Napa

Wine Country

The late 19th century there was significant growth in Napa's wine production, with the establishment of wineries such as Charles Krug and Schramsberg. The valley gained recognition for its high-quality wines.

The post-Prohibition era witnessed a resurgence of interest in Napa wines, fueled by pioneers like Robert Mondavi, who championed quality winemaking practices and elevated the region's reputation on the global stage.

Since then, Napa Valley has flourished as one of the world's premier wine-producing regions, renowned for its diverse terroir, microclimates, and commitment to excellence. Today, the valley is home to over 400 wineries, ranging from boutique estates to iconic names, collectively crafting wines that embody the essence of Napa.

 

Wineries!

With over 400 wineries dotting the valley's hills and vineyards, selecting where to begin can be challenging. From intimate, family-owned estates to renowned, sprawling vineyards, each offers unique tastings and insights into their winemaking process. Whether you seek boutique experiences, organic viticulture, or iconic names in wine, exploring Napa's diverse wineries promises a captivating adventure for the senses, enriched by the region's storied heritage and picturesque beauty. Below is a collection of some of our favorite experiences. Reservations are required at most establishments. Inquire for a more detailed list!

Ram's Gate

The modern, elegantly designed tasting room and scenic outdoor terraces provide a perfect setting to savor their meticulously crafted wines. Ram’s Gate is a members only establishment, but worth the membership to stop by and enjoy the lovely wine and grounds.

The Donum Estate

The Donum Estate combines exquisite wines with an expansive outdoor art collection. Guests can explore the estate's beautifully landscaped grounds, where contemporary sculptures and installations are thoughtfully integrated. This blend of fine art and viticulture creates an inspiring and sensory-rich visit in the heart of Napa Valley.

Artesa Vineyards & Winery 

At Artesa, wine tasting is elevated by its striking modern architecture and stunning hilltop views of Napa Valley. The estate offers a diverse selection of handcrafted wines, enjoyed in a sleek, art-filled tasting room. Visitors can savor the scenic beauty of the surrounding vineyards and the distant San Francisco Bay.

Hess

At Hess, visitors can enjoy wine tastings surrounded by the captivating backdrop of Mount Veeder’s scenic vineyards. The estate also features the Hess Art Collection, showcasing contemporary art within the winery’s historic stone buildings.

Darioush

At Darioush Winery, visitors are welcomed by its grand Persian-inspired architecture, creating an atmosphere of opulence and sophistication. The winery offers a selection of meticulously crafted wines, renowned for their balance and complexity.

Stags Leap

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is known for its iconic role in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, where its Cabernet Sauvignon bested top French wines. The estate offers a serene wine tasting experience in Napa Valley's Stags Leap District, known for its dramatic, rocky hillsides. Visitors can enjoy tastings in an elegant setting, featuring natural stone interiors that complement the dramatic, rocky hillsides.

Promontory Winery

The architecture at Promontory Winery blends modern and rustic elements with a sleek, minimalist design that harmonizes with the landscape. Natural materials like wood and stone create a warm atmosphere, and large windows offer breathtaking vineyard views. Tastings highlight their small-lot Bordeaux-style blends, capturing the region's distinct microclimates and soils.

Opus One

Opus One in Napa Valley is a collaboration between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, known for its Bordeaux-style blends. The winery's iconic, minimalist architecture reflects its dedication to craftsmanship and quality.

Silver Oak

At Silver Oak in Napa Valley, guests can immerse themselves in a tasting experience centered around their Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its signature oak aging process. Set amidst picturesque vineyards, the winery offers tastings in an inviting, elegant setting that includes a unique underground aging cellar where their wines mature.

