newsgathers

Southern California's Temecula Valley, a less-explored wine region, presents a charming alternative to the well-known Napa Valley. This area is home to Europa Village Wineries and Resort, a remarkable destination that was honored as the 2025 Golden State Winery of the Year by the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Inspired by the rich cultures, exquisite wines, and celebrated cuisines of France, Italy, and Spain, Europa Village was brought to life by co-founder Dan Stephenson. What began with the acquisition of 300 acres has transformed into a sprawling estate featuring 30 acres of vineyards dedicated to European grape varieties, alongside a collection of tasting rooms, lush gardens, a fine restaurant, a market, and a range of accommodation options. Guests can immerse themselves in three distinct international-themed villages—C'est La Vie (France), Vienza (Italy), and Bolero (Spain)—all within this luxurious, world-class resort.

Upon visiting Europa Village, guests are invited to explore the unique flavors and atmospheres of France, Italy, and Spain. Each village boasts its own winery, specializing in wines from a particular country, allowing visitors to delve into a single region's offerings or embark on a comprehensive tasting journey with a \"Multi-Winery Passport.\" Beyond wine, the resort provides olive oil tastings and the \"Tour de Europa,\" an immersive vineyard tour complete with expertly paired food selections guided by a sommelier. C'est La Vie offers a French-inspired experience, featuring cave wine tastings and a fragrant rose garden, complete with a Parisian-style Love Locks fence. Vienza transports guests to Italy with its breathtaking Giardino del Cielo (Garden of the Sky), a market and deli for casual dining, and a grand ballroom for special events. Bolero captures the vibrant spirit of Spain, offering not only wine tastings but also a selection of beers and artisan cocktails, complemented by a restaurant acclaimed by USA Today for its exceptional Spanish cuisine, including tapas and paella.

For those wishing to extend their European escapade, Europa Village provides two elegant accommodation options. The resort's convenient location between San Diego International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport makes it accessible for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer retreat. The Bolero Casitas, private bungalows with Spanish influences, offer amenities such as king-sized beds, luxurious bathrooms, and furnished courtyards. Alternatively, The Inn at Europa Village, a \"hillside retreat,\" features Mediterranean-style rooms and suites, complete with private entrances, living areas, fireplaces, and balconies offering picturesque views of the vineyards or the resort's gardens. Europa Village also curates overnight stay packages, including \"Rise and Dine\" for breakfast and accommodation, \"Sip and Stay\" which adds a wine tasting, and \"Balloons over Temecula\" for a magical hot-air balloon ride, Champagne, and breakfast. Special rates are available for members of the Société Wine Club or Europa Table.

Europa Village stands as a testament to the power of imagination and dedication, transforming a passion for global cultures into an immersive and unforgettable experience. It reminds us that luxury and adventure are not solely found in distant lands, but can be meticulously crafted and brought to life in unexpected places. This resort encourages us to explore, savor, and appreciate the artistry and beauty that diverse traditions offer, fostering a sense of connection and wonder in every visit.