Some Popular Tours To Check Out:
Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Tour. Visit 3 wineries in Napa and Sonoma, and have lunch in the cute Napa Valley town of Yountville. $91 . 8 hours. See 3 Winery Tour for more info and booking.
Napa Valley Wine Country Tour. This 8.5-hour tour includes a lot of goodies: visit 4 wineries, in both Sonoma and Napa Valley, enjoy a breakfast on the bus with mimosas, a picnic lunch at a winery, and with an olive oil tasting thrown in. $129 . For more info and booking, see 4 Winery Tour.
Napa Wine Tasting Tour. This 9-hour tour visits four wineries in the Napa Valley, including the really cool castle winery, Castello di Amorosa. It’s a small group tour, with lunch, hotel pick-up included. $105 . For more info and booking, see Small Group Napa Tour.
Wine Tasting & Muir Woods Tour. Combine wine tasting at 3 Napa and Sonoma wineries with a stroll through the redwoods, with hotel pick-up. 11 hours. $139 . Often $5 off if booked online. See Wine and Redwoods.
Note: most tastings run around $15 to $25, and often include 5 or 6 wines. Long gone are the days of free tastings, alas. Guided tours of the winery are more. Inclusive tours save money, but offer less flexibility. Personal preference.
Wearing Heels Is A No
Learn from my mistakes my friends! It sounds romantic to frolic around wine country in a sundress, heels and hat but in reality, youll be spending a lot of time on your feet while wine tasting.;
And let me tell you, by winery #2 on a warm day in heels when your tour takes you on a stroll through the vineyards or gathers you around standing next to a barrel for a special tasting, youll be wishing you had on flats or reallllly comfy baby heels. Ive made this mistake so many times before I learned.;
Also, winter is cold. Everyone thinks California is sunny and warm all the time, but NOPE! If you are wine tasting in the winter, youll want to wear a sweater and maybe even a coat.;
Need more ideas on what to wear wine tasting? Check out my packing guide here!;
Ready To Embark On A Truly Unique Napa Valley Wine Tasting Experience
Imagine your perfect Napa wine tasting adventure. Dont be shy. Get creative, think outside the box. Now, picture everything you just imagined coming true. Instantly, you can see the Beau Wine Tours experience.
In the first place, our customized Napa Valley wine tours are perfect wine tasting experiences because theyre YOUR wine tasting experiences. Second, the;Napa Valley wine tasting options are endless so we can create the tour of your dreams. While many of our customers enjoy a glass of fine wine, they may not know the areas reputation for quality wine tasting. Lastly, our Napa wine tours are so much more than a vehicle and driver. To clarify, they are an experience complete with personalized visits and charming personalities in the drivers seat.
Whether you love an intense Cabernet or a crisp Chardonnay, we have a tour for you. Whenever you choose one of our tours, youll experience the ultimate in excellence, sophistication, style, and comfort.
Recommended Reading: How Much Is Wine At Aldi
Napa Valley Travel Guide: Where To Visit Eat And Stay
Napa Valley has long been the engine of U.S. wine production and while other California and American AVAs have started to gain notoriety, none have come close to acquiring the star power of Napa. Its not just the world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignon though that was the impetus, starting in the 1970s but also Napa Valleys incredible culinary scene, luxury resorts, rejuvenating hot springs, and stunning scenery combined with a sort of small town charm that makes this destination the full package.
It hasnt been all glamour though. Napa Valley had to once again prove its resilience in the face of another round of devastating fires in 2020, just as the valley was already reeling from lengthy shutdowns triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. But as spring turned to summer this year, tourism rebounded in a big way, and the harvest season is expected to be even busier. Long gone are the days of walking into a winery and bellying up to the tasting bar. Napa Valley hotels, wineries, and restaurants are now booking up weeks in advance and reservations are necessary nearly everywhere, so its vital you plan ahead.
