Welcome to Lorimar Winery and Vineyards, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Temecula Valley, California. This charming winery offers a unique experience that goes beyond just wine tasting. It’s a place where wine, art, music, and gourmet food come together to create an unforgettable journey for your senses. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Lorimar so special.
History of Lorimar Vineyards and Winery
The story of Lorimar began with a dream and a passion for wine. The founders, driven by their love for the art of winemaking, set out to create a winery that would not only produce exceptional wines but also offer a complete sensory experience to its visitors.
In the early days, the focus was on developing the vineyards. The founders carefully selected grape varieties that would thrive in the unique climate of Temecula Valley. They understood that great wine starts in the vineyard, so they paid extra attention to nurturing their vines.
As the vines grew, so did the vision for Lorimar. The founders wanted to create a space where people could not only enjoy fine wines but also immerse themselves in art, music, and culinary delights. They believed that wine appreciation is enhanced when it’s paired with other sensory experiences.
Over the years, Lorimar has stayed true to its founding principles. The winery has grown in size and reputation, but it has never lost sight of its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Every bottle of Lorimar wine is a testament to the passion and dedication that goes into its creation.
Today, Lorimar stands as a symbol of excellence in the Lorimar Winery Temecula Valley wine region. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, where the art of winemaking is celebrated in all its forms.
Wine Offerings
At the heart of Lorimar’s appeal is its impressive selection of wines. The winery takes pride in growing a variety of grapes, each chosen for its ability to express the unique terroir of Temecula Valley.
Varietals
Lorimar’s vineyards are home to several grape varieties, including:
– Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its full body and rich flavors of black currant and cedar.
– Chardonnay: Offering notes of apple, pear, and vanilla with a creamy texture.
– Zinfandel: Bursting with flavors of blackberry, cherry, and spice.
– Syrah: Presenting deep flavors of blackberry, plum, and pepper.
– Viognier: Aromatic white wine with notes of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle.
– Sangiovese: Italian variety known for its bright acidity and flavors of cherry and herbs.
Winemaking Process
The journey from grape to glass at Lorimar is a labor of love. It begins in the vineyard, where grapes are carefully tended throughout the growing season. The timing of the harvest is crucial, with grapes picked at the perfect moment of ripeness.
Once harvested, the grapes are quickly transported to the winery. For white wines, the grapes are gently pressed to extract the juice, which is then fermented in temperature-controlled tanks or barrels. Red wines undergo a different process, with the grape skins left in contact with the juice during fermentation to extract color, tannins, and flavors.
After fermentation, the wines may undergo malolactic fermentation and aging in oak barrels, depending on the style the winemaker is aiming for. Throughout this process, the winemaking team at Lorimar carefully monitors the wine’s development, making decisions that will ultimately shape its final character.
Award-Winning Wines
Lorimar’s commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. The winery has received numerous awards and accolades for its wines. Some standout vintages include:
– The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, which won gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
– The 2019 Chardonnay, recognized with a silver medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.
– The 2017 Zinfandel, awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast magazine.
These awards serve as a testament to Lorimar’s dedication to producing exceptional wines that showcase the best of Temecula Valley.
Tasting Experiences
Visiting Lorimar offers the opportunity to experience these award-winning wines firsthand. The winery offers several tasting options:
1. Classic Tasting: A selection of Lorimar’s current release wines, perfect for those new to wine tasting or looking to explore the winery’s range.
2. Reserve Tasting: For the more discerning palate, this tasting features Lorimar’s limited production and reserve wines.
3. Food and Wine Pairing: A guided tasting that pairs Lorimar wines with carefully selected gourmet bites, demonstrating how food can enhance and be enhanced by wine.
4. Vineyard Tour and Tasting: A comprehensive experience that takes you through the vineyards and winery before concluding with a tasting, offering insight into the entire winemaking process.
Wine Club Membership
For those who fall in love with Lorimar wines (and many do!), the winery offers a wine club membership. Benefits include:
– Quarterly shipments of hand-selected wines
– Complimentary tastings for members and guests
– Exclusive access to limited production wines
– Invitations to member-only events
– Discounts on wine purchases and merchandise
Joining the wine club is like becoming part of the Lorimar family, with members enjoying a deeper connection to the winery and its products.
