Temecula’s Wine Country is booming, and it’s no wonder. A quick trip to the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association’s Web site verifies that its wineries and estates are offering up all the quality wines and luxury accommodations as more well-known wine producing regions of the world, yet at a fraction of the cost. South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, at the corners of Rancho California and Anza roads, in the heart of Temecula’s pristine wine country, makes no exception with 105 wine awards and medals earned in 2006, its 76 luxury villas tucked away in the vineyards and a three-story 15,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, plus the casually elegant tasting room and Vineyard Rose restaurant. In fact, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is the place for specialty meeting planners and tour wholesalers who are seeking world-class wine, served up with world-class hospitality in world-class style.

Winery owner Jim Carter’s vision is simple: To create the romance of a Wine Country experience with the blending of nature, fine wine, fine food and elegant comforts – presented to guests with gracious hospitality. "Plus," adds Carter, "with air travel challenges being what they are today, getting here is so much easier and much more enjoyable."

As the new year begins and area residents begin looking to create new memories that will last a lifetime, wine aficionados and novices alike will no doubt enjoy a Wine Country getaway to Temecula. Below is a quick at-a-glance listing of first quarter 2007 events that have been designed by South Coast Winery Resort & Spa to help make Wine Country experiences complete.

Winemakers Dinner: January 20, 6 to 9 p.m.

An intimate evening in the Winemakers Gold Reserve Room will take place on Saturday, January 20. Guests will share the joys of South Coast’s passion for great wine and quality times while indulging in some spectacular new releases and familiar favorites. The executive chef Advertisement

[ Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary ] and winemakers have put together an amazing five-course wine and food pairing of unparalleled delight! Cost: $125 per person/$115 club. For reservations call (951) 587-9463, ext. 7210.

A Romantic Valentine: February 14, by reservation

This Valentine’s Day at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant, lovers will find a truly spectacular pairing of fine wine, great food and, of course, romance while enjoying the warm, heartfelt tunes of classical guitarist and recording artist Ron Freshman. Guests are invited to simply sit back and enjoy the moment as the winery’s talented team of staff members and "cupids" take care of the rest. Of course, a stay in one of the luxury villas tucked away in the vineyards and a couples’ treatment at the GrapeSeed Spa make this the most romantic Valentine Celebration yet! For reservations call (951) 587-9463, ext. 7205.

Cooking Class & Wine Tasting: February 24, 10:30 a.m.

Having fun is not just a pastime reserved for kids, as the fine folks at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa prove! Last summer, they held a camp to turn guests into winemakers; this winter they’re sending guests to cooking school. Participants will savor wine country cuisine at its finest while exploring the relationship between food and wine. Hosts Executive Chef Alessandro Serni and Master Winemaker Jon McPherson will tempt the palate and increase culinary knowledge. Guests can also enjoy the "tutored" wine tastings. Cost: $60 per person/$55 club; space is limited. For reservations call (951) 587-9463, ext. 7210.

Women’s Wine & Wellness Weekend: March 9-11

Ladies are invited to mark their calendars now and gather their daughters, girlfriends, sisters and neighbors too. This is a getaway designed just for women. South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is putting together a complete package including inspiring speakers, overnight stays, spa treatments, yoga instruction and plenty of wine. Guests will find themselves refreshed and renewed in no time. For reservations call (951) 587-9463, ext. 7204.