Horseback Riding In Shadybrook Estate
There are plenty of options on how to spend your time at Shadybrook Estate, a historic ranch and vineyard site deep in the Napa valley. If you are not into wine tasting, join a 30 minute or 50 minute trail ride around the 25 acre property. Known as Rapp Ranch, home to cutting horses, the winery and stables are now owned by the Alison and David Alkosser family.
During my time here I opted for the Ultimate Ranch Experience. This consisted of a 50 minute Napa Valley trail ride and wine tasting. The ride is designed for beginners or equestrians with little riding experience. Once checked in at the barn, guests sign a waiver, grab a helmet and follow the wrangler to the outdoor arena If weather is inclement Rapp Ranch has an indoor riding arena and guests may opt for a riding lesson.
Headed back to the barn. Photo © Nancy D. Brown
We want you to feel like you are stepping back in time and experiencing our Napa, said Rachel Strum of Shadybrook Estate Winery. Napa has become a storm; a hurricane of people being pushed through tastings. We want to be the eye of that storm. The peace. To bring back the true art of winemaking and hospitality.
Don’t Miss: 90 Calorie Wine
Option : Sterling Vineyards
Ride the famous tram to the top of the mountain where youll be greeted with wine, a self guided tour, and a patio with stunning views of the valley.
NOTE: As of 7/2021 Sterling is still closed due to fires from last year.
WINE PASS DEAL: 2 for 1 tasting, Save $35.
WALLY DEAL: Email me for free $10 Off Promo Code,
Napa Valley Fly Guides
Napa Valley Fly Guides are headed by Richard, who has been a fisherman all his life. Fishing is his passion, and he has been part of the team for around nine years. Having extensive experience of Yuba River, Putah Creek, and Stanislaus River, he recommends them as best for fly fishing, which involves the catch-and-release method.
Napa Valley Fly Guides offers a great way to spend a day outdoors and get to know Napa’s beautiful nature.
Napa, CA, Phone: 707-294-4738
Places to eat near me, free points of interest, lakes near me, waterfalls, weekend getaways near me, 3-day foodie places to visit in September, October, November, December, RV, prettiest places, lodging, campground, hangout, where is, spas, holiday, museum, hiking near me, canoeing, hotels close to me, sushi, hikes, scenic spots: Fire Island NY, Italy beaches, Delaware beaches, Claremont, Pigeon Forge, Bluffton
Recommended Reading: Can You Grow Grapes In A Greenhouse
Sip & Swirl Through Napa Valley
Napa Valley has long been hailed as one of the worlds top wine tasting regions.; Located just about an hour south of San Francisco, its easy to get to, and perhaps more importantly, there are plenty of Napa Valley wine tasting experiences to choose from.;;
There are 16 different appellations within the greater Napa Valley region, each of which represents a distinct microclimate and terrain that influences the characteristics of the wine grapes grown there. Within these 16 AVAs, there are more than 375 wineries and 90+ urban tasting rooms.
Whether youre a seasoned wine aficionado or a newcomer looking to expand your palate, theres plenty to choose from in Napa Valley.; From intimate tastings with winemakers themselves and behind-the-scenes tours to stunning outdoor spaces and caves, there are plenty of Napa Valley wine tasting experiences waiting for you.
Elevate your experience with a stay at our curated selection of Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts.; These upscale properties offer the finest accommodations and hospitality around.;
Where To Begin Your Napa Valley Wine Tasting Journey
Now its time to start exploring some of the best Napa Valley wine tasting experiences. Napa Valley has over 450 vineyards in 14 different regions , along with almost two dozen local tasting rooms . Where should you go?
Well, thats where we come in. Weve compiled a list of ten amazing tasting sites for your consideration. There are so many incredible locations from which to choose, but the following list is a great place to start!