Chappellet

Chappellet Winery, located on Pritchard Hill in Napa Valley, is known for its dedication to sustainable vineyard practices. This family-owned estate produces wines that reflect the rugged beauty and terroir of the region. Tastings at Chappellet provide a scenic experience with expansive views of Lake Hennessey and the surrounding vineyards

Alpha Omega Winery

Alpha Omega Winery in Napa Valley combines modern architecture with a relaxed, low-key vibe, offering a refreshing contrast to traditional winery experiences. The estate's sleek, contemporary design seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings, creating an inviting atmosphere for tastings.

Del Dotto

Del Dotto Winery in Napa Valley is renowned for its historic wine caves, which provide a unique backdrop for tastings. These caves, lined with barrels, offer a memorable setting to sample their wines. Known for their generous pours, Del Dotto ensures a robust tasting experience, allowing visitors to savor their bold, flavorful wines while learning about the art of winemaking.

Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena Winery in Napa Valley is renowned for its iconic, French-inspired chateau architecture, evoking Old World charm and elegance. The estate's picturesque stone facade and serene lake create a captivating setting for wine tastings. Visitors can explore the historic grounds, including the beautifully landscaped gardens and vineyards that surround the chateau.

Restaurants

Napa Valley's restaurant scene is a culinary paradise, blending world-class cuisine with the region's rich agricultural heritage. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming farm-to-table bistros, the area offers a diverse array of dining experiences that highlight local ingredients and innovative techniques.

RH Yountville - RH Yountville combines exquisite cuisine with stunning design. The restaurant's open-air courtyard provides a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for savoring seasonal dishes and fine wines.

Ad Hoc - A welcoming, family-style dining experience with a menu that changes daily, focusing on comfort food with a gourmet twist. For a more casual option, their Addendum window serves up delicious fried chicken lunches, ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

Bistro Jeanty - Bistrot Jeanty captures the essence of a traditional French bistro with its cozy, vintage decor and classic, comforting dishes, making it a charming and authentic culinary escape in Napa Valley.

Mustards Grill - A Napa Valley institution, Mustards Grill has been delighting diners with its hearty, American fare for decades. Known for its enduring charm and consistently excellent dishes, it's a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch - The perfect spot for a cozy brunch, offering farm-to-table dishes in a charming, rustic setting. The restaurant's emphasis on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients shines through in every bite.

Gotts - Gott's Roadside is a beloved burger joint with several locations, known for its classic American diner vibe and delicious, high-quality burgers. It's the perfect place for a quick, casual meal with a nostalgic touch.

Bouchon - A Thomas Keller restaurant, Bouchon brings classic French bistro fare to Napa Valley, offering a timeless dining experience. Known for its impeccable pastries and traditional dishes, it remains a staple in the local culinary scene.

R+D Kitchen - Innovative American cuisine in a familiar Hillstone modern setting, making it a favorite for both lunch and dinner. The menu features a variety of creative dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients.

French Laundry - A three-Michelin-starred restaurant by Thomas Keller, is renowned for its exceptional tasting menus and impeccable service. Housed in a charming stone building, it offers an unforgettable fine dining experience in Napa Valley.

FARM Restaurant + Bar - Found at Carneros Resort and Spa offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine. The elegant atmosphere and beautifully landscaped gardens make it a perfect spot for a special meal.

Bottega Napa Valley - Bottega Napa Valley blends rustic charm with modern elegance, offering innovative Italian cuisine crafted by celebrity chef Michael Chiarello, all within a beautifully designed space that reflects Napa’s rich heritage.

Boon Fly Café - Known for its casual, country-chic vibe and delicious comfort food, Boon Fly is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch. Their signature donuts and hearty dishes attract both locals and visitors alike.

Bear - Located at the Stanly Ranch resort, Bear offers a contemporary dining experience with a menu that celebrates local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's sleek design and inventive dishes make it a standout in Napa's culinary landscape.

Angele Restaurant & Bar - Angele Restaurant & Bar offers a taste of Provence in the heart of Napa, with a menu inspired by classic French country cuisine. The riverside setting and charming, rustic decor create a romantic dining atmosphere.

