Sunday Special Wine Tour in Temecula Valley with Lunch

Introduction

If you’re considering a trip to Temecula Valley’s renowned wineries, the Sunday Special Wine Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to sample some of the region’s best without sacrificing your whole weekend. This guided experience focuses on two top-tier wineries—South Coast Winery and Maurice Carrie Winery—delivering a compact but satisfying taste of Temecula’s renowned wine culture.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic drives through rolling vineyards with excellent winery visits that include generous tastings and a free lunch. It’s well-paced, finishing in the early afternoon so you can continue your day—whether exploring more of Temecula or heading back home. One thing to keep in mind: it’s not a tour for those wanting to visit multiple wineries or a full day of tasting. But for a relaxed, value-packed experience, it hits the mark. This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of Temecula without the hassle of planning, especially if you prefer a group setting with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Two premier wineries visited—South Coast Winery and Maurice Carrie Winery—offering high-quality tastings and scenic views.
• Includes a free, $20 value lunch, letting you enjoy local American cuisine at Lorimar Vineyards & Winery.
• Comfortable 3.5-hour schedule designed to leave you plenty of time to enjoy your Sunday afterward.
• Expert guides and friendly transportation create a relaxed, informative atmosphere.
• Good value for money, with extensive tastings and a meal included in the price.
• Optional upgrade to visit a third winery with a production tour, for those wanting a longer experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Scenic Route and Pickup

The tour begins with a 15-minute scenic drive through Temecula’s rolling vineyards. It’s a gentle introduction to the region’s landscape—think lush hills, rows of grapevines, and the warm California sunshine. From the start, the emphasis is on relaxed enjoyment, not rushing from stop to stop.

First Stop: Danza del Sol Winery

Danza del Sol, the first stop, holds historical significance as the original winery on De Portola Road. Visitors here are greeted by vineyars over 30 years old, which hint at the depth of flavor in their wines. The tasting experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to chat with staff and savor multiple pours.

According to reviews, Danza del Sol produces some of the best-tasting wines in Temecula, which aligns with the positive feedback from guests who appreciated the variety and quality. Some travelers mentioned the “great wine and even better vibes,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable guides.

Second Stop: Lorimar Vineyards & Winery

Next, the tour heads to Lorimar Vineyards & Winery, famed for its reputation for American cuisine and quality wines. Here, guests get a $20 lunch credit, which can be used to select from a menu of local favorites—think hearty sandwiches, salads, or regional specialties.

Guests have about 1 hour and 30 minutes at Lorimar, providing plenty of time to enjoy their meal, soak in the scenic views, and continue tasting wines if they wish. Several reviewers praised the “wonderful atmosphere” and “beautiful scenery,” making this a highlight for those who enjoy a relaxing setting paired with good food.

Tasting Details and Value

The tour’s tastings amount to more than 2 glasses of wine (14 ounces) in total, which offers a generous sampling experience. This is particularly appealing if you want to try a variety of wines without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. The inclusion of bottled water on the bus and during lunch adds comfort, especially on warm days.

Optional Third Winery

If you’re craving more, an upgrade to visit a third winery with a production tour is available. This would add some time and cost but could deepen your appreciation for winemaking. You can decide on the day or pre-arrange it, offering flexibility.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is a key feature—your journey is in a comfortable bus with a driver and tour guide. Small to medium-sized groups (up to 99 travelers) mean a lively, personable atmosphere without feeling crowded. Pickup points are designated, so double-check your ticket for details, ensuring smooth start and finish.

Timing and Duration

The tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, striking a balance between thoroughness and relaxation. It finishes back at the original meeting point, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore more of Temecula or head home.

Price and Overall Value

At $139 per person, this tour provides strong value. Included are tastings, a guided tour, bottled water, transportation, all taxes and fees, and a complimentary lunch. Considering the cost of tastings alone in wineries, the meal and guided experience add to the tour’s worth, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and stunning scenery as major positives. ChloeBellevue raved about “Brow Sugar,” the guide, who made sure everyone had a good time, noting that “the wine was great, and the vibes were even better.” On the other hand, a less favorable review from Stacey_S pointed out confusion about the number of wineries included—she thought three were promised but only visited two with a short stay at one.

The majority of comments are positive, emphasizing knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and good value for money. Theresa_C remarked on the “friendly people,” adding that the driver was “very nice and accommodating,” which matters when you’re spending several hours with a group.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular and often booked about 10 days ahead.
• Children under 18 are not permitted, so this is mainly for adult wine lovers.
• The tour is non-refundable, so be sure of your plans before booking.
• The tour operates in a group setting, which can be fun and social, but might not suit those seeking a private experience.
• If you’re a non-drinker, discounted tickets are available after booking—just reach out afterward.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, informative introduction to Temecula’s wine scene without the complexity of planning. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, couples, or groups looking for a leisurely day out with good wine, scenic views, and a tasty meal included. If you’re short on time but still want to taste Temecula’s best, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot.

The Sum Up

This Sunday Special Wine Tour in Temecula offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances quality wine tastings, scenic beauty, and a delicious included lunch. With friendly guides, comfortable transportation, and a manageable itinerary, it’s an excellent way to learn about Temecula’s wine culture without overcommitting.

While it’s not an exhaustive tour—more of a sampler—it provides a genuine look at some of the region’s top wineries, making it perfect for those new to Temecula or visitors on a tight schedule. The value for money is solid, especially considering the tastings and meal included, making it a smart choice for wine lovers seeking an authentic, laid-back experience.

If you’re eager to enjoy beautiful vineyard vistas, friendly guides, and quality wines in a stress-free setting, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to book ahead, be prepared for a group experience, and keep in mind that if you want to visit more wineries or do a deep dive into winemaking, you might want to consider an upgrade or custom tour.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable bus with a driver and guide.

How long does the tour last? The tour runs about 3 hours and 30 minutes from pickup to return.

Are children allowed? No, children 17 years and younger are not permitted on this tour.

What is included in the price? The price covers tastings at two wineries, a guided tour, bottled water, transportation, taxes, and a free lunch valued at $20.

Can I visit more than two wineries? Yes, an optional upgrade to visit a third winery with a production tour is available for an additional fee.

Is the lunch included? You receive a $20 credit to use on the Lorimar Vineyard’s menu—equivalent to a free lunch.

What if I don’t drink alcohol? Discounted non-drinker tickets are available after booking; contact the tour provider directly.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, the group size and guided nature make it friendly for solo travelers.

How far in advance should I book? It’s recommended to book about 10 days ahead, as the tour is popular.

What is the cancellation policy? The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed.

This well-balanced wine tour offers a taste of Temecula’s charm and a gentle way to enjoy its celebrated wines. It’s a practical, enjoyable option for those who value good company, scenic views, and authentic experiences.