Nestled between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, the Yucaipa Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is Southern California’s newest and highest-elevation wine destination, officially designated in May 2024.
This emerging AVA in the Inland Empire offers more than 36,000 acres of scenic vineyards reaching up to 4,600 feet above sea level across the towns of Yucaipa and Oak Glen in San Bernardino County and Calimesa in Riverside County.
Recognized as a sustainable agricultural area with a heritage dating back more than a century, Yucaipa Valley—derived from the Serrano word Yukaipa't, meaning “Green Valley”—speaks to its rich Indigenous history and verdant landscape.
Here’s what to expect if you make the trek to this burgeoning wine destination.
Yucaipa Valley Terroir and Climate
Yucaipa Valley’s warm, dry, Mediterranean climate also generates stellar grape-growing conditions. Think Italy, but in the Golden State—hot days, cool breezy nights, even the occasional snowfall.
Yucaipa Valley grapes are grown in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, a rugged range popular among hikers and skiers. As the highest-elevation AVA in California, this region benefits from direct sunlight, which helps protect grapes from dramatic temperature shifts and allows them to reach peak maturity and flavor.
The result? A range of varietals that includes familiar grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah, Malbec, and Petite Sirah—as well as some more adventurous pours like Nebbiolo and Barbera.
Wine-Tasting Experiences in Yucaipa Valley
As of mid-2025, there are more than 30 vineyards and four vintners showcasing wines made from Yucaipa Valley grapes, with the AVA designation expected to grow this up-and-coming region. While most are closed to the public, the valley’s two wineries open for tasting offer experiences you won’t want to miss.
Suveg Cellars serves flights from its tasting room in the town of Yucaipa, open daily. The actual winery is up in the foothills at an elevation of 3,400 feet, surrounded by plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes used in its award-winning single varietals and handcrafted blends.
Tastings cost $20 per person, which is waived with the purchase of a bottle during your visit. Theme nights, special releases, live music, and events like a Cuban food pop-up make each visit a new experience.
On the weekend, traverse the narrow road up to North Cork Vineyard & Winery for an alfresco flight with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley—a sunset visit is highly recommended.
Wine tastings of four 2-ounce pours start at $15 and are served on an expansive terrace with plenty of seating. Woodfired pizza from Cucina Della Vite is available for purchase onsite, in addition to wines sold by the glass and bottle.
More Things to Do in Yucaipa Valley Wine Country
Make a day out of an Inland Empire wine country adventure. The Yucaipa Valley Golf Club has an 18-hole, par-72 championship course in the foothills of the San Gorgonio Mountains, the highest peak in Southern California. Golfers will find affordable tee times (starting at $29) and on-course challenges accessible to all skill levels.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Yucaipa Regional Park, an 885-acre recreational hub featuring a disc golf course, pedal boats, and trails for hiking and biking. Year-round fishing is permitted at all three of the park’s lakes, and there’s also a seasonal swimming lagoon that opens Memorial Day weekend with water slides and a white sand beach.
Where to Stay
Extend your day trip with an overnight stay at one of the park’s nine group tent sites, which are equipped with amenities like hot showers, grills, and fire rings. The La Quinta Inn & Suites off I-10 offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to Yucaipa Valley’s scenic beauty.