Start the Morning in Fallbrook — North County’s Flower Capital
Fallbrook is one of California’s top flower-growing regions, with 365 frost-free days a year. Stop at Kendall Farms for protea and waxflower, or Cyclops Farms for certified organic blooms. Arriving at a North County San Diego wine tasting with fresh local flowers in hand is already a Mother’s Day 2026 win. Budget extra time for the drive too. Fallbrook’s back roads are some of the most scenic in the area.
Best Wineries in Fallbrook, CA
Three wineries worth your morning:
- Monserate Winery — 100 acres on converted golf course land, 15 Italian varietals including Sangiovese, Barbera, and Vermentino, sweeping hilltop views from a stunning outdoor veranda. The most impressive estate in North County. Reserve ahead.
- Fallbrook Winery —A 36-acre sustainable estate producing classic Bordeaux-style reds, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, since 1981. Picnic-friendly grounds and one of the most consistent producers in the region.
- Myrtle Creek Vineyards — Small-lot, hand-crafted wines in a relaxed boutique setting. Never crowded, never rushed. Perfect for a slow morning pour before heading south.
Afternoon Wine Tasting Near Rancho Bernardo
As the afternoon opens up, head south toward Rancho Bernardo and Highland Valley for two of San Diego County’s most distinctive wine estates.
- Bernardo Winery (Est. 1889) —Southern California’s oldest winery, family-owned since 1927. Beyond the tasting room you’ll find an Italian kitchen, coffee roastery, artisan galleries, and boutique shops. Open Sundays 11am–6pm, no reservations needed. 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego.
- Cordiano Winery — A family-owned estate in Highland Valley with stunning views over San Pasqual Valley. Italian-inspired wines, wood-fired pizza, and live music on weekends. Open Sundays 11am–7pm. 15732 Highland Valley Rd, Escondido.
A Few Things to Know
- Bring a picnic — most Fallbrook wineries welcome outside food. Plan on eating at Bernardo or Cordiano’s kitchens in the afternoon.
- Consider Saturday, May 9 if possible — more tasting rooms are open and the pace is easier.
- Reserve ahead — tastings run $15–$25 per person and holiday weekends fill fast.
- Bernardo Winery requires no reservation on Sundays — a rare walk-in option on a holiday weekend.
- Book a guided tour through Let’s Go Vino — transportation included, so everyone can enjoy the wine.
- Bring layers — Fallbrook and Highland Valley can be breezy in the afternoon at hilltop estates.
Tips for the Perfect Visit
- Bring a charcuterie board — some Fallbrook wineries welcome outside food. Plan on eating at Bernardo or Cordiano’s kitchens in the afternoon.
- Consider Saturday, May 9 if possible — more tasting rooms are open and the pace is easier.
- Reserve ahead — tastings run $15–$25 per person and holiday weekends fill fast.
- Bernardo Winery typically allows walk-ins on Sundays, but it’s best to check ahead — a helpful option on a holiday weekend.
- Book a guided tour through Let’s Go Vino — transportation included, so everyone can enjoy the wine.
- Bring layers — Fallbrook and Highland Valley can be breezy in the afternoon at hilltop estates.
Details can vary by winery, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead for current policies on reservations, hours, and outside food.
Make This Mother’s Day One She’ll Actually Remember
North County’s wine country is close, easy to plan, and gorgeous in May. This Mother’s Day, give her wildflowers from Fallbrook, a glass with a view, and a Sunday with nowhere to be.