Visit This California Wine Region For A True Taste Of Tuscany
By Jenna Busch
VACATIONS
If a wine tour through Tuscany is out of your budget, try visiting California's Temecula Valley wine region, which has similar scenery, weather, and, most importantly, wine.
Samantha Brown says Temecula is "Fairly similar to Tuscany, Italy in that its microclimate features morning mist, midday sun, cool air, crisp nights, and a granite-based soil."
There are almost 50 wineries to explore in the Temecula Valley region, as well as hot air balloon excursions, horseback riding, and beautiful vineyards to tour.
The area is known for varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, and Petite Syrah. Most wineries are open for tastings from 11 a.m. through 5 or 6 p.m.
South Coast Winery is a gorgeous vineyard that has villas for guests. Brown recommends Fazeli Cellars, which ages their wines in French, Hungarian, and American barrels.
Sidecar Tours Temecula has a number of tours for wine, scenery, breweries, and more. You can also sail over vineyards in a hot air balloon with A Grape Escape.