Legendary Napa Valley California Visitors Guide by magicbreezes

NAPA VALLEY – L e g e n d a r y–

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ST. HELENA

Beauty Meets Luxury

At Meadowood Napa Valley, guests will find themselves surrounded by natural beauty throughout the private, 250-acre wine country estate. Luxe, airy accommodations and gathering areas are designed to allow basking in serenity both indoors and outdoors. Wellness and recreation opportunities are plentiful, with golf, tennis, croquet, hiking, swimming, and fitness, along with the many restorative offerings of the all-suite spa. Wine and culinary experiences, central to life in Napa Valley, are a highlight of the Meadowood experience. Highly regarded for its warm and gracious personalized service, Meadowood Napa Valley has received a coveted triple Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, with five stars each for the hotel, spa, and restaurant. The Restaurant at Meadowood enjoys a Michelin three-star rating, and is renowned for its modern approach to Napa Valley cuisine and its casually elegant setting. Meadowood has played a central role in the social, cultural, economic, and philanthropic life of Napa Valley for more than 40 years. Owned and operated by H. William Harlan and E. Stanley Kroenke, the property is also a longstanding member of Relais & ChĂ˘teaux. meadowood.com

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Hillside Suite at dusk

NAPA

Country Escape

Carneros Resort and Spa is the authentic Napa Valley escape. Nestled on 28 acres surrounded by rolling vineyards, this newly revitalized resort lets guests experience stylish cottage-style accommodations and elevated amenities that reflect the area’s distinct charm. Relax in a private cottage featuring unique touches like alfresco showers and a private landscaped garden. Indulge in seasonally inspired dining at one of the resort’s three restaurants, FARM at Carneros, Boon Fly Café, and the guest-exclusive Hilltop Dining Room. Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment at the new Spa at Carneros, or lounge poolside and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside. carnerosresort.com |

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INSIDE NAPA VALLEY 5 6

Editor’s Letter Connect

FIRST LOOK: OPENING UP NAPA VALLEY 10 Welcome 12 First Look 18 Deep Roots 22 The Napa Valley Blend 44 Plan Your Getaway 52 Take it Home THE GUIDE: ESSENTIAL NAPA VALLEY 61 Where to Stay 72 Wine 101 125 Michelin Stars 140 Rise & Shine

142 144 146 148 150 155 159 163

Happiest Hour Other Sips Back to School A Day at the Museum Festive! State of Mind Kids in Wine Country Ways to Play

THE FINISH: PLAN YOUR VISIT 170 Getting Around 172 Need to Know 173 Dog Days 174 Calendar

LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; RIGHT:STOCKSY/©LUMINA

THE WINE GUIDE, P 72

Overwhelmed with Napa Valley’s wine offerings? Turn to p. 72 for our wine guide. Explore the differences between Napa Valley’s AVAs. Meet next generation winemakers. Find your wine-tasting style. Learn how grapes transition from the vine to your glass. Plus: A reference guide to the valley’s tasting rooms and wineries. Cheers!

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our contributors JESS LANDER is a Napa Valley-based writer whose work has appeared in Wine Enthusiast, Decanter, the San Francisco Chronicle, and AFAR. Local recs: Mozzarella al minuto at Tra Vigne Pizzeria; tomato soup in a puff pastry at Bistro Jeanty; then hike it off in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. f willwrite4wine CAREY SWEET has been writing about food for nearly three decades. She’s won national awards including First Place from the Society of Professional Food Journalists. Local recs: Explore the volcanic caves at Tom Eddy Winery in Calistoga; dine at Miminashi restaurant in Napa; check out the trained “grape guarding” falcons at Bouchaine Vineyards in Napa Carneros. careysweet.com MATT VILLANO is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Healdsburg … and he visits Napa Valley at least twice a week. Local recs: Hike to the top of Mount St. Helena, followed by lunch at Solbar and a chocolate peanut-butter cookie at the original Model Bakery in downtown St. Helena. whalehead.com f mattvillano DANA REBMANN writes about travel, food, drink, and anything that makes folks smile for Hemispheres, Delta Sky, AARP, HERE, and more. Local recs: Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park; the Napa Art Walk; Calistoga’s mineral springs. d drebmann f danarebmann

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MICHAEL BAUER is a freelance writer. He left the San Francisco Chronicle in 2018 after 32 years where he held several positions, including executive food and wine editor, restaurant critic, and editor-at-large. Local recs: Bistro Don Giovanni in Napa, where you’ll see winemakers enjoying Scott Warner’s soulful Wine Country Italian food. In St. Helena, Acacia House by Chris Cosentino offers a beautiful dining porch in an historic home. And in Yountville, check out RH. The simple American menu (excellent hamburger) is well done, and sitting among the sparkling chandeliers hanging between olive trees captures the magic of Napa Valley. df michaelbauer1

from the cover NAPA VALLEY – L e g e n d a r y–

Mustard blossoms fill the vineyards every winter. Get a bird’s-eye view with Napa Valley Aloft. Photography by Nat & Cody Gantz. natandcody.com f nat.cody

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VISIT NAPA VALLEY

2020 VISITOR MAGAZINE PRESIDENT & CEO Linsey Gallagher VP, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Lisa Poppen DIRECTOR, MARKETING Emily Hegarty DIRECTOR, GUEST SERVICES Sarah Wallin SENIOR MANAGER, PARTNER RELATIONS Lynn Cronin

1001 Second Street, Suite 330, Napa, CA 94559 (707) 226-5813

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Steve Mitchem steve@destinationcreativegroup.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nicole Bordges CREATIVE DIRECTOR Martha-Page Althaus

DESIGN DIRECTOR Deanne O’Connor

COPY EDITOR CUSTOM Lance Elko CONTENT EDITORS Callie Young Fromson Meghan Modafferi

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Casey Carroll DESIGNER Hazel McMillin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carey Sweet Jess Lander Michael Bauer Matt Villano Lauren Eberle Dana Rebmann CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cali Godley Nat & Cody Gantz Bob McClenahan David H. Collier Megan Reeves

NAPA

PUBLISHED BY

Pure Luxury

With a commitment to perfection and an expansive fleet, Pure Luxury is one of the most innovative companies in the transportation industry. Pure Luxury caters to every customer’s needs, combining attention to detail and the best chauffeurs in wine country so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy every moment of your journey. pureluxury.com

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TCP #12878

5710 West Gate City Boulevard, Suite 237, Greensboro, NC 27407 destinationcreativegroup.com | c f d dcg_travel Visit Napa Valley and Destination Creative Group have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions. Copyright 2020 Visit Napa Valley. Printed in USA. All rights reserved.

WELCOME Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa

TAKE A DRIVE THE TEAM AT VISIT NAPA VALLEY SHARES THEIR FAVORITE LOCAL SCENIC DRIVES. #VISITNAPAVALLEY The Carneros region. It isn’t heavily populated, so you can take in the endless rolling hills full of vineyards and wildlife. LYNN C., SENIOR MANAGER, PARTNER RELATIONS Highway 128. It’s a completely different feel compared to the valley floor. Find small-production, family-owned wineries along the way. EMILY H., DIRECTOR, MARKETING The “tunnel of trees.” Head south on Highway 29 from Calistoga to go through the “tunnel of trees” past Beringer. They’re magnificent. KELLY B., ASSOCIATE, CONCIERGE SERVICES Victorian homes. I love driving through “old town” Napa to see the beautiful Victorian homes. CINDY R., SENIOR MANAGER, GROUP SALES Sage Canyon Road. It’s fun to explore the side roads off Silverado Trail, like taking a drive to Lake Hennessey on Sage Canyon Road. ANGELA J., DIRECTOR, MEDIA RELATIONS Calistoga. Driving around the town for its definitive Western vibe. Be sure to cruise Lincoln Avenue, the city’s main street. BECKY B., DIRECTOR, TRAVEL TRADE INTERNATIONAL

Welcome to Napa Valley! WHAT WILL YOU DISCOVER?

Lake Berryessa. For a total change of scenery, head 45 minutes east of Napa Valley and drive around the lake, one of the largest bodies of fresh water in California. Even the drive out there is stunning! TERESA C., CONTROLLER Silverado Trail

DAVID H. COLLIER (2)

apa Valley is a must-see destination — and if you’re reading this, chances are you’re already in town (welcome!) or are planning a trip soon. What kind of Napa Valley experience are you seeking? We hope this magazine helps you curate the wine country trip that’s just right for you, whether this is your first visit to town or you’re a regular around here. To start, turn to p. 22 for the “Napa Valley Blend,” our low-down on the five charming towns that call the valley home. It’s worth spending time exploring each. On p. 44, “Plan Your Getaway” offers recommendations for wineries, restaurants, activities, and hotels for different tastes and budgets. And while we’re all about trip-planning, give yourself time to simply explore Napa Valley. Hop in the car and see where the road takes you. Our bet? You’ll discover a lot in those unplanned moments … enough to make you plan a return trip. Happy planning! The Visit Napa Valley team

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c d f g l #VisitNapaValley | VisitNapaValley.com/Blog TAG, WE’RE IT! Up your social game (and see where others are sipping, too) by tagging #VisitNapaValley as you explore our region.

CONNECT

Make the most of your visit before you set foot on our soil. Visit Napa Valley’s social channels and blog feature insider travel tips, itineraries, hotel profiles, packing pointers, and plenty of inspiration.

Don’t-Miss Clicks

TOP 4 INSTA-WORTHY SHOTS FOR EVERY VISITOR’S FEED

Lake Berryessa @aditi528

Sustainability Matters. Do your part. #DidYouKnow? Napa Valley has been practicing conservation and land stewardship for over 50 years. In 1968 (way, way before Instagram!) Napa Valley was designated America’s first agriculture preserve. Translation? The valley’s sweeping landscape is set aside for growing — not building. Throughout this magazine, you’ll find useful tips on how to be a sustainable traveler. Do your part to protect the region’s natural beauty, and snap a few photos to share with us while you’re at it. #VisitNapaValley

Hot Air Balloons @drink1977sparkling 6

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Fork Sculpture at CIA at Copia @camilleconsul | @emilyclayton__

Dream Mural at First Street Napa @slimyogini

BAG: CALI GODLEY

Napa Valley Welcome Sign @winesandwineries

TRY THIS! Keep reusable bags in your car for all of the purchases you’re sure to make in the valley. These bags from the Napa Valley Welcome Center are just perfect. (Bonus: they make for a great take-home souvenir, too.)

NAPA

Foodie Heaven

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) opened a culinary center at the long-unoccupied Copia building in downtown Napa in February 2017, with the mission of offering an exceptional food and wine experience for locals and visitors alike. Today, CIA at Copia is a must-see attraction in Napa. One of its biggest draws is its variety of cooking demonstrations and hands-on cooking classes. Spend half a day or a few days learning new skills in the center’s elevated teaching kitchens. Try out a wine and food-pairing session or a cocktail-making class, while History of Napa Valley in 8 Glasses is an intro to your wine tasting exploration. For a farm-driven menu, check out The Restaurant at CIA Copia. Don’t miss The Store at CIA Copia. The lifestyle emporium offers a range of specialty kitchen and home goods — you won’t leave emptyhanded. The new Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum boasts a collection of culinary treasures spanning decades and continents, and is worth perusing. There’s always something going on at CIA at Copia — community events like First Fridays celebrate Napa’s vibrant local food and arts scene. ciaatcopia.com |

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SACRAMENTO

Cheers to Hassle-Free Travel With Sacramento International Airport (SMF), you can leave the hassles of the Bay Area airports behind and make travel to and from Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worldrenowned wine country as easy as SMF. Here, the laidback vibe that defines both the Napa Valley and SMF extends to the entire journey, from the boarding gate to that first Cabernet. Start with over 175 flights daily to more than 45 nonstop destinations throughout North America. Add in convenient parking with a level of flyer-friendliness other airports canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t match, and you have a journey worth toasting. Check out exceptional preflight shopping and dining options, and start planning your journey through Sacramento International Airport today today. smf.aero |

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first look

Opening Up Napa Valley

BOB MCLENAHAN

Welcome 10 Deep Roots 18 The Napa Valley Blend 22 Plan Your Getaway 44 Take it Home 52

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FIRST LOOK

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UP, UP, AND AWAY Our favorite way to start the day? An early-morning balloon ride. Watch the morning fog roll away and the sun rise over the valley. And your day is just beginning.

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Welcome to Napa Valley

What will you discover?

Maybe you’ve been here before. Or maybe this is your first visit to northern California’s legendary wine country. No matter if this is your first time or your fifth, the best part of a Napa Valley vacation isn’t always discovering a new favorite wine. It’s the discovery of sense. It’s driving down Silverado Trail during golden hour, that magical time before the sun sets. It’s a laidback lunch on a sunny patio, a crisp white in hand (on a Tuesday!). It’s the whoosh of a hot-air balloon ride as you glide over the valley floor and watch the morning fog drift away. It’s the plunge into a mineral-spring pool. It’s the thrill of a splurge, whether it’s a bottle of Cabernet or a locally inspired gift from a downtown boutique. Napa Valley, at only 35 miles long by five miles wide, is easy to explore and full of the unexpected. But one thing is certain. A visit to Napa Valley awakens the senses.

BOB MCCLENAHAN

IMAGES BY BOB MCCLENAHAN

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FIRST LOOK

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GOLDEN HOUR Mustard flowers blanket this vineyard in American Canyon. Each winter, vineyards come alive with the yellow blooms, planted as a natural fertilizer for the vines.

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FIRST LOOK

BOB MCCLENAHAN

LANDMARKS In south Napa, the iconic Grape Crusher statue sits on a hill and overlooks the city. This bronze 12-foot statue by sculptor Gino Miles depicts a vineyard worker in the throes of manual labor required for each harvest.

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FIRST LOOK I ST. SUPÉRY ESTATE VINEYARDS AND WINERY

St. Supéry Dollarhide Estate Vineyard

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RUTHERFORD

Growing for Good

Taking care of the land and making high quality wine go hand-in-hand at St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery. An emphasis on sustainable winemaking and producing 100-percent estate-grown wines make it a premier Napa Valley destination for wine exploration. The winery in Rutherford hosts several interactive wine programs. Aromatherapy with a Corkscrew is a deep dive into wine aromas, while Five Bordeaux Varietals and Your Five Senses is an immersion into the five classic varietals. Veggies + Vino serves farm-to-table produce with four estate wines for a flavorful spin. Master the art of food and wine pairing during the Chef’s Table, featuring ingredients from the winery’s gardens. Explore two white varietals, then custom blend your own bottle to take home during a My Virtú tasting. St. Supéry is proud to be certified Napa Green. This comprehensive program for wineries and vineyards in Napa Valley represents a “soil-t0-bottle” approach to winemaking, as the winery uses practices that promote biodiversity, reduce waste, and protect the land. St. Supéry’s wines reflect this commitment to sustainable winemaking and care of the land. St. Supéry is recognized for its environmental stewardship, earning a California Green Medal for Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership. The winery was also a 2019 regional winner for sustainable wine tourism by the prestigious Great Wine Capitals. stsupery.com |

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FIRST LOOK I HISTORY

Deep Roots NAPA VALLEY’S HISTORY STARTS WITH THE SOIL AND IS CELEBRATED WITH WIDE OPEN SPACES. BY CAREY SWEET

f George Calvert Yount hadn’t been such a talented carpenter back in the 19th century, the agriculture-rich Napa Valley we know today might have been a very different place. Thanks to Yount’s superb woodworking skills, he caught the eye of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, who hired him to build cabins while transitioning the region from a Mexican territory to a U.S. state. In 1836, Vallejo granted Yount the 11,887-acre Rancho Caymus in what’s now Napa County, where Yount built a home and became the area’s first European permanent settler. By 1839, Yount had

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installed vineyards, planting the area’s first wine grapes and finding success with the fruit. Yount passed away in 1865 before seeing the town of Yountville named in his honor two years later. Still, Yount witnessed the start of the Napa Valley viticultural evolution. Other vineyard pioneers, such as John Patchett and Hamilton Walker Crabb, quickly followed in his grape-stained footsteps, and in 1861, Charles Krug founded Napa Valley’s first commercial winery. The race was on, and the area soon welcomed Schramsberg Vineyards (1862), Beringer

(1876), and Inglenook (1879), with more than 140 wineries in operation by 1889. In the early 1920s, however, prohibition shut down many of these wineries. Prohibition was repealed in 1933, and in the early 1940s, realizing the importance of working together, seven local winemakers formed the first Vintners Association (now 550 members strong). Robert Mondavi established his namesake winery in 1966. His marketing skills helped put the region on the global map, followed by the most extraordinary achievement a decade later: France’s Judgment of Paris of 1976. An English wine merchant set some of the finest French wines against little-known California labels in a blind tasting, and to the esteemed French judges’ great shock, the Napa Valley’s own Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon took home the gold medals. Finally, the region’s world-class grapes could bask in the true glory they de-

COURTESY OF C. MONDAVI & FAMILY

Well Aged RELICS OF NAPA’S RICH PAST BY LAUREN EBERLE

3: COURTESY OF C. MONDAVI & FAMILY; 4: COURTESY OF MONTELENA; 5: VALLEJO HISTORICAL AND NAVAL MUSEUM; 6: COURTESY OF HALL WINERY

The s Pioneer

served, and since then, Napa Valley has been synonymous with fruit growing, winemaking, and gorgeous agricultural landscapes. “Napa Valley has long been famous for its natural beauty and fertile land,” says Nancy Levenberg, executive director of the Napa County Historical Society. In 1968, vintners and landowners formed the nation’s first Agriculture Preserve to protect natural majesty. The expansive preserves ensure balance between

the region’s pastoral splendor against the well-managed growth of resorts, restaurants, wineries, and vineyards. “In all cases, we have protected farming and open space as the highest and best purpose of our lands,” says Levenberg.

More than 700 wineries dotted California in the late 1800s, including more than 100 in Napa Valley. But beginning in the 1880s, three strikes — the grapevine virus phylloxera, Prohibition, and the Great Depression — devastated the region’s wine industry. Gratefully, a few properties survived the widespread abandonment of that half-century and have since not only been revived, they’ve thrived. These “ghost wineries” are relics of a previous era, reminding us of Napa Valley’s rich and enduring history. Originally built in 1885, Oakville’s Far Niente sat abandoned from 1919 until 1979, when new owners began a reconstruction process. During that time, the Italian phrase Far Niente (“without a care”) was found carved into stone at the front of the building. In St. Helena, HALL Wines juxtaposes old and new with a LEED Gold-Certified wine facility next door to its circa-1885 Bergfeld Winery building. Originally built by a sea captain named William Peterson, the winery was purchased in 1894 by Robert Bergfeld, who changed the name. It was later acquired by Craig and Kathryn Hall, who reconstructed the original stone structure. Along Highway 29, Freemark Abbey was built in 1886 by Josephine Tychson, Napa’s first female winery owner. Initially named Tychson Cellars, the winery was later, in 1939, re-opened as Freemark Abbey. The team achieved esteemed recognition when Freemark Abbey ranked sixth in the historic 1979 Judgement of Paris.

1: Charles Krug tasting room, circa 1891 2: Churchill Manor, built in 1889 in downtown Napa and today is a bed and breakfast 3: Charles Krug 4: Chateau Montelena Winery dates to 1882 5: General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo 6: The Peterson building at HALL Wines

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FIRST LOOK I HISTORY

All Signs Point to Authentic

riving north up Highway 29, you just can’t miss the iconic Oakville Grocery — the name is painted on the exterior wall of this must-visit spot in tiny Oakville. (And if you weren’t thirsty for a Coke before, you will be after driving past this mural.) Oakville Grocery is one of California’s oldest businesses still in operation, having first opened its doors in the 1870s. Keep heading north to St. Helena, where checking into El Bonita Motel is like taking a step back in time to the 1950s. The words “quaint” and “charming” quickly come to mind.

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A few blocks up, Gott’s Roadside serves Niman Ranch beef burgers and thick, hand-spun shakes in a casual outdoor setting. Gott’s officially opened in 1999 after taking over the former Taylor’s Refresher roadside burger stand, which dates to 1949. Pop into Cameo Cinema on St. Helena’s Main Street. This independent movie theater was founded in 1913 and is one of the oldest continuously running single-screen theaters in the country. A fixture in downtown Calistoga since 1952,

Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort continues to be a bucket-list spot for wellness warriors seeking volcanic ash mud treatments and a soak in the town’s natural spring-fed geothermal mineral pools. And while Instagram certainly wasn’t a thing in 1949, when the Welcome to Napa Valley billboard went up on Highway 29 near Oakville, this iconic sign was and still is a landmark for all. The sign’s original purpose was to bring awareness of Napa Valley when only a few wineries were open in the area. (Purpose served!)

NAPA SIGN: JOSIAH ROE; GOTT’S: COURTESY OF GOTT’S ROADSIDE; WILKINSON'S: COURTESY OF DR. WILKINSON’S HOT SPRINGS RESORT; EL BONITA: BOB MCCLENAHAN

WHAT’S THE OPPOSITE OF SHINY AND NEW? AUTHENTIC AND REAL — AND THERE’S PLENTY OF THAT TO DISCOVER IN NAPA VALLEY. BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

ST. HELENA

Storied Heritage

In 1861, Charles Krug, the visionary father of Napa Valley winemaking, established the winery that started it all. The Mondavi family purchased this already iconic property in 1943; for 75 years and four generations they have transformed this great estate into a world-class hospitality center, renowned for its exceptional wines, stunning design, and storied heritage. Whether you come for a guided tasting of limited-release single vineyard wines, an immersive tour that explores the rich history of the 157-year-old estate, a casual lunch of artisan woodfire pizza, or one of the myriad of cultural events the Mondavi family plays host to, Napa Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest wine estate never disappoints. charleskrug.com BVcharleskrugwinery |

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND

JOSIAH ROE

The Napa Valley

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There are five good reasons to stay a little longer on your next Napa Valley vacation. Those reasons? American Canyon, Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga — the five unique and totally charming towns that make up Napa Valley. It’s time to dig a little deeper and explore. We’re offering some can’t-miss recommendations for each town, and it’s up to you to uncover the rest. Share your favorite local finds with us by tagging #Visit NapaValley. BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

ILLUSTRATION MIKE ROSSI / MICROGRAFIK.COM 24

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND

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Your trip to won’t be complete if you don’t …

A. Can you say “spa?” B. Explore a variety of tasting rooms within a single block radius. C. Score reservations to at least two Michelin-star restaurants. D. Sip and soak up some history. E. Hit the golf course, surrounded by oak trees and vineyards.

