Situated at the crest of a 1,500-foot hill, the Falkner Winery overlooks the lush Temecula Valley. However, the view isn't the main attraction—it's a backdrop for the vineyard and its award-winning wines. The winery team grows the grapes themselves on their land, using viticulture practices they explain on informational tours. The grapes are then transformed on-site into their fleet of red and white wines as well as their smooth port, with most of the red wines aged at least three years to allow for an impeccably drinkable vintage. Their handiwork leads to some complex whites and reds, which visitors can sample at tastings, rather just waiting for bottles to give birth to sample-size vials.

The very drinkable wines also help complement the flavors in Mediterranean plates at the on-site restaurant, The Pinnacle. Its name is no empty brag—for the past seven years, 2013 included, it won Inland Empire Magazine's Best Restaurant award. The team—helmed by executive chef Gianni Ciciliot—prepare everything from Spanish braised octopus to wild mushroom and grilled chicken pasta and seafood-stuffed canneloni.