This harvest season, I had the privilege of working with Wiens Cellars in Temecula, California. Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Temecula Valley, this hidden gem combines warm days, cool nights, and just the right touch of Pacific moisture, creating ideal conditions for crafting exceptional wines. It's a region that truly deserves more recognition.
Wiens Cellars’ journey began with a simple vision: to create high-quality, hand-crafted wines that reflect the unique character of Southern California. It all started back in 1996, when the first vineyard was planted by hand—a pivotal moment that deepened the connection to both viticulture and winemaking. That modest 14-acre plot has since blossomed into over 70 acres of meticulously cultivated vines, offering a diverse portfolio of wines. What began with just five varieties has evolved into more than 30, each one crafted with care and dedication.
But Wiens is more than just a winery; it’s a family—one that’s grown and thrived over the years. The legacy of Wiens Cellars is built on shared dreams, unwavering commitment, and a collective spirit of perseverance. These values are reflected in everything they do, always circling back to wines rooted in family, quality, and integrity.
Every harvest brings its own set of challenges and rewards, and this year was no different. While yields were lower across the board, the quality of the fruit is incredibly promising, especially for the reserve wines. The Pinot Noir, specifically, is showing delicate characteristics that hint at beautiful aging potential, while the whites, particularly from San Ignacio Vineyard, are poised to be standouts. The vineyard is where it all begins, and despite the challenges of the season, the potential of these wines is already evident.
Working harvest is an amazing opportunity I believe every wine lover should experience at least once. The hard work and dedication that go into producing a single bottle of wine is something you can’t fully appreciate until you’ve been part of the process. From picking grapes to testing sugar and pH levels, from destemming and crushing grapes, to racking wine off the lees, each step is a lesson in craftsmanship.
Harvest is tough, no doubt about it! But every year, I learn something new, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The passion behind these hand-crafted Southern California wines makes all the hard work worthwhile. As this season wraps up, I’m left with a deep sense of gratitude for the experience and excitement for what’s to come in the bottle. Raising a glass to a successful harvest at Wiens Cellars!