RE U HE R O Y O ARE PLAY TO ELAX? R

Home Away from Home WHICH NAPA VALLEY TOWN IS THE RIGHT HOME BASE FOR YOU? LET THIS QUIZ BE YOUR GUIDE. BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

Describe yourself in three words. A. Classic, easy going, outdoorsy B. Vibrant, trendy, stylish C. Gourmand, upscale, refined D. Quaint, old-school, relaxed E. Approachable, casual, grounded

RELAX AT THE SPA Calistoga Spa Hot Springs @rnichols

PLAY A ROUND 18 holes in American Canyon @exploreamcan @bobmc

EAT AT A MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT The French Laundry @buonjournal

What’s your ideal accommodations?

A. Historic B&B Inn, off-the-beaten-path, where you can walk to shops each day. B. Stylish boutique property with Instagram-friendly photo ops. C. Upscale hotel with a legendary spa and a view of balloons each morning. D. Understated luxury; the kind of place where the on-site bar sources cocktail ingredients from its garden. E. Nationally known hotel with a pool and breakfast buffet.

@dorhaymi

2. 3.

The first thing you’ll do when you get to Napa Valley is … A. Visit an off-the-beaten path winery where you may meet the winemaker. B. Schedule two wine tastings this afternoon, enjoy your favorite Japanese dish, then stroll back to the hotel. C. Sink your head on a goose-

down pillow before your Michelin-star dinner reservation tonight. D. What’s the rush? Check into the hotel then explore Main Street’s shops and galleries. E. Lace up your trainers and hit a nature trail. Must have fresh air after that travel day.

What’s your perfect souvenir? A. A totally relaxed mindset — and epic views from the hike up Oak Hill Mine Trail. B. A reusable tote bag filled with locally-sourced products. C. The clothes pin from your dinner at The French Laundry. D. A new culinary gadget from master chefs in the making. E. Photographs taken at sunset with the wetlands glistening

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RELAX IN STYLE Archer Hotel, Napa @archerhotel @elle_loha

MORNING VIEWS

Bardessono Resort, Yountville @bespokeusa

If you picked mostly ... A. Soak up the vibe and relax in CALISTOGA B. Enjoy the style and ease of NAPA C. Experience gourmet meals and upscale accomodations in YOUNTVILLE D. Find great shopping and a small-town feel in ST. HELENA E. Get outdoors and feel welcome in AMERICAN CANYON

Eagle Vines Golf Club

American Canyon Casual FOR CONVENIENCE AND AFFORDABILITY

BOB MCCLENAHAN

t the southern tip of Napa Valley, American Canyon is an ideal home base for exploring the area. You’ll find a variety of affordable, branded hotel options and easy access to San Francisco. This town’s business corridor is surrounded by rolling hills, nature preserves, wetlands, and waterways — all part of the interconnected watershed system that drains into the San Francisco Bay. Here with the entire family? American Canyon is your place. It’s home to two golf courses and is centrally located near some of the region’s top kid-friendly attractions like Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield.

MINI GUIDE Stay Here: The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Napa Valley is a LEED Gold-certified hotel. Amenities include a spa, restaurant with seasonally-driven plates, outdoor pool, fitness center, and even warm chocolate-chip cookies at check-in. Dine Here: There’s no heartier breakfast in American Canyon than

at South Kelly Grill. Try the biscuits and gravy or eggs Benedict. Now you’re properly fueled for a day of adventure. Sip This: Pop by Roots Run Deep, known as one of the valley’s best-value wineries, to sample five Educated Guess wines. (No appointment needed.) Do This: Walk the flat, 1.4-mile Napa River Bay Trail past salt ponds and wetlands. Breathe in the fresh air, and soak up those views.

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND

American Canyon American Canyon is a convenient and affordable place to begin your Napa Valley adventure. Conveniently located, American Canyon provides access to Napa and Sonoma County wineries, beautiful wetlands, breweries, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, and the Jelly Belly Candy Company factory tour, among other attractions. Guests feel right at home as they start and end their vacation day here.

FOCUS PHOTOON CREDIT LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY; THIS PAGE: BOB MCLENAHAN

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HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AND SUITES Renovated last year, the hotel features 101 rooms, two meeting rooms, fitness center, outdoor pool and whirlpool, and a convenience store. Don’t miss the complimentary hot breakfast buffet, including their famous Cinnabon cinnamon rolls and other deliciously prepared hot items like bacon, scrambled eggs, and much more.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON Discover the only full service hotel in American Canyon. Table 29 Bistro and Bar, Spa Gaia, a weekly wine tasting, live music, and seasonal outdoor movies await your arrival. Guests are always greeted with warm chocolate-chip cookies. Banquet and meeting rooms are available for events and private functions. Stay and celebrate 100 years of Hilton hospitality.

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FAIRFIELD INN AND SUITES NAPA VALLEY– AMERICAN CANYON Totally renovated, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Napa American Canyon is minutes to downtown Napa and wineries. Enjoy comfortable rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi – and don’t forget your free breakfast. You can also relax by the heated pool or soak in the warmer whirlpool.

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FAIRFIELD INN AND SUITES NAPA VALLEY– AMERICAN CANYON VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND Napa Riverfront

EXPLORE THE VIBRANT DOWNTOWN

ay the word “Napa,” and images of rolling green hills dotted with vineyards probably come to mind. But #didyouknow: The town of Napa is also buzzing, with a river flowing through the middle of downtown. It’s where you’ll find locally driven restaurants, hip wine-tasting rooms, stylish boutiques, and whimsical works of public art. Insta-worthy photo ops are around every corner. Discover this side of Napa. The vineyards will still be there!

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MINI GUIDE Stay Here: The perfectly located Westin Verasa Napa is a two-minute stroll to Oxbow Public Market and an easy walk over the bridge to the rest of downtown’s shops and restaurants. Sip This: Book an appointment at William Hill

DID YOU KNOW? Your first stop in downtown Napa should be at the Napa Valley Welcome Center (600 Main St.) for maps and winery info, and to shop the thoughtfully curated mercantile. You’ll find the perfect souvenir to take back home (turn to p. 52 for a few fun finds!).

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BOB MCCLENAHAN

Napa: Now Trending

Estate Winery to taste Napa Valley Chardonnay. Dine Here: Indulge with the lobster risotto at TORC, where locally sourced ingredients inspire the frequently changing menu. Do This: Grab those reusable shopping bags and head to Napa Premium Outlets for great deals on brands like Coach, Brooks Brothers, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and more.

NAPA

Urban Elegance

Elevate your wine country getaway with an unforgettable rooftop experience in Napa Valley at the boutique Archer Hotel Napa. Anchoring the walkable First Street Napa in this gateway city, Archer offers luxe guest rooms and balcony-clad suites, five-star bedding and nightly turndown with locally curated treats, the viticulturally inspired menus of Charlie Palmer Steak, and the incomparable Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar with its panoramic valley vistas. A sincere staff and thoughtful surprises around every corner underscore Archer as the consummate host. Your room is ready. archerhotel.com/napa BVAarcherhotelnapa

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND NAPA

Do Downtown Napa THE HEART AND SOUL OF THE VALLEY

There are many ways to #DoNapa, but Downtown Napa offers the best of Napa Valley all in one location — giving you the opportunity to get a little taste of everything. From wine, food and entertainment, to outdoor recreation and the arts scene, find it all within walking distance.

SIP AND SAVOR Wine is at the heart of everything. And in Downtown Napa, you can enjoy 40 tasting rooms all on foot. Don’t forget to pick up the Downtown Napa Wine Tasting Card, giving you access to select tasting rooms for half-price. ENJOY YOURSELF Feed your soul as you explore the Napa ARTwalk and unique galleries. Kayak along the Napa River for unexpected views and a different perspective. Grab picnic fixings from more than 22 merchants at Oxbow Public Market. Enjoy live entertainment at Uptown Theatre Napa or Blue Note Napa. It’s all yours for the taking. LINGER LONGER It’s impossible to #DoNapa in a day. From luxurious hotels to charming bed and breakfast inns, there are plenty of options when you stay 32

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in Downtown Napa. Sleep in, enjoy brunch, and continue your adventure. For more ideas and itinerary recommendations, visit donapa.com.

NAPA

Classic Charm Upscale luxury in a prime downtown locale: Napa River Inn has been anchoring Main Street since 1884. The locally owned boutique hotel — the highest Michelin rated in downtown and Forbes recommended — delivers warm, attentive service from in-the-know staff. Set on the waterfront in the Historic Napa Mill, the inn’s spacious guest rooms and suites are filled with luxe touches, and several feature a fireplace, balcony, or river views. Catch live music around the corner, and walk to excellent restaurants, specialty shops, and more than 20 tasting rooms nearby. Fresh pastries delivered to your room in the morning are a sweet touch before you explore the best of Napa Valley. napariverinn.com BVnapariverinn |

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NAPA

The new meets the old in an excellent downtown setting. Napa’s Riverfront is a destination for world-class restaurants, shopping, wine, art, and recreation. Anchored by the Historic Napa Mill, a commercial landmark dating back to the 19th century, the Venetian-inspired riverfront complex stretches nearly four blocks. Stroll along the waterfront and discover what Napa’s Riverfront has to offer. Take your pick of adventurous dining. Morimoto Napa is a modern sushi bar concept serving fine Japanese fare and inventive cocktails. At Basalt, enjoy California cuisine and cocktails in the lively bar and alfresco dining scene. RiverHouse by Bespoke offers wine from local craft and under-the-radar winemakers. Go for refined bistro fare at French brasserie-styled Angèle, while Celadon features global comfort food and worldly flavors in an elegant setting. Napa General Store is the go-to for scratch-made breakfast and lunch in a casual space that pays homage to the history of Napa Mill. Fashionable finds and personalized service are on every block. Look to Scott Lyall for sophisticated menswear and Helen Lyall for designer women’s apparel and accessories. Browse chic contemporary looks for women at Shoppe Twelve. Ivy, Twig & Twine reflects proprietor Michael Holmes’ eye for fine art and nature with eclectic decor and gifts. Go ahead and treat yourself! Unwind with an organic signature treatment at The Spa at Napa River Inn. Choose from luscious cakes, pies, and pastries at Sweetie Pies, and don’t miss the fine handmade chocolates at Vintage Sweet Shoppe. Rather roll than stroll Napa’s Riverfront? Rent a hybrid, road, or electric bicycle at Napa River Velo. Stay near it all at the cozily stylish, Forbes-recommended Napa River Inn. napasriverfront.com | Bnapasriverfront | Vriverfrontnapa 34

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BOB MCCLENAHAN

Water Ways

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FIRST LOOK I THE NAPA VALLEY BLEND

Yountville Charms

PRACTICE THE ART OF THE STROLL

t doesn’t take long to be fully smitten with Yountville. Begin with a stroll down Washington Street, where you’ll find gardens, upscale shops, and wine-tasting rooms. Some of the area’s most renowned restaurants and chefs call Yountville home. (Thomas Keller, anyone?)

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DID YOU KNOW? All of Yountville’s wine-tasting rooms have retail shops. Wine and shopping? Yes, please!

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MINI GUIDE Stay Here: In the heart of downtown, The Estate Yountville is a “village-within-a-village” where two boutique properties, Hotel Villagio and Vintage House, offer a luxe place to rest your head. Sip This: Book the private NOMAD Tasting at Stewart Cellars to sip 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon

single-vineyard wines. Dine Here: Sit on the patio at Bistro Jeanty; this picturesque French bistro serves the classics (steak frites, cassoulet). Do This: Two of the town’s best activities are free. Stroll The French Laundry culinary gardens, across the street from the legendary restaurant. Then, explore the Art Walk of Yountville; download the audio tour at youraudiotour.com/ tours/72.

COURTESY OF BOUCHON BISTRO YOUNTVILLE/©DAVID ESCALANTE

Alfresco dining at Bouchon

YOUNTVILLE

Discover Yountville

TOP LEFT: BOB MCCLENAHAN

IT’S EASY TO SPEND AN AFTERNOON IN PICTURESQUE YOUNTVILLE.

The Shops at The Marketplace Stroll through upscale boutiques, fine art galleries, restaurants, a wine tasting cellar, and Napa Valley’s original hot air balloon company, all part of The Estate Yountville, a 22-acre lifestyle destination. themarketplaceyountville.com BVvmarketplace

YOUNTVILLE

The Heart of the Napa Valley

Napa Valley Bike Tours & Rentals

It’s all about passeggiata — the art of the stroll. Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning tasting rooms, world-class art, fine accommodations, and incredible natural surroundings are all within walking distance. Add a friendly, small-town culture, and you’ll see how Yountville elevates the simple stroll to a place of discovery and fulfillment. yountville.com |

Byountvillechamber | Vyountvilleca | Ayountvilleca

Slow the pace of your vacation and spend a day visiting local wineries by bike. Napa Valley Bike Tours and Rentals offers an array of guided tours hosted by knowledgeable tour guides along with bike rentals, including electric bikes. napavalleybiketours.com |

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St. Helena History SIP AND SOAK UP THE LOCAL LORE

he valley’s historic side is on full display in St. Helena. Settlers arrived here in the 1850s and opened shops and hotels on Main Street. Several of the valley’s pioneering wineries call St. Helena home, including Beringer and Krug, as does the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, housed in an early 1900s building. Today, St. Helena’s Main Street remains the heart of the town, with boutiques, spacious art galleries, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.

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DID YOU KNOW? St. Helena’s Meadowood Resort is one of only 17 properties in the world to earn a triple Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide for the hotel, spa, and restaurant.

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MINI GUIDE Stay Here: For a quintessential wine-country stay, look no further than Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley. Tucked in the midst of the vineyards, this locally owned property offers rooms and cottages with vineyard views. Sip This: Go beyond Cab and try Trinchero Napa Valley Forte Red Wine, a rich, fruit-forward Bordeaux blend. Trinchero

offers a variety of tasting options. Dine Here: Keep it casual at Roadhouse 29, where meats are slow smoked over California oak and local Cabernet barrel staves. Try the “72 Hour” Beef Brisket. Do This: Park the car on Main Street and grab that reusable tote bag. Pop into the boutiques lining Main, where you’ll find everything from jewelry and notecards at Pennyweight to fleece vests at Sportago to gourmet goodies at Woodhouse Chocolates.

BOB MCCLENAHAN

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone

ST. HELENA

Treat the Senses

Las Alcobas, an adults-only retreat in the heart of Napa Valley, facilitates experiences that delight all the senses. Seek pampering at Atrio spa, or relax at the spectacular pool with unsurpassed vineyard views. Signature restaurant Acacia House delights palates with innovative cuisine by Top Chef Master Chris Cosentino, enjoyed on the wraparound veranda. Unwind in luxury â&#x20AC;&#x201D; most guest rooms and suites are adorned with private terraces featuring firepits and soft seating. Gracious interiors, designed by Yabu Pushelberg, are appointed with custom furnishings, Rivolta linens, and gorgeous oversized bathrooms. Las Alcobas sets the scene for an elegant vineyard wedding or special event, while downtown St. Helena and the historic Beringer Vineyards are within walking distance. lasalcobasnapavalley.com B lasalcobasnv | V lasalcobas V lasalcobasacaciahouse.lasalcobas (restaurant) |

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Calistoga Zen RECHARGE MIND, BODY, AND SOUL

ustic-meets-relaxed in Calistoga, at the northern end of Napa Valley. Calistoga’s geothermal hot spring pools and volcanic ash were a magnet for wellness warriors seeking a warm-weather retreat in the 1860s — and not much has changed! Today, Calistoga’s spa offerings range from high-end to no-frills, but the results are the same. You’ll leave refreshed, recharged, and renewed. Best of all? Some of Calistoga’s most iconic spas are just steps away from the quaint downtown area surrounding Lincoln Avenue. Calistoga is also home to a warm-climate, high-elevation AVA. Book a tasting at Chateau Montelena to try its famed Cabernet Sauvignon and toast to your stay in Calistoga, where a visit in 2020 isn’t too different from a visit in the late 1800s.

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WHAT’S NEW? Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley opens this year in Calistoga. And true to Calistoga’s vibe, this rustic-yet-refined retreat is surrounded by hundreds of acres of vineyards.

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MINI GUIDE Stay Here: Overlooking Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga’s main street, Mount View Hotel & Spa donates 50 percent of its profits to charity. Booking a trip never felt so good. Sip This: Ride the aerial tram up to Sterling Vineyards and enjoy a self-guided tour and tastings of their acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc on the spacious terrace. Dine Here: Settle in on

the terrace at Solbar, overlooking the pool at Solage Auberge Resort. Lights twinkle overhead, the fire pit is roaring, there’s a glass of local Chardonnay in hand, and crispy petrale sole tacos on your plate. Do This: Don’t leave Calistoga without booking a mud bath. Indian Springs Resort offers The Ritual of the Indian Springs Mud Bath, a detoxifying treatment that includes a mud bath and mineral water soak. Then, take a dip in the resort’s circa-1910 mineral pool to pay homage to Calistoga’s history as a wellness pioneer.

JOSIAH ROE

Hiking the Oat Hill Mine Trail results in epic valley views.

CALISTOGA

A Landmark With Heart

Sam Brannan was a savvy California businessman and visionary who founded the town of Calistoga 160 years ago. (In fact, he named the town while drunk — his boast that he would “make this place the Saratoga of California” came out as “the Calistoga of Sarafornia,” and the name stuck.) Today, the namesake Brannan Cottage Inn is a landmark boutique hotel with a modern twist and deep sense of place. It’s also one of the most historically significant properties in Napa Valley, as the only 1862 resort cottage still on its original site and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests love its origin story as much as its creature comforts and ideal location in the heart of Calistoga. They fall in love with this quirky, charmed village, and Brannan Cottage Inn’s award-winning hospitality keeps them coming back. The renowned property is taking things to the next level with the opening of Sam’s General Store, located inside the inn. It promises to make this landmark a vibrant place to meet friends or pick up gourmet picnic fare before heading out to explore walkable, laidback Calistoga. brannancottageinn.com

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CALISTOGA

Hot Springs, Cool Vibes

Some of the world’s best-known wineries and authentic wellness experiences are right here in Calistoga, a crown jewel in Napa Valley. With its unique combination of high-end shopping, local culture, and downhome Old West feel, Calistoga caters to visitors seeking unpretentious, exceptional experiences. Calistoga stands apart in Napa Valley as the site of Old Faithful Geyser, Oat Hill Mine Trail, the historic Bale Grist Mill — and mud. Wellness in Calistoga evolved from a volcanic eruption three million years earlier, when lava exploded and a burst of red-hot ash created the Petrified Forest. The practice of detoxifying the body through the external use of volcanic ash mixed with geothermal-heated water is offered in a variety of treatments at Calistoga’s acclaimed spas and wellness resorts. visitcalistoga.com

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CALISTOGA

Soaking in Serenity

Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort offers an authentic wine country getaway and a peaceful resort setting in the charming town of Calistoga. Begin and end your day with a soak in one of the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three natural geothermal pools, each with distinct temperatures to gradually heat and cool the body. For even more rejuvenation, enjoy a mud mineral bath or a deluxe treatment at the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-class spa. Amidst flower-filled patios, shady arbors, and a full service on-site spa, relaxation is guaranteed. Sixty charming guest rooms with thoughtful amenities afford every comfort in a delightful setting. romanspahotsprings.com Bromanspahotsprings

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FIRST LOOK I GETAWAY

THE

NAPA VALLEY GETAWAY CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE WITH FIVE CUSTOM ITINERARIES TO SUIT EVERY STYLE OF TRAVEL.

DAVID H. COLLIER

BY LAUREN EBERLE

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1: STEVEN ROTHFELD; 2: BOB MCCLENAHAN; 3: CHRIS MICHEL/ COURTESY OF HALL WINERY; 4: COURTESY OF ROUND POND/©OLAF BECKMANN

SPLURGE Whether you’re toasting an anniversary or checking off your bucket list, when only the finest will do, Napa Valley dials up the luxury. Begin your day on a high note with Balloons Above the Valley, Napa’s first hot-air balloon company. Spot lush vineyards and rolling hills as you soar California skies and snap Insta-worthy shots, then extend your excursion with a Champagne brunch. From the clouds to the caves, head to HALL Rutherford for the often sold-out Appellation Exploration. Covet the art collection as you tour the property, then settle into a sparkling reception area for an intimate, one-of-a-kind tasting showcasing the valley’s distinct appellations paired with small bites and local cheeses. Upgrade to the Platinum Tasting, which features HALL’s most regaled wines, including the 100-point Rainin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Just a short drive away, Auberge du Soleil is a world-class resort inspired by the south of France. Its restaurant’s valley-view terraces are the perfect complement to the Michelin Star-rated Mediterranean cuisine. Savor it all with the seasonal tasting menu. Wrap the weekend up with a relaxed morning at Round Pond’s Garden-to-Table Brunch. This intimate, family-style meal begins with a tour of the winery’s sensory garden, then continues to the terrace for a gourmet multi-course brunch featuring estate wines and gorgeous mountain views. Sunday Funday has never been this stylish. CHECK IN: At Meadowood Napa Valley, a Forbes Triple Five-Star property, the croquet lawn, complimentary car service, sublime spa, and a wine educator add VIP grandeur to the already elegant accommodations.

