winery tours in napa valley

THE 10 BEST Napa Valley Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in napa valley.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
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• 4 hours to 1 day
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour

2. Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley and Sonoma for 2 to 5 people.

3. 6 Hour Napa or Sonoma Valley Wine Tour by Private SUV

4. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour

5. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

6. Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

7. The Finest and Newest SUV Wine Tour in Napa

8. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

9. Best Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley-Sonoma for 4 to 8 people.

10. Half-Day Wine Country Tour from San Francisco

11. Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour

12. 8-Hour Private Sonoma or Napa Wine Tour with Concierge Service

13. Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa

14. Napa and Sonoma Valley Tasting Experience to Three Wineries

15. Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley

16. San Francisco Half Day Wine Aficionado Tour with Tastings

17. Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup)

18. 3 in 1 Tour: Muir Woods, Sausalito & Half Day Wine Country Visit

19. San Francisco: Napa Valley Wine Tour and Muir Woods Guided Tour

20. Shore Excursion: Napa and Sonoma Ultimate Wine Tasting Experience

21. Big Bus San Francisco: Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour

22. 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa

23. 6-Hour Exclusive Wine Tour Experience: Up to 6 Guests

24. 6-Hour Private Limousine Wine Country Tour of Napa or Sonoma

25. The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour

26. Napa Private Wine Tour

27. 6hr | 7 Passenger Mercedes Sprinter Limo Van Private Tour

28. Private Sonoma and Napa Wine Tour from San Francisco

29. 6hr | 12 Passenger Mercedes Limo Sprinter Bus

30. Wine Pairing Fundamentals with Napa Sommelière

What travelers are saying.

• Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
• Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley
• The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour
• San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch
• Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour
• Squire Livery Tours
• Napa Designated
• Apex Limousine Transportation
• Laces and Limos
• Napa Tours and Chauffeur
• Cinnamon's Wine Tours
• Napa Your Way
• Active Wine Adventures
• Noble Wine Tours
• Napa Valley Wine Excursions
• Napa Native Tours
• IBDC Premium Transportation
• Trinity SF Bay Tours

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• Winery Directory

35 Best Napa Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

These are Some of the Best Napa Valley Wineries and Wine Tours, Along with Recommended Restaurants & Vineyard Hotels for Unique Tasting Experiences in 2024.

Napa Valley is  the most important wine region in the United States. It was the first American wine region to be fully internationally recognized for producing high-quality wines. And, the Valley has risen to the challenge with world-famous places to eat, drink, and stay.

In this Napa wine tasting guide, we explore wineries, tours, restaurants, and hotels in Napa to craft the ultimate wine country experience for Winetravelers.

Best Napa Wineries & Things to Do This Year

Napa wineries along st. helena highway.

St. Helena Highway runs north and south through most of the towns that dot Napa Valley. In fact, visitors can get a great overview of Napa Valley’s various AVAs just by driving along it! The following wineries can be found on or just off of St Helena Highway (aka Route 29/128), from south to north.

Domaine Chandon

1 California Drive, Yountville

(888) 242 6366

Why Guests Love It: Sparkling Wine, VIP Service, Food & Bubbly Pairings

Every wine tasting tour should start with bubbly, and Domaine Chandon is here to heed the call! Located just off St Helena Highway, the serene grounds provide the perfect backdrop to sip some sparkling and soak in the good life. Cheers!

Nickel & Nickel

8164 St Helena Hwy, Oakville

(707) 967-9600

Why Guests Love It: Single Vineyard Cabernets, Library Wines, Exceptional Service

Since Napa Cabs are really what put California on the global winemaking map, be sure to stop off at Nickel & Nickel . With a range of single vineyard Cabernets to try, it’s a fascinating trip through Napa terroir, all with premier white glove service. Try some older vintages if they’re available to see how beautifully Napa Cab can age.

RELATED: Learn More about Napa’s History, Terroir and Grape Varieties

Sequoia Grove

8338 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 944-2945

Why Guests Love It: Classic Cabernets, Boutique Feel, Food & Wine Pairings

Sequoia Grove is almost the little engine that could in Napa, not because it’s any less mighty but because it’s lowkey and relaxed. It’s definitely worth stopping in, though, because the wood-timber building surrounded by sequoias and cypresses gives a distinctive Northern Californian feel. Everything produced is fantastic but take note of the quintessential cedar notes in their Cabs. They’re a standout.

Grgich Hills

1829 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 963-2784

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Picnic Tastings, Eco-Focused

Named after its founders, Mike Grgich and Austin Hills, Grgich Hills is one of the more legendary wineries in Napa. Founded in 1977, it has consistently produced stellar wines to be tasted in an equally stellar stone building. Bonus: As of 2006, it uses only estate-grown fruit from its organic, biodynamic, and solar powered winery.

Corison Winery

987 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-0826

Why Guests Love It: Critically Acclaimed Wines, Female Winemaker, Vineyard Views

True trailblazers seem in short supply these days but thankfully Cathy Corison is still here. Year in and year out, she crafts award-winning Cabs from specific vineyard designations. She also produces a stunning Gewürztraminer and Riesling, both of which sing when paired with food. Be sure to snap up what you can because her wines consistently sell out.

401 St Helena Hwy South, St Helena

(707) 967-2626

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Artwork, Female Winemaker, Exceptional Wines

If the whimsical rabbit sculpture isn’t enough to make you stop, the wines most certainly will! Kathryn Hall comes by her craft genetical, having worked in her family’s vineyards north in Mendocino before striking out on her own. And although the Cabs are fabulous, cross the varietal line and taste their Merlots. You’ll be wowed.

The Salon at Heitz Cellar

436 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-2047

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Cheese & Charcuterie Boards, Age-Worthy Wines

Heitz has been around since 1961 – yes, you read that correctly. Everything about Heitz speaks to tradition, from the vineyard selections to the woodblock-esque labels. It’s worth stocking up here and laying some down to age because Heitz is known to develop beautifully for years.

Freemark Abbey

3022 St Helena Hwy N, St Helena

(800) 963-9698

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Stunning Architecture, Library Wines

Housed in a historic stone building that dates back to 1899, Freemark Abbey has consistently been a winery for over a century (except that during that little hiccup known as Prohibition). It further cemented its name in oenological history by being one of only twelve wineries invited to compete in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Today, the wines remain standouts and tasting here brings guests on a trip through Napa history. 

Sterling Vineyards

1111 W Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga

(800) 726-6136

Why Guests Love It: Breathtaking Views, Tram Rides, Award Winning Wines

Sterling Vineyards unfortunately sustained significant damage during the Glass Fire of 2020 and has since been undergoing reconstruction. The good news for everyone is that it is due to reopen in the Spring of 2023! Sterling has been a longtime favorite because of the stunning views. Plan ahead to book a tour that includes a tram ride to the top of the vista point and sip through their lineup. It’s worth the wait.

Tank Garage Winery

1020 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga

(707) 942-8265

Why Guests Love It: Art Deco Architecture, Intriguing Wines, Small Production

Of all wine tasting experiences through Napa, Tank Garage is probably the most unique because it’s located in a 1930s Art Deco gas station! Tank isn’t for the faint-of-heart – the people there are known for sprinkling salty language around, but they sure provide a fun experience. The wines are just as interesting with everything from orange pét-nat to carbonic Grenache.

Top Napa Wineries along the Silverado Trail

Silverado Trail runs somewhat parallel to St Helena Highway on the east side of Napa. The two are close enough together to make it very easy to toggle between, but Silverado is decidedly quieter because village centers are found on St Helena Highway.

Chateau Montelena

1429 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga

(707) 942-5105

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Napa History, VIP Service

Chateau Montelena is the perfect start to a day of winetasting. This gorgeous stone chateau is home to some legendary wines, including the Chardonnay that beat out white Burgundies in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Taste through their elegant line up of Cabs or go rogue and try their Riesling – everything is stunning.

Clos Pegase Winery

1060 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga

(707) 942-4981

Why Guests Love It: Sleek Architecture, Quirky Sculptures, Cave Tours

Clos Pegase breaks rank with modern architecture and the quirky “friendship bench” but the wines are no less delightful. With a range of flight options, guests are encouraged to taste through all that Napa has to offer in a relaxing, elegant environment. Be sure to try all of the reds.

Honig Vineyard & Winery

850 Rutherford Rd, Rutherford

(707) 963-4272

Why Guests Love It: Eco Tours, Sustainable Winery, Fabulous Whites

Honig means ‘honey’ in German, which is denoted with the whimsical bees on Honig labels. And, Honig is true to its love of bees by being certified sustainable and solar powered. Book the Eco tour to learn all about Honig’s green practices before tasting through some beautiful wines, including their Sauvignon Blanc.

8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford

(800) 686-6272

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Classic Sparkling Wine, Cheese Pairings

Is it bubbly time yet? Mumm Napa provides the best of French winemaking and Napa views. Guests can choose to taste through the delightful sparkling wines in a variety of settings, from patio seating to terrace tasting with cheese pairings.

8383 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 963-5188

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Organic Farming, Warm Hospitality

Although technically in another town, ZD is just down the road from Mumm and is definitely worth the stop. While ZD may be smaller than some of the huge Napa wineries, it is no less impressive and produces rich, luscious wines that manage to maintain perfect balance. Taste through the lineup, or book a tour with sample of library wines.

Quixote Winery

6126 Siverado Trail, Napa

(707) 944-2659

Why Guests Love It: Quirky Atmosphere, Estate Tours, Food & Wine Pairings

And now for something completely different! To experience Quixote Winery is to experience a quirky, carnivalesque atmosphere while tasting through intriguing, small production wines. All fruit sourced from Stags Lead District, their wines sell out quickly so be sure to stock up while you can.

Stags’ Leap Winery

6150 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-5790

Why Guests Love It: Historic Winery, Beautiful Views, Exceptional Service

Stags’ Leap is another legendary Napa winery and is a must for those wanting to taste through the best the valley has to offer. Indulge in a porch tasting to experience the stunning views alongside the stunning wines. And, be sure to grab a bottle of Petite Sirah, which is a perennial favorite among critics.

Clos du Val Winery

5330 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 261-5212

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Views, Creative Events, High End Hospitality

Clos du Val is nestled back among the vines, providing a picturesque experience for visitors. Book a tasting in advance, or check out events like Apéro nights, or sparkling wine brunches. No matter what you try, you’ll love the attention to detail that weaves through both the wines and the estate.

4240 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-2345

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Luxurious Pairings, Exceptional Service

Darioush is sort of like Madonna or Cher in that it needs no other name: Darioush is enough. And, for those that know it, the name Darioush means opulence and grandeur unlike anything else in Napa. Grounded in Persian culture, hospitality is elevated to an art form here. Be sure to reserve the Signature Mezza tasting to try the wines alongside traditional Persian mezze plates.

Judd’s Hill Winery & MicroCrush

2332 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 255-2332

Why Guests Love It: Small Production, Family Owned, Relaxed Environment

Judd’s Hill is an anomaly in Napa because it’s lowkey and very hands on. Still family owned, guests are encouraged to book tastings, pairings, or even play winemaker and blend their own wines! Another charming experience is their annual poetry contest, for which winners receive a 3-liter bottle but the real prize is being part of this 20+ year tradition.

Best Napa Wine Tours

While we’re thrilled to share our favorite wineries throughout Napa, we’re also big believers in letting the local pros do the heavy lifting. Here are some of the best guided and private tours that take the guesswork out of navigating Napa.

Platypus Tours Limited offers the perfect way to have a more intimate experience while tasting fabulous wines and not worry about driving. (Designated drivers are the heroes we need!) This half-day wine tasting tour takes you to three exceptional wineries and also includes a complimentary picnic lunch . Hotel pickup/dropoff are also included.

