All RivCo Wineries, Breweries, Distilleries Can Resume Pouring

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Riverside County is getting a bit closer to pre-pandemic days — when a warm weekend meant residents and out-of-towners could take in a day with friends at local wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Beginning March 13, they can do it again. Wineries, breweries and distilleries in purple- and red-tier counties can serve alcohol to patrons outdoors without being required to serve food with the drinks, according to updated California Department of Public Health guidance. The state's Blueprint for a Safer Economy had mandated food must be served at breweries and distilleries when alcohol is poured in purple- and red-tier counties.

There are still some restrictions for wineries, breweries and distilleries that don't serve food. The updated state modifications include ensuring that patrons have reservations and observe a 90-minute time limit if no food is served. Also, on-site alcohol consumption must end by 8 p.m. if no food is served.

For wineries, breweries and distilleries that serve meals, there is no mandatory time limit, closure time, or reservations requirement, according to an emailed response from the California Department of Public Health.

Bars that do not serve food in purple- and red-tier counties are still prohibited from opening under the updated guidance.

Riverside County is currently in the purple tier but is on track to enter the red tier as early as next week, the county announced Friday. While it may not make a difference for bars, it will ease restrictions for other sectors, including schools.

Temecula Wine Country relies heavily on local and out-of-town tourism. The easing of restrictions on wineries, breweries and distilleries is good news for the region and comes after it was announced earlier this week that, starting April 1, live outdoor concerts and other entertainment can resume in Riverside County. In addition to its adult beverages, Temecula Wine Country is also known for its outdoor live music. Read more about the resumption of live events in Riverside County here.

"We are all working hard to provide a quality and safe experience for our guests," said Bill Wilson, board chair of Visit Temecula Valley and CEO of Wilson Creek Winery. "Visit Temecula Valley is encouraged with the recent adjustments that support small businesses and their employees."

“We welcome these loosening restrictions on our businesses and urge everyone to practice the necessary safety precautions,” said Board Chair Karen Spiegel, Riverside County Second District Supervisor. “We’re getting closer to the red tier when even more businesses can reopen or increase operations. We can safely do so when we’re wearing masks, avoiding gatherings and practicing good hygiene.”

For more information on the guidance for wineries, breweries and distilleries, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/.