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1: Meadowood Spa 2: Balloons Above the Valley 3: The Donald Lipski chandelier at HALL Wines in Rutherford 4: Winery terrace at Round Pond Estate Winery

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FIRST LOOK I GETAWAY Nichelini is the valley's oldest family-owned winery. Its small-batch wines are crafted by a fifth-generation Nichelini.

LIKE A LOCAL

CAB SEASON It’s always a fine time to #VisitNapaValley, but mild temperatures, smaller crowds, epic deals, and special events make Cabernet Season, November through April, one to remember. During these months the region seems to roll out the red carpet — or lemon yellow, to be exact — as the fields come alive with blankets of mustard flowers. Cool events abound, including the Napa Truffle Festival, Napa Lighted Art Festival, and Napa Valley Restaurant Week in January, and the Yountville International Short Film Festival in February. You can even lace up for March’s Napa Valley Marathon, named one of the “12 top marathons worth traveling for.” The cooler climate certainly complements the region’s legendary Cabernet Sauvignon and you won’t want to miss the variety of cozy tastings that highlight Louis M. Martini Winery’s portfolio of world-class reds. If you’re a guest at Meadowood Napa Valley, the spa’s Treehouse Retreat has a roaring fire and hammered-copper tub that round out any treatment. And when night falls, you can turn up the heat with a show at Blue Note Napa, a classy jazz club, or the art deco Uptown Theater. CHECK IN: Settle in at Bardessono, a Yountville resort with luxe villas, suites, and spa. (Wintertime treatments support your immune system and enhance circulation!) 1: Uptown Theater. 2: Brannan Cottage Inn 3: Lake Berryessa 4: Culinary class 5: Oxbow Public Market

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CHECK IN: Brannan Cottage Inn, a National Register of Historic Places Certified Icon, was once part of the legendary Hot Springs Resort, built in Calistoga in 1862. Restored and reborn, the inn fuses historic charm and modern comforts, and is easy walking distance to Calistoga’s authentic spa experiences.

1: MITCHELL GLOTZER / COURTESY OF UPTOWN THEATER; 2: COURTESY OF BRANNAN COTTAGE INN; 3: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

No longer a Napa Valley novice? Or simply wishing to live like a local? Not-your-average tourists can find off-thebeaten-path options that veer from the usual foot traffic. Sam’s Social Club at Calistoga’s historically iconic Indian Springs Resort serves three meals a day in a picturesque setting. Start your morning with the duck confit hash and a grapefruit mimosa, or ask about the day’s fresh smoothie special. From there, venture off the Silverado Trail to the 54-acre CADE Estate. The first organically farmed LEED Gold Certified estate winery in Napa Valley, CADE is 1,800 feet above the valley floor on Howell Mountain. A contrast to CADE’s modern design, Nichelini Winery was established in 1890, and its original hand-hewn stone winery, wine press, and seven-bedroom house still stand today. When it’s time to turn from wine to water, Pleasure Cove Marina at Lake Berryessa has year-round recreation opportunities for the whole family. The marina provides a fleet of rentals, including luxury fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, ski boats, even houseboats with capacity for a crowd.

THE FOOD FORAY

SIP + SAVE NAPA The Downtown Napa Wine Tasting Card at the Welcome Center; $15; 50 percent off at tasting rooms CALISTOGA Winter in the Wineries Passport; $60; free tasting flights at 16 Calistoga wineries, December – February.

4: GETTY IMAGES; 5: DAVID H. COLLIER

ST. HELENA The Little Book of Big Experiences; $75; discounts on elevated tasting experiences; November – March

THE VALUE VACAY Want to save your pennies for bring-home bottles? There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to explore Napa Valley. See more of town without hiring a car: Cycling is Napa Valley’s favorite sport. Rent a set of wheels for about $45 and travel the Napa Valley Vine Trail at your own pace. This free route meanders past vineyards and wineries. When you work up an appetite, don an apron and work for your lunch with a culinary class at The CIA at Copia. Or head to Southside Café, with locations in Napa and Yountville, for their amazing avocado toast. For live music, there’s plenty of free outdoor concerts around the valley in the summer. Pack a picnic and check one out! Each Friday in downtown Napa, Napa City Nights brings entertainment overlooking the Napa River. Yountville’s Music in the Park, every Sunday evening, has food trucks and live tunes. St. Helena’s Summer Concert Series, during select Thursdays, is held in the town’s charming Lyman Park. Also on Thursdays, spread a blanket out in Pioneer Park for Calistoga Concerts in the Park.

Known as much for its food as its wine, Napa Valley is one of the world’s premier culinary kings. Explore the Oxbow Public Market, open daily alongside the Napa River. Diverse tenants include cafes, local farm stands, and vendors selling coffee, cupcakes, cheeses, and more. Satisfy your sweet tooth and pop by Anette’s Chocolates for artisan truffles and caramels. A picnic and wine tasting at V. Sattui Winery is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The estate’s artisan deli features all the makings for an Italian picnic. The estate’s culinary program is directed by Michelin Star-rated chef Stefano Masanti. “V. Sattui’s culinary philosophy expresses our rich Italian heritage by presenting fresh, seasonal, local ingredients in an uncomplicated yet elegant manner,” says Masanti. Also synonymous with fine cuisine, decorated chef Thomas Keller has five restaurants and bakeries in the town of Yountville. While it’s difficult to snag a reservation at The French Laundry, Keller’s other acclaimed options are just down the street — Ad Hoc, Bouchon, Bouchon Bakery, and La Calenda offer exquisite examples of the chef’s influence. Inspired? Sharpen your own skills at the Silverado Cooking School, where hands-on classes teach all levels. Bon appétit! CHECK IN: Although sweet sleep is easy to come by at Inn on Randolph, the guesthouse’s gourmet gluten-free breakfast is sure to draw you from your slumber. 5

CHECK IN: Select the all-suites SpringHill Suites Napa Valley and enjoy a heated outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast. American Canyon has an assortment of familiar hotel brands and serves as a convenient home base for a Napa Valley vacay.

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NAPA

Great Escape

DISCOVER THE REAL NAPA VALLEY AT SILVERADO RESORT AND SPA. Set on 1,200 acres of oak groves and vineyards and surrounded by celebrated wineries, this historic resort blends the everyday into the extraordinary. Golfers will find worthy challenges on the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two 18-hole PGA championship courses, redesigned by PGA Hall of Famer and resort owner Johnny Miller. The resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spectacular setting is the backdrop for tennis, bocce, hiking, biking, and more. Enhance your wine country getaway with a luxury spa treatment, with massage, skin and body care services, and half-day spa packages to soothe and rejuvenate mind and soul. Exquisite dining and stylish, upscale accommodations enhance the Silverado Resort and Spa experience. silveradoresort.com |

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NAPA

Downtown Flair

Location really is everything. In the Oxbow District of downtown Napa, The Westin Verasa Napa is the premier destination for leisure and business travelers alike. Set on the bank of the Napa River and across the street from the Napa Valley Wine Train, the hotel is a short stroll from the heart of the vibrant downtown retail and dining district, blocks from the famed Silverado Trail, and within walking distance of 15 tasting rooms. The hotel boasts 12,000 feet of flexible event space and an array of unique settings to fit any occasion, including the light-strung outdoor Solera Courtyard, the Oval Lawn, and the elegantly modern Amphora Ballroom. With 180 guest rooms, including 90 one-bedroom suites and 19 two-bedroom suites, The Westin Verasa Napa can accommodate overnight groups large and small. Under the direction of executive chef Ken Frank, The Westin Verasa Napa gives guests an exceptional culinary experience in its award-winning, Michelin-starred restaurant La Toque.Â Chef Frankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exquisite presentations and clean flavor profiles complement an extensive wine selection, as La Toque is one of only 84 restaurants in the world with a prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award. westinnapa.com |

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FIRST LOOK I SHOPPING

Take Home Napa Valley

Cheese board Elevate your next gathering. $30

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT SOUVENIR? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE NAPA VALLEY WELCOME CENTER IN DOWNTOWN NAPA Admiral Leather Wine Bag The perfect host gift. $30

Wine stopper Unique wooden design gives a rustic look. $40

Barrel sunglasses The eyes really have it. $60

Cheers necklace Our favorite sentiment. $60

CALI GODLEY

Stackable barrel bracelets For that effortless, wine-country chic look. $28

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Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books Even kids have fun in Napa Valley! $19/$10 Recipe books Try your hand at making Napa-inspired bites. $20

Round Pond mini olive oil Perfect for dips. $10

CALI GODLEY

Coffee mug The next best thing to wine glass in hand. $19

Clif Family Handcrafted Chocolates Irresistible sweet treat. $11

DID YOU KNOW? Splurge on a piece from Creations Fine Jewelers in Napa. The glittering cases display pieces from Roberto Coin, John Hardy, and Mikimoto. Creations also specializes in custom design work. VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

FIRST LOOK I WHAT TO BRING/SHOPPING

weather Spring/Summer Temps DAY: 75-85° F (24-29° C) NIGHT: 50-55° F (10-13°) Fall/Winter Temps DAY: 60-70° F (15-21° C) NIGHT: 40-50° F (5-10°)

Packing 101

OF COURSE YOU’LL TAKE WINE HOME, BUT HERE ARE THE ESSENTIALS YOU’LL NEED TO BRING WITH YOU WHEN YOU #VISITNAPAVALLEY.

THE COAT Bring a packable, lightweight jacket. The temperature cools down quickly, even on warm, sunny days.

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THE TOTE Have a durable canvas or leather bag at the ready for a water bottle, picnic goodies, or a few extra bottles.

THE SHOES Leave the stilletos at home. Consider stacked heels or wedges, and be mindful of open-toe shoes on gravel.

THE SUNNIES Because no one wants to squint into the sun while admiring those vineyard views. Bring one pair that goes with everything.

STAY HYDRATED You already know how important it is to drink lots of water everyday. (64 ounces, we see you!). But it’s even more important when you’re sipping wine all day. Bring a reusable bottle from home, or pick one up at the Napa Valley Welcome Center.

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Napa Valley’s Mediterranean climate provides near-perfect weather year round. Evening temperatures can be around 30 degrees cooler than daytime; daytime temps can vary as much as 10 degrees at the same time of day between the northern and southern portions of the valley.

YOUNTVILLE

Shopping Break IN BETWEEN DINING AND VINEYARD TOURS, MAKE FORTY FIVE TEN A DESTINATION ON YOUR ITINERARY.

Small, but mighty: Yountville’s 1,000-square-foot premier shopping destination

Tucked alongside Bouchon and just minutes from The French Laundry, you’ll find Forty Five Ten, a small luxury boutique in the heart of Yountville. Its assortment of women’s ready-to-wear, accessories, jewelry, and beauty is tightly edited; you’ll only find the best of the best there. With brands like The Row, Adam Lippes, Co, Partow, Dušan, and Sacai, the store showcases a considered approach to luxury. Rich textures, muted color palettes, and minimalist fashion are hallmarks throughout. The handbag edit emphasizes timeless craftsmanship from brands such as Celine, Wandler, and Loewe. A small selection of clean beauty includes the made-inNapa cult-favorite Vintner’s Daughter. And for the design-minded, a thoughtful collection of pieces for the home is sure to delight: Nancy Kwon ceramics, Victoria Morris pottery, Georg Jensen serveware, Phaidon coffee table books, and more. “We tailored our buy for this location to the region’s lifestyle,” says Forty Five Ten

Kristen Cole, Forty Five Ten president and chief creative officer

president and chief creative officer, Kristen Cole. “Everything ties back to a leisurely attitude and days filled with good food, wine, entertaining, and life’s simple pleasures. In one word: Napa.” fortyfiveten.com | Vfortyfiveten

INSIDER TIP In addition to Yountville,

Forty Five Ten has six other locations nationwide, including New York, Aspen, Miami, and three in Dallas (its home base). And you can shop online. VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

NAPA

Scene on the Street

DOWNTOWN’S NEWEST DESTINATION, FIRST STREET NAPA, OFFERS EXCITING WAYS TO SHOP, SIP, AND SAVOR. firststreetnapa.com | BVAfirststreetnapa

1. ARCHER HOTEL NAPA A wine country retreat with a distinctly urban beat — luxe guest rooms and balcony-clad suites, Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, and Charlie Palmer Steak. archerhotel.com/napa

2. BROWN ESTATE Urban wine oasis featuring stunning design, sultry Zinfandels, and wine pairings. brownestate.com

3. TOY B VILLE The coolest toy store in California bursting with toys for all ages. toybville.com 4. COMPLINE WINE BAR + RESTAURANT + MERCHANT Named one of America’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants by Wine Enthusiast.

complinewine.com

4 5

EMMA K. MORRIS

5. EIKO’S MODERN JAPANESE CUISINE Imaginative Japanese cuisine, premium cocktails, and wine. eikosnapa.com 6. CYCLESOCIETY An indoor rhythm ride cycling studio offering a full roster of bass-blasting, calorie-torching, high-energy classes. cycle-society.com 7. MACBELLA Women’s boutique featuring European brands and designers. macbella.com 8. MAYACAMAS Offering new and library wines, luxury retail, and tasting salon. mayacamas.com 9. OVERLAND SHEEPSKIN CO. Fine sheepskin and leather coats, shoes and slippers, and bags. overland.com

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10. STATE & FIRST BY MARIS COLLECTIVE Women’s and men’s fashion, accessories, and home goods. mariscollective.com 11. NAPASTÄK An eclectic selection of locally made gourmet food, wine, coffee, sweets, and gifts. napastak.net

8 11

12. NAPA VALLEY JEWELERS Napa Valley’s most extensive selection of art glass and fine jewelry. napavalleyjewelers.com 13. MECOX A fine selection of home and garden furnishings, antiques, and custom designs. mecox.com

14. TOMMY BAHAMA Live the island life with relaxed styles for men, women, and home. tommybahama.com 15. LULULEMON Athletic wear for yoga, running, and most other sweaty pursuits. lululemon.com

16. MAKERS MARKET American handcrafted goods with a focus on local artisans. makersmarket.us 17. KALIFORNIA JEAN BAR Premium California fashion and accessories for men and women. kaliforniajeanbar.com VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY

NAPA

River Terrace Inn

Set near the Oxbow Preserve and River Walk Trail, River Terrace Inn offers modern comforts and personalized service. Oxbow Market, CIA at Copia, and world-class wineries are a short walk away. Recent updates include luxury guest rooms, a new fitness center, and state-ofthe art meeting space. Soak in the riverfront ambiance with a cocktail in front of a roaring firepit, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss small-plates dining at ALBA. riverterraceinn.com BVAriverterraceinn

NAPA

Senza Hotel Looking for an idyllic location to connect, relax, and rejuvenate? SENZA Hotel is your gateway to an authentic Napa Valley experience, with personalized service and rooms with understated elegance, set just footsteps from the vines. With downtown Yountville and Napa just minutes away, the hotel feels like a retreat while giving you a taste of Napa Valley living. senzahotel.com BVAsenzahotelnapa

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the guide

Essential Napa Valley STOCKSY/Â©GIORGIO MAGNINI

Where to Stay 61 Wine 101 72 Culinary 125 Arts 148 Wellness 155 Family 159 Outdoors 163

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THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY NAPA

Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa Experience your own Napa Valley retreat. Featuring rooms with a private winery feel, evening receptions, an exclusive pool, on-site garden, and the Preserve Spa and Salon, it’s a perfect blend. Come for a weekend or a business meeting — and relax and unwind in a stunning setting. napavalleymarriott.com VAnapamarriott

NAPA

Napa Winery Inn

An excellent value in Napa Valley, Napa Winery Inn offers an independent, authentic experience that is affordable, original, and recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2018. napawineryinn.com | (707) 257-7220 BVAnapawineryinn

NAPA

Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley

SpringHill Suites by Marriott

A tranquil setting and ideal location make Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley your gateway to wine country and downtown. Enjoy complimentary breakfast during your stay, and don’t miss the resident swans in the serene mill pond. embassysuites3.hilton.com

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The newly renovated, custom-built SpringHill Suites by Marriott Napa Valley boasts 100 all-suite guest rooms and well-appointed meeting space. With its convenient location (at Highways 12 and 29), it’s an ideal setting for a group function, corporate event, or special occasion. springhillsuitesnapavalley.com Bspringhill.suites.7568 | Vnapaspringhillnv |

Aspringhillnv

Where to Stay

YOUR GUIDE TO THE VALLEY’S BEST ACCOMMODATIONS

eciding where to stay during your Napa Valley vacation can be just as daunting as narrowing down the list of wineries you’ll visit. The choices are seemingly endless. But whether your preference is modern or historical, within close proximity to restaurants and shops, or a luxurious spa getaway in the calm of a remote vineyard setting, Napa

Valley’s accommodations cater to every visitor’s needs. Options include hotels, resorts, country inns, and bed and breakfasts. Many lodging partners offer concierge services to assist with dining reservations, winery appointments, and suggested activities and excursions. So all you have to do is rest easy.

DID YOU KNOW? The Napa Valley Welcome Center offers free concierge services to help you plan your trip. Email concierge@visitnapavalley.com.

AMERICAN CANYON DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL & SPA NAPA VALLEY (707) 674-2100 Hotel

BRANNAN COTTAGE INN (707) 942-4200 B&B Inn CALISTOGA ARBORS (707) 942-1198 B&B Inn

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES NAPA AMERICAN CANYON (707) 643-3800 Hotel

CALISTOGA ENCHANTED COTTAGE (707) 942-9463 B&B Inn

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS (707) 552-8100 Hotel

CALISTOGA INN (707) 942-4101 Hotel

CALISTOGA AURORA PARK COTTAGES (707) 942-6733 B&B Inn BEST WESTERN PLUS STEVENSON MANOR (707) 942-1112 Hotel BEAR FLAG INN (707) 942-5534 B&B Inn

CALISTOGA MOTOR LODGE & SPA (707) 942-0991 Hotel

CARLIN COUNTRY COTTAGE (707) 942-9102 B&B Inn CHATEAU DE VIE (707) 942-6446 B&B Inn CHELSEA GARDEN INN (707) 942-0948 B&B Inn CHIEN BLANC BUNGALOWS (707) 942-0948 B&B Inn COTTAGE GROVE INN (707) 942-8400 B&B Inn

CALISTOGA RANCH (866) 484-8829 Resort

DR. WILKINSON’S HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-4102 Hotel

CALISTOGA SPA HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-6269 Hotel

EMBRACE CALISTOGA (707) 942-9797 B&B Inn

CALISTOGA WAYSIDE INN (707) 942-0948 B&B Inn

EUROSPA & INN (707) 942-6829 Hotel FANNY’S NAPA VALLEY (707) 942-9391 B&B Inn

THE BERGSON (707) 942-5755 B&B Inn THE BUNGALOWS AT CALISTOGA (707) 341-6544 B&B Inn THE CRAFTSMAN INN (707) 341-3035 B&B Inn THE FRANCIS HOUSE (707) 341-3536 B&B Inn

BEST WESTERN ELM HOUSE INN (707) 255-1831 B&B Inn BEST WESTERN INN AT THE VINES (707) 257-1930 Hotel BLACKBIRD INN (707) 226-2450 B&B Inn CANDLELIGHT INN (707) 257-3717 B&B Inn

TRAILSIDE INN (707) 942-4106 B&B Inn UPVALLEY INN & HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-9400 Hotel

CARNEROS RESORT AND SPA (707) 299-4900 Resort CEDAR GABLES (707) 224-7969 B&B Inn

FOOTHILL HOUSE (707) 942-6933 B&B Inn

VALLEY OAK INN (707) 942-4720 B&B Inn

CHABLIS INN (707) 257-1944 Hotel

FOUR SEASONS RESORT & RESIDENCES NAPA VALLEY Resort * opening 2020

WINE WAY INN (707) 942-0680 B&B Inn

CHARDONNAY LODGE (707) 224-0789 Hotel

NAPA

GOLDEN HAVEN HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-8000 Hotel

1801 FIRST (707) 224-3739 B&B Inn

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS RETREAT (707) 252-3810 B&B Inn

INDIAN SPRINGS CALISTOGA (707) 942-4913 Resort MEADOWLARK COUNTRY HOUSE & RESORT (707) 942-5651 B&B Inn MOUNT VIEW HOTEL & SPA (707) 942-6877 Hotel ROMAN SPA HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-4441 Hotel SOLAGE CALISTOGA (707) 266-7531 Resort

CHURCHILL MANOR (707) 253-7733 B&B Inn

ANDAZ (707) 687-1234 Hotel

COTTAGES OF NAPA VALLEY (707) 252-7810 B&B Inn

ARBOR GUEST HOUSE (707) 252-8144 B&B Inn

EMBASSY SUITES NAPA VALLEY (707) 253-9540 Hotel

ARCHER HOTEL NAPA (707) 690-9800 Resort BEAZLEY HOUSE (707) 257-1649 B&B Inn

HAMPTON INN & SUITES NAPA (707) 255-4000 Hotel

BEL ABRI NAPA VALLEY INN (707) 226-5825 B&B Inn

HAWTHORN SUITES BY WYNDHAM (707) 226-1878 Hotel

(continued on page 64)

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THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY

NAPA

The Good Life

Set among the valley’s rolling hills, Vista Collina Resort is one of Napa’s premier lifestyle destinations and was recently awarded SHAPE Magazine’s Top Healthy Hotels Award. The resort’s Tuscan-style decor perfectly complements the Napa Valley scenery, while luxe guest rooms and suites include a gourmet kitchen. (Ask the concierge about having your own in-suite culinary experience with Hestan Cue.) Savor a curated food and wine lover’s experience at The Village, located on site. Filled with eight tasting rooms and a taproom, gourmet market Fivetown Grocery, a professional exhibition with ongoing cooking classes, and a spacious community lawn for picnics and live events, The Village celebrates the best of Napa Valley. vistacollinaresort.com | BVvistacollina

