Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/49694
APPELLATIONS The Temecula Valley is the setting for some of California's most beautiful wine blends. Wilson Creek. "It helps to create a more exciting, enhanced wine experience." Yet throughout the wine region, this palpable sense of mirth that is derived from making blends is tempered with a steadfastly humble attitude that has long been the Temecula Valley's calling card. "We all set out to make the most earth-shaking blends imaginable," states Steve Hagata, winemaker at Falkner Winery. "However, our main goal is to just make something beautiful that you can enjoy." Wilson Creek Meritage. of flavor is paved with an acute sense of joy on the part of the winemakers. Indeed, there is a happy exhilaration rooted deep within each Temecula winery that blesses a wine blend from the moment it goes through its first round of tasting trials. "Wine blends are so interesting and fun to make because you get a chance to use the winery's entire 'spice cabinet,' so to speak, when you are making them," explains Etienne Cowper, winemaker at 64 / the tasting panel / december 201 1 The balance of whimsical zeal and modest disposition that is reflected by the fraternity of winemakers seems perfect for a wine region that crafts blends as astutely as Temecula Valley. After all, the wineries that cover the sprawl generate an ideal mixture of the sweeping majesty and homespun pastoral charm that succinctly crystal- lizes the dual nature of Temecula's spirit. Wiens Family Cellars touts massive, romantic grounds overlooking the valley's undulating hills. Doffo Vineyards uses one of its tasting rooms to highlight a killer collection of vintage Ducati motorcycles. The tasting room of Lorimar Vineyards is in the heart of the rustic, bustling Old Town section of the city. While the nature of these venues stands tall and proud on their own, their eclectic span creates a fuller, richer experience when enjoyed together, mirroring the philosophy behind the creation of wine blends in the process. And in many respects, this mindset that Temecula Valley possesses towards blends seems to be a perfect match for