It doesn’t get much better when you’re able to blend the great outdoors with an awesome authentic wine tasting experience. Napa Native Wine Tours offers a full-day guided tour, beginning the day with a morning hike through some of Napa’s redwood forests and mountainscapes. In the afternoon, this particular experience focuses on boutique wineries , so you’ll avoid the crowds and some of the more corporate setups. Hotel pickup and dropoff is also offered, with the option to include lunch.

Step back in time and try the Napa Valley Open Air Wine Trolley ! This throwback trolley lets you soak up the vibe throughout the experience, with a stop-off for lunch.

One of the more iconic experiences any Napa visitor should try (especially if it’s your first time), is to see the Valley from the air. Napa Valley Balloons offers a wine country hot air balloon ride , a breathtaking way to experience Napa. The company also flies drones in tandem to capture images of the experience that you can take home with you.

Restaurants

Oxbow public market.

610 1 st St, Napa

(707) 226-6529

Oxbow is a great place to start the day and plan your attack. There are countless dining options, or you can stock up on nibbles to take with you. It’s almost like a mini Napa boiled down to offer everything you could possibly need for a luxurious day of wine tasting.

Bouchon Bistro

6534 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 944-8037

Located just down the street from The French Laundry, Bouchon Bistro offers Thomas Keller’s vision in a lower-key setting. Think traditional bistro fare with the freshest ingredients, like moules au safran and steak frites. And, the stunning wine list is worth taking time to browse because it’s got some gems available by the glass.

Gott’s Roadside

933 Main St, St Helena

(707) 963-3486

If you were to ask Siri to show you the most California dining option possible, she’d definitely pull up Gott’s Roadside . These unpretentious roadside joint offers classics like double cheeseburgers alongside kale salads and baja fish tacos. And, because it’s in wine country, its beverage offerings include everything from kombucha to high end Cabs.

Goose & Gander

1245 Spring St, St Helena

(707) 967-8779

We love everything about Goose & Gander , from the adorable craftsman house that it occupies to the British-pub-meets-California menu that changes seasonally. The vegetarian options, like watermelon salad or fried squash blossoms, mean that vegetarians won’t be left in the cold.

6525 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 945-1050

Spacious and rustic, Bottega offers delectable Italian in the heart of Yountville’s Gourmet Gulch. Classic dishes are paired with wine selections that are updated daily. Save room for dessert because they are to die for.

Gatehouse Restaurant

The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone

2555 Main St, St Helena

(707) 967-2300

Support fine dining of the future by booking a fantastic evening at The Gatehouse , where students of the CIA (not that CIA) hone their culinary skills. Choose three or four course menus, with or without sommelier-selected pairings – just be sure to make class is in session before you go.

Meritage Resort and Spa

875 Bordeax Way, Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa is the ultimate place to really indulge in the decadence of Napa. Even the basic rooms are perfection, while the suites take it to the next level. Amenities include everything from wine tastings to cooking class to wellness activities. And, bring your best friend: there’s an on-site dog park. 

El Bonita Motel

195 Main St, St Helena

El Bonita hearkens back to the heyday of roadside motels in Americana. Basic accommodations in prime location make it the simple choice for an overnight after wine tasting. Book a poolside room for best access to the pool and hot tub.

SENZA Hotel

4066 Howard Lane, Napa

SENZA is off-the-beaten path just enough to provide guests with peace and quiet without being too far from everything. Each room has vineyard and/or garden views and amenities include a pool, a hot tub, and cabanas. There are also spa services available, like massages and facials.

Wine Country Inn & Cottages

1152 Lodi Ln, St Helena

This locally-owned establishment offers rooms and cottages in vineyard tranquility. Guests can take a dip in the heated swimming pool before warming themselves next to cottage fireplaces. The concierge is more than happy to recommend the best of Napa, from wineries to restaurants and more. Take a look at their current room rates .

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

1507 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga

We can’t say enough about Calistoga, the often overlooked village at the north end of Napa. It’s quaint, it’s cool, and it’s got an unbeatable vibe. Dr. Wilkinson’s is the epitome of Calistoga. It’s got such a throwback quality that we can’t help but love it. Whether you want a swim in a mineral pool, an indulgent mud bath, or a frolic on a tree swing, Dr. Wilkinson’s has you covered.

RELATED: 11 Wine Country Wellness Retreats to Stay at Around The World

Travel Logistics: Getting To and Around Napa

Napa the city is towards the southern end of Napa the valley and is only about an hour north of San Francisco. Visitors coming from further afield can fly to either San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport and drive from there. Since it is a quick jaunt from the Bay Area, it tends to be very busy on the weekends so midweek tastings often are the most relaxing (and available). You can check current flight deals into either airport right here.

Napa is also quite close to Sonoma Valley, which runs parallel on the west. However, mountain passes between the two are often very windy and can be quite dangerous to navigate, particularly at night. We recommend focusing on one valley or the other to fully enjoy the experience. Another great option is to leverage Green Dream Tours’ expertise to get a taste of both Napa and Sonoma on the same day. They offer round-trip transport from San Francisco, stopping at some exceptional boutique wineries in Sonoma and Napa.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Napa Wineries

What is the best time of year to visit napa wineries.

The best time to visit Napa wineries is during the spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) months, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is spectacular. Spring offers vibrant wildflowers and lush green landscapes, while fall showcases the grape harvest and the changing colors of the vine leaves. Summer is also a popular time, but can be crowded and hot, while winter is quieter and offers a more intimate experience.

How do I plan my visit to Napa wineries?

When planning your visit to Napa wineries, start by researching the wineries you’d like to visit, as there are over 400 to choose from. Consider factors such as the types of wines you enjoy, the winery’s ambiance, and any special experiences they offer. We list most of the best wineries in Napa and group them by location to create an efficient itinerary. Read our detailed guide to help you plan your trip. Keep in mind that many wineries in Napa require reservations for tastings and tours, so be sure to book ahead.

How many Napa wineries should I visit in one day?

To fully enjoy your Napa wine tasting experience without feeling rushed, it’s generally recommended to visit 3-5 wineries in one day. This allows ample time to savor the wines, explore the properties, and take breaks for meals or relaxation. However, be sure to have a designated driver on hand or hire one of our preferred drivers or private tours referenced in this guide.

What are the costs associated with wine tasting in Napa?

Tasting fees at Napa wineries can vary widely, typically ranging from $25 to $50 per person, with some high-end or exclusive wineries charging even more. Some wineries offer tastings that are refundable with a wine purchase, while others may waive the fee for wine club members. Guided tours, food pairings, and special experiences may come at an additional cost. To manage expenses, consider setting a daily budget for tastings and prioritize wineries that best align with your preferences.

How should I get around Napa Valley when visiting wineries?

There are several transportation options for exploring Napa wineries, including self-driving, hiring a private driver or tour guide, joining a group wine tour, or using a designated driver service. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, but it’s crucial to ensure responsible and safe transportation, especially if you plan to consume alcohol during your tastings. We give Winetravelers plenty of options in this guide to get around to Napa’s best wineries safely. Ask us any questions or for recommendations in the guide’s comments.

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Napa Valley Wine Excursions

Proud Winner of the LuxeSF

Rising Wine Star Awards

~ Specializing in Custom Wine Tours Guided by a Napa Native ~

"Napa Valley Wine Excursions is the ONLY tour company I will ever use  again in wine country. Our family had an amazing experience with the tour, the wineries, the service. There is not a rating high enough to give this company. From the moment we arrived till the moment we left,  it was one of the best experiences we have ever had while on vacation. The service was phenomenal.  I would say, 'It's like the French Laundry of tour companies.'

You will not be disappointed."    ~ L. Ayers, NC (March, 2020)

With over five hundred wineries in the Napa Valley and nearly four hundred in Sonoma , planning the perfect trip to Wine Country can be overwhelming.  Additionally, many of the most remarkable winery experiences – barrel tastings, tours in the vineyards, and meeting with the winemakers themselves – are hidden gems off the beaten path and very easily missed. 

As the owner of Napa Valley Wine Excursions, i t is my pleasure to create a unique wine tour experience for you that only a Napa native can provide.   Having lived here my entire life, I have been fortunate enough to have established strong relationships with many of the most exclusive wineries in the Valley.  With a background in the wine industry as well,  I am equipped to create an experience that will give you a true taste of what the Napa Valley has to offer. 

Whether you are a novice or a wine expert, new to the Napa Valley or planning your annual visit here, we are happy to customize an itinerary for you.  Your day can include visits to the vineyards, caves, and tasting rooms of Napa’s most famous wineries.  In addition, you will enjoy the charm and intimacy of exceptional wines in the cellars and private homes of family-owned, boutique wineries.  During your tour, we will also provide you with context on the history of the Valley, as well as information on vineyard management, grape-growing, and wine-making.  

Contact us via e-mail or through our "Contact Us" page to begin planning your visit to Wine Country (please do not send text messages). For more information on Napa Valley Wine Excursions' range of services, have a look at our website. We look forward to hosting you in Wine Country!

 *  707.363.1397  *  [email protected]   *  TCP 34  933     * 

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Napa Wine Tours

We provide unrivaled expertise and exceptional quality for your Napa Valley Wine experience.

Luxurious Napa Valley Wine Tours

The napa valley has much to offer. scenic landscapes, agriculture, legendary history, and of course, some of the world’s best wines. experiencing all of these elements together in a single day may sound impossible, but napa wine tours can provide exactly that. travel in safety and comfort. sample and purchase a wide array of napa valley wines. dine on a locally-sourced lunch. end a visit to napa valley with treasured memories of one of the most iconic and historic places in the world., discover more, your private tour is waiting. you can select from one of our pre-made tours to get a taste of some of napa valley’s best wineries. or, you can contact us to look at putting together a custom tour., private wine tours let you enjoy napa valley without the fuss of a “join-in” tour. a join-in tour dumps you on a crowded vehicle with strangers. a private tour gives you your own personal vehicle, from a sedan to a bus, to get you and your party where you need to go., planning on going with a larger group we have a variety of choices to get large groups where they need to go. each group has different needs and we can help customize a wine tour and make your experience with napa valley one to remember..

Choose Your Experience

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Tours must be booked 10 days in advance. If you need faster service, please contact us . We will contact you to confirm your final booking and wineries. If a winery is closed, or any other unforeseen circumstance, we will pick an equal winery for your visit.

Exceptional Napa Valley

Full day in napa, napa passion tour, what our clients say, napa passion – private wine tour for wine and history lovers.

So much fun! Loved the wineries! Everyone was extremely welcoming and we went home with a few cases of wine.

Exceptional Napa Valley – Private Wine Tour of Award-Winning Wineries

Driver Tour Guide was so patient, knowledgeable, and fun. One of the greatest time to date.

Please Your Palate – Private Wine & Food Tour in Sonoma

One of the best companies I’ve ever signed up to do a tour with. Driver was friendly, vehicle was very clean and looked new.

Have a question about a tour? Need a custom tour set up? Fill out the form on the right hand side or call/email us today to speak to one of our Napa Valley Wine Tour Specialists.

WELCOME TO WINE COUNTRY

NAPA VALLEY | SONOMA COUNTY

#PlatypusGetsYou on an authentic tour through Napa and Sonoma’s hidden gem wineries.

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Join-in small group tour.

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You can avoid all of the work and stress of planning your Napa Valley or Sonoma wine region visit by allowing us to guide you through a most compelling and memorable day in the wine country!

On our small group join-in wine tours, you’ll meet other wine adventurers on a roomy shuttle led by one of our friendly and informative tour guides. We’ll pick you up from your area lodging for a day filled with fun, flavor and adventure!

Or…make it private! We’re happy to accommodate couples or groups of any size for customized tours through the wine country.

