TEMECULA

TEMECULA, Calif. -- Vineyards draping sun-drenched hillsides, hot-air balloons filling the sky with bright color, connoisseurs sipping wine in a stone courtyard ? these scenes abound throughout the Temecula wine country.

Only 80 miles from Long Beach, Temecula's proximity makes it an ideal day-trip destination. However, one may soon find good reason to linger in this charming Riverside County town.

Temecula first flourished as a stop on the historic Butterfield Stagecoast Route in the 1830s. In 1859, it was home to the seventh post office in California. This frontier town boasts a distinct Old Town district that has sought to preserve its historical landmark buildings.

A stroll down Main Street will lead one to the Temecula Mercantile, built in 1891. Today, the mercantile is home to more than 26 antique dealers who are eager to part with a piece of Temecula's nostalgia.

Main Street will host Temecula's Star Spangled 4th of July Parade and Fireworks show. An annual tradition for more than 75 years, Temecula's Independence Day parade features marching bands from all parts of California, cowboys in traditional dress, and a procession of Shoshone native Americans who call this region home. For more information, one may contact (909) 694- 6480.

Old Town Temecula also hosts a weekly farmers' market, located at Front and Sixth streets. Sunflowers, fresh produce and local crafts create an atmosphere of pastoral bliss. The market is held on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

While the town of Temecula had much to offer, the region's premier attraction is its wineries.

Test vineyards in Temecula Valley were planted in 1966. Abundant sunshine, good soil drainage and a specific microclimate made Temecula's early vineyard efforts a success. Today, the valley boasts 13 wineries with more on the way.

"Many people overlook Temecula's wines," said restaurant owner and wine afficionado Elio Raddiccio. "When people think of Californian wines, they think Napa Valley. But, Temecula's vintages are really just as good   better in some ways."

To reach Temecula's wineries, take Rancho California Road east from the town center. The procession of wineries that line this road begins four miles from town. Temecula's collection of wineries is quite concentrated, so getting from one to another takes little time. Most wineries are open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offer complimentary tours and tastings.

Of course, one must be 21 years of age to sample wine. It is recommended that a designated driver be chosen before wine tasting begins. Several companies in Temecula offer guided tours of the wineries to alleviate the problem of drinking and driving. For more information, one may call (909) 694-0292.

Each winery celebrates its own special vintage. Thornton Winery boasts the region's most acclaimed sparkling wine, according to Raddiccio. Stuart Cellars has a vast array of unique white wines. Santa Margarita specializes in aged Cabernet Sauvignon reds. Callaway Vineyard and Winery, Temecula's largest wine producer, has something to appeal to almost any palate.

"We've spent the day tasting wines," said first-time visitor Sheena Griffin. "Each place is so  different. It would be hard to pick a favorite."

The Temecula Valley Wine Auction and Tasting takes place on Aug. 5 at the luxurious Temecula Creek Inn.  This event provides a wonderful opportunity to inexpensively taste some of the region's finest wine at one venue. For more information, one may call (909) 699-3626.

When the stomach insists on being fortified, one may choose a scenic place to picnic at most of the wineries. Panoramic views over vineyards and countryside complement a rustic meal and a glass of wine. Mount Palomar Winery features a delicatessen at which one may purchase exotic cheeses, succulent fruit and fresh bread. If the budget allows, lunch at the Cafe Champagne at Thornton Winery is a sublime choice.

A hot-air balloon ride over Temecula is a spectacular way to finish a trip to this multifaceted region. Several companies offer 60 to 90-minute rides over the pastoral valley, concluding with a traditional champagne toast.

Temecula's charming diversions are too close to pass up. For more information about the town and surrounding areas, one may contact the Temecula Chamber of Commerce at (909) 694- 0292.