Wilson Creek Winery In Temecula Hit By Coronavirus

TEMECULA, CA — Family-owned Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula announced Wednesday it temporarily closed its property after two of its "own" tested positive for coronavirus, then on Thursday the vintner announced plans for a phased reopening.

CEO Bill Wilson made the announcements on social media, but didn't indicate whether the infected individuals were family members and/or employees.

"As a partner in this community, we feel it is a priority to be completely transparent and do our part to keep our guests and community as safe as possible," Wednesday's statement read. "We have been closely monitoring COVID updates and unfortunately, we have recently learned that two of our own have tested positive for the virus.

"We are saddened by this, as we have gone above and beyond the recommended protocols to protect the safety of all," the statement continued. "While we cannot divulge the identity, department or hours of the infected individuals, we can tell you, there is no proof that the virus was contracted on property."

Curbside wine club and daily bottle pickups were continuing, and the Courtyard Bar and Grill was still serving slushies and pizza to-go, according to the announcement.

In a video posted Thursday, Bill Wilson provided an update and said the winery's outside courtyard would reopen Friday for bottle sales, wine pickups and a limited food menu. There will be no tastings, and no sit-down "Wilson Creek experience," he said. The winery is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

The modified weekend reopening will be assessed on a daily basis to gauge how to proceed forward, Wilson continued.

A professional company was brought in to sanitize and clean the property, and all employees are required to get a COVID-19 test with negative results before returning to work, Wilson explained.

All employees and guests must now wear face masks and social distance.

For those who don't believe in distancing or wearing a mask, Wilson implored, "Please don't come [to the winery]. This is serious business."

Wilson Creek and other Riverside County wineries were allowed to reopen June 12 after a nearly three-month state-ordered shutdown. Per the state's updated guidelines, social distancing and wearing of face masks by employees and customers are required at wineries.