” It’s an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s highlights and take in the breathtaking landscape.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $193 per person, this private tour provides an intimate, seamless experience that combines wine education, scenic beauty, and flexible dining options. The inclusion of guided tours and cave explorations means you’re not just tasting wine—you’re learning about the craft, which enriches the experience. The transportation being included adds comfort and convenience, especially important if you’re unfamiliar with the area or simply want to relax.

Compared to large group tours, this private experience offers more personalized attention and the ability to tailor the day to your interests. Plus, the group discount makes it more affordable the larger your party is, which encourages sharing a special day with friends or family.

Price and Value

While the price doesn’t include meals, the tastings and guided tours are a significant part of the value. You’re paying for a curated experience that takes care of the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the wines and scenery. The guided cave tour at Oak Mountain, in particular, is a highlight that many travelers find memorable.

Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially on warmer days, and the private nature means no one’s rushing or waiting for others. With a maximum of 14 guests, it strikes a nice balance—feeling exclusive but not overly intimate, which can sometimes be limiting.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

Somerset Vineyard & Winery (1 hour)

Your journey kicks off with a personalized introduction to the wine-making process. The guided tour here is a real plus, giving you insights into what makes Somerset wines award-winning. Expect to sample a range of wines—reds, whites, possibly some sparkling options—and to hear stories about the vineyard’s history and philosophy.

Authentic and friendly, this stop sets the tone for the rest of the day—informative yet relaxed. The tasting room is comfortable, and the staff is known for their warmth. As one guest noted, “The wines were excellent, and the guide made the whole experience memorable.”

Oak Mountain Winery (1 hour)

A short drive takes you to Oak Mountain, home of Southern California’s largest wine cave. You’ll enjoy tastings of their signature wines, complemented by a guided underground tour. The cave’s atmosphere is cool and quiet, a stark contrast to the lively vineyard above, and offers a fascinating glimpse into how wine is stored and aged.

The charcuterie boards serve as a delightful pairing, elevating the tasting experience. Visitors often mention the stunning views from the estate, which make for great photo opportunities. The cave tour has received praise for being both informative and fun, with many noting the unique experience of walking through the underground tunnels.

Lunch at Cougar Vineyard & Winery or Bel Vino Winery

Depending on the day, you’ll stop for a relaxed lunch. At Cougar Vineyard, Sangios Deli offers casual, delicious options with vineyard views—a perfect midday break. On Saturdays, Bel Vino adds live music and BBQ, creating a lively, festive atmosphere.

While not included in the tour price, these meals give you a chance to enjoy local flavors and soak in the vineyard ambiance. Expect a variety of options, from sandwiches to BBQ plates, tailored to suit your appetite and schedule.

Callaway Vineyard and Winery (1 hour)

Your day ends at Callaway Winery, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views that truly capture the essence of wine country. The estate’s beautiful architecture and sweeping vistas provide a perfect backdrop for your final tastings.

Many guests find this spot to be the highlight of the trip, especially if they enjoy soaking in scenic views while sipping fine wine. It’s a quiet, elegant conclusion to a day filled with discovery and enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Temecula wine tour is especially suited for couples seeking a romantic day, small groups of friends, or families who want a personalized experience. If you value guided insights and underground cave tours—which add a layer of authenticity—the tour will appeal. It also works well for those who prefer flexibility in dining and timing, as it offers options depending on the day.

Travelers who don’t want to worry about transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads will appreciate the comfort of the included vehicle. However, if you’re a solo traveler or on a tight budget, you might find larger group tours or shared experiences more economical—though you’d lose the intimacy and customization.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, this private Temecula wine tour from Lake Elsinore offers a well-rounded, personalized day in wine country that balances education, scenic beauty, and leisure. With knowledgeable guides, exclusive cave visits, and beautiful vineyard stops, it’s a great choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

While the lack of included lunch might require some planning, it also means you can choose a meal that fits your tastes and schedule. The tour’s value lies in its personalized approach, expert-guided stops, and scenic stops—making it a memorable day for anyone serious about wine or simply looking to unwind in California’s wine region.

This experience is best for those who want a curated, private day with a focus on authenticity and comfort. If you enjoy guided tours, scenic views, and the camaraderie of small groups, this tour will likely check all your boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, you travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is part of the package, making the day more comfortable and stress-free.

Can I customize the stops or the itinerary? The tour is private and fully narrated, so your guide can offer insights along the way, but the stops are fixed as per the itinerary.

Are tastings included at all wineries? Yes, tastings are included at Somerset Vineyard, Oak Mountain, and Callaway Winery.

What about lunch? Lunch is not included, but options are available at Cougar Vineyard or Bel Vino Winery, depending on the day.

How long is the tour? The total duration is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish.

What is the group size? Up to 14 guests, which provides an intimate yet social atmosphere.

Is this suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, including service animals. Check with your guide if you have specific needs.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and possibly exploring caves are recommended.

Can I bring my own wine or snacks? The tour provides snacks and bottled water, but bringing your own is generally not necessary or permitted in tasting rooms.

How do I cancel if needed? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, this private Temecula wine tour from Lake Elsinore promises a relaxed, educational, and scenic day—perfect for those who want to savor California’s wine culture in a personal setting.