When we think of wine tasting, our brain immediately goes to the regions of Napa Valley, Sonoma, or Paso Robles.

While Northern California boasts an impressive resume of luxurious wineries and vineyards, Southern California is often overlooked for their influential grape growing districts. Did you know Southern California was the first area of our state to plant vines and produce wine long before it’s sister to the North?

Our beautiful wine country provides a quick escape with spectacular views and ranges from Temecula to San Diego (there’s even a hidden gem in Downtown Los Angeles). Here are seven must-visit wineries in the Southern California region that will provide a unique experience for those looking for a convenient, yet indulgent getaway.

1. Malibu Family Wines

31740 Mulholland Highway | Malibu

Located on the beautiful Saddlerock vineyards, Malibu Family Wines boasts 60 thousand vines on 65 acres of land with optimal growing conditions. They offer numerous activities to enjoy such as picnicking, live music, wine safaris, hikes, and sailing. While sipping exquisite wines from Saddlerock Vineyards, you will enjoy views of the Conejo Valley which is filled with oak trees, horses, llamas, and what appears to be endless vineyards on the rolling hillside.

Fun Tip: The winery hosts a movie night under the stars, Friday night karaoke, and Sunday yoga.

2. Rancho Bernardo Winery

13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte | San Diego

Nestled in North County San Diego, Rancho Bernardo Winery is the oldest operating winery in San Diego and exudes old world charm. There are 2,500 grape vines on the property that includes Concord, Barbera, Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Muscat, Missio, Tokay, and Grenache. Flavor profiles of their wine boast bold reds and fruity whites, and the family-owned winery only uses organic practices that stem from the vineyard’s inception. While sipping on delicious varietals, you will enjoy being surrounded by Mediterranean gardens which include over 400 olive trees, 50 Hass avocado trees, fruit trees such as fig, guava, loquat, citrus, and berries paired with their gorgeous vineyards and a charming ambiance. The winery also offers a variety of entertainment and dining options for you to indulge in on your visit including a Friday farmers market, live music, coffee shop, a farm to table restaurant, shops, and more!

Fun Fact: Five Sicilian partners established the winery in 1889.

3. Callaway Vineyard & Winery

32720 Rancho California Road | Temecula

Established by the creator of Callaway Golf, Ely Callaway, Jr., the Callaway Winery is a legendary escape on over 20 acres of vineyards that consist of seven different varietals. The varietals include Viognier, Syrah, Dolcetto, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Grenache, Roussanne, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The Callaway team prides themselves on producing incredibly flavorful and well-balanced wines that stem from their sustainable practices and unique cultivating techniques. With countless awards under their belt, Callaway Vineyard and Winery offers a unique experience in a posh setting with a variety of wines that will please any wine connoisseur’s palette.

Fun Tip: Turn your day trip into an event by making reservations at their esteemed restaurant Meritage with breathtaking views.

4. Thornton Winery

32575 Rancho California Road | Temecula

“Temecula’s original champagne house,” Thornton Winery is the place to go for live music, exceptional wine, and delicious fare in a laid-back atmosphere. The family-owned business prides themselves on offering serene ambiance surrounded by the lush greenery of the beautiful Temecula wine country. Enjoy a tour that showcases the winemaker’s unique vinification process and traditional methods to make their award-winning champagne and wines followed by a reservation in their Champagne Lounge. They host weekly music events and are also a popular destination for the annual Champagne Jazz Series, a live concert performed in their critically acclaimed outdoor venue!

Fun Tip: Every Friday the winery hosts live music for you to enjoy while sipping vino.

5. South Coast Winery Resort and Spa

34843 Rancho California Road | Temecula

A one-of-a-kind retreat, South Coast Winery Resort and Spa offers not only remarkable wines and tastings but also a luxurious resort and spa for you to indulge in on a long weekend. Established on 63 acres of flowing vineyards you will experience a romantic escape with elegant amenities and picturesque vistas. During your stay, pamper yourself at the GrapeSeed Spa or take a dip in the heated outdoor saltwater pool with underwater music. Take a tour during the day to learn about their extraordinary winemaking method and history of the winery and follow up by satisfying your taste buds with wine country cuisine at The Vineyard Rose Restaurant.

Fun Fact: The winery has accumulated over 2,000 outstanding awards and medals for the grapes it’s grown and wine it’s produced.

6. San Antonio Winery

737 Lamar Street | Los Angeles

Founded over 100 years ago, the San Antonio Winery is the last remaining working winery in Downtown Los Angeles. Deemed a historic landmark in the 1960s, this hidden gem offers a variety of delicious wines in an urban setting with a rich history that will captivate you. Their restaurant Maddalena is named after one of their founders and exudes Italian allure in this trattoria-style eatery. Their family hospitality makes you feel right at home with traditional Italian plates and live music playing in the background.

Fun Fact: This winery owns vineyards in Monterey, Paso Robles, and Napa!

7. Bel Vino Winery

33515 Rancho California Road | Temecula

Situated on 40 acres of lavish vineyards at one of the highest points in Temecula wine country, Bel Vino showcases sensational panoramas while highlighting their rustic authenticity. The location is perfect for a day trip or an overnight rendezvous. Their Barrel Tasting Room offers an inviting and educational experience while their Bistro incorporates gourmet bites to enjoy while imbibing and listening to live music. Their impressive portfolio includes up to 40 wines with remarkable awards including the highly rated gold medal winners and Southern California’s best red wines!

Fun Tip: Rent out their vineyard suite or house for an extended stay with friends, family, or your significant other.