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NAPA

Hillside Splendor

Grand yet welcoming, The Meritage Resort and Spa is a luxe getaway tucked in the sunny vineyard hills of Napa Valley. No detail is too small, with world-class hospitality and amenities at every turn. The resort’s exceptional dining ranges from upscale dining to casual fare. Rustic Italian meets California cuisine at Siena Restaurant. Relax by the adults-only pool with a cold drink and light bite from the Terrace Bar. Crush Lounge’s six bowling lanes and full bar with sports entertainment guarantees a rollicking good time. Subterranean surprises are in store at the resort’s Estate Cave. The stunning space hosts wine dinners and other special events. Indulge in a soothing treatment crafted with local ingredients at Spa Terra. Napa Valley never felt so good. meritageresort.com Bmeritage.resort |

VAmeritageresort VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY HENNESSEY HOUSE (707) 226-3774 B&B Inn

NAPA WINERY INN (707) 257-7220 Hotel

HILTON GARDEN INN (707) 252-0444 Hotel

OLD WORLD INN CABERNET HOUSE AND MERLOT HOUSE (707) 257-0112 B&B Inn

HOTEL NAPA VALLEY OLD WORLD INN (707) 257-0476 B&B Inn INN ON RANDOLPH (707) 257-2886 B&B Inn MCCLELLAND PRIEST B&B (707) 256-9633 B&B Inn MILLIKEN CREEK INN & SPA (707) 255-1197 Hotel MOTEL 6 (707) 257-6111 Hotel NAPA DISCOVERY INN (707) 253-0892 Hotel NAPA INN (707) 257-1444 B&B Inn NAPA RIVER INN (707) 251-8500 Hotel NAPA VALLEY HOTEL & SUITES, A 3 PALMS BOUTIQUE HOTEL AND RESORT (707) 226-1871 Hotel NAPA VALLEY MARRIOTT HOTEL & SPA (707) 253-8600 Resort

R INN NAPA (707) 265-6200 B&B Inn RIVERPOINTE (707) 252-4200 Hotel RIVER TERRACE INN (707) 320-9000 Hotel SENZA HOTEL (707) 253-0337 Hotel SILVERADO RESORT & SPA (707) 257-0200 Resort

VISTA COLLINA (888) 965-7090 Resort

HARVEST INN (707) 963-9463 Resort

SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT NAPA VALLEY (707) 253-1900 Hotel

WHITE HOUSE NAPA VALLEY INN (707) 254-9301 B&B Inn

HOTEL ST. HELENA (707) 963-4388 Hotel

STAHLECKER HOUSE B & B (707) 257-1588

WINE VALLEY LODGE (707) 224-7911 Hotel

THE INN ON FIRST BED AND BREAKFAST INN (707) 253-1331 B&B Inn THE MERITAGE RESORT & SPA (707) 251-1900 Resort THE SETTING INN (707) 927-3909 B&B Inn THE WESTIN VERASA NAPA (707) 257-1800 Resort VINO BELLO RESORT (707) 251-1900 Resort

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RUTHERFORD AUBERGE DU SOLEIL (800) 348-5406 Resort RANCHO CAYMUS (707) 200-9300 Hotel

ST. HELENA ADAGIO INN OF ST. HELENA (707) 963-2238 B&B Inn EL BONITA (707) 963-3216 Hotel

INN AT SALVESTRIN (707) 963-5105 B&B Inn INN ST. HELENA (707) 963-3003 B&B Inn JUDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INN (707) 963-3081 B&B Inn LAS ALCOBAS (707) 963-7000 Resort

SHADY OAKS COUNTRY INN (707) 963-1190 B&B Inn

HOTEL YOUNTVILLE (707) 967-7900 Resort

SOUTHBRIDGE NAPA VALLEY (707) 967-9400 Hotel

LAVENDER INN (707) 944-1388 B&B Inn

SPANISH VILLA INN (707) 963-7483 B&B Inn VINEYARD COUNTRY INN (707) 963-1000 B&B Inn WINE COUNTRY INN & COTTAGES (707) 963-7077 Hotel

MEADOWOOD NAPA VALLEY (707) 531-4788 Resort

WYDOWN HOTEL (707) 963-5100 B&B Inn

NAPA FARMHOUSE INN (707) 968-5441 B&B Inn

YOUNTVILLE

RUSTRIDGE RANCH & WINERY (707) 965-9353 B&B Inn

BARDESSONO HOTEL & SPA (707) 204-6000 Resort HOTEL VILLAGIO (707) 944-8877 Resort

MAISON FLEURIE (707) 944-2056 B&B Inn NAPA VALLEY LODGE (707) 944- 2468 Hotel NAPA VALLEY RAILWAY INN (707) 944-2000 B&B Inn NORTH BLOCK HOTEL (707) 944-8080 Hotel PETITE LOGIS (707) 944-2332 B&B Inn POETRY INN (707) 944-0646 B&B Inn VINTAGE HOUSE (707) 944-1112 Resort

MICHAEL HOSPELT PHOTOGRAPHY

HOTEL INDIGO NAPA VALLEY (707) 253-9300 Hotel

The Francis House, Calistoga

YOUNTVILLE

Hotel Villagio...Yours to Explore

Days here are defined diďŹ&#x20AC;erently, attuned to the seasons and longstanding tradition of wine country joie de vivre. Drinking in the sunrise. Discovering something new. Lapping up some pool time. Celebrating life. At every turn, the fresh canvas of a new destination painted in contemporary Napa colors. When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to indulge, Hotel Villagio extends an invitation and awaits the pleasure of your stay. Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning tasting rooms, world-class art, and incredible natural surroundings are all within walking distance of Hotel Villagio and Vintage House. It all adds up to myriad ways to soak in the easy air of wine country. thevillaestatenapa.com BVtheestateyountville

villagio.com

vintagehouse.com

BVhotelvillagio

BVvintagehousenv

Estate Yountville

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THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY

Luxury and Legacy:

CHECKING OUT IS THE HARDEST THING TO DO AT THESE TWO PREMIER YOUNTVILLE HOTELS.

A Mindful Approach to Elevated Living

As one of Napa Valley’s notorious hotel gems, LEED Platinum Certified Bardessono provides a luxurious experience for guests within a sustainable environment. Deep green with luxury and a subtle aesthetic, the hotel offers ultimate indulgence through Lucy restaurant’s farm-to-fork fare, in-room spa treatments, electric Lexus vehicles, curated art collection, and rooftop pool access. Now offering a grand respite with enhanced amenities, The Maple Grove Villas extend embellished Napa Valley experiences for an effortless, immersive cultural experience. Premier luxury at every turn. bardessono.com Bbardessonohotelspa | 66

Vbardessonoyountville | Abardessonohotel

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Yountville Heritage Reimagined

Sparkling with tradition, Hotel Yountville is a wine-country retreat with enticing charm. Eighty romantic, spacious guest rooms housed in stone buildings constructed of stacked Napa river rocks feature four-poster beds, oversized tubs, and fireplaces. Indulge in a treatment at The Spa, dine at Heritage Oak, and recharge at the decadent pool courtyard with bar. Then, usher in the evening with a toast to the deep-rooted story of the Heritage Oak tree as it glistens with light with traditional tiny pours of signature cocktails â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a colorful reprieve from a day of wine tasting. An intimately luxurious experience awaits at one of Napa Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top hotels. hotelyountville.com BVAhotelyountville VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM| 2020 | 2019 672 VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM

THE GUIDE I WHERE TO STAY

ST. HELENA

CALISTOGA

Wine Country Inn

Mount View Hotel and Spa

This traditional Napa Valley country inn is set in a tranquil location for romance, relaxation, and exploration, and is surrounded by vineyards and mountain views. Complimentary breakfast, guest room mini-bar beverages, and great service are always included. winecountryinn.com | (707) 963-7077

The iconic art deco hotel has been a beacon for travelers searching out Napa Valley’s abundant amenities and hot spring waters for over a century. Your stay here can make an impact. “Change the World While You Sleep” creates an exceptional experience to indulge yourself while doing good in the world. mountviewhotel.com |

Bmountviewhotelspa

YOUNTVILLE

North Block

This modern retreat has everything for your wine country getaway, from stylish guest rooms and spa to complimentary GenZe e-bikes. Osteria-style Redd Wood restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas with a wine list, and the hotel is steps away from top tasting rooms and Michelin-starred restaurants. Special packages celebrate its honors: Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards No.1 Resort Hotel in California and No.1 Hotel in Northern California by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Awards. northblockhotel.com Bnorthblockhotel Vnorthblock_hotel 68

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CALISTOGA

Solage

Surrounded by mountains and vineyards, Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection, features 89 contemporary guest studios and suites with complimentary cruiser bicycles and a landmark swimming pool. Signature restaurant Solbar features healthful and indulgent fare from its seasonal, ingredient-driven menus. Award-winning Spa Solage offers health and wellness opportunities with geothermal soaking pools, state-of-the-art gym, and a Yoga Movement Studio with complimentary fitness classes. aubergeresorts.com/solage BVAsolageresort

NAPA

Calistoga Ranch

Set in a canyon on 157 acres, Calistoga Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection, is a private community with 50 guest lodges and 27 owner lodges. Contemporary architecture complements the landscape, with a focus on an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Calistoga Ranch features two swimming pools, multiple private hiking trails, a small farm with chickens and goats on site, plus a working Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, spa services, and the private Lakehouse Restaurant and lounge. aubergeresorts.com/calistogaranch BVAcalistogaranch

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

ST. HELENA

Steward of the Valley

It began on back country roads and among the vines. The son of a Napa Valley pioneer spent hours and days in the vineyards during every growing season, cultivating deep roots. Brought up to respect the land and its fruit, Tuck Beckstoffer sought out viticulture first and later moved into the craft of winemaking. As one of a few who is both a grower and a winemaker, Tuck’s approach begins with the land itself, and culminates with a reverence for the winemaking traditions of the past — sharing successes and failures among fellow crafters and appreciating the fruits of their labor over a beautiful bottle of wine. Tuck Beckstoffer Estate opened in 2016, offering intimate tours and private tastings as a way to connect visitors to the land and share the knowledge of how grape growing translates into every bottle. The tradition continues as Tuck raises his children in the same way that he was raised — as stewards among the vines. tuckbeckstoffer.com Btuckbeckstofferwines |

Vtuckbeckstofferestate | Atuckb

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

do napa valley like a pro

WINE 101 A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO ENJOYING WINE IN NAPA VALLEY BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

Wine can be confusing, even intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be!

STOCKSY/COM/© BONNINSTUDIO

Whether you’ve been here before or are planning a first visit, we know it can be a bit overwhelming. (So many wineries, so little time.) But with the resources on the following pages, plus the info — and inspiration — found online @VisitNapaValley, you’ll be sipping like a pro in no time. The next time you’re navigating a tasting or selecting a bottle at dinner, just remember — it’s a conversation, not a test. You don’t have to use the terms found here. You like what you like, and that’s all there is to it. We’ll raise a glass to that.

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The wine 411

WE GOT ALL THE INFO FOR YA

Want a list of the top-10 small wineries? Looking for the most unique wine tours? Want a roundup of the valley’s sparkling producers? You’ll find it all at visit napavalley.com/blog.

PHOTO CREDIT

cdfgl FOLLOW ALONG @VisitNapaValley Whether you want to find the best Frosé in town or need to cure the Monday blues with a splash of wine-country wanderlust, you’ll find plenty of Napa Valley inspiration.

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

ILLUSTRATION MIKE ROSSI / MICROGRAFIK.COM 74

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IT's Natural THE BUZZ AROUND NAPA VALLEY’S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS BEGAN IN 1968. IT’S STILL GOING STRONG. WHAT IS THE NAPA VALLEY AGRICULTURAL PRESERVE? The Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve, established in 1968, was the first in the U.S. to set land aside specifically for agriculture. It protects nearly 32,000 acres.

Summer sun in the vines

A Matter of Taste

EXPLORE NAPA VALLEY’S DISTINCT AVAS — FROM THE LANDSCAPE TO YOUR GLASS. BY CAREY SWEET

BOB MCCLENAHAN

rape growing and winemaking have been such Napa Valley hallmarks for centuries that it may surprise you to learn that the region has been an official American Viticultural Area (AVA) since only 1981. Yet even then, the premium Napa Valley landscape was so significant that it was California’s first-ever AVA, designated to identify an area’s distinctive soil, climate, and terrain, and how those factors distinguish the grapes that thrive there. Today, the Napa Valley includes 16 sub-AVAs across 47,000 acres of wine grapes spanning impressive geological diversity that develops different

personalities even among the same grape varieties. The cool, mountaintop Atlas Peak AVA, for example, produces Cabernet Sauvignon typically boasting bright, elegant berry and cherry fruit with ample acidity, while the warm-to-hot Calistoga valley floor AVA produces Cabernet Sauvignon that is usually bigger and riper, showcasing dark fruits like blackberry and black currant. BUILD YOUR PALATE One of the best ways to explore how different AVAs encourage different grape characteristics? Taste lots of wines! Preferably, as you build your

WHAT IS BIODYNAMIC WINE? Biodynamic technique is similar to organic farming in that it avoids synthetic chemicals, but it also views the vineyard as an entire ecosystem, observing factors such as astrological influences and lunar cycles. Biodynamic wines are also made without common manipulations such as yeast additions or acidity adjustments. WHAT IS ORGANIC WINE? An organic listing on a wine label means one of two things: It’s either made from organically grown grapes, without any added sulfites, or it’s made from certified organically grown grapes, avoiding all synthetic pesticides.

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WINE 101 palate, you’ll want to taste wines side-by-side so you can easily appreciate the variations. Conn Creek Winery in St. Helena offers exceptional opportunity for this with its AVA Series wines. Here, Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from multiple sub-AVAs, such as Rutherford, Diamond Mountain, Stags Leap, and Howell Mountain. The Conn Creek Barrel Blending Experience is a hands-on immersion led by a wine educator who delves into the nuances of each AVA, down to showing soil samples of many of the 33 soil types across the area. You’ll taste Cabernet Sauvignon samples straight from the barrel and then blend those Cabs with other components, such as Merlot and Cabernet Franc, to round out the wine’s personality. For another deep dive into the layered mosaic of Napa Valley AVAs, check out 1881 Napa in Oakville. It’s the region’s first wine history museum and tasting salon. Created by local vintner Jean-Charles Boisset, it’s a captivating journey through Napa Valley’s renowned roots, told through portraits and stories of winemaking pioneers, a collection of antique winemaking tools, and a ceiling mural of an 1895 Napa County map. After a tour, taste appellation-designate Cabernet Sauvignon derived from some of the most prestigious vineyards throughout Napa Valley AVAs. Now that you’re well versed in Napa’s AVAs, it’s time to explore your favorite region in more detail. Beau Wine Tours offers custom routes through various AVAs, including Howell Mountain and Diamond Mountain. BEYOND CAB While Cabernet Sauvignon is considered the crown grape of Napa Valley, there are a myriad of other grapes grown here. While you’re examining AVAs, you’ll learn how the individuality of each site makes happy homes for different varieties. You’ll come across Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and others, and discover how Pinot Noirs generally thrive in cool areas, while Zinfandel appreciates warmth. Thanks to their special terroirs, these wines celebrate their own styles, too: Howell Mountain Chardonnay is firmer than those of the valley floor, with more citrus and stone fruit flavors than, say, an Oak Knoll Chardonnay with flavors of apple, mineral, and tropical fruit. The Conn Creek Barrel Blending Experience

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To learn more about each AVA, go to VisitNapaValley.com/AVA.

TOP: LOWELL DOWNEY/COURTESY OF 1881; BOTTOM: MEGAN REEVES

1881 Napa is part wine museum, part tasting room.

CAB SEASON NOV - APR

Consider timing your next trip during Cabernet Season, November through April. After harvest, you’ll up your chances of having 1-on-1 winemaker conversations.

PLAN AHEAD

WITH A LITTLE PLANNING, IT’S EASY TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WINERY VISITS.

1 winery to confirm hours Call ahead to each

and make reservations.

2 which range from $10

Budget for tasting fees,

– $150 (turn to p. 99 for more).

3 the winemaking process.

Start with a tour to learn

Then, book tasting-only appointments the rest of the day.

4 winery visits per day.

Limit yourself to 3 – 4

5 5 p.m., and some have

Most wineries close at

MEGAN REEVES

gates that lock (so don’t leave your car!).

6 and drink plenty of

Eat breakfast and lunch,

Conn Creek vineyard

water throughout the day.

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

Legendary Napa Valley is home to 16 distinct wine-growing regions and more than 400 wineries. While it’s no secret that Napa Valley produces worldclass, globally recognized wines, there’s an ease and approachability to wine-tasting here. The majority of the valley’s wineries — 95 percent, to be exact — are family-owned and operated, so you’ll feel right at home.

First, the basics

WHAT MAKES THE NAPA VALLEY A RENOWNED WINE-GROWING REGION? THERE ARE THREE ANSWERS, AND IT’S ALL ABOUT NATURE.

GEOGRAPHY The Napa Valley, at 35 miles long and five miles wide, was formed by tectonic plate movement and volcanic activity over 150 million years. The valley’s location between the cool Pacific and hot Central Valley results in a diverse collection of microclimates and soil types. Two mountain ranges and the Napa River, which bisects the valley, creates a diverse terrain.

CLIMATE Napa Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate: Warm, dry, sunny days and cooler evenings. This temp pattern allow grapes to ripen at a slower pace. Within the valley, there are other diverse microclimates. The Carneros region is influenced by the Pacific and marine breezes from the Bay area. In the north, the mountain region has a wider range of temps and rainfall.

SOIL Napa Valley is one of the world’s smallest wine regions, but it’s also one of the most diverse. Napa Valley has more than 100 soil variations that affect the character of different grapes. On the valley floor, the soil is deeper and more fertile. On the hillsides and in the mountains, rocky soil produces smaller grapes of concentrated color and flavor.

only 2%

Napa Valley By the numbers

of land on Earth has the climate needed to grow the grape varietals in the Valley

One barrel of wine contains 740 pounds of grapes, equivalent to 59 gallons or 24.6 cases of wine. 95 percent of Napa Valley’s wineries are family owned and operated. 34 different grape varieties grow in Napa Valley (for more, turn to p. 81). Winter in the vineyard

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

SHUTTERSTOCK; BOB MCCLENAHAN

In 1981, Napa Valley was named California’s first AVA (American Viticulture Area; or, wine-growing region). Today, Napa Valley has 16 sub-AVAs.

1976

Talk the Talk BECAUSE YOU DON’T WANT TO CARRY AROUND A WINE DICTIONARY, USE THIS WINE-TASTING CHEAT SHEET INSTEAD. ACIDITY: The tartness or crispness of a wine; acidity makes your mouth salivate. Wines with no acidity are called flat. BALANCED: When all components of a wine — alcohol, acidity, sugars, tannins — are working in harmony.

FROM TOP: SHUTTERSTOCK; BELLA SPURRIER; ILLUSTRATION: SVETA MEDVEDIEVA

BODY: Usually referred to as light, medium, or full; this is the impression of weight on your palate. Full-bodied is a wine that’s high in alcohol and flavors.

MOUTHFEEL: How the wine feels on your palate (silky, smooth, rough, chewy, complex).

THE 1976 JUDGMENT OF PARIS blind-tasting competition pitted the finest French wines against unknown California bottles. The winners? A 1973 Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena and the 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. This put the Napa Valley on the world map as a wine region.

LEGS: How the wine sticks to the inside of the glass after drinking or swirling. TANNINS: Extracted from grape seeds and skins; they taste astringent or chalky, and add body and structure to wine.

The Five rules of Wine Tasting New to wine tasting? It may seem daunting. But according to master sommelier, wine educator, and Napa Valley resident Andrea Robinson, there’s no need to feel self-conscious. BY TINA CAPUTO

1. SEE

There’s a lot you can tell about a wine by its appearance. Generally speaking, the darker the color of the wine, the fuller the body.

2. SWIRL

This aerates the wine and releases the aromatic components responsible for making up the complexity of flavor.

3. SMELL

Aroma is your first clue to the wine’s flavor profile. Your nose triggers your brain to perceive flavors like cherry in Pinot Noir, or apple in whites.

4. SIP

Swish the wine around in your mouth. This releases complex layers of flavor so all your senses can take them in.

5. SAVOR/SPIT

Enjoy the wine’s finish. Or, if you’re doing several tastings in one day, it’s a good idea to spit.

Behind the Label NAPA’S NEXT

GENERATION Michael Baldacci

Director of Operations, Baldacci Family Vineyards

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? “Meeting new people and teaching them about our wines, how we make them, and why we make them. I started out working in the tasting room, learning all about wine — and the people who enjoy wine.” What do you think makes Napa Valley unique compared to other wine regions? “The size and camaraderie. Each time I host a group, they always note the closeness we share as vintners. When I first became involved in the industry, it really stood out to me.” What advice would you offer someone trying to get into the Napa Valley wine industry? “Get your hands dirty and take any position offered. Most wineries are so small, you get the opportunity to see every side of it from vineyard to production to the business.” Information courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

Clean & Green

V. Sattui Winery

VISIT SOME OF THE VALLEY’S SUSTAINABLE WINERIES • St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery • Round Pond Estate Winery • CADE Estate Winery • Cakebread Cellars • Odette Estate Winery • HALL Wines • Spottswoode Winery

first stop

DON’T BE THAT PERSON — YOU KNOW WHAT WE MEAN. MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT BY REMEMBERING THESE SMART SIPPING TIPS. HYDRATE Drink wa-

COMFORT IS KING

just in case. Turn to p. 140 for best breakfast bites.

ter regularly throughout the day. Be a sustainable traveler and bring your own water bottle. Even better? Buy a reusable water bottle with metal straw at the Napa Valley Welcome Center in downtown Napa. It’s the perfect souvenir.

