San Diego has a long history of winemaking and to date it’s considered one of the best places in the United States to drink wine. Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking to try something new, from local wineries to hidden gems, there are plenty of great places in San Diego for you. And with so many different types of wine to choose from, there’s something for everyone. In this brief blog post, we’ll share our top picks for the best places to drink wine in San Diego.
#1 San Diego Wine Company
San Diego Wine Company is the perfect place for wine lovers looking for a unique experience. Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, this urban winery offers a wide selection of boutique wines from around the world, as well as beer, cider, and spirits. Whether you’re looking to relax in the tasting room with a glass of pinot noir or you’d like to learn more about wine with their guided tours, there’s something for everyone here. With their knowledgeable staff and a great selection of wines, it’s no wonder San Diego Wine Company has become one of the best places to drink wine in San Diego.
#2 Little Italy
There are several good places to drink wine in San Diego, and Little Italy is one of them. The main reason to drink wine in Little Italy is because of the large Italian population. This means that you’ll find a lot of good Italian restaurants, and many of them will have a good selection of wine. In addition, Little Italy is a great place to arrange San Diego wine tasting tours, and if you want to be a part of these tours, you can book your spot right now. During these tours, you can visit multiple establishments and taste a variety of wines from Southern California. Also, it is a great place to people-watch, as it’s always full of tourists and locals alike. So, if you’re looking for a good place to drink wine in San Diego, be sure to check out Little Italy. You’ll find plenty of good wine and good company.
#3 San Pasqual Winery
Located in Escondido, San Pasqual Winery is a great place to enjoy a glass of local wine in San Diego. The winery is family-owned and specializes in Rhone-style wines made with grapes that are grown locally in San Diego County. With a modern tasting room and outdoor patio seating, guests can enjoy their wines with views of the vineyard. San Pasqual Winery also offers tastings and tours that allow you to learn about the winemaking process and the vineyard’s history. There is also a selection of delicious food items for purchase at the winery. With plenty of special events and activities on this spot, San Pasqual Winery is the perfect place to spend an afternoon sipping wine and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
#4 The Vineyard Rose
The vineyard rose is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The winery offers a unique selection of wines, including its signature red blend, as well as whites, roses, and dessert wines. The atmosphere at the vineyard rose is inviting and relaxing, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends. Lush gardens and vineyards surround its beautiful tasting room. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding valley. In addition to the wine selection, the vineyard rose also offers the best dining options in San Diego. There’s also a full bar that serves up craft cocktails, beer, and cider. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of relaxation or a romantic evening out, the vineyard rose is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
#5 Bernardo Winery

Bernardo Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard that has been producing wine since 1889. Having an award-winning lineup of red, white, and blended wines, Bernardo Winery has something for everyone. At Bernardo Winery, guests can sample their wines in the tasting room and purchase a bottle to take home. In addition to their daily wine tastings, they also host weekly events, such as live music, food trucks, and art shows. They also offer guided tours of the vineyard, where you can learn more about the wine-making process and the winery’s history.
#6 Orfila Vineyards and Winery

Orfila Vineyards & Winery is an excellent destination for wine lovers. It specializes in producing premium Rhone-style varietals and blends. Their wines are made with grapes sourced from their own estate vineyards as well as other vineyards throughout California. At the winery, guests can enjoy guided tours and tastings to learn more about their wine production process and taste the latest offerings. In addition to their traditional tasting room, guests can also enjoy their outdoor picnic area and patio for relaxing outdoor tastings.
Peter
July 3, 2024 at 2:33 amSan Diego has such an amazing wine scene! I’ve always loved the coastal vibe combined with the rich variety of local wineries. Some of my favorites include Carruth Cellars in Little Italy for its urban winery experience, and Bernardo Winery for that old-world charm. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just love a good glass of vino, San Diego has something for everyone. Cheers to discovering new favorites and enjoying great wine in beautiful settings!