Hart Winery began in 1973 when the Hart family purchased 12 acres, with a planting of the first acreage in 1974. Additional acreage was planted over the next few years, and the winery was built in 1980, with a small initial crush that year. The acreage under vines is now 11, planted to Syrah, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, all in full production.
Additional grapes are purchased from other vineyards in the Temecula Valley, and from old-vine vineyards in the historic Cucamonga Valley, where the warmer climate is especially suited to Mediterranean varietals, including Grenache, Mourvedre and Zinfandel.
Wines currently produced, some in very limited quantities, include Viognier, Fume' Blanc, and dry Grenache Rose'. The reds are Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and a southern Rhone type blend from Grenache and Syrah grapes. Additionally, an extremely limited release of a fortified dessert style wine is made from the rare Italian Aleatico grape.
Annual production is presently at the 6, 000 case level. The public is welcome to taste Hart wines at the winery, daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tasting fee includes a souvenir glass. Picnic facilities are limited. Food is not currently available for sale at the winery. The winery also actively participates in public events staged by the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association
