Temecula Valley’s wine country is, by California winemaking standards, a new region. However, you’ll find a world-class experience to rival any in California when you visit Temecula Valley’s wineries. The Wineries Temecula Valley’s wine country has grown over the past 30 years from a few small vintners to over 20 award-winning wineries that now flourish in the Valley. Estimates are that there could be more than 15 new wineries established in the area along with the hotel rooms required to handle the visitors. The wineries are known for producing some Mediterranean varietals, including Pinot Gris and Syrah. But, they also produce excellent Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Chardonnay. You can visit some of the Valley’s wineries for a day, or stay for a close-by getaway. Many of the wineries boast large grounds and fully-equipped tasting rooms. Some even have accommodations on site. You could get married at some of the wineries or attend the events they sponsor. You might want to visit the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, for example. This is the only five-star resort in the Valley. You’ll be pampered like a king or queen during your stay. The restaurant onsite is “countryside chic”. The Villas for your stay are private getaways in themselves, with fireplaces, spa tubs and terraces. When you're not sipping wine, you can take advantage of a full array of Spa services. The Wine Celebration! One of the premier and most anticipated events in the Valley -- year after year -- is the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival. Held at the expansive Lake Skinner area in Temecula’s Wine Country, the event dates back more than 25 years. The first event in 1984 was held in a town of only 9,000 residents, but attracted more than 4,000 people with 35 balloons launched from the Rancho California Plaza area off Ynez Road (now Tower Plaza). The balloons flew over the serene pastures surrounding the area and the wine tasting was held in the parking lot of the current Tower Plaza. Today, that area is well developed. Over the years, the festival has changed in terms of both events and location. New entertainment, events for children, nighttime events, wine tasting and more were added. In 1986, the event was moved to Cherry Avenue and the first ever poster contest was held. On Friday and Saturday nights, the crowd gathers at the Main and Wine Stages where a dozen or so balloonists vie for their chance to be the stars of a most spectacular part of the evening - the Balloon Glow. The crowd is warmed with musical entertainment. The Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival has become a celebration of life with flavor and appeal for everyone. In 2008, the Festival celebrated its 25th Anniversary as the premier event in the beautiful Temecula Valley.
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