Coast to Coast - 04.25.26-04.26.26

As always, the saying stands last day, best day. Today Alexa and I made the most out of our last hours left on the west coast. Hannah, her husband Shane, Alexa, and I visited two wineries in Temecula with the time that we had left.

We first visited Oak Mountain Winery which is home to Southern California's only mined wine caves and offers over 30 award winning wines. If wine isn't your vibe, don't worry because this winery has a speakeasy distillery as well. During our time here we did a wine tasting which sampled 6 pours for $30.00 + tax. The wines I selected to sample included 2023 Sueno (tropical fruit and citrus blossom with a soft, smooth finish) which retails for $38.00/bottle, 2023 White Cabernet Sauvignon (bright & refreshing, a crisp twist on a classic red) which retails for $38.00/bottle, Peach Mango Sparkling (bright and fruity with juicy peach and mango flavors; crisp, refreshing finish) which retails for $38.00/bottle, 2021 Maria Elena (blueberry and plum with notes of smoked meat and black pepper; soft, lingering finish) which retails for $75.00/bottle, 2019 Syrah (bold blackberry and pepper with hints of violet and spice; full and balanced) which retails for $70.00/bottle, and 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon (refined and powerful, with dark berry, cocoa, and toasted oak notes) which retails for $85.00/bottle. The wines were good and we all enjoyed ourselves while sipping on the indoor couches and taking photos with the beautiful scenery. Unfortunately, we did not get a chance to visit the distillery as there was a wait and we were ready to venture to our next location.

Our second stop took us to Europa Village Wineries & Resort. This location was massive! There were three unique areas that honored France, Spain, and Italy. The first area, Bolero, is a vibrant new Spanish adventure. The second area, Vienza, is a timeless escape to the heart of Tuscany, Italy. The third area, C'est La Vie, is the first phase of their amorous, French affair. There was so much going on at this location (think 3 wineries in 1) that I was not adequately prepared. We wandered through the various areas slightly confused. I think if I were to revisit this location, I now have a better idea of what to expect and how to come up with a game plan that will allow me to get the most out of my visit. Needless to say, we did have another fun mini photoshoot before it was time to head back to Hannah's house one last time.

Of course, on our way back to Hannah's we had to stop for one last In-N-Out meal. Back at the house we quickly gathered up our belongings and headed out to the San Diego airport. Before we knew it, we were saying our farewells then Alexa and I were left on our own to navigate SAN. We made it through the luggage drop off and security then headed to the lounge. Alexa and I enjoyed our last bit of extra time together as we ate and drank before heading to our separate flights. We both had overnight flights and would arrive at our separate east coast destinations come morning.

My flight went well and I was able to gather my luggage, shuttle back to my car, and drive home before I took a much-needed nap in my own bed. This trip was short, sweet, and spontaneous. It was decided on only a few months prior, but I am so glad that everything worked out and that I was able to spend time with the people I love. Until next time.