Join-in Wine Tours: Per person-priced $119-$139

Come along on a fun, interesting and truly memorable small-group wine tour of the Napa Valley or Sonoma wine country (About 12 guests). You’ll visit three charming backroads wineries, with a picnic lunch served at one of them. Also, you will hear stories and learn tidbits of local history, culture and winemaking. Our tours are sure to entertain with a very approachable and easy-going style. Discover and savor new experiences while tasting some of the world’s most celebrated wines. Learn more about our Join-in Tours and book one now.

Intimate Private Wine Tours: Choose a package or get a custom tour quote

Let us put together a custom tour for you. Answer just a few questions about what would make the perfect day, and we’ll personalize the whole experience for you. Would you be able to select the wineries yourself? Yes, you would. Could we make all the reservations for you? Yes, indeed. This day will be amazing. 

Group Private Tours: Why not bring the whole gang?

We have the inside track on which wineries are most accommodating and provide the most compelling experiences for all kinds of groups, including Corporate outings, Birthday parties, Bachelorette parties, Reunions, Wedding guest groups and more!

On our small group join-in wine tours, you’ll meet other wine adventurers on a roomy shuttle led by one of our friendly and informative tour guides. We’ll pick you up from your area lodging for a day filled with fun, flavor and adventure!

Or…make it private! We’re happy to accommodate couples or groups of any size for customized tours through the wine country.

Join-in Tours Private Tours

6 Best Winery Tours in Napa Valley

• by DEVIN PARR
• on JULY 5, 2023

Photo Courtesy of Hess Persson Estates

Going wine tasting is often so much more than sipping through a flight of wines. It’s about experiencing Wine Country in all of its glory and hearing the stories that make a region like Napa Valley so special. While we all love to belly up to the tasting bar at a winery, there’s something to be said for taking some time to learn about the history, property, and vineyards of the place that’s producing the wines in our glass. A well-executed winery tour before a wine tasting makes the wines in our glass that much more enjoyable.

Napa Valley is known for its gorgeous vineyards, stunning wineries, and, of course, exceptional wines. It’s hard to go wrong when wine tasting in this world-famous region just outside of San Francisco. However, some Napa wineries go above and beyond to bring to life the setting in which the wines are produced, so we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite wine tours in Napa Valley.

Walk Amongst The Vines

Pine Ridge Vineyards

5901 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, (800) 575-9777

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley’s Stags Leap district, Pine Ridge sits beneath – you guessed it – a ridge of pines offering views of the palisades and dramatic terroir responsible for producing top-notch Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery’s estate vineyards in the best appellations throughout the region, including Howell Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford, and Carneros. Pine Ridge also produces the unusual and much-loved Chenin Blanc + Viognier white blend sourced from grapes grown in the Sacramento Delta region of Clarksburg.

Deeply committed to sustainability, it’s no surprise that Pine Ridge has introduced an earth-centric Morning Hike Series to their wine tour experiences. Available during summer and harvest seasons, small groups are guided on a near-mile-long hike through the hillside vineyards, learning about Pine Ridge Vineyards’ sustainable farming techniques and diverse ecosystems. This grape-to-glass experience begins with some trail treats, as well as tastes of their Stags Leap District wines along with wines from other appellations. The hike finishes with a box lunch in their demonstration vineyard.

A Glimpse of Napa History

Charles Krug

2800 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-2229

A visit to Napa Valley Wine Country wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the winery that started it all back in 1861. As the oldest winery in Napa, and the longest-running tasting room in California, Charles Krug offers a glimpse into the history of this world-famous wine region. Purchased in 1943 by Italian immigrants Cesare and Rosa Mondavi, the iconic property remains family-owned today, producing elegant wines that uniquely express each estate vineyard in the family’s portfolio.

Guests will feel like family on the Charles Krug Tour and Tasting Experience as they explore the grounds of the winery, learning about two legendary pioneers of Napa Valley winemaking – Charles Krug and the Mondavi Family – and seeing the original home where Robert and Peter Mondavi, Sr. grew up.

Beauty Above & Below Ground

1601 Silverado Trail S, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 286-2730

Long considered one of the most iconic wineries in Napa Valley, this 280-acre property, founded by Agustin and Valeria Huneeus, sits in the heart of Rutherford, at the foot of the Vaca Mountain range. Using organic farming practices, the winery produces stunning wines from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère, all of which go into their flagship bottling in different proportions depending on the vintage.

Exclusivity is the vibe at Quintessa . The 90-minute Private Estate Experience offers a tour through the natural surroundings of Quintessa while learning about their holistic philosophy around organic farming practices. Following your tour, you will taste a flight of current and library vintages. For an even more elevated winery tour, opt for the Quintessential Experience that begins with a tour of the estate and culminates with a seated wine tasting in a private, open-air glass hilltop pavilion.

Behind-the-Scenes in Calistoga

Davis Estates

4060 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-0700

This family owned and operated Napa Valley winery sits in the heart of Calistoga, with vines also planted in Rutherford, Carneros, and Howell Mountain. Seeing the immense potential of the site, the Davis family purchased the century-old estate winery in 2011 and embarked on an ambitious restoration journey to turn it into the remarkable property it is today.

The VIP Experience is well worth the splurge. Dedicated wine enthusiasts will be wowed by this behind-the-scenes tour as they stroll through the vineyards and experience the awe-inspiring 11,000-square-foot cave system. The tasting lineup includes sips of highly coveted reserve wines as well as the exclusive Phase V wines by Philippe Melka, each paired with a selection of seasonal delicacies created by Executive Chef Mark Caldwell.

About Devin Parr

Devin Parr is a San Diego-based freelance writer and consultant specializing in wine, travel and lifestyle. In addition to covering the global wine industry, she is the resident expert in Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, serving as the region’s ambassador on behalf of the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association . She holds a certification in wine expertise from the Apicius International School of Hospitality in Florence, Italy, as well as the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Diploma. In 2017, she was named one of Wine Enthusiast Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers. Follow her adventures at @thesocalwinegal and www.devinparr.com .

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9 Fantastic Napa Valley Wine Tours For Every Traveler

• Things To Do
• by HANA-LEE SEDGWICK
• on FEBRUARY 23, 2024

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Thanks to its picturesque vineyards, wineries with stunning architecture, and critically- acclaimed wines , it’s not surprising that most visits to Napa Valley are centered around wine tasting. Yet, with so many quality options, deciding where to taste is no easy feat; not only that, but being the designated driver is a good way to end up with a serious case of FOMO. That’s why wine tours are a great option for tasting your way through Napa Valley. Whether you take a traditional tour or opt for a more unique experience, these Napa Valley wine tours make it easy to take advantage of this world-renowned wine region.

For the Napa newcomer: Beau Wine Tours & Limo

Touring Wine Country by way of a luxury limo? Not too shabby. Exploring Napa Valley and its stunning vineyards with the top down during an Open-Air Tour ? Now we’re talking. California Wine Tours ’ fleet of vehicles may include limos, party buses, vans, and SUVs—in fact, they own and operate the largest and most diverse fleet of luxury vehicles in Northern California—but it’s their classic convertibles and sprinter van convertibles that will really put you into vacation mode (and let you bask in that California sun). California Wine Tours specializes in curated wine tours and each experience is unique to each group, so whether you’re a large group of wine novices or a smaller group of experienced tasters, they know how to make each experience special.

4075 Solano Avenue, Napa, CA 94558, (800) 294-6386

For the wine enthusiast: Pure Luxury Transportation

For those who like to stay active while sightseeing, Getaway Adventures ’ Sip n’ Cycle is a great option, providing a fun way to discover the area on two wheels. This guided bicycle tour will take you through the scenic back roads of Napa Valley, with stops for wine tastings and a picnic lunch along the way. Since the Sip & Cycle tour covers roughly 12 miles throughout the day on mostly flat roads, it’s a more leisurely than strenuous biking experience, but nonetheless a great way to visit some of the area’s more off-the-beaten-path wineries.

Meeting location: 1401 N Oak Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (800) 499-2453

For the Napa sightseer: North Bay Wine Tours

This small, family-owned tour service wins fans for its quality service and customer satisfaction, providing a personalized tour of Napa Valley that is completely tailored to each individual group’s tastes and preferences. In fact, prior to each trip, Master Wine Tours works with each guest to discover their interests, then puts together a tour that’s truly unique to each group. With vehicles that can accommodate up to 6 – 12 guests, Master Wine Tours is a great option if you’re traveling with a smaller group.

25 Fairways Drive, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 266-3750

For the explorer at heart: Designated Drivers

While a wine tasting tour with Designated Drivers can really be whatever you want it to be, this tour company knows how to please those looking to go off the beaten path and explore some of Napa’s hidden gems. Itineraries can be tailored to your specific goals, whether you’re looking to discover Napa’s up and coming producers, find the wineries that only offer their wine at the winery, or taste some of the most limited-production wines in the valley.

2587 Wine Country Avenue, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 244-1180

Conclusion:

Whether you’re eager to burn off some indulgences from Wine Country with a biking excursion or are seeking a luxurious experience through a private, curated tour, Napa offers a wine tour adventure for every type of traveler. And, while there are dozens of great tour options out there, you can’t go wrong choosing one (or two!) of these for a memorable Napa getaway. Cheers!

About Hana-Lee Sedgwick

Hana-Lee Sedgwick is a writer and editor based between Santa Barbara, CA and Idaho. A Certified Specialist of Wine and Sommelier, Hana-Lee specializes in all things wine, food, and travel, and her work regularly appears in publications such as Edible, Santa Barbara Magazine, and Food & Home. Follow her on Instagram at @wanderandwine .

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Napa Valley Wine Tours

Embark on our truly unique napa valley wine tours, book a napa valley wine tour for as low as $112.50. inquire with a tour planner today also now offering our napa valley join in wine tour, smaller and larger group packages, individual couples and custom private planning is also available with one of our knowledgeable tour planners..

Take a stroll in the lush vineyards and discover the excellent boutique wineries in Napa Valley through California Wine Tours and Transportations. We offer the perfect, most romantics, and thrilling Napa tours for couples, social groups, professionals, or people looking to meet like-minded wine aficionados. Get the best wine tour and transportation services in Napa Valley and experience a Napa Valley wine tasting adventure of a lifetime! Prepare yourself to embark on a journey to the most famous vineyards and wineries in Wine Country with the experts who know Napa Valley and get a wine tour from an insider’s perspective. At California Wine Tours and Transportation, we take the hassle out of wine touring so that you can experience the magic of Napa Valleys in its purest form.

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The Most Charming Napa Valley Wine Tours

Imagine the most perfect wine touring adventure. The experts at California Wine Tours and Transportation offer customized Napa Valley wine tours for a unique and unforgettable experience. Enjoy a range of endless wine tasting options and create a tour that you have always dreamed of. Although many of our clients love a glass of fine wine, they may be stunned by the rustic beauty and fairytale-like charm of the Napa Valley vineyards.

We offer much more than a vehicle and a driver. We offer a complete experience that includes personalized visits, comfortable transportation for the whole of your visit, and the pleasant company of our charming and witty drivers who are extremely knowledgeable about Napa Valley tours.

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or are visiting the Napa Valley as an outing with friends and family, our Napa Valley wine tours will satisfy your needs. Choose any of our Napa Valley tours and experience ultimate style, comfort, and sophistication.