Venue Features
Lorimar isn’t just about the wine – it’s about the entire experience. The winery’s physical space has been carefully designed to create a welcoming and memorable environment for visitors.
Tuscan-Inspired Tasting Room
Step into Lorimar’s tasting room, and you might think you’ve been transported to the Italian countryside. The space is inspired by Tuscan architecture, with warm terracotta tones, exposed wooden beams, and rustic stone walls.
Large windows flood the room with natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. The tasting bar, crafted from rich, dark wood, invites visitors to sidle up and sample Lorimar’s wines while chatting with the knowledgeable tasting room staff.
Throughout the space, local artwork adorns the walls, adding splashes of color and creativity to the ambiance. This integration of art into the tasting experience is a key part of Lorimar’s unique appeal.
Outdoor Spaces
While the tasting room is charming, Lorimar’s outdoor spaces are truly breathtaking. The winery takes full advantage of Temecula Valley’s beautiful climate and scenery.
The Vineyard Lawn is a expansive grassy area surrounded by rows of grapevines. It’s a popular spot for picnics, outdoor concerts, and events. Visitors can relax on blankets or lawn chairs, sipping wine while enjoying the panoramic views of the valley.
The Barrel Room offers a different atmosphere. This semi-outdoor space features long tables nestled between rows of oak barrels. Strings of twinkling lights overhead create a magical ambiance, especially in the evening. It’s a favorite spot for intimate dinners and small gatherings.
Capacity and Layout Options
Lorimar’s versatile spaces can accommodate events of various sizes:
– The Tasting Room can host up to 80 guests for a standing reception or 60 for a seated dinner.
– The Vineyard Lawn can accommodate up to 200 guests for a ceremony or reception.
– The Barrel Room can seat up to 100 guests for a dinner or host 150 for a standing reception.
These spaces can be used individually or in combination, allowing for events to flow from one area to another. For example, a wedding ceremony might take place on the Vineyard Lawn, followed by cocktails in the Tasting Room and dinner in the Barrel Room.
Scenic Views
One of Lorimar’s greatest assets is its location. Perched on a hill, the winery offers sweeping views of the Temecula Valley. To the east, rows of grapevines stretch towards the horizon. To the west, the sun sets behind rolling hills, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink.
These views provide a stunning backdrop for events and create countless photo opportunities. Whether you’re a casual visitor or hosting a special event, the scenery at Lorimar is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Weddings and Events
With its beautiful setting and versatile spaces, it’s no wonder that Lorimar has become a sought-after venue for weddings and other special events.
Wedding Packages
Lorimar offers several wedding packages to suit different preferences and budgets. While each wedding is customized to the couple’s wishes, typical packages might include:
– Vineyard Romance: A ceremony on the Vineyard Lawn followed by a reception in the Barrel Room.
– Tuscan Twilight: An evening ceremony with cocktail hour in the Tasting Room and dinner on the illuminated Vineyard Lawn.
– Intimate Celebration: A smaller affair for up to 50 guests, utilizing the Tasting Room and outdoor patio.
Lorimar Winery Wedding Costs
– Wedding package prices vary from $93 to $124 per person.
– Many couples find Lorimar extremely affordable compared to other venues in Temecula
– Packages are almost all-inclusive, minus DJ, photography, and flowers
Customization Options
Lorimar understands that every couple is unique, and their wedding should reflect that. The events team works closely with each couple to customize their package. Options might include:
– Choice of ceremony and reception locations
– Selection of wines to be served
– Custom menu creation with the in-house catering team
– Decor and floral arrangements
– Music and entertainment options
– Photography and videography services
Venue Options
Couples can choose from several beautiful locations for their ceremony and reception:
– Vineyard Lawn: Perfect for outdoor ceremonies with a backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards.
– Barrel Room: Ideal for intimate ceremonies or receptions with a rustic, romantic ambiance.
– Tasting Room: Suitable for cocktail hours or small, indoor receptions.
