Weekday Wine Tour Special +Local Pick-up in Temecula Wine Country

If you’re eyeing a day in California’s wine country, the Weekday Wine Tour Special + Local Pick-up in Temecula promises a well-rounded taste of the region’s best. This tour is designed for those who want a blend of quality wine tastings, a touch of education about wine production, and a dash of unique experiences, all wrapped into about five hours.

What we find most appealing about this tour is its carefully curated stops at three top wineries, plus the chance to learn directly from the wine producers — especially at Somerset Vineyard with its ancient terra-cotta fermentation process. Also, a highlight is the cave lunch at Oak Mountain Winery, where you dine inside a stunning, barrel-lined cave – a memorable setting that elevates the experience far beyond your average tasting.

However, a potential consideration is that this tour is quite casual and informal — no sit-down tastings or formal wine education, which might disappoint those looking for a more structured or in-depth wine course. The emphasis is on having fun, tasting well-chosen wines, and soaking in the scenery, rather than deep wine knowledge.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts looking for a relaxed, authentic day out, couples seeking a romantic escape, or friends wanting to celebrate in style without the fuss of a full-blown, expensive winery visit. If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable way to sample some of Temecula’s best wines without breaking the bank, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• A 5-hour, casual wine experience visiting 3 top wineries with tastings equivalent to 3 glasses of wine.
• Includes an exclusive wine & production tour at Somerset Vineyard where you’ll see traditional fermentation methods.
• A memorable cave lunch at Oak Mountain Winery, with pre-ordered meals served inside their massive, beautiful cave.
• Transportation and pick-up are included, easing logistics and allowing you to relax.
• Cost-effective at $139 per person, offering good value considering the quality stops and added experiences.
• Limited to weekdays (Monday-Thursday), making it ideal for those with flexible schedules.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 34843 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, with pickup service in the local area. This is a significant advantage, especially if you’d prefer not to navigate the sometimes tricky local roads or worry about driving after tasting wine. The comfortable bus has space for up to 99 travelers, but most groups tend to be smaller, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.

The transportation is not just about moving you from winery to winery, but giving you a chance to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and chat with fellow wine lovers or your guide. The knowledgeable driver and guide team seem to go out of their way to make the day enjoyable and informative.

First Stop: South Coast Winery

Your first vineyard, South Coast Winery, is regarded as one of Temecula’s premier wine estates. We loved the way this stop sets the tone for the day—you’re immersed in a beautifully maintained vineyard with a reputation for quality. The tour includes an admission ticket and about 75 minutes to explore. You get a chance to taste some of their best wines and learn about their winemaking practices, which is perfect for those who want more than just sipping.

Reviews rave about the friendliness of the staff and the scenic views. As one reviewer put it, “The wineries we visited were so unique and we loved being in the cave for lunch at Oak Mountain, learning about the production of the wines at Somerset.” That kind of feedback highlights how well the stops are curated.

Second Stop: Oak Mountain Winery

Next is Oak Mountain Winery, where the highlight is the lunch in the cave. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The cave spans 10,000 square feet, with barrels and a striking ambiance that makes your sandwich or tapas feel like a special occasion. Note that food costs are not included and all meals must be pre-ordered to ensure smooth service. The pre-ordering process involves submitting a form during the week of your tour, which is straightforward but requires planning.

The 1.5-hour stop allows plenty of time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and savor your food in an atmospheric setting. Many guests mention how beautiful the cave and winery are, with some describing it as a “lovely” experience.

Final Stop: Somerset Vineyard and Winery

The last winery, Somerset Vineyard, offers perhaps the most unique aspect of the tour: the wine production tour focusing on ancient terra-cotta fermentation. This method, dating back over 8,000 years, involves fermenting wine inside large clay vessels instead of oak barrels, which results in a different flavor profile—more natural, with less tannin influence.

The tour includes sampling straight from the barrels, giving you a rare peek into traditional winemaking techniques. Reviewers frequently mention how this stop feels both educational and authentic, with one describing it as “the most pure way to make wine.”

The Tasting Experience

Across the three stops, you’ll sample a total of 18 ounces of wine—roughly three glasses—making this a well-balanced tasting experience without overindulgence. Many reviews praise the friendly guides and the quality of the wines offered, emphasizing that the experience is casual and enjoyable. For example, one guest said, “Calvin was our tour guide and he was extremely nice and approachable,” highlighting the approachable, friendly vibe.

Additional Experiences and Practical Details

The Cave Lunch

The cave lunch at Oak Mountain is often highlighted as a standout feature. Pre-ordered meals are served inside a cavernous, barrel-filled setting that creates an intimate, memorable atmosphere. The lunch is not included in the price, but many find it well worth the extra effort to pre-order.

The Production Tour at Somerset

This is a highlight for those interested in the wine-making process. The educational component complements the tastings and adds depth to the visit—perfect for wine aficionados or those curious about how wine is crafted.

Group Size and Cost

With a maximum of 99 travelers, the tour remains relatively intimate. The typical booking window is about 16 days in advance, indicating good popularity but still plenty of availability if booked early. At $139 per person, the value is quite favorable, considering all the stops, tastings, and experiences included.

Non-Drinker Options

For those who prefer not to drink, discounted non-drinker tickets are available, and the tour offers bottled water throughout. Remember, children under 18 are not permitted, so this is strictly an adult experience.

Feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating from all 24 reviews. Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious wine. Many describe the day as “fun,” “relaxing,” and “beautiful,” with one noting, “I’d definitely recommend this tour.” The cave lunch and the insight into traditional winemaking techniques are consistently appreciated.

Some minor criticisms include a desire for more detailed information about the wine industry history, but overall, the experience seems to hit the mark for most visitors.

If you want a relaxed, enjoyable day of wine tasting with a bit of a scenic and educational twist, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer casual, friendly atmospheres over formal wine education or structured tastings. The cave lunch adds a memorable touch, and the production tour at Somerset offers a glance into ancient but still relevant winemaking techniques—appealing to curious wine lovers.

The value for money is considerable, considering the stops, tastings, transportation, and exclusive experiences like barrel sampling. It’s a great option if you’re staying in Temecula or nearby and have a few hours to indulge in California’s wine culture without fuss.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth, educational, or formal wine experience, you might find this tour a bit too relaxed or casual. Also, since it operates only Monday through Thursday, your schedule needs to be flexible.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes a comfortable bus with pick-up in Temecula, making logistics hassle-free.

Can I bring children? No, children under 18 are not permitted on this adult-oriented tour.

What is the duration of the tour? It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are there food options? The cave lunch at Oak Mountain Winery is optional and must be pre-ordered; food costs are extra.

How much wine will I taste? You’ll sample about 18 ounces in total—roughly three glasses—spread across three wineries.

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners? Absolutely. The tour is informal, friendly, and designed for enjoyment rather than deep wine education.

In essence, this Temecula weekday wine tour offers a delightful balance of scenic beauty, authentic winemaking insights, and relaxed tastings. It’s perfect for those wanting to add a touch of leisure and flavor to their California trip without the fuss. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a fun day out, you’ll find a lot of value in this experience.