Don’t Miss: How Much Wine Can A Pregnant Woman Drink
Napa Valley Vs Sonoma Valley
The second biggest confusion is Napa Valley vs. Sonoma Valley. These are to different wine regions! While they are near each other, a large mountain range runs between them which makes it a very bad idea to try to go wine tasting in both Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley on the same day
Also, Sonoma Valley has the town of Sonoma just like Napa Valley has the town of Napa, so that confuses people a LOT.;
Sonoma Valley also has a really different vibe, landscape and wine specialties compared to Napa Valley. I chat more about that in this post.;
Gotts Roadside Napa Valley California
Whether you are a local or international tourist driving through Napa Valley, Gotts Roadside is the ideal place to relax for a snack, lunch, or even a chilling drink on a hot day. This burger joint has a way of giving hotdogs, onion rings, hand-spun shakes, and even cheese burgers that extra-special subtle taste that will leave you craving more.
Chinese chicken salads and crispy Ahi Poke Tacos are made using local ingredients, while California centric wines, such as Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Anchor from San Francisco, add to the local American flavor.
933 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
Romantic weekend getaways near me, spring break, places to live, what to do near me, coffee, breakfast restaurants, when you are bored, sea vacation, relaxing overnight trips, no-contact delivery, pickup, rainy day trips, cabin camping, best small beach towns to retire: Orange County Beaches, Fairbanks, Aberdeen, Providence, Lake George, Leesburg, Niagara Falls, Ann Arbor, Sausalito, Morrison, Athens GA
Recommended Reading: How To Make Glasses Out Of Wine Bottles
Take Flight In A Hot Air Balloon
Courtesy of Facebook: Napa Valley Balloons
Schedule your travel plans home later in the day so that you have time for one last hurrah. One of Napa Valleys most sought-after adventures is a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the vines. We promise that the 6 AM wake up call is worth it. Dont forget your camera!
Stags Leap Wine Cellars Oakville Napa
Founded in 1970 by Warren Winiarski, this winery brought international acclaim to Napa Valley winemaking when their 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting. A bottle of 1973 Stags Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon was inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum in 1996 as a result of being awarded first in this competition and to reflect the impact that the achievement had on the US wine industry as a whole. The winerys newly remodeled facility provides a centerpiece of all encompassing views of the gorgeous vineyards and Napa countryside. The winerys cave is the moral center of the universe, according to founder Warren Winiarski. He installed an amazing floor-to-ceiling Foucault pendulum at the center of the vaulted caves. Its an awesome sight to behold as it swings methodically. And, as a side note, the winery was sold to a joint venture by Château Ste. Michelle and Marchesi Antinori in the summer of 2007, so that Winiarski is no longer involved. Reservations are required.
Stags Leap Wine Cellars
You May Like: What Wine Has The Lowest Calories
Some Quick Napa History:
In 1976, a wine tasting called The Paris Tasting took place in France that changed the future of California wines forever. Like crusty old admissions officers contemplating the acceptance of an eager freshman into their established, hundreds-of-years-old University, accredited French wine professionals blind-tasted French red and white wines against California Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, and, shocking just about everyone in the world as much as it shocked the tasters themselves, the California wines won. Stags Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon and Chateau Montelenas Chardonnay took first place and, for the first time in history, it became clear that someone could rival the French when it came to wine. Somms all over France scratched their heads while California, and the rest of the world, responded rapidly. In the next ten years, the number of California wineries more than tripled, and, in the 40 years since the tasting, the quality and price of California wines has climbed sevenfold, soaring their retail value to over $14 billion last year.
If I sound passionate about this, its because I absolutely am.
The Best Small Producer Wine Tastings In Napa / Sonoma
Best for: Napa honeymooners, those who LOVE wine and are looking for the best of the best in the valley, and are looking to discover new small production boutique, family run wineries.
