Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula, California

While visiting Los Angeles and San Diego, I had a couple of warm days to spare so I got in touch with my friend and fellow Best Job in the World finalist, who invited me down to Temecula.

And I was already planning to travel the Big Sur to San Francisco, so I couldn’t refuse!

But not just to drive on the gorgeous country roads and visit, to go Horse Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula – two things I love combined in one fun afternoon, perfect, and the perfect blend of adventure and relax.

This guide is all about my experience horseback riding Temecula, as well as the wine tasting session which was excellent. Let’s get started, I’m excited for this one as Temecula is one of the best places to go horse riding!

Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula – Summary

Is it Worth it Horseback Riding in Temecula?

Absolutely, as a horse ride, riding one in Temecula is a unique experience that combines the thrill of equestrian adventure with a wine tasting session, and you’ll love the moment.

Coupled with wine tasting, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s award-winning wines directly from the source.

The Cost of Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula

I joined the experience with Saddle Up Wine Tours, and they offer different prices.

The cost starts at $115 for a 1-hour horseback ride and 5 wine tasting to their Diamond package at $485 per couple, which includes 2 hours riding a horse and a total of 16 phenomenal wine tasting at 3 Temecula wineries!

Each package is designed to cater to different preferences and budgets, and I recommend checking their options to have all the details.

Best Time to Travel to Temecula

The best time to visit Temecula for horseback riding and wine tasting is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months.

During these periods, the weather is comfortably warm, with minimal rainfall, allowing for pleasant riding conditions and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor scenery.

Spring offers the added bonus of witnessing the vineyards in bloom, while fall presents the vibrant colors of the harvest season.

These times also avoid the peak summer heat, ensuring a more enjoyable experience both on horseback and while savouring the good wine.

Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula Wine Country: My Experience

Saddle Up Wine Tours run tours, lessons and rides, but better than that all of the horses are rescued, and were either abandoned, abused or neglected.

Each horse on our tour had a heart warming story behind how, why they ended up there, and what they’ve been through.

I grew up riding horses, so I’ve always been a confident horse rider. After asking about our experience, our guide Jennifer matched me with Sampson, a Spanish Mustang crossed with a Quarter Horse, and a real character.

Apparently he needs a confident rider, and I got on with him just fine, in fact I wanted to take him home!

He was also a bit of a pretty boy with some dressage moves, so it was fun trying to get him prancing up the hill with his nose tucked in! That was a nice way to enjoy the rolling hills of Temecula!

The tour starts with a quick safety briefing, how to turn right and left, where the brakes are and what means go faster. And then we set off, casually strolling through the vineyards and learning about the background of the horses.

Our tour included two wineries; the first was Robert Renzoni Vineyards, where you get tokens in the form of poker chips to try the different wines. And if you’re cheeky and English there’s a chance you’ll get the odd glass extra.

There was a nice atmosphere inside, with a mixture of families, couples and hen parties enjoying an afternoon in the main tasting room!

A short, private ride away and we’re at the next stop, and my favourite Fazeli Cellars. In a stunning-looking building over the Temecula Valley, there’s a great atmosphere and vibe to Fazeli’s.

I’m not sure if it’s the live music or the fact the horse owners are helping clear away plates and introducing himself to the guests.

Then there’s the food in Baba Joon’s kitchen. It’s incredible, a mix of ‘Ancient Persia with Contemporary California’. Last but not least, the exceptional wines here were really worth coming for, and my favourite was called Pandemonium, a mix of flavours thrown together that in theory shouldn’t work, but it does.

So if you’re looking to escape from LA, and try something different, an area dubbed as the ‘new Napa Valley’, then get down to Temecula.

These are some of the wines that you’ll drink at a wine tasting in Temecula (both white wines and red wines):

• Syrah: A rich, full-bodied red wine with bold flavours of dark berries, spice, and hints of smoke.
• Zinfandel: Known for its jammy fruit notes, this red wine is smooth with a touch of peppery spice.
• Chardonnay: A classic white wine with creamy notes of vanilla, citrus, and sometimes a buttery finish.
• Rosé: Light, refreshing, and perfect for warm afternoons, with flavours of strawberry and melon.
• Sparkling Wine: A crisp and bubbly option, ideal for celebrations or simply enjoying the vineyard atmosphere.

Conclusion – Horseback Riding and Wine Tasting in Temecula

In conclusion, horseback riding in Temecula is an exceptional opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and flavours of one of California’s most celebrated wine regions.

Ultimately, the combination of wine country trails, exquisite wines, and the sheer joy of horseback riding through Temecula’s vineyards makes for an unforgettable moment, and I’m confident you’ll love the experience.

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