Meet Akash Patel and Renato Sais of Akash Winery

Nestled in the rolling hills of Temecula Valley, Akash Winery is a family-owned and operated estate winery that embodies passion, perseverance, and the art of winemaking. Founded by Akash Patel, alongside his father, Ray Patel, the winery is a reflection of their unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional, estate-grown wines. With the expertise of winemaker Renato Sais, Akash Winery has become a standout in Southern California’s wine scene, known for its modern, welcoming atmosphere and award-winning wines.

At its core, Akash Winery is more than just a vineyard—it’s a labor of love, built from the ground up by a family determined to turn a dream into reality. The winery’s estate-grown wines, commitment to quality, and innovative approach have made it a must-visit destination in Temecula Wine Country.

Meet Akash Patel, Owner and Co-Founder

Akash Patel was born into a family of entrepreneurs with deep roots in hospitality. His parents, Ray and Nalini Patel, were immigrants from Uganda and Kenya, respectively, and of Indian decent who migrated to the United States to build a successful motel business in New Mexico. From a young age, Akash was surrounded by the hard work and dedication required to run a business, learning firsthand the values of perseverance and ambition.

The family’s introduction to Temecula Valley’s wine country came unexpectedly. Initially considering an investment in the hospitality industry, Ray Patel purchased a painting of a vineyard, which soon became the family’s vision board. That dream took shape in 2010, when they acquired a 20-acre plot of land in Temecula. What began as barren land with no infrastructure was transformed into a thriving vineyard through years of dedication and hands-on learning.

Akash’s journey into the wine industry was not conventional. Without a background in viticulture, he learned from experience, immersing himself in the world of farming, grape cultivation, and business management. Over the years, he honed his skills, eventually opening the winery’s modern tasting room in 2019. His goal was to create a welcoming, contemporary space that felt different from the traditional, sometimes intimidating, wine-tasting experiences.

As one of the few South Asian winery owners in the U.S., Akash has also played a role in making the wine industry more diverse and inclusive. His hands-on approach, whether in the vineyards, the cellar, or greeting guests, has helped build Akash Winery into a respected name in Temecula Wine Country.

Renato Sais, Head Winemaker

Behind every great winery is a talented winemaker, and at Akash Winery, that honor belongs to Renato Sais. A native of Tijuana, Mexico, Renato’s journey into winemaking was driven by both passion and opportunity. Growing up near Baja California’s wine region, he developed an appreciation for the art of winemaking and the science behind it.

Renato pursued his passion professionally, gaining extensive experience in vineyard management, fermentation, and wine production. His hands-on approach and deep understanding of grape-growing conditions have made him an invaluable asset to Temecula’s evolving wine industry. He joined Akash Winery in 2014, bringing a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations to the winemaking process.

Renato is known for his commitment to sustainable farming. Under his guidance, Akash Winery follows organic farming principles, avoiding pesticides and embracing natural winemaking methods. His philosophy is simple: let the grapes speak for themselves. He believes that great wine starts in the vineyard, and his meticulous approach ensures that each bottle from Akash Winery captures the unique character of the estate’s terroir.

Over the years, Renato has worked alongside Akash to curate a wine portfolio that balances elegance and approachability. His expertise has led to the creation of award-winning wines, including the Estate Parlez Vous Rosé, Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc, and the popular Three’s Company red blend.

Akash Winery: A Modern Take on Tradition

Since its official opening in 2019, Akash Winery has set itself apart as a modern, inviting winery that embraces both tradition and innovation. Located in the heart of Temecula Valley Wine Country, the estate vineyard is meticulously farmed, producing 100% estate-grown wines that highlight the region’s unique climate and soil.

Akash Winery’s approach is simple: craft high-quality wines in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The tasting room and outdoor patio reflect a contemporary aesthetic, offering an experience that is unpretentious and fun. Visitors can enjoy wine-tasting flights, live music, yoga sessions in the vineyard, and exclusive wine club events, making it a top destination for wine lovers in Southern California.

The winery’s flagship wines include:

• Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc – A refreshing white wine with bright fruit flavors.
• Estate Parlez Vous Rosé – A dry rosé made from estate-grown Zinfandel.
• Three’s Company – A bold blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah.

Building on the success of Akash Winery, Akash Brewery is the newest extension of Akash Patel’s vision, bringing the same dedication to quality and craft to the world of small-batch, artisan beer. Recognizing the growing demand for locally brewed, high-quality craft beer, Akash Brewery was launched to complement the winery experience, offering guests a unique selection of handcrafted brews alongside their favorite wines. With a focus on bold flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and a commitment to excellence, Akash Brewery continues the family’s tradition of pushing boundaries and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. 

Looking ahead, Akash Winery has ambitious plans for growth, including the development of a resort, spa, and event space. Akash’s long-term goal is to help put Temecula on the map as a premier wine destination—one that can compete with Napa Valley and Paso Robles.

With Akash Patel’s leadership and Renato Sais’ winemaking expertise, Akash Winery continues to redefine the Temecula wine experience, offering wines that are as bold and unique as the people behind them. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Akash Winery invites you to experience their story in every glass.