Sunday Special Wine Tour in Temecula Valley with Lunch

A Sunday in Temecula: Savor Wine, Scenery, and a Complimentary Lunch

Temecula’s wine country isn’t just about wine — it’s about enjoying a leisurely day in California’s picturesque vineyards. Our Sunday Special Wine Tour whisks you through two of the region’s premier wineries, South Coast Winery and Maurice Carrie Winery, with a roughly 3.5-hour itinerary that keeps the day relaxed and enjoyable. For $139 per person, you get ample tastings, a delicious $20 lunch credit, and scenic drives that showcase the rolling hills and lush vineyards Temecula is famous for.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the attention to detail in visits to well-established wineries—Danza del Sol being the first on De Portola Road, which boasts over 30-year-old vines. Second, the generous tastings—more than two glasses of wine in total—offer real value for wine enthusiasts. We also appreciate the friendly guides and comfortable transportation that make the journey smooth and engaging.

One thing to consider is the limited to two winery stops with optional longer tours available for an extra fee. If you’re looking for a full-day wine adventure, this might feel a bit short, but for those seeking a manageable, scenic afternoon, it hits the right note.

This experience suits anyone who wants an authentic, well-paced glimpse of Temecula’s wine scene without spending the entire day away. It’s especially good for visitors who love tasting good wine, enjoy scenic drives, and value a tasty, free lunch.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Focuses on two top wineries, offering a relaxed pace.
• Value for Money: Includes tastings, transport, guide, bottled water, and a free lunch.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to established wineries with old vines, showcasing real wine-making history.
• Scenic Route: Enjoy a 15-minute drive through Temecula’s stunning vineyards.
• Flexible Options: An upgrade for a third winery with production tour is available for those wanting more.
• Ideal for: Wine lovers, casual visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Temecula without a full-day commitment.

Exploring Temecula’s Wine Country: A Deep Dive

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Experience

The tour kicks off at the Maurice Carrie Vineyard, situated at 34225 Rancho California Rd. Here, you’ll meet your guide and hop onto a comfortable bus that will take you on a scenic 15-minute drive through the vineyards—a perfect way to start absorbing the beauty of Temecula’s landscape. The short drive also ensures you finish your day early enough to enjoy the rest of your Sunday.

Your first stop, Danza del Sol Winery, is the oldest on De Portola Road and is famed for its over 30-year-old vines. During your 1.5-hour visit, you will likely be greeted with a tasting of their best wines, and the reviews highlight that their wine quality is top-notch. ChloeBellevue raves, “Brow Sugar was the best guide and made sure we had a great time! The wine was great, the vibes were even better.” This suggests a friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable staff that enhance the experience, making it more than just a tasting but a memorable moment.

Next, the tour continues to Lorimar Vineyards and Winery, another favorite for its combination of good wines and American cuisine. Here, each guest receives a $20 lunch credit, which can be used practically to order from their pre-selected menu. The reviews commend this aspect, with Theresa_C noting, “Friendly people and our bus driver was very nice and accommodating,” which suggests a warm, inviting environment.

Throughout these stops, the total wine tasting amounts to over 14 ounces, equating to more than two glasses of wine—ample for a leisurely afternoon. Plus, bottled water, a driver, and a guide keep the experience comfortable.

What We Love: Highlights of the Tour

The scenic drive is a highlight, offering glimpses of rolling vineyards and the California landscape, perfect for those Instagram shots or simply soaking in the beauty of wine country. The quality of the wineries—Danza del Sol’s old vines and Lorimar’s American cuisine—adds depth to the visit, making it feel like a genuine local experience rather than a tourist trap.

The value is notable, considering the cost covers tastings, transportation, guide, bottled water, and a free lunch. For only $139, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Temecula, especially since you’re not just sampling wine but also enjoying the scenic backdrop.

Possible Drawbacks: Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is well-balanced, it’s shorter than some full-day tastings—you only get two winery stops, with optional upgrades. If you’re eager to explore more wineries or see behind-the-scenes production, you’ll need to pay extra and possibly extend your day.