If youre looking for a winery that will blow your mind , Palmaz is it. Their tagline is the fusion of tradition and technology and thats exactly what tasting there is about. It is a GORGEOUS winery is tucked away all by itself in Napa and is owned by an Argentinean family, who have a love for food, and, of course, meat!! Their legendary Argentinean cookout parties are what club members rave about, and when you join their wine club you even get a beautiful traditional steak knife. Visit in the Summer and youll get to taste their small production rose, which I think is one of the best roses in the Valley.;
I recommend Palmaz to anyone looking for a really unique tasting, with AMAZING wines.;
Another exclusive, blow-your-mind tasting I love is Cornell Vineyards. Youll wind your way up Spring Mountain to this absolutely stunning property, with no other winery in sight. It feels straight out of a movie of Napa / Sonoma in the 70s. Tractors ride around the property checking the grapes as you get poured a glass of Dom Perignon to kick off the tasting by one of the members of Cornells intimate team of 4 people. The views are UNREAL and youll taste their DELICIOUS cabernet sauvignons, and feel like youre at someones home.
Also Check: Wine With The Least Calories
The Best Wineries To Taste With A Group Of Friends
Domaine Carneros always a go to for bubbly in Sonoma! BEAUTIFUL spot, and such impeccable service. I love it so much, and spend so much time here, I might as well just move in.
Artesa Winery; Architecturally stunning contemporary winery with a fun Spanish flare I absolutely loved their pintxos food pairing tasting. This place would also be amazing for a group and is one of the first wineries driving up from San Francisco to the Valley, making it an easy day trip for San Francisco travelers.;
V. Sattui Winery This lovely winery is perfect for a picnic. They have a big deli full of awesome lunch options and picnic tables outside their tastings are affordable and the fact that you can bring your own food in makes this a fantastic lunch & wine spot.
Castello di Amorosa its a castle, literally. Beautiful spot. One of my favorite places to bring newcomers to Napa because of its gargantuan appeal. Tastings starting at $20.
With friends at Castello di Amarosa, a great spot for a group
Flowers Winery Always a go-to of mine in Sonoma. Tell them Jetset Christina sent you! This beautiful tasting room with insta-worthy outdoor cabanas and indoor spaces brand new!! And one of my favorite wines ever. Love their chardonnay and Pinot. They also have an amazing chef and do great farm-to-table food and wine pairings.;
V Sattui Winery St Helena Napa
This is the most popular and most visited winery in all of Napa. The hours are 9am-5pm in the winter and 9:00AM-6:00PM in the summer months, no appointment required, 7 days a week. V. Sattui continues to evolve and upgrade their guest experiences, recently adding a Concierge Service designed to custom tailor visits, based on guest preferences. Its a top favorite because it has old-world Italian charm, more than 60 different wines, including sparkling wine and Port-style wines, vast picnic grounds, personalized winery and barrel tasting tours, food pairings, a legendary deli with fresh food and cheese, and a friendly, knowledgeable, well-trained staff. Also, its one of the few wineries that consistently achieves top awards for wines crafted by winemaker Brooks Painter, who joined V. Sattui in 2005 from Robert Mondavi Winery.
This is truly a wonderful and gorgeous place to spend the day. V. Sattui believes in doing very little advertising, relying mostly on word-of-mouth from loyal Wine Club members, which seems to be working very well for them. Highly recommended for fun-loving novice wine buffs, as well as the accomplished wine aficionado.
V. SattuiOpulent architecture matched with an exquisite execution of the tasting made Darioush a delightful experience. Photo by Naotake Murayama
Also Check: What Wine Has The Lowest Calories
Should I Go To Napa Or Sonoma
When most people around the world say they want to plan a trip to Napa, they most likely are generalizing the entire California wine country of Napa, Sonoma, Calistoga, Healdsburg, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, etc etc into one single region, which is totally fine. But when it comes to actually planning a trip to Napa Valley for the first time, you start to realize how far apart certain areas are, and how different they all are!!! And the fact that if you really want to get a feel for California wine country, you may want to split your time in a few different areas of the region. So which areas of Napa should you go to?;
