While Napa, Sonoma, and Paso Robles have long been considered premier California wine destinations, lesser-known regions also offer world-class wines, along with picturesque landscapes and unpretentious charm. These hidden gems of the wine world stand tall on their own, with exceptional varietals that delight locals and visitors alike.
California’s winemaking culture is diverse. Some producers are experimenting with bold flavors and innovative techniques, while others focus on sustainable practices and improving upon classic styles. The tapestry of wineries is just as broad. From sprawling vineyards to historic venues to intimate tasting rooms, wine lovers are sure to find a tasting experience to suit their palate.
Wine is everywhere in California—on its coast, in its valleys, and beyond. There are even pockets of expert wine production right in our own backyard. San Diego and Temecula Valley offer approachable atmospheres oenophiles are sure to enjoy, while Carmel-by-the-Sea rewards wine lovers willing to travel further afield. These underrated wine destinations invite guests to sip, savor, and indulge in unforgettable experiences.
Temecula Valley
Just over an hour outside San Diego lies Southern California’s very own wine country: Temecula Valley. A climate similar to that of the Mediterranean makes the Temecula Valley an ideal location for growing high-quality wine grapes. The region’s 40-plus wineries produce a wide array of critically acclaimed and award-winning wines. More than 30 varieties are grown in the Temecula Valley, including cabernet sauvignon, syrah, sangiovese, and albariño.
With so many fantastic wineries to choose from, plus an ample assortment of hotels, restaurants, and spas, it’s no surprise that multi-winery tasting tours are popular. Take advantage of this—and get a sweet discount—with a SIP Passport, visit temeculawines.org/sip-passport.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Take a trip up north to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming village on the scenic central coast. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a top-rated wine destination, with 18 friendly tasting rooms all within the idyllic town’s one square mile. Many of the varietals are local to Monterey County, one of the state’s largest premium wine regions known for its chardonnay and pinot noir.
In addition to the bevy of tasting rooms, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the US. Two of its dining establishments, Chez Noir and Aubergine, have received Michelin stars, and a third, Yafa, is recognized as a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
Bernardo Winery
San Diego is home to one of the oldest continually operating wineries in California: Bernardo Winery. This family-owned business’s history dates back to 1889 and includes a stint producing sacramental wine during Prohibition. Though communion vino is no longer among its offerings, Bernardo Winery crafts several reds, whites, and rosés using locally grown grapes, plus dessert wine and sangria.
Guests can enjoy a stroll through Bernardo Winery’s lush gardens or Friday morning farmers’ market, peruse the works of local artisans in its Village Shops, and dine on Sicilian and Old Californian dishes at its walk-up-style restaurant.
California Wine By the Numbers
4,700 wineries in the state
85% of wine produced in the US comes from California
422,000 California jobs are related to the wine industry
635,000 acres of vineyards in the state
$57.6 billion in state economic impact
95% of American wine exports come from California
*Sources: California Wine Institute, winecountry.com, Wine Institute, the National Association of American Wineries.
