Wilson Creek is the most-visited winery in the valley and the place most likely to be crowded on a weekend. It owes much of that traffic to its almond champagne — a sweet sparkling wine that has become the unofficial Temecula souvenir.
Beyond the gimmick, the property is genuinely pleasant: a creek runs through the tasting gardens, the restaurant overlooks the vines, and the staff are upbeat. If you have time for only one big production winery, this is the one to pick.