Reserve Your Dynamic Napa Wine Tour Experience With Us

A wine tour and transportation journey is so much more than just traveling from one place to another. At California Wine Tours and Transportation, we provide you with unforgettable Napa Valley Wine Tour experience. Whether you choose elegant limousines or fun limousine style buses, be ready for a personalized experience with the charming Napa Valley landscape as your backdrop. We bring to you a rustic-chic experience in a luxury vintage setting. Whether you choose to visit multiple vineyards in exclusive private tours or want to enjoy a day of wine tasting in California’s Wine Country in a join-in style, we have you covered. Get ready for an intimate, light-hearted, and truly enjoyable journey through the world-famous Napa Valley and discover the hidden gems through our well-informed tour guides. Along the way, you will experience:

• Pick up location of your choice and all of Wine Country
• Discover multiple charming vineyards and wineries in a day
• Take in the gorgeous and awe-inspiring views of the rolling Napa Valley vineyards
• Taste some of the world’s most aromatic and delicious wines along the way
• Learn the culture and history of Wine Country local winemaking
• Dine on a delightful picnic lunch served at a winery
• Share the experience with wine lovers
• Enjoy the company of an informed and amicable tour guide
• Experience the real Napa Valley with our unique Napa Valley Tours.
• We have the #1 Rated Napa Valley wine tours!
• #1 Favorited Napa Valley wine tours!
• #1 Requested Napa Valley wine tours!
• Most fun Napa Valley wine tours!

Bring your guests with you to this wonderful wine tasting and transportation adventure. We can plan your entire day from start to finish and offer you transportation from the airport to the hotel to the winery.

Come Join Us On One Of Our Curated Napa Valley Wine Tours

California Wine Tours and Transportation offers you a one-of-a-kind experience that is not offered by any other Napa Valley concierge service. We have a phenomenal ability to make Napa Valley truly accessible and enjoyable for all our clients. Whether you are looking for an intimate romantic getaway, an exclusive celebratory trip with family, or a corporate retreat, California Wine Tours and Transportation can make a highly personalized itinerary for you to ensure a memorable trip. Just sit back and let us take care of your planning and traveling.

We offer a wide range of options from riding in a luxury convertible to wine touring in private limousines , town cars, or party buses. Enjoy the stunning scenery, mouthwatering aromas, and divine tastes of Napa Valley’s world-class vineyards and wineries. Each Napa Valley tour includes:

• Experience the real Napa Valley tourism

Get acquainted with the world of wine and Napa Valley! This beautiful spot of bountiful nature is perfect for Napa Valley couples, locals, visitors, friends, families, and wine connoisseurs.

Book One Of Our Napa Valley Wine Tours Today!

When you book a Napa Valley wine and transportation, you will experience Napa Valley like a local. Do not be worried about getting lost, missing out on hidden gems, or risk driving when drinking. Do not waste your day finding the perfect place for lunch or a spot for a scenic picnic. Our Napa Valley Tours will offer you everything from comfortable, luxurious, hassle-free travel straight from your doorstep.

Plan your itinerary exactly according to your desires. We offer you:

• Exceptional airport to hotel to winery transportation with professional chauffeurs
• Tour planning from the beginning to the end
• Excellent recommendations and freedom to reserve wineries directly

Reserve your Napa Valley tour today and choose the wineries that you would like to visit. We will create a custom itinerary based on your preference and tastes that are guaranteed to please all the guests!

Our Napa Valley tour can begin once we pick you up from a hotel. Some vehicles will be provided complimentary champagne as they relax in the plush seats and see the breathtaking view of Napa Valley. Get to know your fellow wine lovers, explore the gorgeous Napa Valley landscapes, experience world-class wines, and five-star dining with us.

Make the most of your summer by exploring the gorgeous world-famous are on one of our Napa Valley tours today!

More Information on Napa Valley tours and towns

A napa wine tour through the carneros region.

The Carneros appellation is considered the crossroads of both Napa and Sonoma Valley where the two major wine regions collide. Along with this, it is known to produce some of the finest Sonoma Valley chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wines. Also it should be noted that the climate with the bay breeze and foggy mornings make for the perfect growing region of these Sonoma varietals. In addition it is the perfect halfway area for a Napa or Sonoma wine tour if you are coming from San Francisco or anywhere in the bay area. Finally It is also home to the oldest winery in all of California. What winery is that you ask? None other than the Historic Buena Vista Winery. Founded by Agoston Haraszthy in 1857.

Wineries and convenient spots for lunch or dinner

Our Partners in the Carneros Region: Artesa Vineyards & Winery , Calmere Estate , Etude Winery , Domaine Carneros , Dominus Estate Winery , Buhman Estate Vineyards, Madonna Estate Winery and Cuvaison Estate Wines

Savory Eats close by: Farm at Carneros , Boon Fly Café and Stanly Lane Smokehouse

Hotels on Hwy 121: Carneros Resort and Spa

Artesa Winery

Located in the steep foothills of Mt. Veeder overlooking Los Carneros, the rocky soils and maritime climate of our Estate Vineyard produce world-class pinot noir and chardonnay. Learn More and visit Artesa winery

Staying in downtown Napa and want to take a Napa Valley Wine Tour?

Napa is the largest of Napa Valley’s six towns. Apart from this it is conveniently located just about an hour north of the San Francisco Bay Area and an hour South of Sacramento. It undoubtedly offers an array of hotel options, art galleries, boutique shops, tasting rooms and exquisite restaurants it caters to all generations.

Note-worthy Napa Wine Tours: Darioush , Domaine Carneros , Calmere , Jarvis , Silverado and Chimney Rock

Savory Eats: Morimoto , Angele , Celadon , Cole’s , Bistro Don Giovanni , Ristorante Allegria and Torc

Accommodations: The Westin Verasa Napa , The Archer Hotel Napa , The Andaz , The Embassy Suites , The Napa Valley Marriott , Hilton Garden Inn

If you’re touring Napa Valley, you will more then likely drive through Yountville

Without a doubt the town of Yountville is among the most charming little Napa Valley regions you will come across. Known for its Michelin starred restaurants, award winning Napa Valley tasting rooms and luxurious accommodations. Talk about being transported right into your very own hallmark movie.

Note-worthy Yountville Wine Tours: Domaine Chandon , Bell Wines , Robert Sinskey , Stags’ Leap Winery and Cliff Lede Vineyards

Savory Eats: Bottega, Mustards Grill, The French Laundry , ad hoc + addendum , Brix , Bouchon and R+D Kitchen

Accommodations: Hotel Villagio , Bardessono , Northblock and Napa Valley Railway Inn

Popular stops on a Napa Valley Wine Tour in Oakville, Ca

Right off Napa Valley’s Highway 29 is the small town of Oakville. How small you may say? Well if you blink you quite possibly could miss it. Furthermore, that does not mean that its bold Napa Valley wines do not pack a punch. Whereas you will find the flagship Oakville Grocery deli known throughout the Napa Valley for its delicious picnic spreads. It acts as the perfect wine tour lunch stop for all locals and visitors alike.

Note-worthy Rutherford Wine Tours: Pestoni Family Estate Winery, Grgich Hills, Honig Vineyard & Winery, Mumm Napa, Fleury Estate winery, Alpha Omega Winery, and Frog’s Leap Winery

Savory Eats: Rutherford Grill, and Bistro at Auberge du Soliel

Accommodations: Auberge du Soliel, Maison Fleurie, and Rancho Caymus

Rutherford, Napa Valley

Refined with a touch of rustic Napa Valley, Rutherford will not disappoint. This area was once a riverbed and known for its unique soil. Producing some of the best Napa Valley Cabernet with an element of spice known at the “Rutherford Dust”. Also, home to the iconic Napa staple Rutherford Grill because what is better than comfort food paired with award winning Napa Valley Wines?

St Helena Wineries, Restaurants and Accommodations

As you venture further north to the town of St. Helena you will be greeted with even more small-town culture. St. Helena is in the center of the worlds famous vineyards of the Napa Valley. Clearly perfect for those with a love of the outdoors and Napa Valley viticulture. Want to enjoy a breath-taking picnic with epic views? Particularly our dreamy Napa Valley Wine Tours will have you falling in love all over again. St. Helena is not only the center of historic Napa Valley Wines, but also the home to some of the best views around.

Note-worthy St Helena Wine Tours: Beringer Winery , Louis Martini Winery , Charles Krug , Pride Mountain Vineyards ., Piazza Del Dotto Winery & Caves , V. Sattui , Brasswood Cellars

Savory Eats: Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch , Press , Charter Oak Restaurant , Goose and Gander , Model Bakery and Gott’s Roadside

Accommodations: Harvest Inn , Southbridge Napa Valley , Wydown Hotel , Alila Napa Valley , Meadowood Resort

Calistoga Wineries, Restaurants and Accommodations

At the peak of the Napa Valley you will find the historic town of Calistoga. With its old western charm its easy to feel like you are transported back in time. With always something new to discover the Napa Wine Tasting experiences run far and wide. From higher end exclusive Napa Wineries to smaller family owned boutique estates there are a plethora of wineries to choose from for your Napa Valley Tour.

Note-worthy Calistoga Wine Tours: Castello di Amorosa , Tamber Bey Vineyards , Schramsberg Vineyards and Chateau Montelena Vineyards

Savory Eats: Sam’s Social Club , Solbar , Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery , and Buster’s Southern BBQ

Accommodations: Solage Auberge Resorts , Indian Springs Calistoga , and Four Seasons

$15 shipping on any order of $199+

Club members enjoy $5 standard shipping, visit the château.

We welcome you to join us! Our expansive outdoor terrace provides an idyllic setting for your wine tasting experience. To provide a safe experience for everyone, all visitors must be 21 or older - infants and children are not permitted at the winery. Please note that all animals on property must be trained and certified service animals, not pets. Thank you for your cooperation.

Contactless curbside pickup remains available; please place your order one hour in advance of arrival at 1-800-716-2788 x 100 or online.

Gallery Content

• A couple enjoying sparkling wine and caviar

A visit to Domaine Carneros is a memorable feast for eyes and palate. Sip a flight of sparkling wine or indulge in one of our elevated experiences.

From your table overlooking the scenic rolling hills of Carneros, enjoy a flight of Sparkling or Still wine. All tastings are seated and led by an experienced wine professional. From charcuterie and cheese to world-class caviar, we also invite you to enhance your experience with a curated food-and-wine pairing.

Reservations are required and are available daily beginning at 10:00am with the last reservation at 5:00pm. Please make reservations using the Book Now button below or by calling us 1-800-716-2788 x 150. Our online reservation system is the best source of information on current availability; we do not maintain a waitlist.

Beginning 2/1, all guests with reservations Monday through Friday will be seated in our wine club area while we spruce up our kitchen in the chateau. When you arrive, please proceed around the winery on the North side and follow the signs to the tented club terrace and check in for your tasting. Weekend reservations will not be affected.

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Daily Toast

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Dave's Napa Valley Wine Tours

[email protected]  |  323-761-0255.

1,000+ Napa Wineries & Producers Personally Visited & Reviewed

Thank you for stopping by and for your interest in my Napa Valley wine tours!

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I have *an extremely unique point of view into the Napa Valley from a winery perspective*, as I have personally visited, tasted with and written more than 1,090 commercial wine producers (wineries, physical or virtual) in Napa over the past 15+ years - CLICK HERE . As a result I have a plethora of resources to draw from in regards to customizing any tour to the Napa Valley.

All tours are private for your party.

A typical tour will last between 6-9 hours; the day is yours, tours can be shortened or increased as needed.

If you are a collector and are interested in purchasing wines for your cellar, I have contacts at some of Napa's most exclusive wineries. I can also setup exclusive & memorable food + wine experiences. Lets talk.

I can setup special tours based on a number of criteria. Want the wineries with the best tours, romance or views? I know these specific wineries and can make the appointments. Advance notice of at least a week is desirable for an appointment only winery tour and more during the busy summer months (especially weekends).

Our tours are relaxed and geared to your interests. Options besides wine tasting include sightseeing (Old Faithful Geyser, Petrified Forest, diRosa Art Preserve, etc) and hiking near Mt. St. Helena. We can also tour through some of Napa's towns including Calistoga and St. Helena.

I know the Napa Valley inside and out, numerous wine makers and tasting experiences that are genuine. I enjoy guiding and providing information about this incredible place. Have your own list of wineries? I would be happy to give you comments.

Any and all levels of wine education are perfectly fine.

Multi-day tours can be arranged..

