Temecula might be best known for its sprawling vineyards and award-winning wineries, but it also offers a lively craft beer scene. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast eager to sample the region’s best vintages or a craft beer lover looking for innovative brews, Temecula’s drinking tours serve up a variety of experiences. What sets these tours apart is their focus on authentic, hands-on tastings—often including behind-the-scenes looks at production and local stories that make each sip more memorable. Plus, with options like combo winery and brewery visits or private brewery sidecar adventures, there’s something for nearly every interest and pace.
While some travelers might prefer a guided group experience, others may want a more intimate, personalized tasting. In this guide, we’ll explore the best drinking tours in Temecula, comparing the value, highlights, and suitability of each. Whether you have a half-day to spare or want a private ride in a vintage sidecar, these tours deliver a genuine taste of Temecula’s vibrant beverage scene.
Quick Overview
We’ve selected two standout options: the Temecula’s Best Combo/Beer Tour offers a balanced mix of wineries and a brewery, perfect if you want variety and a structured day. The Private Sidecar Brewery Tour provides a more personalized, stylish way to explore local breweries with a private guide and a vintage twist. Both tours highlight different sides of Temecula’s drink culture—one with a focus on variety and educational experiences, the other on exclusive, private tastings in a fun, stylish setting.
1. Temecula’s Best Combo/Beer Tour
For around $139 per person, this tour blends wine and beer tasting into a single, roughly five-hour experience that showcases Temecula’s dual brewing talents. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the region’s beverage offerings without having to choose one over the other. The tour includes visits to two popular wineries and one brewery, with tastings at each stop—12 wines and four beers in total. A highlight is the winery production tour at Somerset Vineyard and Winery, where you’ll enjoy a barrel tasting and gain insight into the winemaking process.
The itinerary is well-paced, starting with Somerset for a behind-the-scenes look, then moving to Oak Mountain Winery for a tasting tower and the option to have lunch at their Cave Cafe (lunch not included). The final stop is Refuge Brewery, where you get four beer tastings. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and personable, ensuring guests understand what they’re tasting.
This tour ranks high with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from four reviews, with guests appreciating the balance of education, variety, and smooth organization. The value is excellent, given the inclusion of multiple tastings and the winery tour, making it a great choice for first-timers or those wanting a detailed day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking variety, educational insight, and a relaxed pace—this combo tour provides a well-rounded taste of Temecula’s drink scene.
2. Private Sidecar Brewery Tour through Temecula
For those looking for a more exclusive experience, the private sidecar brewery tour offers a stylish and personal way to explore Temecula’s craft beer scene. At about $218 per person, this tour lasts roughly two and a half hours, focusing on visiting top breweries with a private guide riding along in a vintage tandem sidecar. This is the ideal choice if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a tailored experience.
The itinerary features stops at Refuge Brewery, known for its combination of old-world Belgian styles and modern techniques, offering 45-minute tastings of diverse and seasonal beers. Next, the tour visits Aftershock Brewing Co., where you’ll sample creative, locally sourced brews, often pushing the envelope with innovative flavors. The final stop is Be Good Restaurant & Experience, where you can enjoy a beer flight alongside some local eats. The tour emphasizes the personalized nature of the experience, with guided stories behind each brewery and plenty of time to savor each tasting.
While the rating is 3.5/5 from six reviews—indicating some room for improvement—many appreciate the luxury transport and private setting. This tour suits beer enthusiasts who value exclusivity and a stylish ride, as well as those wanting to explore Temecula’s craft scene in a relaxed, intimate way.
Bottom Line: This private sidecar tour offers a unique, stylish, and customizable way to experience Temecula’s craft breweries—ideal if you prefer a personal touch over group outings.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a fuller day of variety and educational stops, the Temecula’s Best Combo/Beer Tour is a fantastic value, combining wine, beer, and winery tours in just over five hours. It’s perfect for first-timers or those who want to sample several local producers in one go.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more private, stylish experience, the Private Sidecar Brewery Tour offers intimacy, comfort, and a chance to explore Temecula’s breweries without the crowds. It’s especially suitable for beer lovers who enjoy boutique brews and personalized service.
Timing and booking early are essential, especially in peak season. Consider weather and your stamina—these tours involve walking, standing, and plenty of tasting, so plan accordingly. For those with a more flexible schedule, combining a half-day private tour with a visit to local wineries or breweries could maximize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a comprehensive day of wine and beer tasting or a private, stylish brewery exploration, Temecula’s drinking tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences. The Combo Tour stands out for its balance and educational elements, making it a smart choice for visitors new to the region or those seeking a full taste of Temecula’s beverage scene. The Sidecar Brewery Tour offers a more exclusive, relaxed adventure, ideal for craft beer aficionados or couples looking for a special outing.
In the end, both tours showcase Temecula’s vibrant drink culture—so don’t wait too long to book. Check your interests, available time, and budget, then choose the tour that best suits your style. Cheers to discovering some of Southern California’s finest sips—bottoms up!