Cougar Vineyard & Winery is owned and operated by Rick and Jennifer Buffington, the first couple winemakers in the valley. We began making wine as a hobby over 16 years ago. As we began making more wine, better quality wine and winning some competitions, the Cougar label was created named after Cougar Mountain in Bellevue Washington where our home was located at the time. In 2004 out of our home and backyard vineyard in Fallbrook we became a bonded winery.Our wines are produced in small lots from single vineyards with an occasional blend such as a Super Tuscan or Meritage.

In 2005 we purchased the winery property and by 2006 opened our doors to the public showcasing our love for Italian varietals. Come visit and taste in our winery production facility and check on our progress on our new beautiful tasting room. The vineyard at the winery is planted entirely in Italian varietals that include Sangiovese, Brunello Sangiovese, Aglianico, Vermentino, Primitivo, Cortese, and Pinot Grigio.