Many wineries have gravel walkways, so wear comfortable shoes. (Think wedges, not heels.)

too much into one day. Three to four winery visits per day is just right.

jacket or extra layer of clothing to wear if you plan on touring wine caves. These hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (or less), year round.

TAKE IT EASY It’s okay not to finish a glass of wine during a tasting. Use the dump bucket!

BREAKFAST Don’t

ENJOY AT DINNER

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RELAX Don’t try to fit

skip breakfast! Eat something before wine tasting and keep a granola bar in your bag

LAYER UP Bring a

Buy a bottle at the day’s favorite winery and take to dinner that night.

Who’s driving? Relax and leave that to someone else. Find a list of private transportation and tour options on p. 170. Want something different? Consider Napa Valley Wine Train, Wine Trolley, or Napa Driving Services (they’ll drive your own car!).

COURTESY OF V. SATTUI WINERY

wine country: Pro tips

Be a midweek warrior. A trip to the valley during the work week isn’t just plain fun (wine tasting on a Wednesday!), but the crowds are generally lower compared to the weekends.

Head to downtown Napa’s Napa Valley Welcome Center for maps and more info. The local experts will offer winery suggestions based on your preferences, whether you want to see museum-worthy art collections, stroll French-style gardens, or experience culinary and wine pairings.

Picnic at a winery? Yes, please!

TOP, FROM LEFT: MYLES MCGUINESS; SHUTTERSSTOCK.COM; BOTTOM: COURTESY OF TREFETHEN FAMILY VINEYARDS

It's all about the grapes

Off the Beaten Path

MASTERED NAPA VALLEY 101? TIME TO HEAD DOWN ROADS LESS TRAVELED AND EXPLORE THE VALLEY’S BOUTIQUE WINEMAKING AREAS. BY CAREY SWEET

s you become more knowledgeable about AVAs, you’ll want to look into some of Napa Valley’s more boutique areas, too. Most people have never heard of Coombsville, though its only ten minutes from downtown Napa. An AVA since 2011, it is home to about 1,400 acres of premium grapes. Los Carneros is a bit obscure, as well, sprawling near the cooling waters north of San Pablo Bay, and a favorite for its sparkling wines, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Then, there’s charming Oak Knoll, adjacent to Yountville and boasting nearly 4,200 acres of grapes. Grape growers and winemakers have long treasured the fine fruit from these iconic vineyards, and more wine lovers are lauding the unusual delights like the dry, floral Riesling produced by the AVA’s Trefethen Family Vineyards. Wild Horse Valley is another unsung gem, tucked on the east edge of Coombsville and planted with just about 100 acres of grapes. Yet, those in the know prize the cool climate area’s bright cherry-berry Pinot

Noir, and crisp, pear-mineral toned Chardonnay. Ultimately, as you discover how AVAs help define grape expressions across a region, you’ll find more favorite wines. Whether that means a ripe, warm climate red or a more delicate, cool climate red (both styles are delicious) — you’ll have greater tools to help you choose. Happy exploring!

NAPA VALLEY’S MOST WIDELY PLANTED GRAPE VARIETIES. CABERNET FRANC Rich fruit flavor, good body. CABERNET SAUVIGNON Flavors display a variety of black fruits. CHARDONNAY Styles range from fresh and crisp to rich and buttery. MERLOT Rich earthiness with a smooth finish. PINOT NOIR Earthy aromas and silky texture. SAUVIGNON BLANC Grassy notes; a variety of fruit character.

Trefethen Family Vineyards

ZINFANDEL Notes of spice and black pepper.

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

GENERATION Dave Battuello

Owner/Vineyard Manager, Battuello Vineyards When was your first Napa Valley harvest? “I’m a fourth-generation Napa Valley farmer. I’ve lived on our family estate since birth. The only time I’ve left the valley was to go to college and study viticulture. As soon as I graduated from Cal Poly, I was back home working the ranch.” Which wine was your “a-ha!” wine – the one that made you love wine or inspired you to get into the industry? “My grandpa’s homemade Napa Gamay, which he would sip on each day out of a special glass. Understanding he had seen the wine through the whole process was inspiring. I still have that wine glass, and enjoy my wine in it often.”

How To Find Your Wine Style

THERE ARE MORE THAN 400 WINERIES IN NAPA VALLEY — SO WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU? BY MATT VILLANO

he good news: Napa Valley has a wine experience for everyone who visits. Now for the tricky part. Not certain which spot is for you? Let us help. We’ve compiled six distinct visitor personalities and paired them up with a handful of local wineries that suit each one best. For more information, swing by a Welcome Center once you get to the valley and ask the friendly volunteers to shed some insight; there are locations in downtown Napa, St. Helena, American Canyon, Calistoga, and Yountville. Happy sipping! PROFESSIONAL Dossier: You subscribe to Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. You’ve memorized all the 100-point wines in the last decade. You regularly dish out wine descriptors such as “jammy,” “earthy,” and “unctuous.” And when a tasting-room host tells you the wine you’re sampling is a blend of different varietals, you insist you can

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? “My passion is in vineyard farming. I spend each day working in the vineyard, making sure that by the time harvest rolls around, we are producing the best grapes for that vintage.” Information courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

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Stags’ Leap Winery

taste the Cabernet Franc — even though it’s only five percent. Bottom line: You know your wine, you know what you like, and you appreciate quality. Wineries: Stags’ Leap Winery, Trinchero Family Estate, Crocker & Starr, Far Niente FOODIE Dossier: You see wine and food as inextricably linked as chocolate and peanut butter. You can’t quaff vino without imagining what kind of meal would make its perfect partner. You can’t bear the thought of tasting wine unless it’s part of an elaborate food pairing. And of course, you’ve done as much research into local restaurants as you have wineries. Bottom line: Wine is only one part of a complete gustatory experience. Wineries: Cakebread Cellars, Piazza Del Dotto, Round Pond Estate, B Cellars

COURTESY OF STAGS’ LEAP WINERY

Behind the Label NAPA’S NEXT

Cakebread Cellars

COURTESY OF CAKEBREAD CELLARS; GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF LONG MEADOW RANCH

Full glass, big smiles for the easy going wine drinker!

share them on social media. Bottom line: You live and play hard, even on vacation. Unique experiences can be more intoxicating than wine. Wineries: The Hess Collection, Sterling Vineyards, Raymond Vineyards, Swanson Vineyards, Clif Family HISTORIC Dossier: You appreciate and celebrate history. You spend hours (if not days) before a trip researching information about where you’re going, what’s around, and how it’s changed over time. You’re the person who engages with on-the-ground service professionals about details from yesteryear and their personal relationships with a place’s past. Bottom line: You’re wiser than you look. If something isn’t at least 100 years old, it’s too current for you. Wineries: Charles Krug, Schramsberg, Beringer, Inglenook, Louis M. Martini Winery ECO Dossier: You love wine because it comes from the earth. The concept of terroir resonates with you on a fundamental level. You recycle and compost at home. You’re up-to-date on climate change. You always make time on vacation to commune with nature and watch wildlife. Bottom line: Conservation, sustainability, organics, and biodynamic farming speak to you loud and clear. Wineries: Honig, HALL St. Helena, CADE, Silver Oak, Long Meadow Ranch, St. Supéry

Long Meadow Ranch

EASY GOING Dossier: You care more about the taste of a wine than its winemaker, provenance, or pedigree. You’re not a fan of spending big bucks for wines, unless it’s a special occasion. For you, drinking is a social experience and is best enjoyed with good friends. You don’t remember some of your favorite wines because … well … because you enjoyed them so much. Bottom line: You’re visiting Napa Valley for the lifestyle, with a goal to simply have fun and enjoy the views. Wineries: Robert Mondavi Winery, Chimney Rock, V. Sattui, Ashes & Diamonds Winery ADVENTURESOME Dossier: You love the rush of adrenaline pumping in your veins. You often seek offbeat and extreme activities wherever you travel. As you experience new things in life, you’re constantly thinking about how to describe, document, and

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

Silverado Vineyards in Stags Leap District

Silverado Vineyards’ winemaking team

View from upper terrace

NAPA

A Great Estate

Silverado Vineyards was established in 1981 by Ron and Diane Miller, with Diane’s mother Lillian Disney. All of Silverado Vineyards’ wines are estate-grown, produced, and bottled under the guidance of winemaker Jon Emmerich and associate winemaker Elena Franceschi. The iconic winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and offers a variety of tours and tastings. Guests can reserve The Silverado Experience for a guided immersion into the estate. The tour includes the history of the vineyards and winemaking, a peek into the Miller family’s collection of belle époque posters and early California landscape artwork, and a terrace tasting of four small-production wines. silveradovineyards.com B silveradovineyardsnapa | 84

Vsilverado_vineyards

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From Bud to Bottle

Harvest time!

IT’S QUITE THE JOURNEY FROM VINE TO GLASS. WE TRACED THE LIFECYCLE OF A GRAPE IN 12 STEPS.

3. FLOWERING

The vine develops a tight bunch of tiny flowers; each flower can form a single grape berry.

1. WINTER PRUNING

To guide the vine in certain directions for certain purposes.

2. BUD BREAK

8. HARVEST

When the first tender buds of the growing season emerge from the dormant vine. This can take place over a two-month period.

From early August to late October, it’s time! Sugar levels are measured, grapes are tasted and tested, and picked mostly by hand and at night.

4. FRUIT SET

The now-pollinated flowers drop petals and a tiny, green sphere emerges at the end of the stem. Voilà, baby grapes.

6. CROP THINNING

7. VERAISON

All grape varieties begin green in color; by mid-summer, red or white grapes reveal their identity.

Also known as “green harvesting,” or the dropping of unripe, un-perfect grape bunches.

5. CANOPY MANAGEMENT

The process of leaf removal, shoot thinning, and shoot positioning to achieve the right balance of shade, sunlight, and air circulation around each grape bunch.

10. FERMENTATION

ILLUSTRATION BY SVETA MEDVEDIEVA

9. CRUSH

Grapes are gently crushed and sent to the appropriate vessel to ferment on their skins.

The process of yeast converting sugar (grape juice) into wine.

11. AGING

A variety of techniques are used at this step, which allows flavors to develop over months (or years).

12. BOTTLING

The time to bottle depends on the vintage and character of the wine. A light white, such as Riesling, will only age for a few months. Red wines often age in oak for up to two years.

Information sourced from Napa Valley Vintners.

DID YOU KNOW? Check out VisitNapaValley.com/Makers for video profiles of Napa’s other makers, from chefs and chocolatiers to barrel makers and artists.

FROM EARLY AUGUST THROUGH LATE OCTOBER, HARVEST IS AN EXCITING TIME IN NAPA VALLEY. Sparkling wine grapes are the first to be picked, which marks the start of the annual harvest. Next, most white wines go from vineyard to the crush pad. Red varieties take a bit longer to reach full maturation. Napa Valley’s Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are among the last to be harvested. Find real-time harvest updates at harvestnapa.com. Want to experience harvest? Go to visitnapavalley. com/blog for a roundup of harvest parties and grape stomps. When harvest is over, Cabernet Season begins. For many, this is the ideal time to visit: cool temps, low crowds, and great deals and packages at many of the valley’s hotels and resorts. Turn to p. 174 for more.

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

OAKVILLE

Beyond the Bottle

Silver Oak was founded in 1972 with a singular goal — to focus on one varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon, aged exclusively in American Oak. Today, Silver Oak remains a family-owned winery, and its exquisite, food-friendly Cabernets have a devoted following. Silver Oak’s Napa Valley winery stands on the original site, between the Silverado Trail and the town of Oakville. Visitors to the tasting room are greeted by its iconic water tower, a symbol recognized from Silver Oak’s labels. Make reservations for a tour (walk-ins are also welcome!), and taste their delicious wine and learn more about their innovative cooperage, The Oak. silveroak.com BVsilveroakcellars |

? 86

Asilveroak

DID YOU KNOW? Silver Oak is the only North American winery to produce its own American oak barrels.

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

YOUNTVILLE

Handwritten Wines

Jessup Cellars

handwrittenwines.com BVhandwrittenwines

jessupcellars.com BVjessupcellars

Handwritten’s District Cabernet Sauvignons are sourced from select, two-acre hillside and mountain vineyard blocks. Explore micro-lot wines in a side-by-side Appellation Tour Tasting at Handwritten’s new Yountville home.

Known as one of Napa Valley’s friendliest tasting rooms, Jessup Cellars guests may choose to taste at its Yountville tasting bar, or relax with a guided artisan cheese and wine pairing experience in its spacious art gallery.

NAPA

Benchmark Wine Group

Established in 2002, Benchmark Wine Group is the leading source of fine and rare wine for wine retailers, restaurants, and collectors around the world. Benchmark Wine Group acquires the most sought-after wines from private individuals and professional contacts, relying on a team of acquisitions experts to verify provenance. The staff draws on decades of industry experience and is dedicated to providing exceptional service to clients, who get 24-hour access to its cellar and inventory in real time. There’s no club to join, and no hidden expenses — making Benchmark Wine Group your best partner for great wine. benchmarkwine.com Bbenchmarkwinegroup |

VAbenchmarkwine

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WINE 101 OAKVILLE

Napa Valley Visionary

Robert Mondavi believed the path to a gracious lifestyle leads through the appreciation of wine, food, and art — and that the Napa Valley could be the center for that lifestyle. One of the first wineries to offer tours, tastings, and culinary and art programs, Robert Mondavi Winery’s celebrated visitor programs still reflect his passion for wine education, offering experiences for everyone from the novice to the most discriminating connoisseur. Visitors can sample handcrafted, winery-only wines from the Vineyard Tasting Room and the intimate, luxurious To Kalon Reserve Room, or linger on the patios, where beautiful views of the To Kalon vineyard are the backdrop to sip, savor, and connect with friends and family. The Signature Tour is a comprehensive journey from grape to glass, while the Discovery Tour offers a “sip and stroll” easy walking tour suitable for the entire family. robertmondaviwinery.com/visit-now BVArobertmondavi

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

ST. HELENA

OAKVILLE

Nichelini Family Winery

Napa Cellars

Napa Valley’s oldest family-owned winery is now six generations strong. The scenic drive to this unique winery will take you back, mile by mile, to a simpler time. Taste the difference 129 consecutive vintages make. nicheliniwinery.com Bnichelinifamilywinery

In Napa Valley, heritage matters. Napa Cellars sits on the original five acres along historic Highway 29 in Oakville that established the winery in 1976. Experience exclusive small-lot wines, sourced from many of Napa Valley’s renowned appellations and artfully crafted to express the best of Napa Cellars. napacellars.com Bnapacellars | Vnapacellarswine

NAPA

RUTHERFORD

Chimney Rock Winery

Rutherford Hill Winery

chimneyrock.com

rutherfordhill.com

In the acclaimed Stags Leap District, Chimney Rock Winery transforms an exalted varietal into a Cabernet Sauvignon like no other. Visit the impressive, Cape Dutch-inspired estate nestled beneath the Stags Leap Palisades and enjoy delicious estate wines, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views of Napa Valley.

BVchimneyrockwinery | Achimneyrockwine

You’ll find more than spectacular views from the top. Rutherford Hill Winery offers a wine country experience to remember. Enjoy a picnic at the estate’s Oak Grove grounds, complete with handcrafted Rutherford Hill wines. Elevate the experience and book a tour of the winery’s milelong caves.

BVrutherfordhillwinery | Arutherfordhill

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WINE 101 BE BUBBLY! NAPA VALLEY (707) 934-7399

HOUSLEY NAPA VALLEY (707) 690-9192

BENTON FAMILY WINES (888) 317-8819

JAM CELLARS (707) 265-7577

BOUNTY HUNTER WINE BAR & SMOKIN BAR-B-QUE (707) 226-3976 BROWN DOWNTOWN (707) 963-2435 CADET WINE + BEER BAR (707) 224-4400 CARPE DIEM RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR (707) 224-0800 COMPLINE WINE BAR (707) 492-8150 CORNERSTONE CELLARS AT VISTA COLLINA RESORT (707) 945-0388

1881 Napa

Tasting Rooms

THESE TASTING ROOMS OFFER AN EASY WAY TO SIP WINE, WITHOUT THE PRODUCTION FACILITIES OR VINEYARDS ON-SITE.

CALISTOGA AUGUST BRIGGS (707) 942-4912 CALISTOGA WINE STOP (707) 942-5556 CAMi VINEYARDS (707) 738-3512 KNIGHTS BRIDGE WINERY (707) 341-3391 MALDONDO FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 942-1376 90

OLABISI WINES (707) 942-4472 PICAYUNE CELLARS (707) 888-9885 ROMEO VINEYARDS & CELLARS (707) 942-8239 TANK GARAGE (707) 942-8265 THE GRADE CELLARS (707) 967-8200 T-VINE WINERY (707) 942-1543

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

VON STRASSER FAMILY OF WINES (707) 942-9500

ALPHA OMEGA COLLECTIVE (707) 294-6960

W. H. SMITH WINES (707) 942-1194

ANARCHIST WINE CO. (707) 637-8820

NAPA

AZUR WINES (707) 286-9468

THE AVIARY AT ACKERMAN HERITAGE HOUSE (855) 238-9462 ACUMEN WINE GALLERY (707) 492-8336

BACK ROOM WINES (877) 322-2576 BAZAN CELLARS (707) 927-5564

COUP DE FOUDRE WINERY (707) 253-8300 CRU @ THE ANNEX (707) 927-2409 ELLMAN FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 260-7654 FIFTY ROW AND SMOKESCREEN (707) 501-5703 GABRIELLE COLLECTION TASTE + (707) 815-0364 GAMBLING & MCDUCK (707) 819-2835 GEN7WINES (619) 540-1986 GUSTAVO WINE (707) 257-6796

JOHN ANTHONY VINEYARDS TASTING LOUNGE (707) 265-7711 KEPLINGER (707) 815-7824 KRUPP BROTHERS TASTING ROOM (707) 226-1233 MARK HEROLD WINES (707) 256-3111 MAYACAMAS DOWNTOWN (707) 294-1433 NAPA GENERAL STORE (707) 259-0762 OUTLAND (707) 227-1277 OXBOW CHEESE & WINE MERCHANT (707) 257-5200 PAGE WINE CELLARS & REVOLVER WINE CO. (707) 255-4665 PRIME SOLUM TASTING BARN (707) 492-3531 PURE CRU WINES ON FIRST (707) 226-3046 PURLIEU - THE GREEN ROOM (707) 226-3336 REBEL VINTNERS (707) 637-4855 RIVERHOUSE BY BESPOKE COLLECTION (707) 252-4440

(continued on page 92)

LOWELL DOWNEY/COURTESY OF 1881

BOUGETZ CELLARS (707) 699-2187

NAPA

The Village SAVOR DELICIOUS SURPRISES AT THE VILLAGE, LOCATED AT THE VISTA COLLINA RESORT.