Pricing and Details

Minimum tour is $400 for 1-2 people.

1 person = $450 2 people = $450 3 people = $450 4 people = $500 5 people = $600 6 people = $700 7 people = $800 8 people = $900 9 people = $1000 10 people = $1100 11 people = $1200

For 12+ people, please inquire.

Large Groups

I can handle guiding for larger size groups and have done so for up to 100 people. I can help arrange the transportation/driver, setting up appointments and lunch. Large size vehicle fees apply - large van, mini bus or full size bus. Please inquire for details and special pricing.

Corporate Groups

I can help setup experiences (lunches, dinners, and winery visits) for corporate groups. Please inquire for details.

Transportation

Napa & Sonoma area hotel pick-ups and drop-offs included. San Francisco pick-up and drop-off (very rarely available some weekends only) is an additional $350.

A late model Subaru Outback is used. Prefer I drive your own vehicle? Let me know and I can do so.

Schedule Tour

Schedule Tour Dave is in a unique position to offer you insider tours of the Napa Valley. He has been offering tours of the region since 2006. He is in the middle of a lifelong endeavor in which he is visiting, tasting and reviewing nearly every winery in the Napa Valley. He has personally reviewed 1,000+ to date. As a result he has a very unique insiders perspective of the winery scene in the Napa Valley. Tours can be customized to your needs based on interest and personal level of wine experience. All his winery visits and reviews are available on his website here .

He also maintains a popular international travel site, Dave's Travel Corner (est. 1996).

Comments from satisfied customers:

Aaron, florida, clark brown, michele, new york, carissa mondavi, elizabeth, santa clara, california.

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Please contact Dave if you have any questions, or would like to schedule a tour: Email (for quicker response): [email protected] Call: (323) 761-0255

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Intimate. Delicious. Unforgettable.

We show our clients the REAL California Wine Country.

Andy Kiken takes you off the beaten track and behind the scenes.

Meet the winemakers. Learn about the land, the grapes, and the people. Discover wines you will never forget.

Napa Valley Boutique Wine Tours is in our 8th year in business and  I have more reviews ( I think) than any other one person wine  tour operator. With the inflation concerns, the only reason to pay more for a wine tour is you didn’t know about me or I was booked.

Hourly wine tour fees are often $800 to $1200 a day for 7 people or less. . My math tells me $500-$600 is less, but I wasn’t the best at math.

The great thing about my price is you aren’t sacrificing quality. Even the most respected wine tour companies call me when they get a client who wants a more challenging itinerary.

Most people think of a wine tour company so they don’t get a DUI. We make your day better and easier. But I’ll try to say this nicely; but I’m from New Jersey originally and we don’t sugarcoat the truth:  most peoples itineraries are basic .

Popular wineries are fine if that’s all you know; but the ones who hire me have higher expectations. My philosophy hasn’t changed. I will take you to small hidden wineries you would not find on your own. Nor would most wine tour drivers! I don’t wear a suit because my winery knowledge is that  good.

Recommended by the best hotel in the world, and the top winemaker too!

Perfect reviews on Yelp and Tripadvisor .

Flat Fee Pricing!

* Ask me about taking the ferry from San Francisco! ** Share a vehicle with other couples and small groups – great way to meet new wine-loving friends!

Learn more about our pricing here – or just give us a call at 707-337-5875!

No deposit • No hidden fees • No contracts No sneaky gratuity included!

Ways to Contact Us

• Text 707.337.5875 at any hour
• Email [email protected]
• Or fill out our Form .

No deposit • No hidden fees •  No contracts

No sneaky gratuity included, your authority in wine tours, ways to contact us.

Call or Text  707.337.5875 | Email:   [email protected] Or fill out the form below.

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Most visitors to Wine Country do not have the knowledge to create a fantastic experience.   You have to trust the best wine tour drivers like myself to handle the selection of wineries.   My knowledge of wineries is a savings  over other wine tour companies and you will have a significantly better day with my choices.

You will not find a better wine tour experience or better pricing. It’s impossible. 

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The 18 best napa valley wineries to visit in 2024.

Set your sights on these can't-miss wineries during your next visit to California's wine country.

John Merkl | Courtesy of Larkmead Vineyards

Whether you want to indulge in deep reds or sip crisp whites, these Napa Valley wineries will help you do it in style.

Courtesy of Rutherford Hill Winery |

Rutherford Hill Winery: Rutherford

Courtesy of Chateau Montelena Winery |

Chateau Montelena Winery: Calistoga

Courtesy of Clos Pegase |

Clos Pegase: Calistoga

Courtesy of Chimney Rock |

Chimney Rock: Napa

Courtesy of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars |

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars: Napa

Jim Sullivan | Courtesy of Castello di Amorosa

Castello di Amoroso: Calistoga

Courtesy of Domaine Carneros |

Domaine Carneros: Napa

Courtesy of Inglenook |

Inglenook: Rutherford

Courtesy of Del Dotto Family Wineries |

Del Dotto Estate: St. Helena

Courtesy of HALL Wines |

HALL St. Helena: St. Helena

Courtesy of Opus One Winery |

Opus One Winery: Oakville

Courtesy of Joseph Phelps Vineyards |

Joseph Phelps Vineyards: St. Helena

Courtesy of Far Niente Winery |

Far Niente: Oakville

Courtesy of Frog's Leap |

Frog's Leap: Rutherford

Bob McClenahan | Courtesy of Cliff Lede Vineyards

Cliff Lede Vineyards: Yountville

Courtesy of V. Sattui Winery |

V. Sattui Winery: St. Helena

Courtesy of Pine Ridge Vineyards |

Pine Ridge Vineyards: Napa

Robb McDonough | Courtesy of Larkmead Vineyards

Larkmead Vineyards: Calistoga

Getty Images |

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Napa Valley Wine Tours

NAPA VALLEY'S PREMIER WINE TOUR

Grapeline -- Napa Valley's premier Wine Tour -- offers an insider's view of Napa Valley Wine Country's wineries. Get ready for a fun-filled day visiting a variety of wineries, each with a character as rich and individual as the wines they produce. Grapeline offers fun, carefree, hosted private tours throughout Napa Valley Wine Country.

Are you ready for Temecula’s first Kay Syrah Signature Series Event of 2024? I'm excited to present 'Bubbles, Brunch, & Bourbon,' an exquisite journey through Temecula's renowned wine country on Sunday, May 26, 2024, with Grapeline’s Chief Winos, John and Kim Kelliher. This tour will offer an unforgettable experience, combining the elegance of sparkling wines, the delight of a gourmet brunch, and the rich warmth of bourbon at Temecula's most beloved wineries.

Our adventure begins at Carter Estate Winery and Resort , a gem in the heart of Temecula. Here, you'll indulge in their meticulously crafted sparkling wines, produced using the true champagne method, Méthode Champenoise. Carter Estate's commitment to excellence makes it the perfect starting point for our day, setting a high standard with bubbles that dance on your palate.

Next, we'll visit Masia de la Vinya Winery , where the charm of Spanish influence meets the lush landscapes of Temecula. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary delight as brunch will be masterfully prepared by Savage Chef Dylan Soro. Known for his innovative and fearless approach to flavors, Chef Soro's creations promise to be a feast for the senses, perfectly paired with Masia's exquisite wines.

Our final stop takes us to Oak Mountain Winery , where we'll embrace the bold spirit of bourbon. In April 2024, Oak Mountain will begin offering distillery tours, and our visit will be among the first to experience their tour. Nestled within either their unique cave setting or speakeasy, this experience will provide a hearty conclusion to our day, surrounded by the expertise and passion that Oak Mountain pours into every bottle.

'Bubbles, Brunch, & Bourbon' is not just a wine tour; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty, flavors, and hospitality that make Temecula Wine Country unforgettable. Join us for a day of exploration, enjoyment, and exquisite tastes. BOOK your spot now for a journey filled with the best that Temecula has to offer. Cheers to an experience that will linger in your memories and on your palate long after the day is done.

~ Kay Syrah

Wine Country Guru Gal

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Napa Valley Wine Tasting

Wine tasting room hours.

Enjoy our unique lounge and garden patio setting with wine and food pairing flights.

Thurs – Sat 10am-7pm Sun – Mon 10am-5pm

3 Executive Way, Napa, CA 94558 707-259-9446

Memorable Wine Tasting Experience

We’re making wine enjoyment more universal and a whole lot more fun. We think rules were made to be broken, so at RD Winery, we focus less on etiquette and more on making your visit memorable.

Our tasting room features comfortable lounge seating and a garden-side patio. Stop in for a quick taste, or plan to stay a while. Groups welcome with reservation.

Wine Tasting Menu

Asian Inspired Wine and Food Pairing Menu

Friday through Sunday

Asian cuisine meets Napa wine in our experiential Fifth Moon Food & Wine Pairing Experience. The seasonal menu, created by Chef Max Ackerman of Sushi Monkey is available Friday-Sunday. Please order in advance on Tock or give us a call.

Food & Wine Pairing Menu

Experience Our Wine Tasting with Food Pairings

Indulge in Wine Tasting with Chocolate Pairings

Thursday through Monday

We’ve partnered with San Francisco-based chocolatier Socola for a decadent wine and chocolate tasting experience. Socola’s handcrafted artisanal chocolate truffles are inspired by the diverse flavors of Vietnam. Please reserve your seat in advance on Tock or give us a call .

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Take a Winery Tour & Tasting

Friday through Sunday at 12pm

There’s something so satisfying about seeing where a product is made. Here’s your chance to see inside our state-of-the-art winery and learn how we make our versatile wines. No winery tour would be complete without a wine tasting. Sample a flight of 5 current releases at the end of your tour.

Touring the winery

Thursday through Sunday at 12pm

Our Napa Valley Event Space

Plan the ultimate wine experience, tailored to your vision, for a private group tasting or inspired corporate event. Our intimate, yet spacious, private tasting room and art gallery can accommodate an array of seating configurations and is equipped with AV capabilities. Enjoy a dedicated bar and service from our gracious hospitality team. We look forward to creating something special for you.

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A first-timer's guide to Napa Valley

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Get to know Napa Valley with our first-timer's guide © Cassiohabib / Shutterstock

Napa Valley is synonymous with luxury. Posh hotels, chef-driven restaurants and extravagant tasting fees cemented that reputation decades ago.

But at its core, Napa is farm country— a place where people dig in the dirt and make a living from the land. Despite all odds, this gives Napa a grounded feeling, even in its swankiest spaces. At the end of the day, visitors come to Napa Valley because they love food, wine and beautiful scenery. It’s a passion shared by the community of this incredible locale. 

The five towns of Napa Valley (St Helena, Yountville, the city of Napa , Calistoga  and American Canyon) are home to 16 wine appellations and more than 400 wineries. The options can be daunting to first-time visitors but we’re here to help. From mud baths in Calistoga to tips for visiting wineries, our first-timer’s guide to Napa Valley will give you everything you need to know to plan a trip here, including the best hotels, wineries, restaurants and activities.

When is the best time to visit Napa? 

It’s always a good time to visit Napa in our book, however, the timing of your trip will impact your experience. Peak tourist season is in summer when the average high temperature is 82°F. If you plan to visit this time of year, you’re unlikely to find any bargains. Make your reservations for lodging, restaurants and wineries as far in advance as you can.

Spring and fall are the next busiest times of the year. Spring brings average high temperatures of 68°F while in fall, high temperatures average 78°F. The lower, but still pleasant, temps are especially appealing for visitors who plan to hike, bike or engage in other outdoor activities. 

Winter temperatures reach an average high of 60°F. This season gets the most rain (although this is California so there will still be plenty of dry, beautiful days). Since winter is the least crowded, it is the most affordable time to visit Napa with many hotels, resorts and spas advertising special packages and discounts off their regular rates.

How much time should I spend in Napa? 

