Ferrara Winery

As San Diego County's oldest active wine-making family, the Ferraras have been growing grapes and offering premium quality California wines since 1932 the days of Prohibition and the Great Depression. In recognition of this long history and its contribution to domestic viticulture, the Ferrara Winery was named as a "State Historical Point of Interest" in 1971.

Tucked among houses in a suburb, the winery may look a bit out of place, but once inside visitors soon discover the value of wine-making traditions. Available here are some of the finest premium varietals, from vintage Chardonnay to California Zinfandel and even a popular San Diego Red, along with dessert wines, specialty wines, and all natural grape juices. In the tasting room, there is a port blended with 60 year old wines, and the Nectar De Luz is so sweet that it can be served over peaches and ice cream.

The Ferrara Winery is located at 1120 West 15th Avenue, Escondido, California 92025-5548. The tasting room is open from 10am to 5pm daily, except Tuesdays. There is also an on-site banquet facility that can be rented for family gatherings, weddings, and other events. It has a covered patio, a grassy lawn, and dance floor that can accommodate up to 100 guests.