About The Winery

Orfila Vineyards & Winery is one of the most established wineries in San Diego County, set in the San Pasqual Valley on the edge of Escondido. It was founded in 1994 by Alejandro Orfila, a former Argentine ambassador, and covers more than 70 acres, with about 40 planted to grapes. A Mediterranean-like microclimate, with warm days and cool coastal breezes, suits the Rhône-style wines Orfila is best known for, along with estate Syrah, Sangiovese, Merlot, Viognier and Montepulciano.

What to expect: one of the most visitor-friendly wineries in the county, open every day with long hours into the evening. Amalfi at Orfila, an on-site Italian restaurant, serves coastal Italian food daily, so you can pair a tasting with lunch or dinner. Members of the OWL (Orfila Wine Lovers) club get 20 percent off wine and the menu. Only alcohol bought at the winery can be consumed on the property.

Nearby: Orfila sits next to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and Highland Valley Road's wineries, including Cordiano Winery and Mia Marie Vineyards, are a short drive away. See our Escondido wineries guide and plan the route with the Wine Tasting Day Trip Builder.

Frequently asked questions

When is Orfila open?
Every day, roughly noon to early evening on weekdays and 11 am to evening on weekends. Call 760-738-6500 to confirm.

Does Orfila serve food?
Yes. Amalfi at Orfila serves Italian food on site every day.

Who founded Orfila Vineyards?
Alejandro Orfila, a former Argentine ambassador, in 1994.

What is Orfila known for?
Small-batch, handcrafted wines, especially Rhône-style varietals, from its San Pasqual Valley estate.

Own or manage Orfila Vineyards & Winery? Claim this listing for free with the Claim button on this page to add your photos, hours, wines and story.

Winemaker Name

Justin Mund (Head Winemaker) — Founded 1994 by Alejandro Orfila, former Argentine Ambassador and OAS Secretary General

Founding Year

1994

Vineyard Acreage

70-acre estate in the picturesque San Pasqual Valley, Escondido — award-winning French and Italian varietals. Additional tasting room location at 221 N Cleveland St, Oceanside.

Know Before You Go

  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Reservations: Walk Ins Welcome
  • Estate Type: Estate Grown

Awards & Recognition

Orfila Vineyards and Winery was founded in 1994 by Alejandro Orfila — former Argentine Ambassador, former Secretary General of the Organization of American States, and a witness to President Jimmy Carter signing the Panama Canal Treaty in 1977. Head winemaker Justin Mund crafts award-winning French and Italian varietal estate wines from the 70-acre San Pasqual Valley estate. Beloved wines include the BDX red blend and Rosie rosé. Features live music on weekends, yoga in the vineyard, Sunday morning yoga events, and an acclaimed Oceanside tasting room and kitchen at 221 N Cleveland Street.

Private Event Availability

Orfila Vineyards hosts weddings, private events, yoga-in-the-vineyard experiences, and corporate gatherings on their 70-acre San Pasqual Valley estate. The Oceanside tasting room and restaurant at 221 N Cleveland Street features live acoustic music Thursday–Sunday, a full menu from Executive Chef Luke Morganstern, and alfresco patio dining. Contact orfila.com for event packages. Open daily at both locations.

Location

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