Maurice Car’rie Vineyard and Winery is nestled in the rolling hills of the Temecula Valley. Its home is a rambling, Victorian-style farmhouse with wide verandas, a big grassy lawn, and a full complement of services and amenities for visitors.

The “farmhouse” manages to accommodate a full-service restaurant, winery offices, an expansive gift shop and the tasting room. There are extensive event areas on the property, including a VIP Lounge for private tastings, a historic barn, tank and barrel rooms, and a park-like setting for picnics and receptions.

Owners Buddy and Cheri Linn, together with winemaker Gus Vizgirda, are focused on producing wines that are food-friendly and made to drink when they are young. They handcraft 14 varietals as well as some blends, dessert wines, and even a sparkling wine.

The tasting room itself has dramatic tall wood ceilings supported by heavy beams. The shop is packed with gifts, pre-packaged deli items, hanging tapestries and a busy tasting bar. You can order custom labels for your wine, and on Saturday and Sunday fresh-baked brie in sourdough bread is available. Their sister winery, VR La Cereza, is next door, and you can purchase a “Passport” for tasting at both establishments. (They share the same viticulturist and winemaker, as well as crushing and fermentation facilities.)