With eight boutique wineries, there’s something for every kind of connoisseur. Then there’s Fivetown Grocery, with sandwiches, salads, and pastries perfect for a picnic at The Village’s expansive community lawn. Or try a hands-on cooking class at the Food and Wine Center. Plus catch live entertainment and events year-round. villagenapavalley.com Bvillagenapavalley | Vvillagenapavalley

DON’T MISS THESE FIVE WINERIES: 1. ANARCHIST WINE Award-winning wines with an unconventional flair, made for the curious. anarchistwineco.com | BV" anarchistwineco

2. LUNA VINEYARDS Discover science and creativity in equal measure with a personalized tasting of estate-grown wines. lunavineyards.com | B lunavineyards V luna.vineyards | " vineyardsluna

3. GEN7 WINES Building on a 180-year-old family legacy, this winery serves a little bit of history in every glass. gen7wines.com | B gen7winebrooksidewinery V gen7wine | " gen7wines

4. CORNERSTONE CELLARS Thoughtfully crafted, artisan wine produced on a small scale with intentionality and nuance. cornerstonecellars.com BV" cornerstonenapa

5. TRINITAS CELLARS The trinity of sun, soil, and humanity are the secret behind exquisite wines and warm hospitality. trinitascellars.com |

BV" trinitascellars 3

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

THE GUIDE I WINE 101 ROBERT CRAIG WINERY (707) 252-2250 SHADOWBOX CELLARS (707) 738-0386 ST. CLAIR BROWN WINERY & BREWERY (707) 255-5591

CALISTOGA

Clos Pegase

Located just south of the historic town of Calistoga, Clos Pegase is the destination for luxury hospitality in an awe-inspiring setting. The winery boasts renowned architecture, including 20,000 square feet of caves, and excellent, estate-grown wines, from Chardonnay to Cabernet and beyond. clospegase.com Vclospegase

TRINITAS CELLARS (888) 983-8414 VERMEIL WINES (707) 254-9881

MATTHEW BRUNO (opening 2020) (707) 738-9119

VINOCE VINEYARDS (707) 265-7750

ST. HELENA

VINTNERS COLLECTIVE (707) 255-7150

STONEHEDGE WINERY (707) 257-1068

WALT WINES (707) 933-9440

THE STUDIO BY FEAST IT FORWARD (707) 819-2403

OAKVILLE

THE WINE FOUNDRY (707) 637-8821 THE WINE THIEF (707) 666-2650 TRAHAN WINERY & PRIME CELLARS (707) 257-7477

RUTHERFORD

1881 NAPA (707) 948-6099 GHOST BLOCK ESTATE TASTING ROOM (800) 848-9630

750 WINES (707) 963-0750 ACME FINE WINES (707) 963-0440 CLIF FAMILY WINERY (707) 968-0625 MACAULEY VINEYARD (707) 963-1863 ORIN SWIFT CELLARS (707) 967-9179 ST. HELENA WINE CENTER (707) 963-1313 (continued on page 97)

RUTHERFORD

Beaulieu Vineyard

For 119 years, Beaulieu Vineyard has been setting the standard for classic Napa Valley wines. Its flagship wine, the Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, had its first vintage in 1936 by iconic winemaker AndrÃ© Tchelistcheff. Today, a variety of tasting experiences are hosted on site, including the Cabernet Collector tasting. bvwines.com BVbvwines 92

VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

NAPA

Where the Wines Rock

JaM Cellars wine and music studio is rocking downtown Napa with an eclectic, comfortable space and music-driven wine vibe. A state-of-the-art sound system and classic vinyl collection make it easy to chill out with friends over a glass, flight, or bottle of easy-to-love wines, such as Butter Chardonnay, California Candy Dry Rosé, JaM Cabernet, and Toast Sparkling. Settle in at the bar counter, leather couches, or booths alongside vintage Rolling Stone magazine art and musical decor. Or for something unique, step inside the working recording studio for a private tasting with their friendly JaMbassadors. Definitely try their exclusive Butter Napa and JaM Cab Napa wines from local Napa Valley vineyards, only available through the wine and music studio. Plus the yummy menu of JaMbites from the excellent Tarla Mediterranean Bar + Grill next door can be served while you sip and hang out with great music and delicious wines — you won’t want to leave. Open late every day and until midnight on weekends, check listings to enjoy live JaMSessions Thursdays and Fridays with the best local and touring artists. Live music is the perfect soundtrack to sip these wines that rock. jamcellars.com |

BVjamcellars

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

ST. HELENA

V. Sattui Winery

V. Sattui Winery is a storied Italian destination in the heart of Napa Valley offering a vast portfolio of 90+ rated wines, each sold only at the winery. An Italian marketplace features more than 200 cheeses, house-cured salumi, and artisanal foods made fresh daily in the winery’s kitchen — perfect for an alfresco picnic on the sprawling shaded grounds. Enjoy a variety of wine tastings and pairings designed to “edu-tain.” vsattui.com Bvsattui1885 Vvsattui

CALISTOGA

Castello di Amorosa

Inspired to build an Old World castle and winery to honor his Italian heritage and showcase his wines, Dario Sattui created Castello di Amorosa stone by stone. The magnificent must-see destination offers guests a variety of tours and tasting experiences. Castello’s handcrafted wines, like the highly rated 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard, exhibit a classic structure, intense flavor, balance, and elegance, and are exclusively available here.

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RUTHERFORD

A Gem Among Giants

Since it was established in 1979, Sequoia Grove Winery has been a fixture in the Rutherford AVA. The past two years have brought exciting changes: a brand-new winemaking facility that doubles down on the quality of each vintage and an educational center that elevates the guest experience. All the while, the winery’s rich history shines through in its historic buildings shaded by 110-year-old sequoia trees. To fully experience Sequoia Grove’s approach to winemaking, make a reservation for their critically acclaimed Terroir Tasting. Guests enjoy expertly paired seasonal dishes and wines while learning about the vineyard’s history, viticulture, and innovative practices. Or stop by the Tasting Bar for your choice of two flights of fine wine accompanied by warm hospitality. Go even deeper with engaging educational experiences that take you behind the scenes from vineyard to glass and enrich your enjoyment of Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals. sequoiagrove.com Bsequoiagrovewines |

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101

OAKVILLE

Varietal Diversity

A dynamic portfolio of wines and one of the most gorgeous vantage points in Napa Valley make Miner Family Winery one of the standouts in Oakville. Founded in 1996 by Dave and Emily Miner, the wines produced here are characterized by individualistic style and quality. Their flagship offering, The Oracle, is a full-bodied red Bordeaux blend. Other tantalizing wines include the lush Wild Yeast Chardonnay, the crowd-pleasing Rosato, single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey County, and a range of RhĂ´ne varietals. Guests will also be wowed by the unobstructed views from the sprawling terrace, and music lovers will note owner Dave Minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive collection of guitars. minerwines.com BVAminerwines

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DID YOU KNOW? A jazz guitar aficionado and collector, Dave Miner is also a part-owner of acclaimed luthier Benedetto Guitars.

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Behind the Label

Clif Family Winery

NAPA’S NEXT GENERATION Ryan Hill

Proprietor, Hill Family Estate

COURTESY OF CLIF FAMILY WINERY

How did you get started in the wine business? “My dad has been farming grapes in the Napa Valley since the late 1970s. He currently manages 800 acres in the valley and sells fruit to 40 different wineries. While growing up, dad would have my sister Carly and I work in the vineyards during the summer. Prior to graduating from Sonoma State University, and after working at several fine-dining establishments in California, I decided to start making wine with the family. It’s the best decision I ever made.”

TATE TASTING SALON (707) 963-1781

YAO FAMILY WINES (707) 968-5874

HESTAN VINEYARDS (707) 945-1002

PRIEST RANCH WINES (707) 944-8200

THE ROOM AT FLORA SPRINGS (707) 967-8032

YOUNTVILLE

HILL FAMILY ESTATE (707) 944-9580

RH WINE VAULT (707) 339-4654

THE SAINT NAPA VALLEY (707) 302-5130 TRUJILLO WINES (707) 965-2943 VICE VERSA WINES (707) 968-5620 VINE CLIFF WINERY TASTING ROOM (707) 967-9820

BEAU VIGNE (707) 947-7058 GIRARD WINERY YOUNTVILLE (707) 921-2795 HANDWRITTEN WINES (707) 944-8524 HERON HOUSE (707) 947-7039

HOPE & GRACE (707) 944-2500 JCB TASTING SALON (707) 934-8237 JESSUP CELLARS (707) 944-8523 K LAZ WINE COLLECTION (707) 415-5040

SILVER TRIDENT (707) 945-0311 STEWART CELLARS (707) 963-9160 V WINE CELLARS (707) 531-7053 WINE COUNTRY CONNECTION (707) 944-2331

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? “The most rewarding aspect of my work is being in business with my family. Society is (and has been) entering a realm where corporations rule and continually gobble up the small, family-owned businesses. To say that Hill Family Estate is 100-percent family-farmed, family-owned, and family-operated gives me a tremendous amount of pride.” How does Hill Family Estate help tell the Napa Valley story? “We’re farmers first and winemakers second. My dad continues to build upon his legacy as a premier grape grower in the Napa Valley. If one is lucky enough to sit around a table with my dad over a glass of wine, one will walk away with a better understanding of farming and how it has evolved over the last 40 years.” Information courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101 ST. HELENA

The Art of Cabernet

HALL Wines was founded by Craig and Kathryn Hall with a singular vision: to develop a unique wine estate showcasing Napa Valley’s finest varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon. Featuring highly acclaimed wines from 14 of the 16 Napa Valley AVAs, HALL is a modern, luxury wine brand committed to producing wines that demonstrate the unique characteristics and diversity of Napa Valley terroir. Guests to the stunning property will be captivated by breathtaking views of the Mayacamas Mountains and HALL’s world-class collection of contemporary art. Additionally, the site is home to the historic Bergfeld building, one of Napa’s oldest wineries built in 1885. Exquisite wine, art, history, architecture, technology, lush landscaping, and their Great Lawn for relaxing and unwinding — experience it all at HALL. Visit hallwines.com for reservations. hallwines.com BVhallwines

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Trefethen Family Vineyards

Wineries

WITH MORE THAN 400 WINERIES, EACH WITH ITS OWN STYLE, SETTING, AND HISTORY, NAPA VALLEY OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. #WINETIME

A ALPHA OMEGA (707) 963-9999 St. Helena Tasting fee: $50.00

COURTESY OF TREFETHEN FAMILY VINEYARDS

AMICI CELLARS (707) 967-9560 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 AMIZZETTA ESTATE WINERY (707) 963-1460 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

ANDERSON’S CONN VALLEY WINERY (707) 963-8600 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $65.00 ANDRETTI WINERY (707) 259-6777 Napa Tasting fee: $30.00 ANOMALY VINEYARDS (707) 967-8448 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 ANTICA NAPA VALLEY (707) 257-8700 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

ARIETTA WINE (707) 963-5918 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

ASHES & DIAMONDS (707) 666-4777 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

ARKENSTON (707) 965-1020 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

AUBURN JAMES (707) 967-9100 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

ARROW & BRANCH (707) 200-3640 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

AXR WINERY (707) 302-8181 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

ARTESA WINERY (707) 224-1668 Napa Tasting fee: $35.00

AZUR WINES (707) 968-1055 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

B CELLARS VINEYARDS AND WINERY (707) 709-8787 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $65.00 BALDACCI FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 944-9261 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 BALLENTINE VINEYARDS (707) 963-7919 St. Helena Tasting fee: $35.00

“See the wine making process on a tour at Mondavi.” - Gloria A., Napa Valley Welcome Center Volunteer

BARNETT VINEYARDS (707) 963-7075 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 BATTUELLO VINEYARDS (707) 888-1320 St. Helena Appointment required BEAULIEU VINEYARD (707) 257-5749 Rutherford Tasting fee: $30.00 BELL WINE CELLARS (707) 944-1673 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 BENESSERE VINEYARDS (707) 963-5853 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00 (continued on page 100)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101 BENNETT LANE WINERY (707) 942-6684 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

BOYD FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 254-7353 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

BRIAN ARDEN WINES (707) 942 4767 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $30

BERINGER VINEYARDS (707) 257-5771 St. Helena Tasting fee: $25.00

BRASSWOOD ESTATES (707) 968-5434 St. Helena Tasting fee: $40.00

BUCCELLA (707) 944-1000 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $85.00

BLACK STALLION WINERY (707) 253-1400 Napa Tasting fee: $25.00

BRAVANTE VINEYARDS (707) 965-2552 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

BUEHLER VINEYARDS (707) 963-2155 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

BREMER FAMILY WINERY (707) 963-5411 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

BURGESS CELLARS (707) 963-4766 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

BLANKIET ESTATE (707) 963-2001 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 BOUCHAINE VINEYARDS (707) 252-9065 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

C CADE WINERY (707) 965-2746 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $80.00 CAIN VINEYARD & WINERY (707) 963-1616 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 CAKEBREAD CELLARS (800) 588-0298 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 CALMÉRE ESTATE WINERY (707) 302-1160 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

CARDINALE ESTATES (707) 948-2643 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

“Drive Highway 29 up valley and go to a winery that has some elevation and enjoy the view over the valley.” – Ann W., Napa Valley Welcome Center Volunteer

CARTER CELLARS (707) 445-0311 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 CASA NUESTRA (707) 963-5783 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

“My perfect day: A balloon ride over the valley, wine tasting at Rutherford Hill Winery, and a visit to di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art.” – Don K., Napa Valley Welcome Center Volunteer

CASTELLO DI AMOROSA (707) 967-6272 Calistoga Tasting fee: $30.00 CAYMUS VINEYARDS (707) 967-3010 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

(continued on page 104)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

YOUNTVILLE

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

This legendary winery is considered a Napa Valley first-growth estate. At the FAY Outlook and Visitor Center, wine educators guide you through their iconic wines against the gorgeous backdrop of estate vineyards and the Stags Leap Palisades.. cask23.com BVstagsleapwinecellars Astagsleapcask23 100

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ST. HELENA

Perfect Pairing

Quality without compromise. That’s how many would describe Fantesca Estate & Winery’s unabashedly obsessive dedication to winemaking and visitor experience. Nestled away on Spring Mountain only minutes from St. Helena’s downtown, Fantesca treats winemaking differently. There are no shortcuts or exceptions. Heidi Barrett’s worldrenowned winemaking legacy is testament. Barrett’s Chardonnay, “All Great Things” Red Blend, and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon demonstrate the best of winemaking. Fantesca has beautifully paired these wines with a bespoke visitor experience that includes touring a 300-foot cave, a private tasting deck looking down into Napa Valley, and anecdotes that connect you to the wines, the land, and the story of La Fantesca herself. If part of the magic of great wine is that it conveys a sense of place, then Fantesca has certainly made a perfect pairing.

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PHOTO CREDIT

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TONY FLORES

Mayacamas Vineyards

Mayacamas Vineyards opens a new chapter in the winery’s 130-year history. The newly opened downtown Napa space provides an elegant and accessible home for Mayacamas’ traditionally styled Chardonnays, Merlots, and Cabernet Sauvignons. Visits to the tasting room are available by walk-in or prior reservation, and both current and library flights are offered in an intimate, unscripted style. Wines are also available by the glass and bottle, enjoyed on the covered outdoor patio or inside the locally designed tasting salon. mayacamas.com Bmayacamaswines | Vmayacamasdowntown

NAPA

Bazán Cellars

Mario Bazán has farmed some of the most iconic vineyards in Napa Valley over the last four decades. His expertise is reflected in the Bazán Cellars exclusive, limited-production portfolio, including their coveted Cabernet Sauvignon. Indulge the senses with a tasting at their boutique tasting room in downtown Napa and enhance your visit by reserving the Gourmet Tasting, which pairs wines with Oaxacan-inspired amuse-bouches finely curated by Gloria Bazán. mariobazancellars.com BVmariobazancellars

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NAPA

Craft of Wine

PHOTO CREDIT

With an artisan approach and focus on wines made for food, B Cellars produces a variety of wines from proprietary blends to single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons from each of the six Beckstoffer Vineyards heritage sites. Visit the state-of-the-art winery estate, featuring serene gardens and caves, and sample their wines along with warm hospitality. Take part in their curated tasting experience, showcasing the subtle beauty of excellent wines complemented by farm-to-table bites. bcellars.com BVbcellars |

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101 CHAPPELLET WINERY (707) 286-4219 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 CHARLES KRUG WINERY (707) 967-2229 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 CHASE CELLARS (707) 963-1284 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 CHATEAU BOSWELL (707) 963-5401 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00 CHATEAU MONTELENA (707) 942-5105 Calistoga Tasting fee: $45.00

CHIMNEY ROCK WINERY (707) 257-2641 Napa Tasting fee: $50.00

CONN CREEK WINERY (707) 968-2669 St. Helena Tasting fee: $35.00

CLARK-CLAUDON VINEYARDS (707) 965-9393 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

CONTINUUM ESTATES (707) 944-8100 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

CLIFF LEDE VINEYARDS (707) 944-8642 Yountville Tasting fee: $35.00

CORISON WINERY (707) 963-0826 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $55.00

CLOS DU VAL (707) 261-5200 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

CORNERSTONE CELLARS (707) 945-0388 Napa Tasting fee: $40.00

CLOS PEGASE (707) 921-2603 Calistoga Tasting fee: $30.00

COSENTINO WINERY (707) 921-2809 Yountville Tasting fee: $30.00

ST. HELENA

Trinchero Napa Valley

With a family legacy of winemaking in Napa Valley for 70 years, Trinchero Napa Valley excels in crafting small-production, single-vineyard Bordeaux varieties with character. The eclectic tasting room in St. Helena, designed and built in 2016 by founder Mario Trinchero’s grandson, honors the family story. Reserve a spot for the Taste of Terroir seminar, and discover the nuances of Trinchero’s single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons. trincheronapavalley.com |

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CROCKER & STARR WINERY (707) 967-9111 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 CROSBY ROAMANN (707) 258-8599 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 CUVAISON ESTATE WINES (707) 942-2455 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

D DAKOTA SHY (707) 244-1184 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

DARIOUSH WINERY (707) 257-2345 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $48.00 DAVID ARTHUR VINEYARDS (707) 963-5190 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00 DAVIS ESTATES (707) 942-0700 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 DEL DOTTO ESTATE (707) 963-2134 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 DELECTUS WINERY (707) 244-5080 St. Helena Tasting fee: $35.00

DOMAINE CARNEROS (707) 257-0101 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 DOMAINE CHANDON (888) 242-6366 Yountville Tasting fee: $20.00 DUCKHORN VINEYARDS (707) 963-7108 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 DUTCH HENRY WINERY (707) 942-5771 Calistoga Tasting fee: $25.00

E EHLERS ESTATE (707) 963-5972 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 ELEVEN ELEVEN WINES (707) 224-2211 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 ELIZABETH SPENCER WINERY (707) 263-6067 Rutherford Tasting fee: $40.00 ELYSE WINERY (707) 944-2900 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 ENVY WINES (707) 942-4670 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 ETUDE WINES (707) 257-5782 Napa Tasting fee: $35.00

F FAIRWINDS ESTATE WINERY (707) 341-5300 Calistoga Tasting fee: $25.00 FALCOR WINE CELLARS (707) 255-6070 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 FANTESCA ESTATE & WINERY (707) 968-9229 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

FAR NIENTE (707) 944-2861 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $80.00

FREEMARK ABBEY WINERY (707) 302-3717 St. Helena Tasting fee: $35.00

FARELLA VINEYARD (707) 254-9489 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

FRIAS FAMILY (707) 927-5106 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $65.00

FAVIA WINES (707) 256-0875 Napa Appointment required

FROG’S LEAP WINERY (707) 963-4704 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

FIFTY ROWS VINEYARD (707) 299-3930 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 FLEURY ESTATE WINERY (707) 967-8333 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 FLORA SPRINGS WINERY (707) 967-6723 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 FOLEY JOHNSON WINERY (707) 963-1980 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 FONTANELLA FAMILY WINERY (707) 252-1017 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 FORTHRIGHT WINERY (707) 690-8985 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 942-0859 Calistoga Tasting fee: $50.00

G GALLICA (707) 963-1096 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 GANDONA ESTATE (707) 967-5550 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

YOUNTVILLE

Hestan Vineyards

This family-owned winery is crafting classic Bordeaux varietals into award-winning wines by talented consulting winemakers Jeff Gaffner and Thomas Rivers Brown. Share a glass at the intimate tasting room in downtown Yountville. Inquire within for larger group tastings and events. hestanvineyards.com |

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GARGIULO VINEYARDS (707) 944-2770 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 GHOST BLOCK ESTATE WINES (707) 944-1710 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 GIRARD WINERY CALISTOGA (707) 921-2800 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 GOOSECROSS CELLARS (707) 944-1986 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 (continued on page 107)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

NAPA

Materra | Cunat Family Vineyards

High-tech meets old-fashioned hospitality. Specializing in Right Bank-style red blends as well as Viognier, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc with grapes from the Cunat family’s vineyards, Materra treats guests to an intimate, hosted tasting at its Napa Green-certified, solar-powered winery. materrawines.com |

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Beringer Vineyards

California’s oldest continuously operating winery (founded in 1876) deserves its many accolades. It was the first and only winery to have both a red and a white wine named No.1 wine of the year by Wine Spectator, and the first in Napa Valley to give public tours. Today, Beringer Vineyards offers cave tours in the Old Winery and a variety of reserve tastings in the historic Rhine House, several of which include light bites prepared by their executive chef. beringer.com Bberingervineyards Vberingervyrds

RUTHERFORD

Grgich Hills Estate

With five vineyards spanning the Napa Valley, Grgich Hills Estate crafts balanced, elegant, foodfriendly wines from 100 percent organic, estate-grown grapes. The winery, founded by Miljenko “Mike” Grgich and Austin Hills, remains family owned and operated. Open daily, Grgich Hills Estate offers a range of wine experiences and bar tastings. grgich.com Bgrgichhillsestate VAgrgichhills

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GRGICH HILLS ESTATE (707) 963-2784 Rutherford Tasting fee: $25.00 GROTH VINEYARDS AND WINERY (707) 754-4254 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

H HAGAFEN CELLARS (707) 252-0781 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00 HALL RUTHERFORD (707) 967-0700 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00 HALL WINES (707) 967-2626 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

HUNNICUT (707) 963-2911 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

INGLENOOK (707) 968-1161 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $55.00

HOOPES VINEYARD (707) 944-1869 Yountville Appointment required

HYDE DE VILLAINE (707) 251-9121 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

ITALICS WINES (707) 258-0106 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

HOWELL AT THE MOON WINERY (415) 310-8628 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

HYDE ESTATE WINERY (707) 265-7626 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

HONIG VINEYARD AND WINERY (707) 963-4272 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

HUDSON WINERY (707) 255-1455 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $65.00

I IDEAOLOGY CELLARS (707) 226-2151 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

J JAMES COLE (707) 251-9905 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 JARVIS ESTATE (707) 255-5280 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 (continued on page 111)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

HANS FAHDEN VINEYARDS (707) 942-6760 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 HEITZ CELLAR (707) 963-2047 St. Helena Tasting fee: $45.00 HELENA VIEW JOHNSTON VINEYARDS (707) 815-1999 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00 HENDRY WINERY (707) 226-8320 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 HISTORIC DEL DOTTO (707) 963-2134 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

Behind the Label NAPA’S NEXT GENERATION Ari Spoto

Consulting Winemaker, Spoto Family Wines How did you get started in the wine business? “I was born into it. My dad, Stuart Spoto, and my grandfather, Henry, both taught me.” Which wine was your “a-ha!” wine – the one that made you love wine or inspired you to get into the industry? “I didn’t have an ‘a-ha’ wine, but more of an ‘a-ha’ moment. I attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I grew up. My grandfather told me to take a wine and viticulture class. I didn’t think I would really want to study it, but I humored him anyway. I walked into the classroom, which was more of a tractor garage than a classroom, and saw my peers in flannels and cowboy boots without book bags. The teacher arrived and said, ‘Alright, we’re heading out to the vineyard.’ From there, we proceeded to follow Cal Poly’s motto of Learn by Doing with a full hands-on approach to learning viticulture and enology. After that, I was hooked. I changed my major and knew wine was the route I wanted to take.”

