north county san diego winery photos

Many regions in California produce world-class wines. The San Diego area boasts dozens of vineyards and wineries. Wine enthusiast will find something for everyone within an hours drive including, private, by-appointment-only wine classes, boutique and urban wineries and historic vineyards that still produce wine following centuries' old aging and bottling processes. So whether you're looking for a family-friendly venue to spend a lazy afternoon exploring new flavors, you want to taste unique unoaked wines at their freshest, or you're looking or a place to host a gathering, we've compiled a list of must-visit wineries in the San Diego area for your consideration.

San Diego's Top Wineries, Vineyards and Tasting Rooms

Step Back in Time

The Bernardo Winery operation is more than 125 years old, and guests can tour the original buildings and get a look at the antique equipment. Three generations have guarded the Italian traditions and rich heritage. Visit on a Sunday afternoon to enjoy live music on the patio. Or spend the day shopping, dining and visiting the museum.

Drink in Spectacular Views

Hungry Hawk Vineyard and Winery offers amazing views of the San Pascal Valley as a perfect backdrop for small weddings and other intimate celebrations. And, with 15 varietals growing on the estate, San Diego wine enthusiast rave about the incomparable flavors sold by the glass and bottle.

Escape the Hustle & Bustle

Domaine Artefact winery is located in the hillside of Escondido. The owners strongly believe in sustainability. They are committed to leaving as close to a zero carbon footprint as possible. They use sustainable practices in as many areas as they can from recycled shipping materials to planting native species and growing organic fruits and vegetables. They also have a working farm! 

north county san diego wineries

Relax & Unwind

Most people hear the word winery and think of out of the way valleys, but Solterra Winery and Kitchen is in the heart of the Encinitas neighborhood of Leucadia. Enjoy a glass of wine, appetizers or a meal and then take a short walk to the beach. 

A Lesson in History

Rancho Guejito Vineyard is located on 25 square acres of the last Mexican land-granted area of Old California. Jose Maria Orozco was a customs agent in 1845, when California was not part of the United States. The land the winery and ranch now occupy was granted to Orozco by the then Mexican Provincial Governor. The winery is also home to cattle and offers hay ride tours.

Reserve Your Spot

Brooking Vineyards is a by-appointment-only establishment that follows centuries-old British wine-making processes first introduced in the 1600s. The owners only use the grapes grown on their estate, so supplies are limited, and club members have priority. Visitors receive a 1 ½ to 2 hour wine education class on Port and Sherry wine styles, then retire to the patio overlooking the ocean for a truly unique tasting experience.

Events and More

Orfila Vineyards carries varietals for lovers of white and red. They are a premium, small production vineyard known for hosting live music, food trucks, yoga and a grape stomp. Their Special Events team can help plan a dreamy wedding. 

Absorb the Rich Wine-Making History of San Diego

Forgotten Barrel moved to the original location of the former Ferrara Winery (established 1886) in 2017, restoring the multi-generation Ferrara Family business. People who prefer oaked wine over keg varieties may appreciate their 2013 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, which delivers notes of allspice, cinnamon, spicy nutmeg and white pepper beneath an earthy blend of dark cherries, raspberries and blackberries.

How to Visit San Diego's Wine Country

Following the links below to learn more about each of these San Diego wineries:

Bernardo Winery

Hungry Hawk Vineyard & Winery

Domaine Artefact

Solterra Winery and Kitchens

Rancho Guejito Vineyard

Orfila Vineyards and Winery

Brooking Vineyard

Forgotten Barrel

Photo credit Kym Ellis on Unsplash and wineries' own social media

Posted by Tyson Lund on

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