Scala Osteria & Bar - Scala Osteria & Bar serves up authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist, featuring handmade pastas and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The stylish, cozy setting makes it a great spot for both casual and special occasions.

Azzurro Pizzeria e Enoteca - A local favorite for its wood-fired pizzas and extensive wine list, offering a relaxed and friendly dining experience. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a laid-back meal with friends or family.

Where to Stay?

Choosing where to stay in Napa Valley depends on the experience you seek. Each town offers unique charm, amenities, and proximity to attractions (wineries).

Napa

The largest town, Napa offers a vibrant atmosphere with a blend of urban and rustic. Downtown Napa is perfect for those who enjoy boutique hotels, fine dining, art galleries, and a lively nightlife. With numerous tasting rooms within walking distance, it's ideal for travelers who want convenience and variety.

Yountville

For a touch of luxury and culinary excellence, Yountville is the destination of choice. Known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale lodgings, this charming town is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and intimate experience. Yountville’s walkable layout allows easy access to top-notch wineries and gourmet delights.

St. Helena

St. Helena combines small-town charm with high-end experiences. It’s home to some of Napa Valley’s most renowned wineries and the Culinary Institute of America. Boutique inns and luxury resorts provide an exclusive retreat.

Calistoga

Known for its hot springs and wellness retreats, Calistoga offers a relaxed, rejuvenating vibe. Choose this town if you’re looking for spa treatments, mud baths, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Rutherford and Oakville

For those wanting to stay amidst the vineyards, Rutherford and Oakville are excellent choices. These areas are home to some of the valley’s most prestigious wineries and offer a quieter, more exclusive experience. Accommodations range from intimate bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious estates.

Sonoma

While not technically in Napa Valley, Sonoma offers a compelling alternative with its own renowned wine country charm. A short drive from Napa, it provides a slightly different yet equally enchanting experience, with historic towns, diverse wineries, and scenic landscapes.

Choosing a Hotel

When planning your Napa Valley adventure, it's wise to choose accommodations near your scheduled activities to maximize your time enjoying the region. Below is a curated selection of hotels, carefully chosen through our experiences and thorough research.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

Nestled in the landscapes of Calistoga, Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection offers a refined and intimate escape in Napa Valley. This resort features contemporary studios and suites with private patios, perfect for unwinding amidst vineyard views. Guests can savor farm-to-table cuisine at Solbar Restaurant, rejuvenate with mineral-rich treatments at Spa Solage, or relax by the expansive outdoor pool.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

Four Seasons Resort in Calistoga seamlessly blends luxury and adventure within its working vineyard. Guests indulge in elegant accommodations featuring private terraces with views of vineyards and mountains. The resort offers farm-to-table dining at TRUSS Restaurant + Bar, treatments inspired by the local terroir at the spa, and recreation including two outdoor pools and on-site winery tours.

Meadowood Napa Valley

Meadowood Napa Valley offers a sanctuary that combines rustic charm with refined elegance. This retreat features accommodations set amidst woodlands and manicured gardens. Guests can enjoy Michelin-starred dining at The Restaurant at Meadowood, unwind at the holistic Meadowood Spa, and engage in recreational activities like tennis, golf, croquet, and hiking through the estate.

Auberge du Soleil

Auberge du Soleil is perched on a hillside in Rutherford. Inspired by Provençal architecture, this retreat features spacious, elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each with private terraces offering panoramic views of the valley. The resort’s Michelin-starred restaurant delights with innovative Mediterranean cuisine, while the Auberge Spa provides tailored treatments. With its curated art collection and scenic walking paths, Auberge du Soleil promises a sophisticated and inspiring escape into the heart of Napa's wine country.

Alila Napa Valley

This adults-only haven features luxurious rooms and suites with expansive terraces overlooking the vineyards and the historic Beringer Estate. Guests can savor seasonal cuisine at Acacia House, a restaurant housed in a 1907 Georgian-style mansion, and rejuvenate at the serene Spa Alila with treatments inspired by local healing traditions. Situated close to the town of St. Helena, restaurants are easily accessible to guests.