Another consideration is that children under 18 are not permitted, which is typical for wine tours but worth noting for families. Also, gratuity isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you’re pleased with the guide’s service.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits wine enthusiasts looking for a relaxed, scenic, and affordable way to experience Temecula’s wineries. It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time who still want a taste of the region’s best wines and landscapes. If you’re travelling with someone who prefers a gentle pace or wants a guided experience with good value, this is a solid choice.

The Detailed Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The Scenic Drive and Start Point

The tour begins at the Maurice Carrie Vineyard, with pickup instructions detailed on your ticket. Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a 15-minute drive through vineyard-lined roads. This short journey sets the tone—expect views of rolling hills, lush grapevines, and the relaxed vibe typical of Californian wine country.

Danza del Sol Winery: History and Flavor

Danza del Sol is notable as the first winery on De Portola Road, over three decades of winemaking experience. The vines are mature, which often translates into more concentrated flavors in the wine. The tasting room is likely to be warm and inviting, with friendly staff eager to share their stories. Guests often comment on the quality of wine and the friendly atmosphere.

Lorimar Vineyards and American Cuisine

At Lorimar, the focus shifts to pairing good wine with a satisfying meal. Your $20 lunch credit can be used from a pre-selected menu, allowing you to choose a dish that fits your appetite and taste. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the beautiful setting, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch. Since food and wine are paired here, you’ll get a more rounded experience—great for those who appreciate culinary touches alongside their wine.

The Optional Third Winery

For those wanting more, an upgrade is available for a third stop, including a production tour. This can be booked either on the day or in advance but comes with an additional fee. It’s perfect if your interest in wine production goes beyond tasting and you want to see how wine is made behind the scenes.

The End of the Tour

After these stops, the bus returns to the starting point, leaving you with the rest of your Sunday free. The short duration makes it perfect for a daytime activity without sacrificing your evening plans.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

With included tastings, transport, guide, bottled water, and lunch, this tour packs a lot into a modest price. It’s especially accommodating for those who prefer a guided experience rather than navigating on their own. Considering that many wineries charge separately for tastings and tours, the all-in-one package is a convenient and budget-friendly way to enjoy Temecula.

Authenticity and Comfort

Guests often mention the friendly guides and nice drivers, which makes the experience feel personal and relaxed. Comfort is also prioritized, with modern transportation and plenty of bottled water. The wineries themselves are established, with histories spanning over 30 years, ensuring you’re experiencing a genuine slice of Temecula’s wine heritage.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, comfortable, and reasonably priced introduction to Temecula’s wine scene, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for casual wine lovers, small groups, or couples who want to enjoy a scenic afternoon with quality tastings and a delicious lunch.

While it may not satisfy the most dedicated oenophile seeking extensive winery visits, it offers good value and a genuine taste of the region’s best. The shorter duration makes it ideal for visitors with limited time or those who prefer a more relaxed itinerary.

And if you’re traveling with someone who’s new to wine or prefers scenic drives over long tasting sessions, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including travel and winery stops.

What wineries are visited?
Danza del Sol Winery and Lorimar Vineyards and Winery.

Is lunch included?
You get a $20 lunch credit that can be used from the pre-ordered menu at Lorimar.

How much wine do I get to taste?
Over 14 ounces total, which is more than two full glasses of wine.

Are children allowed?
No, children 17 and younger, including babies, are not permitted.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included and should be budgeted separately if you wish to tip your guide.

Can I visit more wineries?
Yes, an optional third winery with a production tour is available for an extra fee, either on the day or in advance.

What is the meeting point?
Start at Maurice Carrie Vineyard, with detailed pickup instructions on your ticket.

Is this tour suitable for someone who prefers a longer experience?
If you want more wineries or deeper tours, this may feel limited, but it’s a great intro for a relaxed afternoon.

To sum it up, this Sunday Special wine tour strikes a good balance for those seeking a scenic, relaxed, and value-packed taste of Temecula’s wine country. It offers quality tastings, friendly guidance, and the bonus of a free lunch—all within a manageable time frame. Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or simply curious about Temecula’s wines, this tour provides a comfortable and enjoyable way to explore.