What’s Included
– 5 hours of event time for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception
– Choice of two outdoor event spaces: Vineyard Lawn (capacity 150) or Barrel Room (capacity 300 outside, 50 inside)
– Spacious bridal suite and groom’s preparation space
– Full setup and cleanup
– On-site venue coordinator
– Gift and guestbook tables with floor length linens
– Beverage station with water, iced tea, and lemonade
– Full use of the vineyard for photos
– Ceremony rehearsal with coordinator
– Hosted or cash bar options
– China, silverware, glassware, and cake cutting service
– 60-inch round tables with floor length linens and napkins in assorted colors
– 3 tray-passed appetizers and a buffet meal with salad, 2 entrees, and 2 sides (plated option available)
Lorimar Vineyards is a great place to get married in Temecula. It has beautiful vineyards, lots of space for parties, and everything you need for a wedding. It’s also affordable, so it’s a good choice for couples on a budget.
Culinary Experiences
At Lorimar, the culinary offerings are designed to complement and enhance the wine experience. The winery’s commitment to quality extends from the vineyard to the kitchen.
In-House Catering Services
Lorimar boasts a talented culinary team that provides catering for events of all sizes. From intimate wine pairing dinners to large wedding receptions, the team can create menus to suit any occasion.
The catering services are known for their:
– Use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
– Flexibility in accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences
– Beautiful presentation that makes each dish a work of art
– Ability to create menus that pair perfectly with Lorimar wines
Types of Cuisine
The culinary team at Lorimar is versatile, offering a range of cuisine styles:
– California Cuisine: Highlighting the fresh, seasonal produce of the region.
– Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes: Complementing the Tuscan aesthetic of the winery.
– Farm-to-Table Creations: Emphasizing local, sustainable ingredients.
– Gourmet Small Plates: Perfect for wine pairing events and cocktail hours.
– Custom Menus: Tailored to the specific preferences of each client.
Wine and Food Pairing
One of the highlights of the Lorimar culinary experience is their expert wine and food pairing. The winery offers several options for guests to explore this aspect of wine appreciation:
1. Pairing Workshops: Educational events where guests learn the principles of food and wine pairing while enjoying carefully matched bites and sips.
2. Winemaker Dinners: Special events featuring multiple courses, each paired with a different Lorimar wine. The winemaker is often present to discuss the pairings.
3. Tasting Room Bites: Small plates available in the tasting room, designed to complement the wines being poured.
4. Custom Pairing Menus: For private events, the culinary team can create a menu specifically designed to pair with the client’s chosen wines.
These pairing experiences not only enhance the enjoyment of the wines but also educate guests about the interplay between food and wine flavors.
Live Music and Entertainment
Lorimar believes that wine, food, and music are natural partners. The winery regularly hosts live music events, adding another layer to the sensory experience they offer.
Music on the Lawn
During the warmer months, Lorimar hosts a popular “Music on the Lawn” series. These events typically feature:
– Local and regional musical acts
– A variety of genres, from jazz and blues to rock and country
– Wine by the glass or bottle available for purchase
– Food trucks or small plates from the kitchen
– A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and settle in for an evening of music, wine, and beautiful sunset views.
Barrel Room Concerts
In the cooler months or for more intimate performances, Lorimar hosts concerts in the Barrel Room. These events offer:
– An up-close experience with the performers
– Superior acoustics thanks to the room’s unique architecture
– A cozy, candlelit atmosphere
– Reserved seating with table service for wine and food
Special Events
Throughout the year, Lorimar hosts a variety of special events that combine wine, food, and entertainment:
– Harvest Celebration: A fall event featuring grape stomping, live music, and special wine releases.
– Holiday Wine & Dine: A series of themed dinners paired with Lorimar wines during the holiday season.
– New Year’s Eve Gala: A glamorous event with live music, dancing, gourmet food, and a midnight toast.
– Valentine’s Day Romance: Special wine and chocolate pairings, often accompanied by live romantic music.
Community Engagement
Lorimar is committed to being an active part of the Temecula Valley community. The winery often participates in or hosts events that benefit local charities. These might include:
– Fundraising concerts
– Charity wine auctions
– Community grape harvests where proceeds go to local non-profits
These events not only provide entertainment but also allow visitors to contribute to worthy causes while enjoying Lorimar’s wines.
