Ramona Valley Wine Region

Ramona Valley is a relatively new wine-making region in California. The winemakers there have learned the craft of winemaking from some of the most prestigious leaders in the industry. If you're in San Diego County, you can experience the winemaking process first-hand by visiting wineries run by their own owners and winemakers. At these homes, patios, and winemaking spaces you'll get a unique and personal look into what goes on behind the scenes.

Ramona Valley wineries have been garnering top awards in wine competitions nationally and internationally. If you're looking to explore something new or just stick with your old favourite, Ramona Valley has it all. They have a fantastic selection of wines that are sure to suit your tastes, no matter what they may be.

We hope you will try the memorable wines that make Ramona Valley a favourite for wine drinkers worldwide. Tour our site to discover what Wineries in Ramona Valley have to offer and plan your wine adventure today. 

Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Ramona Valley.

Where is the Ramona Valley Wine Region?

The Ramona Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area), situated in Southern California, is approximately 35 miles from San Diego. It is surrounded by the beautiful Pacific coastal mountain range.

Unique Terroir of Ramona Valley Appellation

The historically-rich Ramona Valley in Southern California, found in the front range of the Pacific coastal mountains, has a long winemaking history that can be traced all the way back to the early missions. Thanks to the warm days and cold nights caused by the coastal marine layer and fog, Ramona Valley is perfect for growing quality wine grapes. Its geographical features like hills, mountains, and valleys which form an effective barrier from external areas, further increase its potential as a wine-growing area. The vineyards of the valley lie at an average elevation of about 1400 feet and receive an annual precipitation average of 16.5 inches.

Ramona Valley was granted official AVA status in January 2006.

What is Ramona Valley AVA Wine?

Perfect for growing grapes, Ramona Valley possesses a unique Mediterranean climate with temperatures dropping up to 30 degrees at night - giving the grapes good ripening qualities and sweet acidity. In the West Side, the climate is perfectly suited to growing various Bordeaux-style varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc. Grenache and Sangiovese grapes have become increasingly popular due to the warm climate of the East Side. This area offers optimal conditions for cultivating Syrah and Zinfandel. Sangiovese is the main grape variety commonly grown in this area. The Grosso clone, better known as Brunello, is regularly seen along with other Rhône varieties such as Syrah and Petite Sirah which are becoming increasingly desired. Apart from its famous reds, Ramona Valley also makes several white wine varieties such as Albariño, Viognier, and Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have made the region well-known all over the world.

Food to Pair with Ramona Valley Wine

Escalivada, Catalan Grilled Vegetables

The Catalan dish Escalivada is a popular one that's incredibly easy to make. It only requires eggplants, bell peppers, sometimes onions and tomatoes - all grilled over hot embers. Its simplicity makes it a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.

Vegetables are peeled, seeded and seasoned to create appetisers or side dishes that often accompany grilled meats. The name of this dish, 'escalivar' , actually means to roast over embers, grill or roast in ashes. Together they make a delicious combination!

Escalivada has become a popular side dish, and can also be served as tapas, warm salad or with fish dishes. Its complex flavours go especially well with Ramona Valley Sangiovese - making for a perfect pairing.

Polpette, Italian Meatballs

Polpette is an Italian meatball, usually made from a combination of ground beef, veal, and sometimes pork. These small balls of meat can be served as part of a main dish or an appetiser. For added flavour, these meatballs are typically enhanced with a range of ingredients like parsley, eggs, garlic, and even mortadella or Parmigiano Reggiano in some cases. Red wine pairs perfectly with Polpette and enhances the flavour of the dish.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a traditional dish of Lebanon that can be eaten as a salad. It has an interesting combination of flavours and textures, with finely chopped parsley leaves, olive oil, bulgur wheat and fresh mint leaves as the main ingredients. The crunchy yet chewy texture makes it even more delicious! Going back to the Middle Ages, Arabs living in Lebanon and Syria had already started consuming edible herbs that are now used in tabbouleh. These herbs hail from the mountains of these regions.

Most commonly served as a starter, these dishes are usually accompanied by pita bread, baba ganoush, or hummus. The addition of chopped red tomatoes, diced cucumbers, fresh lemon juice, and minced onions can give the salad a unique tangy flavour. Refrigerating Tabbouleh for several hours prior to serving helps enhance its overall taste and enjoyment. An exquisite experience awaits you with tabbouleh paired with Ramona Valley sauvignon Blanc. 

Places to visit in Ramona Valley

Discover the Sutherland Dam, Ramona

Sutherland Dam was constructed in 1927, measuring an impressive 160 feet tall. It forms a divider between the beautiful Sutherland Reservoir and Cleveland National Forest, which together create an amazing landscape with a blue lake and green mountains. The views make it the perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts to take in some breathtaking scenery and have plenty of exciting adventures.

Explore the beauty of its surroundings by taking a leisurely walk along the edge of the dam and enjoying the stunning view of the lake and mountains. You can even walk on top if it is allowed, with concrete flooring beneath your feet. Afterward, you'll take a gravel path that circles the dam and leads to its base. You'll get to discover the inside of this large building! There are 6-8 massive hollow pillars here for you to explore. The most impressive is the largest chamber where you can hear your voice echoing beautifully. Take time to investigate each one thoroughly before returning the way you came!

Classic Rotors Museum in Ramona

If you're a fan of rotorcraft, then Classic Rotors is the place for you! Located at the Ramona Airport in California, this aviation museum has a wide selection of helicopters and other classic craft to explore.

Visit the rare and vintage rotorcraft museum, one of the three dedicated rotorcraft museums in the world. Learn about aviation and spend quality time with family amid this amazing collection. It is a great way to enjoy your time!

Oasis Camel Dairy, Ramona

Oasis Camel Dairy is an incredible, family-run farm that provides an extraordinary experience like no other. You can come and meet their endearingly friendly camels, as well as other animals and birds that happily inhabit the farm. Additionally, you can indulge in a thrilling camel ride, and purchase some of their delicious camel milk products to make sure you don't miss out on the chance to take some of their goodness home with you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ramona Valley AVA