Located on the scenic Silverado Trail, this boutique winery offers an unparalleled Napa experience. Visit the tasting room and experience Conn Creek’s small-production AVA Series of Cabernet Sauvignons, or play winemaker for the day in their Barrel Blending Experience.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? “There are not many professions where you get to wake up every day and taste the fruits of your labor … literally! This job is rewarding in the sense where you get to see how your hard work pays off and make something that most people enjoy.”

conncreek.com |

Information courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

ST. HELENA

Conn Creek Napa Valley

BVAconncreekwinery

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CALISTOGA

Heritage in the Hills Sterling Vineyards was founded in 1964 by Peter Newton, an Oxford University graduate and a successful businessman. Newton pioneered crafting Bordeaux-inspired red wines in California, and helped transform the region into a premier winemaking appellation. Sterling Vineyards produced its first varietals in 1969, bottling Napa Valley’s first vintagedated Merlot that same year. Today, Sterling Vineyards is a Napa Valley landmark, and the winery is an architectural icon. Modeled after the white stucco buildings on the Greek island of Mykonos, the winery was designed with visitors in mind. It’s also the only winery in the world with an aerial tram. Discover Sterling Vineyards’ offerings with a variety of tastings and tours. The Platinum Experience pairs amuse-bouches created by the winery’s executive chef with a selection of reserve wines, while another tasting, Sparkling Experience, explores their effervescent offerings. Their Signature Experience highlights a self-guided tour of the property and winemaking facility. Elegant tasting rooms and beautiful outdoor terraces with sweeping views are the perfect backdrop to enjoy the stunning wines of Sterling Vineyards. sterlingvineyards.com |

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NAPA

Setting A Standard

Louis M. Martini Winery is a cornerstone of Napa Valley, offering an internationally acclaimed portfolio of Cabernet Sauvignon. Since 1933, the Martini family has played an integral role in establishing Napa Valley as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier wine regions, with each successive generation helping to set new standards in the vineyard and cellar. Today, their newly restored winery features an array of world-class tasting experiences, reflecting an enduring commitment to Cabernet Sauvignon crafted in Napa Valley. louismartini.com BV louismartiniwinery VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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Warm Welcome

An idyllic garden setting, down to earth vibe, and broad portfolio of varietals make Elizabeth Spencer Winery the epitome of hospitality in Rutherford. Husband-and-wife team Elizabeth Pressler and Spencer Graham steward elegant, balanced small-production wines from top vineyard sources in Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties. At the tasting room, a historic building that once served as the Rutherford Post Office, sample current releases of red and white varietals during a Signature Tasting, or discover the nuances of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terroir in a Napa Cabernet Tasting (reservations recommended.) Relax in the beautiful gardens and shaded courtyard; the winery also welcomes guests with kids and dogs. Elizabeth Spencer Wineryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plentiful space is ideal for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, or other special events. elizabethspencerwinery.com Belizabethspencerwines | Velizabethspencerwinery 110

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JERICHO CANYON VINEYARD (707) 942-9665 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

KELLY FLEMING WINES (707) 942-6849 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

LARKMEAD VINEYARDS (707) 942-0167 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

JOSEPH CELLARS WINERY (707) 942-9999 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

KENEFICK RANCH VINEYARDS AND WINERY (707) 942-6175 Calistoga Tasting fee: $25.00

LAURA MICHAEL WINE (707) 942-9251 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $10.00

JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS (800) 707-5789 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $85.00

KENZO ESTATE (707) 254-7572 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

LEAF AND VINE (707) 478-1725 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

KIEU HOANG WINERY (707) 253-1615 Napa Tasting fee: $20.00

LETO CELLARS (707) 259-5386 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

KNIGHTS BRIDGE WINERY (707) 341-3391 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

LEWIS CELLARS (707) 255-3400 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

JUDD’S HILL WINERY AND MICROCRUSH (707) 255-2332 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

K KAPCSANDY FAMILY WINERY (707) 948-3100 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $150.00 KEENAN WINERY (707) 963-9177 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

COURTESY OF HERTELENDY VINEYARDS

KEEVER VINEYARDS (707) 944-0910 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 KELHAM VINEYARDS (707) 963-2000 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 KELLEHER FAMILY VINEYARDS (866) 531-2580 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $110.00

KRUPP BROTHERS WINERY (707) 225-2276 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $95.00 KULETO ESTATE WINERY (707) 302-2209 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

L LA SIRENA (707) 942-1105 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 LAIRD FAMILY ESTATE (707) 257-0360 Napa Tasting fee: $30.00

LONG MEADOW RANCH (707) 963-4555 St. Helena Tasting fee: $30.00 LOUIS M. MARTINI WINERY (707) 968-3362 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 LUNA VINEYARDS (707) 255-5862 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

M MACAULEY VINEYARD (707) 963-1863 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

MADONNA ESTATE (866) 724-2993 Napa Tasting fee: $25.00 MADRIGAL FAMILY WINERY (707) 942-8619 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 MARKHAM VINEYARDS (707) 963-5292 St. Helena Tasting fee: $30.00 MATERRA | CUNAT FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 224-4900 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 MAXVILLE WINERY (707) 965-9378 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 MAYACAMAS VINEYARDS (707) 224-4030 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 MCKENZIEMUELLER VINEYARD & WINERY (707) 252-0186 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00 MENDING WALL (707) 709-4200 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 MERRYVALE VINEYARDS (707) 963-7777 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 MERUS WINERY (707) 251-5551 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $85.00

Behind the Label NAPA’S NEXT GENERATION Ralph Hertelendy

Founder & Vintner, Hertelendy Vineyards How did you get started in the wine business? “I fell in love with wine at a very early age, when I tasted one of the best French Grand Crus. Not only did I like the flavor of the wine, but I also enjoyed how sharing wine brought family and friends together. I became a sommelier and worked for several wineries in the Napa Valley in sales and as a winemaker’s assistant. However, owning a winery would have never happened had I not made my first vintage in my basement when I was 25.” What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? “Hearing stories of how our wine has influenced people’s lives either with a food pairing, a romantic evening with their partner, a family gathering, or a festivity among friends. I love how wine brings people together.” How does your winery help tell the Napa Valley story? “We source ultra-premium grapes from the best terroir in the Napa Valley. Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak, Pritchard Hill, and Oakville are some of the notable AVAs that we source our fruit from. Hopefully, the wines that we make with these grapes will paint a beautiful picture of what Napa Valley terroir is capable of.” Information courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

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MONTICELLO VINEYARDS (707) 253-2802 Napa Tasting fee: $35.00

MICHAEL POZZAN WINERY (800) 848-9630 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

MORLET FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 967-8690 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $200.00

MINER FAMILY WINERY (800) 366-9463 Oakville Tasting fee: $35.00

MUMM NAPA (707) 967-7700 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $28.00

NICHELINI FAMILY WINERY (707) 963-0717 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

NICKEL & NICKEL (707) 967-9600 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $80.00

MIRA WINERY (888) 819-4668 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

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NAPA CELLARS (707) 944-2565 Oakville Tasting fee: $20.00

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NEAL FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 965-2800 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 NEWTON VINEYARD (707) 204-7423 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

NOBLE WINES NAPA VALLEY (707) 963-1751 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $95.00

O O’BRIEN ESTATE (707) 252-8463 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $55.00 O’SHAUGHNESSY ESTATE WINERY (707) 965-2898 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

OAKVILLE RANCH (707) 944-9665 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $55.00 ODETTE ESTATE (707) 224-7533 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 OPUS ONE (707) 944-9442 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 OUTPOST WINES (707) 965-1718 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

P PALMAZ VINEYARDS (707) 226-5587 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 PAOLETTI VINEYARDS (707) 942-0689 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00 PARADIGM WINERY (707) 944-1683 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 PARADUXX (707) 945-1805 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

BOB MCCLENAHAN

MI SUEÑO WINERY (707) 258-6358 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

PARALLEL NAPA VALLEY (707) 486-1100 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 PEJU (800) 446-7358 Rutherford Tasting fee: $40.00 PELLET ESTATE (707) 363-3281 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 PESTONI FAMILY ESTATE WINERY (707) 963-0544 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 PHIFER PAVITT WINERY (707) 942-4787 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

POPE VALLEY WINERY (707) 965-1246 Pope Valley Tasting fee: $30.00 PORTER FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 927-0765 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 PRAGER WINERY & PORT WORKS (707) 963-7678 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

PRIDE MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS (707) 963-4949 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

PURLIEU WINES (707) 226-3336 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

PROMONTORY WINERY (707) 944-0125 Oakville Appointment required

PROVENANCE VINEYARDS (707) 968-3633 Rutherford Tasting fee: $30.00

QUINTESSA ESTATE (707) 286-2730 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 QUIXOTE WINERY (707) 944-2659 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

R RAYMOND VINEYARDS (707) 963-3141 St. Helena Tasting fee: $25.00 RD WINERY (707) 259-9446 Napa Tasting fee: $30.00 RED MARE WINES (877) 310-3335 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 REGUSCI WINERY (707) 254-0403 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

REID FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 252-3195 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 REVANA FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 967-8814 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 REYNOLDS FAMILY WINERY (707) 258-2558 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 (continued on page 119)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

PIAZZA DEL DOTTO (707) 963-2134 Yountville Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 PIAZZA DEL DOTTO WINERY (707) 963-2134 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00 PINA CELLARS (707) 738-9328 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

COURTESY OF BLACK STALLION

PINE RIDGE VINEYARDS (800) 575-9777 Napa Tasting fee: $45.00 PLUMPJACK WINERY (707) 945-1220 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

Black Stallion Estate Winery

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Family Matters

Family-owned and operated for 37 years, Peju Province Winery is a landmark located in the heart of Napa Valley. With an emphasis on organic, sustainable farming, Pejuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estate-grown fruit develops into wines that exhibit a graceful pairing of power and elegance. The tasting room is set in a stunning 50-foot tower envisioned by founder Tony Peju before he purchased the estate. Completed in 2003, the iconic tower graces the label of every bottle of Peju wine. Pejuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private wine experiences (by reservation only) are sure to delight. The Rutherford Dust Cabernet Tasting is a lighthearted exploration of Cabernet Sauvignon with a Peju certified sommelier. Discover the art of pairing food and wine with an intimate Wine and Culinary Exploration in the Peju kitchen. The tasting room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for their classic and reserve wine tastings. peju.com BVpejuwinery | 114

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CARNEROS

Calmére Estate Winery

In 2016, the founders of Calmére Estate Winery purchased 100 acres in Carneros and established a winery there. Named from the French words calm (calme) and sea (mer), Calmére offers a stunning selection of wines and a serene location with spectacular views of the bay. Sisters Lisa and Ariana Peju represent the next generation of Napa Valley wine country’s industry leaders. They’re delighted to showcase the unique terroir of this 100-acre estate, located just 45 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, that produces award-winning Pinot Noir clonal varieties. With olive trees growing through the deck, bocce players laughing in the background, and distant views of the San Francisco skyline, Calmére offers a truly unique Carneros experience. Guests can choose to enjoy a seated Garden Tasting or be seated inside. calmereestate.com BVcalmereestatewinery |

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Stags’ Leap Winery

Discover a hidden gem in the acclaimed Stags Leap District. Located off a private road, the 19th-century stone winery and stately house are set against the Stags Leap Palisades. With a rich and deep history, Stags’ Leap Winery tours offer an intimate view into the people, times, and wine that made Napa Valley famous. Beautiful gardens give way to tastings of award-winning Petite Sirahs, such as their Ne Cede Malis and opulent Cabernet Sauvignons. Reservations are required.

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ST. HELENA

Clif Family Winery

Clif Family celebrates wine, food, and adventures in all they do, creating uniquely regional food and crafting food-friendly, approachable wines. Winemaker Laura Barrett creates small-production bottlings each year. Find Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Howell Mountain Cabernet, and more at the dynamic tasting room on Main Street in St. Helena, and sample a seasonal menu of bruschetta, fresh salads, seasonal sides, and rotisserie chicken from their Bruschetteria Food Truck. cliffamilywinery.com Bclifwine

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NAPA

Get There With Flair

With more than 27 years in the industry and personal relationships with numerous wineries, Pure Luxury provides unparalleled service for every guest, every time. For groups of two to 200, a satisfaction-driven team will not only help you arrange the perfect private wine tour, but ensure you get there safely and responsibly. With vehicle options ranging from a luxury sedan to a 56-passenger motorcoach, Pure Luxury promises a world-class tasting adventure in Napa Valley and a ride thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing short of perfection. pureluxury.com Bpureluxurywinetours Vpure_luxury_transportation Apureluxurytrans

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The Hess Collection was founded in 1978 on the site of one of Napa Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest wineries. It has since has become a world-class brand and destination, earning international recognition for its wine, culinary and visitor programs, and superlative collection of contemporary art. The Hess Collection was established by founder Donald Hess, who had a vision to cultivate vines at elevation when few in Napa Valley were doing so. The volcanic slopes of Mount Veeder yield elegant wines with rich, complex flavors. Today, Tim and Sabrina Persson, the next generation of Hess family, continue the legacy of sharing wine and art and a commitment to making both accessible to all. Visit the winery to taste these exceptional wines and enjoy several unforgettable experiences. Whether adventuring through the Hess vineyards on an ATV ride or indulging in an expertly crafted wine and food pairing by Hessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s executive chef, experiences can be tailored exclusively for you. Installation by Andy Goldsworthy

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ROBERT RUSSO

A Legacy of Wine and Art

RITCHIE CREEK VINEYARDS (707) 963-4661 St. Helena Appointment required ROBERT BIALE VINEYARDS (707) 257-7555 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 ROBERT KEENAN WINERY (707) 963-9177 St. Helena Appointment required ROBERT MONDAVI WINERY (888) 766-6328 Oakville Tasting fee: $25.00 ROBERT SINSKEY (707) 944-9090 Napa Tasting fee: $40.00

ROCCA FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 257-8467 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

RUDD OAKVILLE ESTATE (707) 944-8577 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS (707) 963-5170 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

RUST RIDGE WINERY (707) 965-9353 St. Helena Appointment required

ROOTS RUN DEEP WINERY (707) 945-1045 Napa Tasting fee: $25.00 ROUND POND ESTATE (707) 302-2575 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 ROY ESTATE (707) 968-1710 Napa Appointment required

RUTHERFORD HILL WINERY (707) 963-1871 Rutherford Tasting fee: $30.00 RUTHERFORD RANCH WINERY (707) 968-3200 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

S SADDLEBACK CELLARS (707) 944-1305 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 SAINT HELENA WINERY (707) 967-9463 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 SAINTSBURY (707) 252-0592 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 SALVESTRIN WINERY (707) 963-5105 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

SANG~FROID VINEYARDS (707) 968-5398 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 SCHRAMSBERG VINEYARDS (707) 942-4558 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $70.00 SCHWEIGER VINEYARDS (707) 963-4882 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 SEAVEY (707) 963-8339 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $60.00

SEQUOIA GROVE VINEYARDS (707) 944-2945 Rutherford Tasting fee: $30.00 SHADYBROOK ESTATE (707) 255-5661 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 SHAFER VINEYARDS (707) 944-2877 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $85.00 SHERWIN FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 963-1154 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $55.00

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*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

NAPA

Domaine Carneros Perched among the rolling vineyards between Napa and Sonoma is an elegant French-inspired chÃ¢teau that is home to premium sparkling wine producer Domaine Carneros. Enjoy seated tastings on the terrace or in the elegant glass conservatory, taking in expansive vineyard views while savoring award-winning Sparkling wine and Pinot Noir. Open daily from 10 a.m to 5:30 p.m. Reservations are required. All visitors must be 21 or older. domainecarneros.com BVAdomainecarneros VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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1881 Napa

Amid views of iconic vineyards and landmarks of historical significance, 1881 Napa offers a tasting of distinctive wines from a variety of Napa Valley appellations, allowing guests to discover the diversity, abundance, world-renowned terroir, and deep history of the region. The one-of-akind wine history museum features an impressive collection of artifacts and vineyard and winery relics. 1881napa.com BV1881napa

OAKVILLE

Oakville Grocery

Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest continually operating grocery store, Oakville Grocery has been a wine country institution since 1881. The flagship location is nestled amongst a landscape of wildflowers and grapevines in the heart of Napa Valley. The shop offers a selection of fresh, local, organic, and biodynamic food and wine products â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both to enjoy on site and to take home. oakvillegrocery.com BVoakvillegrocery 120

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ST. HELENA

Raymond Vineyards

A dynamic destination dedicated to inspiring guests’ passion for fine wine, Raymond Vineyards is an environment of exploration, creativity, and elegant whimsicality. Discover the Theater of Nature illustrating Raymond’s organic and biodynamic farming, explore the Crystal Cellar, or savor decadent wines in the iconic velvet-ensconced Red Room. raymondvineyards.com Braymondvineyards Araymondvineyard

YOUNTVILLE

JCB Tasting Salon

The JCB Tasting Salon experience is a one-of-akind tasting room and retail store encompassing the unique JCB approach that unites exclusive small-production wines, luxury, and style, curated and created by Jean-Charles Boisset. It’s a destination that unites wine tasting with retail fashion and lifestyle. jcbcollection.com Bjcbcollection Vjcb_collection VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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THE GUIDE I WINE 101 SIGNORELLO ESTATE (707) 255-5990 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

SPELLETICH FAMILY WINERY (707) 363-0790 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

SILENUS WINERY (707) 299-3930 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

SPOTTSWOODE WINERY (707) 963-0134 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

SILVER OAK CELLARS NAPA VALLEY (707) 942-7022 Oakville Tasting fee: $30.00 SILVERADO VINEYARDS (707) 257-1770 Napa Tasting fee: $40.00 SINEGAL ESTATE WINERY (707) 244-1187 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00

Winemaker Rolando Herrera at Mi Sueño Winery

SJOEBLOM WINERY (707) 363-6035 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 SMITHMADRONE VINEYARDS & WINERY (707) 963-2283 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 SOMERSTON ESTATE (707) 967-8414 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

SPRING MOUNTAIN VINEYARD (707) 967-4188 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 ST. SUPÉRY ESTATE VINEYARDS & WINERY (707) 302-3488 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 STAG’S LEAP WINE CELLARS (707) 261-6410 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 STAGS’ LEAP WINERY (707) 257-5790 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 STERLING VINEYARDS (800) 726-6136 Calistoga Tasting fee: $35.00 STONY HILL VINEYARD (707) 963-2636 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

DID YOU KNOW?

When the sun goes down, there’s a good time to be had. Visitnapa valley.com/nightlife has a full listing of Napa Valley’s nightlife hotspots, whether you want live music, dancing, or both.

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TOP: © ERHARD PFEIFFER 2012; BOTTOM: COURTESY OF MI SUENO WINERY

Kenzo Estate

The Visitor Center Garden at The Hess Collection

STORYBOOK MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS (707) 942-5310 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

SWANSON VINEYARDS (707) 754-4018 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

SULLIVAN VINEYARDS (707) 963-9646 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $65.00

COURTESY OF THE HESS COLLECTION

SUMMIT LAKE VINEYARDS & WINERY (707) 965-2488 Angwin Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 SUTTER HOME WINERY (707) 963-3104 St. Helena Complimentary

T-VINE WINERY (707) 942-1543 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 TAMBER BEY (707) 942-2100 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 TEACHWORTH DIAMOND MOUNTAIN WINERY (707) 942-8432 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

TEDESCHI FAMILY WINERY (707) 501-0668 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 THE HESS COLLECTION (707) 255-1144 Napa Tasting fee: $25.00 THE PRISONER WINE COMPANY (877) 283-5934 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 THE TERRACES (707) 963-1707 Rutherford Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00 THEOREM VINEYARDS (707) 942-4254 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

TITUS VINEYARDS (707) 963-3235 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00 TOM EDDY WINERY (707) 942-4267 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00 TOR WINES (707) 963-3100 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00 TREFETHEN FAMILY VINEYARDS (707) 255-7700 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00 TRES SABORES (707) 967-8027 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00

TRINCHERO NAPA VALLEY (707) 963-1160 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 TRUCHARD VINEYARDS (707) 253-7153 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $40.00 TUCK BECKSTOFFER WINES (707) 200-4410 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $100.00 TUDAL WINERY (707) 963-3947 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00 TULOCAY WINERY (707) 255-4064 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $25.00

TURNBULL WINE CELLARS (707) 963-5839 Oakville Tasting fee: $40.00 TWOMEY CELLARS (800) 505-4850 Calistoga Tasting fee: $20.00

V V. SATTUI WINERY (707) 963-7774 St. Helena Tasting fee: $20.00 VAROZZA VINEYARDS (707) 963-0331 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00 VENGE VINEYARDS (707) 942-9100 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

(continued on page 124)

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

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VINCENT ARROYO WINERY (707) 942-6995 Calistoga Appointment required Tasting fee: $20.00

VIADER VINEYARDS (707) 963-3816 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

VINE CLIFF WINERY (707) 944-1364 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $35.00

VILLA RAGAZZI (707) 486-3184 Oakville Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

VINEYARD 29 (707) 963-9292 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $95.00

VIN ROC WINE CELLARS (707) 265-0943 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

VINEYARD 36 (888) 394-7525 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

VINEYARD 7 & 8 (707) 963-9425 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $115.00 VOLKER EISELE FAMILY ESTATE (707) 965-9485 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

W WHEELER FARMS (707) 200-8500 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $125.00

WHETSTONE WINE CELLARS (707) 254-0600 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $45.00

WILLIAM COLE VINEYARDS (707) 963-6100 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $85.00

WHITE ROCK VINEYARDS (707) 257-7922 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $50.00

WILLIAM HARRISON VINEYARDS (707) 963-8310 Rutherford Tasting fee: $25.00

WHITEHALL LANE WINERY AND VINEYARDS (707) 963-9454 St. Helena Tasting fee: $35.00

WILLIAM HILL ESTATE (707) 265-3024 Napa Appointment required Tasting fee: $30.00

Y YOUNG INGLEWOOD VINEYARDS (707) 200-4572 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

Z ZD WINES (707) 487-7757 Napa Tasting fee: $40.00

*Tasting fees can increase based on experience selected. Appointments (where noted) are required. For groups of 6 or more, please call ahead for all wineries.

