San Diego has one of the best wine scenes in the entire country. Not only does our climate provide the ideal place for grape production, but the coastal views are the perfect pairings for pretty much every flavor. If you are looking for the best way to spend a day sampling SoCal wines, I have you covered! As a San Diego couples photographer, I love working with my clients to help them find their new favorite local spots. Here are the best places for wine tasting in San Diego.
13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, California 92128
Bernardo Winery gives you several ways to try their wines whether you want a lesson by the Bernardo Wine stewards or prefer to try a flight over at The Tasting Room. They have an on-site kitchen that serves pizzas, salads, and other traditional Italian foods. The courtyard is open to visitors of all ages.
2710 Historic Decatur, San Diego, California 92106
Carruth Cellars has four area locations where you can enjoy some exceptional wines. Each of the locations has an important role in the production, giving you a way to connect with the finished wines. All the locations are pup-friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming to kids and adults alike.
3492 Pickett Street, San Diego, California 92110
Gianni Buonomo Vintners always has something going on! Their tasting room regularly brings in live music you can enjoy while sampling their wines. They also have a large menu to complement their offerings. It’s one of the best spots for your next date night!
805 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, California 92101
San Pasqual Winery offers a relaxed tasting room in La Mesa. They give you tons of ways to try their creations, from flights to wine slushies. They host Bubble Bars three times a week, where you can swing by and sample sparkling wines. You can also regularly check out live music in the courtyard.
15262 Lyons Valley Road, Jamul, California 91935
Rustic Ridge Vineyards is a hidden gem tucked into the hills of Southern California. Their property is out in the countryside, offering you untamed views of the surrounding town. You can drink the wine by the glass or you can purchase a flight. They also have wine cocktails and charcuterie boards.
805 W. Harbor Dr. Ste B, San Diego, California 92101
If you want the best way to travel through wine country without worrying about overindulging, Wine Train Tour CA is for you! This ride will last for five hours and take you alongside the coastline. You will have 15 pours throughout and will get to hear about the origins. Because this tour has no kids allowed, this is always my top recommendation for a date night!
20365 Camino Del Aguila, Escondido, CA 92025
This awesome winery is located in beautiful Escondido. With views of the endless rolling hills, this place can be very romantic. You can visit Altipiano Vineyard and Winery on the weekends. Their tasting options are very reasonable. Red wine lovers, this place is for you! Here you can also learn about Altipiano’s process of making and bottling their wines.
16138 Highland Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92025
Along with many homes and business, Speckle Rock Vineyards suffered an especially tremendous loss during the 2007 fires. Thus, the slogan “Born from the ashes, raised on the vine” became their inspiration, and vines were then planted on property. Now, Speckle Rock Vineyards has both red and white grapes. Their seeds come directly from the coast of Naples, Italy. This vineyard also has an incredible and dreamy view. Perfect for a romantic evening!
1255 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, CA 92036
If you’re ready for a true adventure, take the drive out to the obviously beautiful town of Julian. This winery is located at the base of the mountain for a truly cozy vibe. Volcan Mountain Winery is owned and operated by two brothers who take tremendous pride in their work. And yes, there’s even the award-winning, elegant Dolcezza Apple Wine and the sweet dessert Estate Pommier Wine produced entirely from estate-grown Julian apples. On the way, make sure you stop by in Julian for amazing apple pies.
If you are looking for the best way to check out some new local wines, I think you are going to love these spots for wine tasting in San Diego! Plan your visit so you can have the best day ever!
Are you looking for more ways to make memories? Then I would love to connect! I am a San Diego couples photographer, and I love working with my clients to plan sessions that document every milestone. If you think I might be the one for you, I would love to chat all about it! Send me a message today to find out more!