Set aside three to four days for your Napa Valley itinerary. This allows enough time to visit your top wineries and restaurants, plus time for other activities like spa treatments, hiking, lounging by the pool or riding the wine train.

What are the top things to do in Napa Valley? 

Most people come to Napa to visit wineries – more on that later – but don’t overlook Napa’s exceptional culinary, wellness and recreation opportunities.

You can get filthy (in the best possible way) at the north end of the county in Calistoga. Calistoga is recognized around the world for mud made with a mixture of mineral-packed volcanic soil and water drawn from local hot springs. The two most common treatments involve painting it on your body or soaking in a tub of warm, nurturing mud. At least seven spas offer Calistoga mud experiences including the luxurious Spa Talisa at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the do-it-yourself mud bar at MoonAcre Spa and Baths . 

Calistoga is also home to two of Napa Valley’s most unique natural attractions. The Old Faithful Geyser is a smaller, but still impressive version of Yellowstone’s most famous jet spout . In Calistoga, Old Faithful shoots hot water 30–80ft towards the sky every 10 to 20 minutes. Just outside of Calistoga at the Napa/Sonoma border, a three million-year-old petrified forest with 1.5 miles of hiking trails provides a fascinating glimpse at geological history. 

No trip to the valley would be complete without a trip to downtown Napa’s Oxbow Public Market ,  a 40,000-sq-ft marketplace packed with locally sourced culinary delights. From California-grown olive oil at the Olive Press to artisan cheeses at the Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant , this is the place to stock up for a picnic or edible souvenirs. You’ll also find a bookstore, distillery, bakeries and restaurants. After you’ve finished browsing, find a seat on the riverfront deck out back to sample fresh oysters on the half shell from Hog Island Oyster Bar .  

With menus centered around locally-grown ingredients, Napa is almost as famous for fine dining as it is for wine. Food this fresh is revelatory. A dish, such as fermented soy dip served with raw vegetables pulled from the ground at the Charter Oak , will ruin you forever for grocery store veggies. Other bucket-list dining experiences include the six-course prix-fixe chef’s tasting menu at La Toque , the daily tasting menu at the French Laundry , and Kenzo Napa , where seafood is flown in daily from the finest fish market in Japan. Please note that reservations at these restaurants are coveted, and should be made as far as possible in advance. 

Don’t let these vaunted names fool you into thinking you need to spend a fortune to get a good meal in Napa. The valley is filled with scores of reasonably-priced restaurants including Heritage Eats in Napa where you can feast on comfort foods like a smoked ham bowl or white cheddar mac and cheese for less than $15 a person. For tasting menus, Thomas Keller’s ad hoc offers a daily tasting menu currently priced at $56 a person for lunch or $69 a person at dinner. The  Gate House Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America offers three courses prepared by student chefs for $35 at lunch or four courses for $45 at dinner (please note that restaurant prices are always subject to change). 

For nightlife, the Blue Note Napa Jazz Club hosts an exciting mix of live performances ranging from household names to rising stars and tribute bands. It also holds the Summer Sessions outdoor concert series and the Black Radio Experience at the Meritage Resort and Spa . If you’re on the hunt for a good dive bar, Ana’s Cantina in downtown St Helena is the place for a game of pool, tunes from the jukebox and a stiff drink.

Other top activities in Napa Valley include hiking or biking the 12.5-mile  Napa Valley Vine Trail , which will eventually extend 47 miles from Vallejo to Calistoga.

Tips for visiting wineries in Napa 

Gone are the days when you can walk into virtually any Napa Valley winery and ask for a tasting without an appointment (or even a fee). Although there are a few wineries like Hall Wines in St Helena, where walk-ins are welcome, reservations are required at most wineries in Napa Valley. This helps ensure the wineries have adequate time to guide you through your tasting. From the guest's perspective, appointments are helpful when it comes to budgeting, arranging transportation and planning your Napa itinerary.

The average wine tasting fee in Napa Valley is $40 per person but it isn’t unusual for prices to climb to $200 or even more. Most wineries have a menu of tasting options, with standard tastings at the low end and premium experiences with food pairings, library wines, or guided tours commanding a higher price. Please note that the tip is not included in the tasting price so it will need to be factored into your budget. 

Expect to spend at least 90 minutes at each winery (often longer for premium experiences). For this reason, it’s best to stick to no more than two or three tasting room visits a day. We recommend clustering each day’s reservations in the same area so you won’t have to rush between wineries. For instance, in the Stag’s Leap District, Cliff Lede Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards are only a mile apart. Cliff Lede’s Backstage Lounge Tasting Room Experience offers an elevated tasting with premium wines in a room filled with rotating art and rare rock memorabilia. At Baldacci, the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience includes a cave tour and barrel tasting followed by a seated tasting paired with seasonal appetizers. 

In the Rutherford area, Sullivan Winery is only half a mile from the Prisoner Wine Company . At Sullivan, the Merlot Mastery Tasting starts with a tour of the gardens and grounds before moving on to a seated tasting with two flights of its prized merlot accompanied by light bites. At Prisoner, you’ll find many culinary pairings including the Wine and Dim Sum Experience. 

Attire is wine country casual. A pair of nice jeans, golf shirts, sundresses or casual blouses are the norm in Napa Valley. Do wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk through the vineyards or participate in a tour.

Expert tip: The Covet Pass offers complimentary tastings at seven Napa wineries and seven Sonoma wineries, plus additional discounts for a one-time fee of $150. 

How to get around in Napa without a car

Napa Valley is 30 miles long and stretches at most 5 miles wide. In this sense, Napa is small and easy to navigate, but driving can be tricky in a destination centered around wine. Luckily, if you don’t have a designated driver there are several ways to get around Napa without a car. 

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers several tasting journeys including a 36-mile roundtrip through gorgeous scenery to disembark for seated tastings at Charles Krug Winery and V. Sattui Winery . A four-course lunch is served onboard. You can also hitch a ride to three tasting rooms in an open-air San Francisco cable car on the Napa Valley Wine Trolley . 

Many tour operators provide transportation to Napa wineries. Several, like Napa Valley Wine Country Tours , offer a choice between public group tours, which are less expensive, or private tours with a customized itinerary. 

If you prefer to get around by foot, base yourself in the cities of Napa or Yountville. Napa has more than 50 downtown tasting rooms and there are 14 walkable tasting rooms in downtown Yountville. 

Where to stay

If there was ever a place to treat yourself to a nice hotel, it’s Napa Valley. The region is home to some of the best hotels in the country, with grounds and accommodations so astonishingly beautiful you might not want to leave to go wine tasting (but definitely leave to go wine tasting). If you’re in the position to splurge our top picks are: 

The Poetry Inn is an exclusive property with only five guest rooms and a small, on-site spa. The all-suite hotel is the epitome of privacy and luxury with huge guest rooms featuring private sitting areas, outdoor patios, and indoor and outdoor showers with stunning hillside or vineyard views. A gourmet multicourse breakfast is included with each stay. Poetry Inn is the only hotel in the Stag Leap district. 

Meadowood Napa Valley in St Helena is set on a magnificent 250-acre estate with mature, oaks and native plants surrounding 36 suites and guest rooms with soaking tubs and private outdoor sitting areas. Hiking trails, tennis courts, swimming pools, a Wine Center and a tranquil spa ensure you’ll never lack activities during your stay. 

Carneros Resort and Spa offers standalone cottages and homes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards in Napa. Amenities include a luxurious onsite spa, two swimming pools, pickle ball courts with an adjacent Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar and Lounge, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and access to Cadillac Luxury Vehicles during your stay. 

If a mid-range hotel is better suited for your budget we recommend the Meritage Resort and Spa or Silverado Resort . The Meritage offers perks like a complimentary shuttle service to downtown Napa and a verdant lawn surrounded by tasting rooms and an upscale market. At the Silverado Resort, amenities include golf courses, bocce ball courts, a pool and a fitness center.

The most affordable lodging options in Napa Valley are generally found in American Canyon, which offers several reliable, reasonably-priced chains such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley American Canyon and Holiday Inn Express and Suites Napa Valley American Canyon .

My favorite thing to do in Napa 

When I come to Napa I love to take a class to enhance my appreciation of food and wine or learn a fun, new skill. I’ve never been anywhere else where classes are so varied and accessible, so I take advantage whenever I can. Often, these classes are offered directly through my hotel. The Wine Center at Meadowood Napa Valley runs classes ranging from introductory tutorials on Napa wine to advanced courses on subjects like the history of the wine label. Carneros Resort and Spa has a dazzling array of daily classes focusing on everything from sabering champagne bottles to pickleball. 

The Culinary Institute of America is my hands-down choice for cooking classes with options for group or private instruction. I’ve also found classes offered at Napa Valley wineries. Bouchaine Vineyards regularly hosts an exciting roster of sessions on topics like pairing wine and cheese, blending wine and even falconry. 

How much do you need to budget for a trip to Napa?

The amount you’ll need to spend on a trip to Napa is highly variable depending on your itinerary and even the season you choose to visit. Although it is generally considered a luxury destination, you can still plan an affordable trip to Napa with the tips and tricks in this first-timer’s guide. The numbers below are not definitive but will provide a general idea of how much it costs for budget-conscious, midrange, and luxury travelers to visit Napa.

• Hotel room for two: $100–1200 a night 
• Rental home/Airbnb for two: $200–1000 a night 
• Wine tasting fees: $25–250 per person at each winery (not including tip) 
• Lunch for two: $30–100 per person
• Dinner for two: $100–300 per person (or more)
• Glass of wine: $13–50 
• Bottle of wine: $108 average
• Group shuttle to wineries: $125 per person
• Private transportation to wineries: $600 (and up) 
• Spa treatment: $100–400 per person (and up)

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San Francisco Luxury SUV Wine Tours To Discover Napa Valley In Style Announced

Elite San Francisco limo and shuttle company Limo SF VIP (888-888-0195) announces exclusive Napa Valley wine tours by luxury SUV.

South San Francisco, United States - April 12, 2024 /PressCable/ —

The newly announced service will give tourists and California residents alike the opportunity to discover Napa Valley’s wine country in comfort and elevated style. A full-service limo and shuttle company, Limo SF VIP is home to a fleet of luxury vehicles that include Cadillac, Lincoln, and GMC SUVs, each of which is air conditioned and can accommodate up to five passengers.

More information is available at https://limosfvip.com

While Napa Valley is one of the most recognized wine regions in the world, it is also one of the smallest, making it an ideal day trip destination. As it is approximately 70 miles from San Francisco’s International Airport, visitors flying in from elsewhere can book a spacious, high-end SUV through Limo SF VIP for direct travel throughout the region with their luggage safely secured and without worrying about navigating unfamiliar routes.

“We specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences through our bespoke Napa Valley wine tours available to groups of all sizes,” says a spokesperson for the company. “Our fleet is as diverse as the Napa Valley vineyards, offering spacious and luxurious travel provided by highly trained and experienced chauffeurs.”

Individual Limo SF VIP wine tour itineraries are tailored to client specifications and can include extra amenities, preferred estates and tasting rooms, and additional stops along the way to include local boutiques, galleries, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The company’s professional chauffeurs are well-versed in the region’s wineries and points of interest and strive to provide a travel service greater than the sum of its parts. Guests are treated to an experience rather than simply a visit which, associates say, is what differentiates a wine tour by luxury SUV from one by rental car.

In addition to Napa Valley wine tours, Limo SF VIP offers luxury airport transfers, executive transportation, and premium vehicles for special events, corporate events, sporting events, and weddings.

The company’s fleet includes BMW and Mercedes sedans, luxury SUVs, executive Mercedes Sprinter vans, mini coaches, and motorcoaches.

A recent client says, “We had a great experience with Limo SF VIP. Their concierge service was professional, our Sprinter van was clean and perfect for our trip to Napa, and our driver was professional, prepared, and very kind.”

