An Italian Retreat

Bottaia Winery

Celebrated winemaker opens a new sister winery in Temecula

Posted on December 10, 2018

The Ponte family has operated their namesake winery in Temecula for 15 years, and this past fall, they debuted a sister winery. Bottaia Winery, located on the other side of the Ponte property, offers a distinctly different experience, giving guests an intimate escape inspired by the luxurious comfort of Northern Italy. Vineyard views stretch as far as the eye can see, just one highlight of the light and airy tasting room, which is influenced by modern design. The view competes only with the glistening pool and private “cabines” just behind the shaded terrace.

Bottaia, meaning “cask-aging room” in Italian, was selected as the name for the winery as it reflects founder Claudio Ponte’s winemaking philosophy. “Bottaia is inspired by the culture and warmth of Northern Italy, and is dedicated to crafting quality Italian varietals using sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques,” says Ponte. “From the delicious wines to the welcoming hospitality and keen attention to detail, every aspect of Bottaia is thoughtfully curated to be a seamless and simple experience. It’s perfect for a day away, a friends’ retreat, a staycation, or a moment to reconnect with loved ones.”

Currently, Bottaia produces 12 single varietal Italian wines and eight blends. Red wines include Aglianico, Barbera, Dolcetto, Montepulciano, Nero d’Avola, Sangiovese, and a red blend called Cartuccia. White wines include Arneis, Fiano, Pinot Grigio, Verdicchio, Vermentino, and three blends: Caldare, Cartuccia, and Testo. Bottaia also produces a late harvest sweet red wine, and an off-dry white blend known as Toppano.

Guests can choose from four unique tasting experiences that include a seated tasting featuring high-end charcuterie and cheeses; barrel room tasting; a forthcoming hands-on blending lab experience where guests can purchase a case of the wine they create; and a lounge area for wine club members where all wines are available by the bottle and by the glass.

“Bottaia Winery’s wine club members receive exclusive offers and access to early-release wines from our esteemed portfolio of Italian varietal wines, including single varietal wines, blends, and dessert wines,” explains Ponte. Club wines are released four times a year and include four bottles of wine with each shipment. Members and one guest also receive exclusive access to the Club Lounge + Terrace, special pricing on wines, and complimentary wine tasting monthly. Open seasonally beginning in spring of 2019, The Pool at Bottaia features a semi-Olympic-sized pool, a splash pad, and 30 Italian-style private changing rooms with showers, available by reservation, in addition to a poolside café and full service cocktail bar.

With the addition of Bottaia Winery, guests staying at Ponte Vineyard Inn can now enjoy access to multiple wineries, offering an escape to Italy right here in our own backyard. Reservations are highly encouraged. 951.365.3388, bottaiawinery.com   Mia S. Park