Sparkling Wines

Sparkling Wines

Faustini Wines

wine pouring into wine glasses - Pixabay

Anthony Faustini has been a wine collector for many years. Looking to make the jump from serious collector to wine maker he began his research on Long Island in New York, visiting wineries and trying a number of wines. Looking to expand his palate and wanting to make a California wine he came to the Napa Valley where he was introduced to Crushpad in San Francisco. Faustini's first commercial vintage was small - merely 50 cases in 2005 from the Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard in St. Helena. This vintage was a teaser for Anthony and made him realize how much he wanted to be in the business. He started taking remote courses through UC Davis and because of his work for Cisco frequently found himself in California. While here for work - he also started nurturing vineyard and wine making connections. Today he lives in New York and commutes to Napa a number of times each year. Faustini currently focus on two labels, Play Date and Faustini with plans to expand. Each one of their wines involves a unique story.

Weibel Family Vineyards

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Winery purchased by Rack & Riddle -

Famous over the years for Weibel Green Hungarian, now known as GH, and their line of California champagnes and naturally flavored sparkling wines, Weibel Family Wines also include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah from their Estate Vineyard in Mendocino County, California.

McConnell Estate Winery

grape cluster - pixabay

The family story is about two families – one named McConnell and the other Wackman – that found their way to Elk Grove, California. The 5th generation from these founding families planted winegrapes in 1993 and began making wine on this historic property in 2002 for you to enjoy.

Thomas George Estate

cluster of grapes - Pixabay

Step foot into their "cave" and see how the other half lives. The barrel tasting was fantastic and you couldn't help but hang out inside this cavern all day. The conversation was friendly and light while the service remained educated and proper keeping true to most Napa Valley wineries without actually being in Napa. The furniture lightly dressed the hallways as you make your way back out and into their tasting room. The space is equally as refined as their wine-makers palate.

Cambria Winery

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As one of the first wineries in the Santa Maria Valley, we’ve got some serious cred behind us. In fact, the part of our estate that was originally called the Tepusquet Vineyard was one of the first vineyards planted in the region, back in 1971. More than just a beautiful place for growing grapes, it brought attention to the Santa Maria Valley and inspired others to realize the potential of this unique winegrowing region.

In 1986, our founders Barbara Banke and Jess Jackson bought that vineyard and established Cambria. After 34 years of cultivating grapes and people, there’s a lotta love and pride here at our estate.

Wiens Family Cellars

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - woman enjoying wine at beach

The wines at Wiens Family Cellars were very good. Not too crowded inside. Good vibe inside. We had a lot of first timers in my group so they were a little unsure of what to do but the staff there were very friendly and eager to answer any questions. The hostess I dealt with was very friendly and had good recommendations. I have to say their "Perspective" blend was a very good red that I enjoyed. I also really like their Cab selection. From what I understand their big reds are in the premier tasting room....that will be my next stop when I return to Temecula Wine and wine country.

Conrad Viano Winery

grape cluster - AI generated

Viano Vineyards enjoys the cooling breezes from the Carquinez Straits, providing the perfect balance of heat and coolness. This location boasts a combination of ideal soil and climatic conditions favorable for growing premium wine grapes, including Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, French Colombard, Muscat Canelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, Petite Sirah, Sangiovese, and Zinfandel.

Founded by the Viano family in 1920, this family estate, now in its 4th and 5th generations, purchased an already planted vineyard established in 1888. The vineyard reminded the Viano family of their vineyards in Piedmont, Italy. Once named Vine Hill, this area was rich in grapes and home to more than 15 wineries.

Some of the original vines still remain, while the rest of the vineyard has been expanded and replanted to cater to new world tastes and desires. Using the most natural cultural practices possible, combined with traditional winemaking techniques, including natural yeast and aging in small oak cooperage, Viano Vineyards brings fine handcrafted wines to their patrons.

Toad Hollow Vineyards

wine corks and glass - Pixabay

Longtime friends Todd Williams and Rodney Strong created Toad Hollow Vineyards when they released their first vintage of unoaked chardonnay in 1994. As one of the leaders in unoaked Chardonnay, their consistent style featuring bright, crisp fruit flavors, continues to be a favorite.

Reverie Vineyards

wine pouring into a glass - Pixaby

Reverie Winery, located near Calistoga, California, is one of Napa Valley’s smallest estate wineries. The vineyard is nestled on a steep, 40 acre parcel high up in the Diamond Mountain appellation. It was once part of the Bonsell Property that is now divided into three vineyards – Reverie, Diamond Creek, and Von Strasser. Norman Kiken, a New Jersey guy, is the owner and winemaker. He purchased the property in 1993 and specializes in producing ultra-premium Bordeaux style varietal blends that reflect the uniqueness of the terroir. 5 star family winery, old-fashioned style. You feel their passion for the wine. The property is magnificent; you must walk around. The tour is informative, interesting and fun. I've done it a couple of times, and I look forward to a repeat. Their cab franc is sooo good.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - enjoying wine with pet cat

They specialize in Italian varietals! But they have a number of non-Italian varietals too. And was really surprised at how much I enjoyed their White Cabernet. Yup... you heard right... WHITE CAB. It's light and refreshing.... fruity but not sweet.... on the dry side. It's a lovely rose to sit by the pool and relax with. Get a little bit of Italy while you are enjoying you Temecula Wine Tasting adventures.

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