North Block Hotel

North Block Hotel is located in the heart of Yountville. This boutique hotel features elegant rooms and suites with a private balcony or terrace overlooking the courtyard. Guests can indulge in contemporary Californian cuisine at North Block Restaurant, unwind with personalized treatments at the North Block Spa, and explore nearby wineries and dining options.

Hotel Yountville

The Hotel Yountville is also located in the heart of Napa Valley’s culinary epicenter. This retreat offers an intimate ambiance with its stone-and-timber architecture. Guests can unwind in spacious rooms and suites adorned with handcrafted furnishings and private patios. The Spa Acqua offers rejuvenating treatments inspired by the region's natural beauty, while Heritage Oak Restaurant delivers farm-to-table dining.

Milliken Creek Inn

Milliken Creek Inn is perched on the banks of the Napa River. This boutique inn features just eleven rooms, each blending contemporary comfort with classic charm. The inn’s lush, three-acre grounds provide a tranquil setting for relaxation, while its central location in Napa allows easy access to wineries and gourmet dining.

Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection

Stanly Ranch offers a sophisticated retreat on a historic vineyard estate in the southern part of Napa Valley. This resort features cottages and guest rooms, each offering modern amenities and private terraces with sweeping views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside. Guests can indulge in innovative farm-to-table dining at Bear Restaurant, rejuvenate with bespoke wellness treatments at the Halehouse Spa, and explore the property’s scenic trails and working vineyards.

Carneros Resort and Spa

This resort features private cottages and suites, each with modern amenities, outdoor showers, and gardens or patios. Guests can indulge in seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine at FARM at Carneros and rejuvenate with tailored treatments at the serene Spa at Carneros. The resort’s two outdoor pools, including an adults-only infinity pool with panoramic vineyard views.

Logistics

When to Visit

The best time to visit Napa Valley depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and vineyard experiences.

Spring (March to May): Spring in Napa Valley is vibrant, with blooming wildflowers, budding vines, and mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. This season is ideal for exploring the lush landscape, enjoying outdoor activities, and witnessing the valley's awakening after winter. It's a quieter period, perfect for intimate winery visits and leisurely vineyard walks.

Summer (June to August): Summer brings warm, sunny days with temperatures reaching 80°F to 90°F, making it prime time for outdoor events, vineyard tours, and al fresco dining. While the valley buzzes with activity and festivals, the high season also means more visitors. Early booking for accommodations and winery reservations is recommended to secure your spot during this peak period.

Fall (September to November): Fall is the quintessential season for wine enthusiasts, coinciding with the harvest, or "crush," when vineyards come alive with activity. Temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, providing a perfect backdrop for harvest celebrations, grape stomping, and wine tastings amidst the changing autumnal foliage. The vibrant energy and the aroma of ripe grapes make this an inspiring time to visit.

Winter (December to February): Winter offers a serene and intimate experience in Napa Valley, with cooler temperatures between 40°F and 60°F. This off-season is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, cozy tasting rooms, and special events like holiday celebrations and restaurant week. It's a perfect time to explore at a leisurely pace, with fewer crowds and off-season rates.

How to Get Around

Exploring Napa Valley's renowned wineries requires thoughtful planning to enhance your wine-tasting adventure. Here are the best ways to navigate this picturesque region:

Private Car: For flexibility and privacy, hire a private car. There are many options to choose from online.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are present in Napa. Depending on which region you are in and what time of day, Uber or Lyft can end up being unreliable or extremely expensive, so we typically opt for a private car.

Bicycle Rentals: For an adventurous and eco-friendly way to tour the valley, rent a bicycle. Many towns offer bike rentals and scenic trails connecting various wineries. It's a delightful way to enjoy the landscape, though be mindful of the distances and weather.

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