Menghini Winery
A charming, family-run winery in Julian, CA, offering scenic wine tasting with stunning mountain views and warm hospitality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy lively events and good vibes
Menghini Winery
Best Time
Enjoy lively events and good vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, family-run winery in Julian, CA, offering scenic wine tasting with stunning mountain views and warm hospitality.
"The owners are very kind and even let us take our wedding photos on the property."
Pack Layers for Wind
Julian can be windy, especially in the evenings. Bring a jacket or warm layer for comfort. :wind_face:
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular events like the Grape Stomp Festa, secure your tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Wine Tasting
Tasting Room & Grounds
Sip exquisite wines surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas and lush nature. Pure relaxation.
Grape Stomp Festa
Winery Grounds
Join the annual tradition of stomping grapes, dancing, and enjoying local food and music.
Wolf Education Center Visit
Winery Grounds
An unforgettable experience meeting and even touching majestic wolves from the Wolf Education Center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Julian Charm
Eventful Visits & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Layers for Wind
Julian can be windy, especially in the evenings. Bring a jacket or warm layer for comfort. :wind_face:
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular events like the Grape Stomp Festa, secure your tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Chat with the Owners
Mike and Toni are incredibly friendly and share great stories about the winery and Julian. :speech_balloon:
Try the Syrah & Sangria
These are highly recommended by visitors for their delicious taste. :wine_glass:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Layers for Wind
Julian can be windy, especially in the evenings. Bring a jacket or warm layer for comfort. :wind_face:
Book Event Tickets Early
For popular events like the Grape Stomp Festa, secure your tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Chat with the Owners
Mike and Toni are incredibly friendly and share great stories about the winery and Julian. :speech_balloon:
Try the Syrah & Sangria
These are highly recommended by visitors for their delicious taste. :wine_glass:
Wedding Photo Spot
The winery grounds are a beautiful and permitted location for wedding photos. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Menghini Winery is cherished for its intimate, family-run atmosphere and the genuine warmth of its owners, Mike and Toni. Visitors rave about the delicious wines, particularly the Syrah and Sangria, and the tranquil beauty of the winery's grounds, which offer stunning mountain views. While not a large-scale operation, its personal charm and scenic setting make it a highly recommended stop in Julian.
"Small mom and pop run winery. The owners are very kind and even let us take our wedding photos on the property about three years ago. Stopped in Julian last weekend for some pie and and picked up a couple of bottles of wine. Not the biggest operation but they make up for it with good conversation and good people."
Eric Brown Jr.
"My wife and I stopped in on Memorial Day 2025 for a shared flight. We ended up enjoying a few glasses of wine and having a wonderful conversation with Toni. The tasting room is a beautiful old building. The grounds out back were quite nice, wind rustling through the leaves of the trees. Plenty of shade to enjoy some time outside. Ask Mike about the story of the pink house on the hill.
We left with a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and Rose of Cabernet Sauvignon and some winery merchandise."
William Martain III
"My husband and I recently went here and we loved it. The backyard patio was quaint and the gentlemen working were so friendly. Highly recommend trying their syrah and sangria!"
Diana Santana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Menghini Winery is located in Julian, CA. The drive from San Diego typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes via CA-78 E. Enjoy the scenic route through the backcountry!
Yes, there is parking available at the winery. During special events, parking might be more limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Menghini Winery is a perfect stop for a day trip to Julian, especially if you're coming from San Diego or surrounding areas.
Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended. The roads leading to Julian can be winding, so drive carefully and enjoy the journey.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Julian and Menghini Winery directly. Driving is the most common and convenient method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the winery grounds for tasting is usually free, but special events like the Grape Stomp Festa require tickets. Check their website for event details.
Menghini Winery is typically open Thursday through Monday. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, especially around holidays.
Wine tasting prices can vary. Visitors have enjoyed shared flights and glasses of wine. It's advisable to inquire directly at the winery or check their website for current pricing.
While not always required for regular visits, making reservations for larger groups or during peak times might be a good idea. For special events, booking in advance is essential.
As a winery, visitors must be of legal drinking age (21+) to consume alcohol. However, the grounds are often family-friendly for events, with activities for all ages.
🍽️ 🍷 Wine & Dining
Menghini Winery offers a variety of wines, with visitors specifically recommending the Syrah and Sangria. They also produce Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon.
While some events might have food vendors, it's generally best to check the winery's policy on outside food. Enjoying their wine with local Julian treats is a popular option.
During special events, food vendors are often present, offering a variety of delicious options. For regular visits, consider pairing your wine with snacks or visiting nearby Julian eateries. 
Wines from San Diego County, like those at Menghini, offer unique nuances compared to those from further north. Visitors appreciate the local education provided.
Information on non-alcoholic options isn't widely available, but it's always worth asking the staff if you or someone in your party doesn't drink alcohol.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The winery boasts stunning mountain views and a charming tasting room. The grounds offer beautiful backdrops, especially with the surrounding nature. It's also a popular spot for wedding photography.
Julian is known for its dark skies, and Menghini Winery has hosted the San Diego Dark Sky Festival, making it a potential spot for stargazing. Check for festival dates.
Yes, Menghini Winery is a popular location for professional photos, including wedding photography, due to its picturesque setting.
Expect rolling hills, vineyards, and majestic mountains surrounding the winery. The natural beauty provides a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
The tasting room exterior, the expansive grounds with trees, and the distant mountain ranges offer excellent photo opportunities. The 'pink house on the hill' is also a notable landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the wine tasting is for adults, the expansive grounds offer space for children to explore (under supervision). Some visitors have even enjoyed unique experiences like meeting wolves from the Wolf Education Center at the winery, which can be a memorable highlight for kids. Remember to check the winery's event schedule to see what family-friendly activities are planned during your visit.💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Many couples have found the winery to be a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon, sharing a flight of wine and engaging in pleasant conversation with the friendly owners. The picturesque scenery also makes it an ideal location for capturing beautiful couple photos, with some even using the grounds for wedding photography. 🚗 Day-Trippers from San Diego
Combine your visit with exploring the charming town of Julian, famous for its apple pie, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting amidst beautiful mountain scenery. It's a perfect way to escape the city for a day and experience the unique charm of San Diego's backcountry.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Menghini Winery Experience
Beyond the wine, the winery is a hub for unique events. The annual Julian Grape Stomp Festa is a major draw, offering a chance to participate in the fun tradition of stomping grapes, enjoy live music, local food, and browse vendors.
+1 For astronomy enthusiasts, Menghini Winery has also hosted the San Diego Dark Sky Festival, highlighting the area's potential for excellent stargazing. The winery's picturesque setting also makes it a sought-after location for photography, including wedding photos.
Exploring Julian's Charm
Beyond the winery and the town's main attractions, the surrounding backcountry offers opportunities for outdoor activities. While Menghini Winery itself is a peaceful retreat, the broader Julian area is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and the crisp mountain air. The proximity to areas like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park also opens up possibilities for exploring diverse landscapes, especially for those interested in stargazing, as Julian is recognized for its dark skies.
When planning your visit, remember that Julian's mountain location means weather can change quickly. It's advisable to check the forecast and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. The combination of Menghini Winery's unique offerings and Julian's overall appeal makes it a worthwhile destination for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous day trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit