Winery, vineyard and orchards on the 23,000-acre ranch welcome weekend visitors and host business retreats, weddings and more. Established in 1845, Rancho Guejito is a North County Hidden Gem that is largely unknown to many residents of the region – but it is starting to be noticed. “The ranch is one of the most special and unique places on earth and we are working to ensure it stays intact for future generations,” said Hank Rupp, Chief Operating Officer of Rancho Guejito.
“People who visit say the view takes their breath away – and they’re right.”
Producing wines under the Rancho Guejito Vineyard label, the ranch is attracting attention for a growing selection of local wines. More and more regulars are visiting the public tasting room, which has a relaxed and family-friendly vibe that is perfect for Southern California.
Best experienced with a wineglass in hand, the ranch is a window into both California’s past – and the newest methods of organic agriculture. Located on one of the last remaining Mexican land-grants of Old California, much of its terrain remains the same as in years past. With dense oak forests and golden pastures, it’s like stepping back in time to how things looked hundreds of years ago. The pasture land is roamed by herds of cattle and the valley part of the ranch is cultivated with groves of organic fruit and avocado trees.
Vineyards planted on 52 square acres of fertile soil provide grapes for a growing selection of master-crafted wines including Grenache, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and more, crafted in the heart of the San Pasqual wine growing region. Located about 7 miles east of Escondido, the winery and tasting room are open to the public and allow guests to experience the best of the ranch. The Rockwood Tasting Room is anchored by a historic farmhouse with ample outdoor space, nestled in a grassy clearing among the citrus groves. It features shaded gardens with scenic views looking out towards the expansive ranchlands. Guests are invited to grab their wine glass and hop on board a free hayride tour of the groves and vineyards – a popular and memorable activity. The ride meanders along the edges of many acres of grape vines, lemons, grapefruit, and avocados and edges along Guejito Creek, where the natural landscape of oak trees and wild sumac prevails.
Rupp, who frequently serves as the tour guide, shares many facts about the history of the ranch and its current agricultural operations. All the produce is grown organically, and the ranch uses a high-density planting method developed in Israel, along with water sensors on the trees, to save water. “People are always surprised when I tell them how we use water-efficient methods to actually grow twice the amount of fruit using the same amount of water,” he said. “The trees actually text us when they need water, and text us again when they have had enough.”
The tasting room is family-friendly and dog-friendly. From outdoor yoga to dog fashion show competitions, the events represent a range of interests and clientele. Guests enjoy cornhole games and a bouncy house on the weekend for the kids. Adding to the ambiance, there is usually a live music act representing some of San Diego’s best folk and rock groups and local singer-songwriters.
Aside from drop-ins at the tasting room, the ranch hosts events of up to 250 people for business retreats, weddings, banquets, conventions, proms and more. As an event venue, it provides a flexible outdoor space with multiple options for backdrops and location around the tasting room.
Tasting room hours are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, with live music beginning at 1 p.m.
Rancho Guejito Vineyard is located at 17224 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
For more information, visit https://www.ranchoguejitovineyard.com/.
With the rich history of the ranch and its picturesque terrain, Rancho Guejito is a North County Hidden Gem.