Learn more at https://limosfvip.com

Contact Info: Name: Denis Kreker Email: Send Email Organization: Limo SF VIP Address: PO BOX 242 South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA 94083, United States Website: https://limosfvip.com/

Release ID: 89127017

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Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., a black girl’s guide to napa valley.

Napa Valley has been an opulent bucket-list destination for many years. Also known as Wine Country, the valley is roughly an hour outside of San Francisco and Sacramento, and is a popular destination for unlimited wine tasting from some of the best vineyards and vintners across the globe. It’s the prime destination for girls trips, engagements, as well as quick weekend getaways. 

As wine tourism is a large economic driver for the area, in recent years, the wine country is attempting a demographic shift, wanting to skew much younger, expand their nationwide reach, and diversify their offerings to bring more people to the valley. “Many people make Napa Valley a bucket-list destination, and we really want to change that,” says Jenny Toomer, the General Manager of River Terrace Inn. 

Some may find the price point of a trip to Napa to be a deterrent, but it’s more affordable than many would presume. However, the rather glaring reality is that more than anything, Black women should experience the luxe Cali destination.  A visitor report on Napa found that Black people make up only 2.7 percent of the annual visitors to the wine country – and the presence of that statistic was felt. However, Napa Valley is both attainable and approachable for Black women in particular. 

Today, Napa Valley embraces the opportunity to welcome fresh visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the myriad delights the wine country has. To close the widened gap of Black people visiting Napa, we’ve compiled a Black girl’s guide to the region, to help navigate where to eat, play, and stay. 

Napa Valley Wine Train

One of the premiere offerings in Napa is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which provides both a picturesque view of the wine country, while also helping break down the stigma and pretentiousness that wine varietals are associated with. 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Napa, the Wine Train stands as the epitome of wine country’s most unforgettable culinary journey, invoking the timeless allure of luxury rail travel through its newly restored rail cars. The inaugural clean energy locomotive of the Napa Valley Wine Train, affectionately named the “1864” in homage to the rail line’s inception year, heralds a new era of sustainable travel. Boasting a cutting-edge, American-made EPA Tier-4-compliant engine crafted by Rolls-Royce and orchestrated by the esteemed Knoxville Locomotive Works, the “1864” symbolizes the train’s commitment to the environment and innovation.

Experiences

On the Wine Train, there’s a multitude of experiences to choose from. I took both the Legacy Experience and the Vista Dome experience. The best part of the wine train is that you’re joined by seasoned sommeliers who can recommend the best wine pairings for your meal, as well as suggestions on wine flights including selections from Far Niente, Opus One, and Beaulieu Vineyard’s Georges de Latour Private Reserve. 

Legacy Experience

Sign up for the Legacy experience if you’re more adventurous – starting in the morning, the train makes stops in St. Helena for two seated tastings at some of the most popular wineries in the area, including seated tastings at the iconic Charles Krug and V. Sattui , as well as a stop at the popular ‘Welcome to Napa Valley’ sign. At Charles Krug you’ll be whisked away into a winery that was modeled after Tuscan architecture with tastes of great California wines and scenic views of the countryside that make you question if you’re actually in Napa Valley. Here you’ll get tastes of their 2023 limited release rosé, 2019 family reserve generations as well as their 2019 limited release malbec. With fruits strong in the region, each wine has notes of different berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and even boysenberries.

At V. Sattui, you also get some of those same gorgeous views, however here, you’re met with even more approachability – you’ll see fellow Napa Valley visitors casually sitting outside enjoying a glass of wine and the beautiful weather. The seated tasting includes three of their best wines, a 2022 Los Carneros Chardonnay, 2021 School House Zinfandel, and a 2019 Vittorio’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. As an added bonus, Sattui saves the best for last, and allows guests to get a taste of their Madeira, a Solera-made, wood-aged wine, fortified with brandy. Strong yet sweet, the dessert-wine has flavors of caramel, toffee, and orange zest. Outside of just purchasing one of your favorite wines at Sattui, the winery is complete with its own market filled with artisan cheeses, meats, breads, and chocolates (just in case you are looking to take some back home). 

Pro-tip: Come hydrated and prepared to drink. The Legacy experience offers a three course meal and dessert, but to make it throughout the day, you’ll need a healthy balance of food and water to conquer the day.

Vista Dome Experience

Take the Vista Dome lunch experience if you’re looking to have the awe-inspiring views of the wine country without ever leaving the rail car. Here is where you can indulge a little bit more and really get into the wine. Add the Vista Dome experience to your itinerary if you’re not looking to pack your day, but still get to enjoy some of the wine country’s best. The experience begins a little later in the day, so you have ample time to embrace slowness before tackling another boozy afternoon. 

The plus to this experience is that the newly renovated rail car makes for the best photo shoot with your girlfriends. There’s multiple photo-worthy areas that best capture the beauty of Napa Valley on this train. 

Similar to the Legacy experience, Vista Dome also includes a three course meal with dessert, and you have downtime to socialize with friends before you disembark at the train station. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll be celebrating alongside other guests who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or even engagements–even more reason to say cheers.

Pro-tip: Vista Dome is where you should dress to impress. More laid back than the legacy experience, you’ll get to eat, drink and be merry, and also pose for the camera.

If you’re a morning person, a hot air balloon ride through Napa Valley is an absolute must to add to your itinerary. You’ll be up as early as 5 AM in the morning, but the lack of sleep will be well worth it when you take in a breathtaking view of the rolling hills wine country. You’ll pass over the coastline fields of crops, see animals grazing plus the gorgeous mountains that overlook the valley. You’ll spend roughly an hour in the air, and get in-depth insights from your tour guide who will give you the inside scoop on all the crops being grown in the area, plus the experiments and happenings on different fields that look over the Napa. 

Pro-tip: Dress warmly, as all hot air balloons take flight early in the morning.

Where To Stay

If you want to stay close to the different experiences Napa has to offer, the River Terrace Inn is your best bet. A Noble House property, the hotel is a sister estate to the Wine Train, so it makes sense that the two are across the street from one another. The quaint property has stunning views of the valley from anywhere in the hotel, so even when you’re not out and about exploring, you still get to take in the beauty of the valley. If you’re looking to take part in some of the activities Napa has to offer, the inn is at the nexus of tourism. It’s at the train station where you can sign up for train experiences, hot air balloon rides and more.

Inside the hotel are gorgeous hotel suites that just feel like they were intentionally curated for and by women. Spacious rooms include vanity mirrors, televisions where you can use Chromecast to watch your favorite shows, bathroom mirrors that connect to bluetooth and a separate vanity mirror to prep for a day full of wine tasting. 

Eat & Drink

You would think that after dining on the wine train, you would be all wined out–but there’s still so much more to the wine country. Vineyards are just one facet to Napa. There are also collectives that provide tastings for wines that you won’t get on the wine train, like the wines at the Vintner’s Collective, which is a quaint tasting room that maintains the integrity of the original building–a converted brothel. Inside, you find a select group of small, family-owned Napa wineries. While many other tasting rooms will offer some of their most popular wines to offer, Vintner’s is a great boutique place to zero in one of your favorite varieties. It’s great for a crash course in wine, and you can take your skills back to your hometown, when it comes to tasting, analyzing, and pairing wines. 

For a casual dinner, Kitchen Door is just a stones throw away from Vintners Collective, and a certainly walkable dining spot. If you’re planning out your girls trip, Kitchen Door is a must stop after a day of wine tasting. It’s great to soak up all the delicious wine, and the tasty shareable apps such as the garlic cheesy bread, teriyaki wings, and deviled eggs. The menu is mixed with a variety of cuisine, where you can find delicious Italian offerings as well as pad Thai and Korean barbecue. You’ll certainly leave happily stuffed.

As a Black girl in Napa, you can’t visit Napa without paying a visit to some of the Black-owned stalwarts that are making waves in the vino industry. We recommend Vin En Noir, which features minority owned, and women owned winemakers. Expect snacks to pair with your wine like charcuterie and popcorn. Moreover, their selection of rosé is unparalleled. 

If you’re looking to break away from the wine a bit and opt for cocktails instead, Wine Girl Napa Valley is where you’ll get the girly Instagram aesthetic you’re looking for, plus the boozy Sunday Funday brunch vibe all under one roof.

Wander Like A Local

The heart of Napa’s infrastructure is built like an old town, with family run restaurants and buildings that have stood the test of time, which adds to the character of the wine destination. When you’re not tasting the country’s best wines, you can peruse through the town, it’s where I stumbled upon Oxbow Public Market , a food hall that has a variety of goods from Jewish cuisine to fresh preserve and honey for your next charcuterie board, a bookstore (and so many more treasures). A lover of books, I stumbled on a small haven with everything from science fiction, to encyclopedias of Banksy, and even autobiographical works on artists like Tupac. 

At Oxbow, I also found Model Bakery, a local spot beloved by locals and visitors alike. Based on the number of people devouring their baked goods from outside the shop, it’s a safe bet for breakfast. I tried the chocolate croissant, and the bakery truly lives up to the hype.

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Uncover Mexico's Affordable Wine Escape: The Napa Valley of Mexico

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While some travelers fight for space on Cancun beaches or are jam-packed like sardines on a Mexico City subway, there is one region of Mexico with wide open spaces calling your name.

A cold cerveza or Tajin -rimmed margarita always hits the spot on a Mexican vacation , but wine sets the mood for an idyllic getaway.

Easier to reach than ever before, the vast, beautiful area of Baja California, deemed the ‘Napa Valley of Mexico,' is full of surprises.

Stretching from the border town of Tecate to the coastal town of Ensenada, Valle de Guadalupe is an underrated destination that should be far more mainstream than a local's favorite day trip.

Don't Dismiss This Border Town

Do any destinations have a worse reputation than border towns?

Often pre-judged as dirty, rundown, and unsafe, travelers tend to skip any city backed up against U.S. borders.

Of course, more and more television shows like Contraband showcasing their findings from smugglers certainly don't help.

Tecate just fits the mold here. It's not Juarez or Nueva Laredo. Quite the contrary, actually. This charming town should be viewed as the gateway into Mexico's wine country, although ironically, it's the headquarters for one of Mexico's most popular beer brands.

You guessed it – Tecate!

This blip on the map is easier to reach than ever. While you can certainly fly into San Diego and drive the 55 minutes through gorgeous landscapes to the border, the first-ever American Airlines flight to Tijuana has launched as well.

Plus, there's a fun newly opened train taking tourists from Tijuana to Tecate. While this safe, small town shouldn't highlight your trip to wine country, a stay at Baja's best-kept secret, the 4-star Santuario Diegueño, is the perfect place to recharge without the crowds.

Pay a visit to the festive Hidalgo Park, tour the massive Tecate brewery and get a free beer, or stop in classic dive bars like the decades-old Bar Diana for a sense of real Mexico without all the shiny allurement.

Venture Into Mexico's Wine Country

While you would certainly be missing out, you don't have to travel to Tecate to make your way into wine country.

There are multiple Valle de Guadalupe tours from San Diego to put all the border-crossing hassle into a professional's hands.

Although Tecate is so chill and welcoming, sometimes they don't even bother checking your passport! Of course, not every border agent takes the Olive Garden approach of ‘when you're here, you're family.

To play it safe, it's best to hire a verified tour guide, from which there are multiple options.

But unlike Tijuana's sketchy reputation, this side of Baja is widely considered safe, so travelers shouldn't hesitate to come on their own.

The Ruta de Vina is easy to follow and passes through gorgeous scenery with vineyards, resorts, and upscale Airbnbs for a comfortable stay.

The wide open spaces are a far cry from where everyone else seems to be visiting in Mexico, making for the ultimate place to reset and enjoy the finer things in life.