Family-Friendly Activities
While wine is the star at Lorimar, the winery also offers activities that the whole family can enjoy:
– Grape Juice Tastings: Non-alcoholic tasting flights for younger visitors.
– Vineyard Scavenger Hunts: Educational and fun activities that teach kids about grape growing.
– Art in the Vines: Seasonal art classes for all ages, held outdoors among the vines.
– Harvest Festival: An annual event with activities for all ages, including grape stomping, face painting, and hay rides.
Families can have fun together at Lorimar! It’s a great place for people who love wine to share their fun with kids.
Visiting Lorimar Winery & Vineyards
Planning a visit to Lorimar is easy, and the experience is sure to be memorable. Here’s what you need to know:
Tasting Room Hours and Reservations
The Lorimar tasting room is open daily:
– Monday to Thursday: 11am to 5pm
– Friday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm
While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and larger groups. You can make a reservation through the Lorimar website or by calling the tasting room directly.
Types of Tastings Available
Lorimar offers several tasting options:
1. Classic Tasting: A selection of 5 wines from Lorimar’s current releases.
2. Reserve Tasting: Featuring 5 of Lorimar’s premium and limited-production wines.
3. Wine and Chocolate Pairing: A delightful combination of 4 wines paired with artisanal chocolates.
4. Barrel Tasting Experience: A unique opportunity to taste wines still aging in oak barrels, offered on select dates.
Directions and Accessibility
Lorimar Vineyards and Winery is located at:
39990 Anza Road
Temecula, CA 92591
From Interstate 15:
– Take the Rancho California Road exit
– Head east on Rancho California Road for about 5 miles
– Turn right onto Anza Road
– Lorimar will be on your left after about 1 mile
The winery is wheelchair accessible, with ramps leading to the tasting room and most outdoor areas. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to call ahead so the staff can ensure your visit is comfortable and enjoyable.
Nearby Attractions
While Lorimar offers a full day’s worth of experiences, there’s plenty more to explore in Temecula Valley. Here are some nearby attractions to consider:
– Old Town Temecula: A charming historic district with boutique shops, restaurants, and antique stores.
– Pechanga Resort Casino: One of the largest casinos in California, offering gaming, dining, and entertainment.
– Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve: A beautiful natural area with hiking trails and stunning views.
– Temecula Olive Oil Company: Offers tastings of locally-produced olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
– Hot Air Balloon Rides: Several companies offer scenic flights over the vineyards at sunrise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for wine tasting?
While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and for groups of 6 or more. This ensures they can provide you with the best possible tasting experience. You can easily make a reservation through the website or by calling the tasting room.
Is Lorimar kid-friendly?
Yes, Lorimar is family-friendly! While they specialize in wine experiences for adults, they also offer grape juice tastings for younger visitors and often host family-friendly events. Their outdoor spaces are perfect for picnics, and kids enjoy exploring the vineyards (under adult supervision, of course).
Can I bring my own food to Lorimar?
For regular tastings, The ask that you enjoy their own culinary offerings or those of their food truck partners. However, if you’re a Wine Club member, you’re welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas. For all visitors, outside food is permitted during some of the special events – check the event details for specific information.
What should I wear for a visit to Lorimar?
Lorimar recommend comfortable, smart-casual attire. If you’re planning to tour the vineyards, comfortable walking shoes are a must. For evening events, especially in the Barrel Room, you might want to bring a light jacket as it can get cool.
A Fun Place to Visit
Lorimar is more than just a place to drink wine. It’s a special place where you can see beautiful things, hear great music, and eat yummy food.
When you visit Lorimar, you can walk through the vineyards and see how the grapes grow. You can also learn about how wine is made. The winemakers are really friendly and love to share their knowledge. There’s often live music playing, so you can listen and enjoy. And the food is really delicious! The chefs use fresh ingredients from the local area to make tasty dishes that pair perfectly with the wine.
Whether you know a lot about wine or just want to have a fun day out, Lorimar is a great place to visit. Come and make some special memories. You can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, learn something new about wine, and have a delicious meal.