You don’t have to travel all the way to Napa Valley to enjoy a great glass of wine—some of the best wine tasting experiences are right here near El Monte, CA! Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon with friends, the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas offer a surprising number of delightful spots to sip and swirl. From cozy tasting rooms to urban wineries with serious style, there’s something for every palate within a 30-minute drive.
So grab your favorite wine-loving crew and get ready to explore the top wine tasting experiences near El Monte. Here are our local favorites that are open to the public and pouring with personality.
San Antonio Winery – Los Angeles
Just about 20 minutes from El Monte, the historic San Antonio Winery in Downtown LA offers an unforgettable wine tasting experience with a touch of old-world charm. Established in 1917, it’s the oldest and last remaining winery in Los Angeles. Step inside and you’ll find a beautiful tasting room with friendly staff ready to walk you through award-winning selections from their estate vineyards in Paso Robles and Napa Valley. Wine flights are available for all tastes—whether you’re into rich reds, crisp whites, or sweet dessert wines. Be sure to stop by their on-site restaurant, Maddalena, for Italian fare that pairs perfectly with your wine.
Angels Flight Winery – Azusa
Looking for a local gem with small-town charm? Head to Angels Flight Winery in Azusa, less than 25 minutes from El Monte. This family-owned boutique winery offers handcrafted wines and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel like regulars—even on their first visit. Their intimate tasting room is tucked in the foothills and showcases varietals like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo, often sourced from local vineyards. They host live music nights, seasonal events, and food pairings that bring the community together. It’s the perfect place to relax and discover your new favorite wine close to home.
Doffo Winery Tasting Room – Pasadena (via Wine & Beyond)
For a unique twist on traditional wine tasting, visit the Doffo Winery Tasting Room inside Wine & Beyond in Pasadena, roughly 20 minutes from El Monte. This satellite location brings the bold, Argentine-Italian roots of Doffo Winery (based in Temecula) right to the city. You’ll find rich Malbecs, robust Zinfandels, and even their signature MotoDoffo wines, inspired by vintage motorcycles. The space is modern and stylish, perfect for casual dates or laid-back afternoons with friends. Bonus: their knowledgeable staff makes the experience approachable and fun, even if you’re new to wine.
San Gabriel Valley Wine Company – San Gabriel
Less than 15 minutes from El Monte, San Gabriel Valley Wine Company is a great little find for locals who want to dive into quality wines without going far. This spot specializes in custom-blended wines and hosts regular wine tasting events that are perfect for trying something new. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure environment where you can sample boutique California wines and even chat with the owners about the winemaking process. Keep an eye on their event calendar for food truck nights, wine education classes, and more. It’s casual, friendly, and full of great flavors.
Mission Wine & Spirits – South Pasadena
While not a winery in the traditional sense, Mission Wine & Spirits in South Pasadena (about a 20-minute drive) regularly hosts curated wine tastings that rival some full-scale vineyards. They feature a rotating lineup of global and domestic wines—think French Bordeaux one week and Napa Valley blends the next. Their tastings are guided by experienced sommeliers who love to share stories behind the bottles. The space is stylish yet unpretentious, making it great for date nights or group outings. You’ll likely walk away with a few new bottles and a lot more wine knowledge than you came in with.
Rebel Wine Bar – Monrovia
This trendy little wine bar, located about 25 minutes from El Monte, offers a modern and fun twist on traditional wine tasting. Rebel Wine Bar in Monrovia features rotating flights, glass pours, and creative pairings that include cheese boards, tapas, and even dessert flights. Their wine list is eclectic—highlighting everything from California classics to lesser-known international producers. It’s a great spot for adventurous drinkers looking to try something off the beaten path. The stylish, artsy ambiance and frequent live music events make this a favorite for locals looking to wine down after a busy week.
Cheers to Local Sips
As you can see, the El Monte area is surrounded by incredible wine tasting experiences—all within 30 minutes or less! Whether you prefer sipping on a bold red in a historic LA winery or sampling boutique blends in cozy neighborhood tasting rooms, there’s a spot nearby that fits your vibe. These destinations prove that you don’t need to head to wine country to enjoy high-quality pours, warm hospitality, and memorable outings.
And while you’re exploring the best wine tasting experiences near El Monte, why not do it in comfort and style? Longo Lexus, right here in El Monte, can help you upgrade your ride for the road ahead. Whether it’s a weekend wine tour or a night out in Pasadena, a Lexus makes every journey feel first class.
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