From the small town charm of Tecate to the end of the wine route, Ensenada, there are highly rated vineyards to enjoy, but many have Monte Xanic at the top of their list, although Xecue Vinicola is a TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice winner.

Level Up Your Stay This May

Mexico's ‘Napa' has some incredible stays, from stargazing domes to spacious, pet-friendly stays.

Come May, your stay can be even better at the new Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe set to open May 1st with online bookings available now.

Home to 30 incredible villas, now may be the best time to book as promotional offers include breakfast and wine tastings for two.

These sleek new digs will also have a world-class spa on-site for the ultimate relaxing trip as if you aren't already living your best life winery-hopping around some of Mexico's most underrated scenery.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Uncover Mexico’s Affordable Wine Escape: The Napa Valley of Mexico appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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The 9 Best Chardonnays to Drink Right Now, From Napa to Burgundy

Wines so good, even chardonnay haters will enjoy them., mike desimone and jeff jenssen, mike desimone and jeff jenssen's most recent stories, the ultimate guide to pairing wine with spicy food, here’s what goes into making jay-z’s $1,200 champagne, the 3 most exciting places to drink wine in istanbul.

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We know there’s a lot of people out there that don’t like or won’t drink Chardonnay . There’s even a group of people who subscribe to the ABC mantra— anything but Chardonnay —but we’re here to tell you that if you’re staying away from Chardonnay for whatever reason, you’re definitely missing one of winemaking’s best varieties.

We’ll start by saying that Chardonnay is a fairly neutral grape, in fact, almost a blank canvas that is easily manipulated by the winemaker’s hand. Of course, like all grapes, it is affected by the soil it is grown in as well as the weather, but the stylistic preference of the winemaker can determine if the wine in your glass is light and citrusy with bright acidity or bold and buttery with notes of spice and toast. We recognize that our ABC friends might not like the over oaked, buttery Chardonnay that flooded the market a few years back, but we want you to know that winemakers have listened and are making lighter wines, with less oak, and in many cases with no oak.

We have traveled the world, tasted thousands of 100 percent Chardonnay wines, and can tell you that these nine wines will change any negative opinions you might have. We also know that we’re preaching to the Chardonnay loving choir as well. For those of you who fall into that category, we guarantee our picks will make you think you’ve died and gone to heaven.

Our Best Chardonnay Picks

Best overall chardonnay: joseph drouhin 2022 beaune clos des mouches premier cru burgundy france, best napa valley chardonnay: alpha omega 2021 chardonnay napa valley california.

• Best Sonoma Valley Chardonnay: Chalk Hill 2021 Founder’s Block Chardonnay Sonoma California

Best Spanish Chardonnay: Familia Torres 2017 Milmanda Chardonnay Conca de Barberà Spain

Best south african chardonnay: capensis 2018 chardonnay western cape south africa.

• Best Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds 2020 Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay Adelaide Hills South Australia Australia

Best New Zealand Chardonnay: Kumeu River 2022 Mate’s Vineyard Chardonnay Auckland New Zealand

• Best Croatian Chardonnay: Saints Hills 2021 Le Chiffre Chardonnay Istria Croatia 

Best Chardonnay Under $75: Three Sticks 2021 Durell Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma County California

The venerable maison of Joseph Drouhin is currently run by his four great-grandchildren who were all born in the 1960s. Working in the vineyards with their father, Robert, gave them valuable experience, not only in the business side, but also in the tradition of winemaking and grape growing. The vineyards where grapes for Beaune Clos des Mouches are grown total almost 16 acres and continue to produce this remarkable wine year after year, but we both feel the 2022 is exceptional. It has aromas of freesia, honeysuckle, Granny Smith apple, and toasted almonds. It is crisp and lively in the midpalate with flavors of lemon curd, acacia honey, mandarin orange peel, and white truffle. Drink now or over the next 12 years. 

Buy Now: $300

The winemakers at Alpha Omega chose to ferment the grapes for this stunning wine in 33 percent new French oak and then allowed the wine to undergo only partial malolactic fermentation. It was then aged for 19 months with periodic bâttonage —stirring of the lees—which gives voluptuous full-bodied sensation and generous mouthfeel. Aromas of honeysuckle, white peach, Fuji apple, and toasted barley prepare your palate for flavors of lemon curd, honeydew melon, bergamot flower, and baked Anjou pear.

Buy Now: $90

Best Sonoma Valley Chardonnay: Chalk Hill 2021 Founder’s Block Chardonnay Chalk Hill AVA Sonoma California

Grapes for this delicious Chardonnay are grown in Chalk Hill’s historic vineyards which include the Chalk Hill Clone 97 Chardonnay vines developed in 2001 in partnership with University of California, Davis. The fact that Chalk Hill is the only winery to grow this clone and wines are only made in exceptional years makes this Chardonnay truly unique. Aged in barrel for 15 months including five months of bâttonage , the wine is unfiltered and unfined and has aromas of ripe pear, brown baking spices, and lemon zest. In the midpalate flavors of bright lemon, vanilla, and baked apple are knitted together to produce rounded texture and mouth filling layers. 

Buy Now: $125

Named for the medieval Milmanda Castle that sits in the middle of the vineyards, this is without a doubt the best Spanish Chardonnay we have ever tasted. It is aged in oak barrels for less than six months and then moved to stainless steel tanks to minimize the effects of wood on the wine. The result is a wine that has a round mouth feel without the heavy effects of too much oak. It has aromas of dried Mediterranean herbs, pineapple, and white peach that transition to a creamy midpalate filled with flavors of caramelized banana, toasted brioche, and lemon curd before the zesty finish.  

Capensis is a South African project lovingly fostered by Barbara Banke, chairman and proprietor of Jackson Family Wines. She often takes a hands-on role in the development of JFW estates and together with winemaker Graham Weerts, a Cape Town native, and vineyard manager Cedrick Delport, the Capensis team makes stunning South African Western Cape Chardonnay. Grapes are sourced from five vineyards to give complexity and balance to the finished wine. It has aromas of lemon pith, toasted almond, and baked pear with great minerality upon entry leading to flavors of jasmine, toasted brioche, and white peach. Drink now through 2028.

Buy Now: $80

Best Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds 2020 Yattarna Bin 144 Chardonnay Tasmania and Adelaide Hills South Australia Australia

Penfolds started making wine in 1844 but it wasn’t until 1998 that they launched the 1995 vintage Yattarna. Roughly translated from a local indigenous dialect, Yattarna means, “little by little, gradually” and the winemaking team at Penfolds feels that each harvest gives them the opportunity to improve their delightful Chardonnay bit by bit. The 2020 vintage is made from grapes grown in Tasmania and Adelaide Hills and is pale straw colored in the glass with aromas of freesia, jasmine, pear, wet river rocks, and just a touch of smoke. It is concentrated with nice heft on the palate and has flavors of mandarin orange peel, lemon pith, and toasted almonds. Drink now through 2035. 

Buy Now: $139

Mick and Katé Brajkovich left Croatia in 1937 to emigrate to New Zealand and by 1944 they had saved enough money to purchase a plot of land in Henderson, West Auckland, near the Kumeu River. The grapes for this wine were grown in a vineyard named after their son, Maté who worked with them for years and carried on the family tradition with his own wife and children. It has enticing aromas pineapple, toasted hazelnuts, wet river rocks, and tropical fruits that transfer to flavors of caramelized banana, peach, lemon curd, and Honeycrisp apple.  

Buy Now: $85

Best Croatian Chardonnay: Saints Hills 2021 Le Chiffre Chardonnay Istria Croatia

Ernest and Ivana Tolj named each of their vineyards after their “saintly” children and subsequently named their winery Saints Hills. Grapes for this delightful Chardonnay come from their second son Saint Ante’s vineyard in Istria and the resulting wine is brilliant gold in color with aromas of freshly cut pear, Fuji apple, and lemon-lime zest. It is full bodied with flavors of buttery pie crust, vanilla, apricot, and peach. Drink now through 2031.

Buy Now: $73

This 100 percent estate-grown and -produced wine starts out in the Durell Vineyard, whose 610 contiguous acres of rocky and volcanic soils straddle the Sonoma Coast, Sonoma Valley, and Carneros AVAs. The vineyard has earned certifications with Fish Friendly Farming and the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and is well known for growing quality fruit. The 2021 vintage has aromas of chamomile tea, nectarine, and tangerine pith that transition to creamy flavors of lemon custard, mandarin, and freshly cut pineapple. It’s drinking perfectly right now, so why wait? 

Buy Now: $70

Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, also known as the World Wine Guys, are wine, spirits, food, and travel writers, educators, and hosts. They have been featured guests on the Today Show, The Martha…

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Napa Valley Wineries

Our deep roots produce world-class wine and unforgettable experiences, enjoy intimate wine tastings, expansive outdoor spaces, and behind-the-scenes private tours of wine cellars and caves. plus, 95% of our wineries are family-owned and operated, which means nearly every spot will feel like home..

When you’re ready for a taste of Napa Valley, our wineries are ready to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

With hundreds of wineries to explore, each with its own unique style, setting and history, planning your Napa Valley wine tasting excursion may seem overwhelming. But whether you are visiting just for fun or to delve into that library collection and stock the cellar, there is an experience and price point for everyone.

With wineries updating their tasting areas to create more spacious, intimate settings, capacity is limited and tastings are conducted by appointment only. Some wineries have permit restrictions that limit the number of guests that can visit each day, so it’s best to plan tasting appointments a few weeks ahead of time.

Take a look at the directory below to find the right wineries for your getaway.

#VISITNAPAVALLEY

With hundreds of wineries and miles of the valley to explore, we want you to know there's no wrong way to enjoy Napa Valley  

Can I wear jeans to a winery?

Yes! Jeans are acceptable year-round – we call it wine country casual (for women — sundresses, blouses and skirts, nice jeans, wedges, sandals, etc.; for men – golf shirts, khaki pants, nice jeans, dressier shorts, stylish sneakers, boat shoes, etc.).

A more upscale winery might call for darker denim, and be sure to dress in layers as many winery experiences take place outdoors and tours often take guests through wine caves and chilled cellar areas.

How do I taste wine?

First of all: Wine should be enjoyed , so don't overthink it – have fun and drink what you like.

If you want to taste like a professional:

• LOOK at the color and clarity
• SWIRL to release the aromas
• SNIFF to prepare your palate
• SIP and enjoy the complexities
• Spit into a "dump bucket" if you don't want to get inebriated.

What are the best Napa Valley wineries to visit?

There are more than 400 wineries open for tastings and 90 urban tasting rooms in Napa Valley — so which one is right for you? Let us help you decide which picturesque winery is your jam. Napa Valley has a wine experience for everyone who visits.

Are there any Napa Valley wineries that offer free tastings?

No, however, there are wine tasting options that are budget-friendly, and some wineries will waive tasting fees if you purchase wine during your visit.

Get Inspired

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Otherwise known as urban wineries, downtown tasting rooms offer similar wine-sampling experience as a winery, just without the...

Plan your wine tasting vacation with our Napa Valley winery map to locate wineries, view appellations, and towns

Wine Tours & Transportation

Sit back and let the professionals take care of the planning and the driving. Your options range from private tours in a town...

Find Your Winery Personality

Not sure which of these picturesque destinations is your jam? Not certain which spot is for you? Let us help – Napa Valley...

Wine Tasting Tips

In order to take advantage of your wine tasting experience, we offer you everything you need to know before visiting Napa Valley...

Wine Shipping

Want to bring some of the Napa Valley back with you? We can help you safely and easily ship your wine back home so you can enjoy...

Appellations

Learn more about the 16 distinct wine-producing regions within Napa Valley that have distinct microclimates and terrain,...

Grape Varieties

Although Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are the most widely planted, the Napa Valley holds many surprises for wine lovers...

BOOK YOUR STAY

Boutique inns.

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity

Need more travel planning tips or recommendations for your Napa Valley trip?

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