When you think of California you likely think of beaches, surfing and traffic. Others might conjure images of sipping wine paired with great food and company. Both are obviously appropriate since California is home to the world renowned Napa Valley region. However, have you heard of Napa’s little sister farther south? Her name is Temecula Valley, California and she is wonderful as well!
Temecula Valley Vineyards
Napa Valley Vineyards
I don’t really want to say one region is better than another because so much of that is personal opinion. But, I do want to offer a side by side comparison so that you can make an educated decision the next time you want a vacation that includes great wine!
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Napa Valley |
Temecula Valley |
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Distance from Major Airport |
58 mi – San Francisco International Airport 68 mi – Sacramento International Airport 83 mi – San Jose International Airport |
61 mi – San Diego International Airport 68 mi -John Wayne Airport 92 mi – Los Angeles International Airport |
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Number of Vineyards |
450 |
35 |
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Hotel Options |
Napa Valley is well-known and visited more regularly than Temecula and therefore has more options for accommodations. Options range from five-star resorts to locally owned and operated bed and breakfasts. National Chain hoteliers are also available. |
The hotel options in Temecula are the same as in Napa, just less numerous. Temecula has your choice of major chains, B&Bs and Resorts with spas. |
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Restaurant Options |
Trip Advisor shows 220 options. Steakhouses and Delis seem to be abundant in Napa as well as Mexican and Mediterranean establishments. Seafood, French and Sushi restaurants are some of the other options. |
Trip Advisor shows 228 options. American, Mexican and Italian cuisines are the most common but BBQ, Asian, Irish and bakeries are some of the other options. |
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Weather |
Average Temperature in Fahrenheit: January 47°; April 56°; July 68°; October 62° Average Annual Precipitation: 27.7 inches (With February being the wettest month and July the driest.) |
Average Temperatures in Fahrenheit: January 53°; April 60°; July 74°; October 64° Average Annual Precipitation: 14.5 inches (With January and February being the wettest months and June the driest.) |
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Types of Wine Produced |
Cabernet and Chardonnay are the most widely planted grapes in Napa. However, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Shiraz, and many others are also produced in Napa Valley. |
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and dozens of other varieties are produced in Temecula Valley. Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir and Riesling are also produced in Temecula Valley. |
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Other Activity Options |
Natural Geyser, Golf, Theater, Hiking/Biking |
Casinos, Golf, Horseback Riding, Ballooning |
Still not sure which valley to visit? I know, it’s a tough decision. I mean, you could always drive to both once you are in California – that’s what we did! Here are a few links for more information on both valleys in order to help you with your decision!
Temecula:
Napa:
No matter your choice you’ll have fun, see beautiful scenery and taste fantastic wine! Cheers!
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Both are lovely on there place but i prefer Temecula Valley. Good post…
Thank you! I agree with you. Both regions have their own “personalities,” but I like the less traveled Temecula as well!
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I love South Coast Winery Resort and Spa in Temecula, Ca. Its great!
Thanks for the tip! We love Temecula!
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