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COURTESY STERLING VINEYARDS

VGS CHATEAU POTELLE WINERY (707) 255-9440 St. Helena Appointment required Tasting fee: $75.00

THE GUIDE I CULINARY

BEST BEST of the

FOUR OF THE VALLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MICHELIN-RATED CHEFS AND RESTAURATEURS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE PLACES TO GRAB A BITE.

COURTESY OF SOLAGE/ALEXANDER RUBIN

BY MICHAEL BAUER

An inviting spread at Solbar, in Calistoga.

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Chef Pawlcyn recommends Rutherford. “I’m not a burrito person, but I love the pork and carne asada tacos.”

cindy pawlcyn

OWNER AND EXECUTIVE CHEF, MUSTARDS GRILL When Cindy Pawlcyn opened Mustards Grill in 1983, the area’s dining scene looked very different. She was one of the first to add a casual destination vibe and an eclectic menu that spans cultures. Since then? She’s kept the restaurant fresh for more than 35 years, and several dishes are so iconic she can’t take them off the menu — including the Mongolian pork chop, baby back ribs with warm honey cornbread, and fat, puffy onion rings with house-made tomato-apple ketchup. At one time, Pawlcyn operated other restaurants in the valley, but she pared down to one so she could enjoy more of what Napa Valley has to offer.

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DATE NIGHT When it’s date night for her and her husband, John Watanabe, she goes to Bouchon in Yountville. “If they have the blood sausage, I get that, and I often end up getting the sole; it’s classic and it’s delicious.” When she hungers for lamb tongue, she drops into nearby Bistro Jeanty, also in Yountville. For a more casual experience, she goes to Cook in downtown St. Helena, a restaurant mostly known by locals, where her favorite dishes are the eggplant Parmesan and fried calamari with Calabrian chile aioli and grilled lemon. In downtown Napa, she thinks Fatted Calf in the Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit. “It’s not really a restaurant, but they have great sandwiches,” she says. “Order the porchetta if available.” And while at Oxbow, she might stop for a dozen oysters at Hog Island Oyster Company. IN A HURRY When she wants something quick, she heads to La Luna Market and Taqueria in

PICNIC She and her husband enjoy kayaking the Napa River; after they finish, they’ll often compose a picnic lunch at Napa Valley Olive Oil Company, choosing from their selection of cheeses, prosciutto, and condiments like pickled artichokes. Then she takes her purchases to one of the nearby picnic tables shaded by citrus trees. For something a little more fancy, JCB Atelier Fine Foods in Yountville is at the top of the list. The shop is curated by JeanCharles Boisset, who also owns Raymond and Deloach in Napa Valley. Pawlcyn swears by its selection of cheese and pates. “At times, I’ll buy the canned sardines and fish, too,” she says. “It’s the best of the best. Jean-Charles has a great palate and his people are incredibly helpful and direct.” 5

1-2: ALEX FARNUM/MUSTARDS GRILL 3: ED ANDERSON/HOG ISLAND OYSTERS; 4: MARIE ARAGO/FATTED CALF; 5: ALEXANDER RUBINE/COURTESY OF BISTRO JEANTY

ith many exceptional restaurants in Napa Valley, it’s hard to know where to begin. So we went straight to the source by seeking recommendations from four of Napa Valley’s best chefs and restaurateurs. Each of their restaurants is Michelin rated, from a boisterous Mexican eatery with great margaritas, to a three-star extravaganza where the wine list would fill a book. While their restaurants are at the top of just about everyone’s must-visit list, here are the places they go when they’re off the clock.

rouas recommends JAPANESE At Miminashi, in downtown Napa, Curtis DiFede creates some of the best Japanese food in the Bay Area, including yakitori, ramen, gyoza, and soft cream for dessert. The handsome interior features an intricate wood ceiling that looks like interlocking pagodas. Another highlight? The cocktail Rolodex. The bartender will bring over the Rolodex, where each of the 125 cards displays a recipe for a cocktail made on the spot.

5: BOB MCCLENAHAN; 6: COURTESY OF ANGÉLE 7; TRINETTE REED/AUBERGE

bettina rouas OWNER, ANGÈLE RESTAURANT & BAR

Bettina Rouas comes from one of the most prominent families in Napa Valley’s hospitality industry. Her father, Claude Rouas, started the chic Auberge du Soleil resort in Rutherford. She worked at many top places around the Valley, including the French Laundry and Bistro Don Giovanni, before opening Angèle in 2002. A charming French brasserie, Angèle is housed in a historic boathouse with natural raw wood ceiling and windows overlooking the Napa River, plus a beautiful waterfront patio for alfresco dining. Here, diners enjoy exceptional classics that

celebrate the simplicity and hospitality of both French and American wine country, such as sole meuniere made into a roulade and enhanced with brown butter, asparagus, and potatoes; housemade pate; and escargot with garlic beurre blanc. Naturally, one of Rouas’ recommendations for Napa Valley dining is the Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil — but she realizes some may be hesitant to check it out. “People are intimidated to go there,” she explains. “They think it’s really fancy, so I tell them to sit at the bar. You don’t have to dress up. Just go and have a drink.” 1: Chef Cindy Pawlcyn; 2: Mustards Grill pork chop; 3: Alfresco dining at Hog Island Oysters; 4: Fatted Calf charcuterie ; 5: Bistro Jeanty; 6: Cassoulet with Toulouse sausage, duck confit, butter beans and squash at Angéle; 7: Bettina Rouas; 8: Scallops at Auberge

ITALIAN Oenotri in Napa, where Tyler Rodde crafts exceptional Italian food with a clear Northern California bent. While he features excellent pizza, Rouas loves the ever-changing pastas, such as lumache with scallops, white wine, garlic, and Calabrian chiles. Rodde also produces an entire menu of charcuterie. Main courses might include fried rabbit leg with turnip top salsa verde. BREAKFAST For breakfast, Rouas recommends Southside Cafe, with locations in Yountville, Carneros, and downtown Napa. Her favorite? Avocado toast. There’s also strawberry toast, cornmeal pancakes, house-made granola, and biscuits and gravy.

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ignacio beltran CHEF, GRAN ELÉCTRICA

A week before the 2018 opening of Gran Eléctrica in Napa, chef Ignacio Beltran’s wife gave birth to their first child. It was akin to birthing twins, as he concurrently led the restaurant that’s owned by the same couple who first opened in Brooklyn but moved to the valley to build this branch. The celebratory interior dovetails with the food and the primo margaritas. The bar features around 80 mezcals and more than 50 tequilas. The menu offers daily changing empanadas, tacos, several tostadas (including one topped with lime-cured shrimp), and exceptional chicken meatballs flecked with lemon and chile verde.

Chef Beltran recommends

REGULAR Beltran has worked at many top restaurants in the valley, including Ad Hoc, one of his favorite places to go on his night off. The restaurant offers a four-course family-style menu that changes nightly. Generally, dinner starts with an imaginative salad, then a main course that could be grilled pork chops, short ribs, or fried chicken. A cheese course comes next, followed by dessert.

Pro pizza tip

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Ciccio, in Yountville, was mentioned by every chef as the place they like to hang out for pizza — and also for pasta and Negronis.

PIZZA NIGHT Since Beltran has a young child and works most nights, his date nights and family nights often overlap. He says Ciccio in Yountville fills both requirements: The food is accessible and the vibe is child friendly. Beltran recommends the pizza. The toppings change nightly, but he still remembers one with Jimmy Nardello peppers and taleggio cheese.

BEST BURGERS When hankering for something quick, you’ll find the Beltrans at the Squeeze Inn. It’s so close to their Napa home they’ll often ride bikes there to get cheeseburgers. “They leave the meat topped with cheese on the grill so that the cheese melts, creating a kind of grilled cheese, if you will,” explains Beltran. BRUNCH SPOT Brunch is at Archetype, a restaurant owned by Howard Bracken, a noted architect who has designed many wineries and restaurants. “They have the gorgeous open space, and the food and service have always been good,” says Beltran. The brunch menu includes chia seed pudding, cinnamon rolls, lemon-ricotta pancakes, and corned beef hash. Lunch offerings include cauliflower steak, lamb sliders, and fish tacos.

1:DAVID KRKLJUS; 2: TIM CARL; 3: DEBORAH JONES; 4 COURTESY OF CICCIO

Chef kostow recommends

5 & 6: THE RESTAURANT AT MEADOWOOD; 7: ALEXANDER RUBIN; 8: ERIC WOLFINGER

christopher kostow

CHEF, THE RESTAURANT AT MEADOWOOD; OWNER, THE CHARTER OAK Christopher Kostow concedes that his days are full. He runs two restaurants in the Napa Valley (plus a recently opened place in China) and has two small children. At the three-star Michelinrated Meadowood, he’s continually inventing new ways to capture the magic of the Napa Valley on his elaborate tasting menu. Kostow sheepishly admits that the place he dines most often is his own restaurant, The Charter Oak. “There’s something for everyone,” he explains — meaning his two small children, like most kids, always head for hamburgers and the like.

The restaurant opened two years ago and features a central kitchen with a massive live fire hearth and a patio shaded by trees. The menu includes raw vegetables from its farm served with fermented soy dip; heirloom iceberg lettuce salad with garlic aioli and herb vinaigrette; and spaghetti with wilted pea leaves. Main courses include smoked and grilled short ribs, and ham with fresh horseradish. 1: Tostada de Ceviche at Gran Eléctrica; 2: Chef Beltran; 3: Buttermilk fried chicken bucket at Ad Hoc; 4: Gourmet pizza at Ciccio; 5; Chef Kostow; 6: Melon, sorghum, and shiso at Meadowood Restaurant; 7: Dungeness crab and avocado dish at Solbar; 8: Press

REGULAR Since Kostow and his family live in Calistoga, you’ll often find him at Solbar in the Solage resort. “Everything chef Gustavo Rios is doing is very well executed, and that’s something you see less and less these days.” Solbar has a sleek tailored dining room and an expansive outdoor terrace overlooking the resort’s pool. Rios’s menu successfully walks the line for both spaces. Highlights include lump blue crab cocktail; quinoa and avocado salad; pan-roasted Petrale sole with oyster stew; and duck breast with yellow polenta, cherries, and grilled chicory. GO-TO SPOTS When Kostow is in a hurry, he’ll go to Palisades Deli Cafe for the breakfast sandwich, stacked with either bacon, chorizo, or ham along with egg, potato, pepper jack cheese, and salsa roja. And if he’s hungry for Mexican food, Kostow heads to Calistoga’s Puerto Vallarta Restaurant for chicken or beef tacos. DATE NIGHT Date nights take place at Press in St. Helena. This steakhouse has a striking design that captures the essence of Napa Valley; the steaks aptly showcase Napa Valley’s famous Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Gran Eléctrica

Authentic Mexican cuisine meets wine country flair, with an emphasis on local, ethically sourced ingredients and a creative yet traditional menu by Michelin-honed chef Ignacio Beltran. Gran Eléctrica also offers up an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, not to mention some of the best margaritas in Napa Valley. A modern, playful design enhances the vibe, with two bars, a colorful outdoor patio and chef’s garden, and a private dining room complete with tequila lockers for agave aficionados. granelectrica.com Bgranelectrica Vgranelectricanapa

NAPA

Charlie Palmer Steak

Welcome to Charlie Palmer Steak at Archer Hotel Napa, where the celebrated chef shapes menus in bold American style, inspired by the surrounding Napa Valley. Rooted in the pursuit of the best ingredients and a straightforward approach in the kitchen, Charlie Palmer Steak Napa showcases artisanal American beef under the influence of local wine country flavors. charliepalmersteak.com Bcpsteaknapa Vcharliepalmersteak

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NAPA

Buonissimo!

Obsessively authentic Italian: This describes Ca’ Momi Osteria’s food and atmosphere. At Ca’ Momi, everything is “heartcrafted,” meaning it’s created from the heart — developed and delivered with true passion, joy, and an unceasing nod to authenticity. Ca’ Momi’s commitment to tradition dictates their menu, where they showcase heirloom recipes to create delicious dishes made with local and organic ingredients. The restaurant grows much of their produce from their own organic farm, and seasonal specialties abound. The Neapolitan pizza is as good as any found in Naples, while garden-to-glass cocktails are vibrant, charming, and always crafted with fresh, natural ingredients. Ca’ Momi Osteria celebrates the marriage of great food with great wine, featuring offerings from both their own winery and other Napa Valley vintners, as well as special imports from some of the best wineries in Italy. camomiosteria.com |

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NAPA

ALBA

Located inside the River Terrace Inn, ALBA is riverfront dining at its finest. Award-winning chefs pay homage to local foodways with a menu of shareable, seasonal plates that pair with fine wine and craft mixology. Live music year round and a dreamy indoor and outdoor setting complement the vibe. riverterraceinn.com Balbanapavalley | Valbanapavalley |

La Toque

An exquisite food and wine experience awaits at Michelin-starred La Toque at the Westin Verasa Napa. Chef Ken Frank marries classic French techniques with a California aesthetic for a menu that delights with every course and every glass of wine. latoque.com |

Aalbanapavalley

BAlatoque | Vlatoquerestaurant

NAPA

Angèle Restaurant & Bar

Overlooking the Napa River, Angèle Restaurant & Bar seamlessly blends Northern Californian bounty with French country charm. Chef Bettina Rouas expertly melds cultures, creating exquisite dishes like Parisian gnocchi and seared duck breast with brandy-fig sauce. The extensive wine and spirits menu combines the best of both wine countries, creating the perfect pairing for each entrée. angelerestaurant.com BVangelerestaurant

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NAPA

Sushi and More

SAVOR UNFORGETTABLE ASIAN FLAVORS AND TOP-NOTCH HOSPITALITY ON THE NAPA DINING SCENE. FROM STELLAR SUSHI AND FRESH SEAFOOD TO EXCITING PACIFIC RIM CUISINE, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THESE THREE EXCELLENT EATERIES ON FIRST STREET.

NAPA NOODLES

EIKO’S AT OXBOW

EIKO’S

Dine on Pacific Rim cuisine with dishes like ramen, pho, noodles, and a poke bar. Open every day for a casual meal anytime; enjoy the laidback atmosphere and pet-friendly patio, along with happy hour between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily.

Located in the main hall, Eiko’s outpost in the Oxbow Public Market is a full-service seafood market with a highly regarded poke bar, a sit-down sushi and sashimi bar, and premium sake and Japanese beer. Pick up grab-and-go Japanese deli picks and fresh seafood by the pound.

Go where the locals go for exquisitely prepared modern Japanese cuisine. You can’t to wrong with the impressive sushi menu, while entrees are equally tempting. A full bar with signature cocktails, nightly happy hour, and spacious pet-friendly outdoor seating make this family-owned restaurant a perennial favorite.

napanoodles.com

BVAnapanoodlesinc

oxbowpublicmarket.com/eikos-at-oxbow

BV eikosoxbow

eikosnapa.com

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YOUNTVILLE

Celebrating Flavor

Thoughtfully crafted food and exquisite service: Gruppo Chiarello is the realization of acclaimed chef Michael Chiarello’s passion for creating extraordinary dining experiences. Three exceptional restaurants in the heart of Yountville deliver on the promise of a memorable meal. gruppochiarello.com

Bottega

Set in The Marketplace at The Estate, Bottega’s rustic-chic setting complements the micro-regional Italian cuisine, prepared from family recipes with a local twist. Handpicked Italian vintages and selections from smaller California vineyards round out the wine list. botteganapavalley.com BVbotteganapavalley

COQUETA Napa Valley

Meaning “flirt” in Spanish, the Napa Valley outpost of COQUETA represents a delightful interpretation of Spanish cuisine, wine, and inspired cocktails, all while highlighting Northern California’s abundance of flavors. coquetanv.com Vcoquetarestaurants

ottimo

Dining here is nothing short of first rate, with house-made mozzarella, pizza, and panini, along with local wine, distinctive microbrews, and handcrafted products to take home. ottimo-nv.com BVottimonapavalley 134

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Where to Eat

THERE ARE MORE THAN 150 RESTAURANTS IN NAPA VALLEY. IT’S A TOUGH DECISION, WE KNOW.

AMERICAN CANYON CINCO’S FRESCA MEXICAN GRILL (707) 563-5357 Mexican $ JUNCTION BREWERY & GRILL (707) 649-2285 Californian $ LASO (707) 563-5009 Global $

Hog Island Oysters

LE PARIS ARTISAN (707) 731-0948 Bakery/Cafe $$

LOS CANTAROS TAQUERIA (707) 558-0595 Mexican $

TABLE 29 BISTRO & BAR (707) 674-2100 Californian $

MI ZACATECAS (707) 645-7459 Mexican $

THAI KITCHEN (707) 652-5871 Asian $

RISTORANTE LA STRADA (707) 226-3027 Italian $$ SOUTH KELLY GRILL (707) 224-6303 American $

CALISTOGA ALL SEASONS BISTRO (707) 942-9111 Californian $$$

CALISTOGA

Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery After a day of wine tasting, there’s nothing like a cold handcrafted beer to refresh the palate. Calistoga Inn and Brewery offers a boutique hotel, full-service restaurant with contemporary American cuisine, patio dining along the Napa River, beer garden, three bars, and live music. The inn is also home to the Napa Valley Brewing Company.

REMY HALE

calistogainn.com Bcalistogainn

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JOHNNY’S RESTAURANT & BAR (707) 942-5938 American $$

CAFE SARAFORNIA (707) 942-0555 Californian $$

LOVINA (707) 942-6500 American $$$

CALISTOGA INN & BREWING CO. (707) 942-4101 American $$

PACIFICO RESTAURANT (707) 942-4400 Mexican $$

CALISTOGA ROASTERY (707) 942-5757 Bakery/Cafe $$

PALISADES EATERY (707) 942-9300 Italian $$

EVANGELINE (707) 341-3131 French $$

SAM’S SOCIAL CLUB AT INDIAN SPRINGS (707) 942-4969 American $$$

HYDRO BAR (707) 942-9777 Californian $$

SOLBAR AT SOLAGE (707) 226-0850 Californian $$$

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SUSHI MAMBO (707) 942-4699 Asian $$ TRUSS RESTAURANT & BAR AT FOUR SEASONS opening 2020 (707) 709-2100 Californian $$ VERAISON (707) 942-5938 French $$$

NAPA ALBA RESTAURANT AT RIVER TERRACE INN (707) 320-6911 Californian $$ ALEXIS BAKING CO. & CAFE (707) 258-1827 Bakery/Cafe $

ANGÈLE RESTAURANT & BAR (707) 252-8115 French $$$

BISTRO DON GIOVANNI (707) 224-3300 Italian $$$

AROMA (707) 927-3347 Indian $$

BOON FLY CAFE AT CARNEROS (707) 299-4870 American $$

AVOW (707) 203-8900 Californian $$$ AZZURO PIZZERIA & ENOTECA (707) 255-5552 Italian $

BOUNTY HUNTER (707) 226-3976 Barbecue $

CARPE DIEM (707) 224-0800 American $$ CELADON (707) 254-9690 Global $$$ CHARLIE PALMER STEAK (707) 819-2500 Steakhouse $$$

BUI BISTRO (707) 255-5417 Global $$

COLE’S CHOP HOUSE (707) 224-6328 Steakhouse $$$

BANK CAFE & BAR (707) 257-5151 French $$$

C CASA (707) 226-7700 Californian $

COMPLINE (707) 492-8150 Californian $$

BASALT (707) 927-5265 Californian $$$

CA’ MOMI OSTERIA (707) 224-6664 Italian $$

CORDEIRO’S BAR & GRILL (707) 224-1960 Steakhouse $$$

JOSIAH ROE

BUSTER’S SOUTHERN BBQ (707) 942-5605 Barbecue $$

Did someone say “secret menu?” Check out visitnapavalley. com/blog for a roundup of offmenu items at area restaurants. Our favorite? The bacon bar at Press. CRUSH ULTRA LOUNGE AT THE MERITAGE RESORT (707) 251-3066 American $$ DON PERICO (707) 252-4707 Mexican $ DOWNTOWN JOE’S (707) 258-2337 American $$ EIKO’S AT OXBOW (707) 515-7026 Asian $$ Mahi tacos at Meadowood Grill

EIKO’S MODERN JAPANESE CUISINE (707) 501-4444 Asian $$ FARM AT CARNEROS RESORT (707) 299-4880 Californian $$$ FARMERS TABLE AT ANDAZ (707) 687-1234 American $$ FILLIPPI’S PIZZA GROTTO (707) 254-9700 Italian $$ FORGE PIZZA (707) 927-3394 American $ FRIDA’S (707) 252-3575 Mexican $ FUME BISTRO & BAR (707) 257-1999 Californian $$

GALPAO GAUCHO (707) 255-5121 Steakhouse $$$ GOTT’S ROADSIDE (707) 224-6900 American $$ GRACE’S TABLE (707) 226-6200 Global $$$ GRAN ELÉCTRICA (707) 258-1313 Mexican $$ GRILLE 29 AT EMBASSY SUITES (707) 320-9520 American $$ HAL YAMASHITA NAPA (707) 699-1864 Asian $$ HERITAGE EATS (707) 226-3287 Global $

HOG ISLAND OYSTER CO. (707) 251-8113 Seafood $$ IL POSTO TRATTORIA (707) 251-8600 Italian $$ JAX WHITE MULE (707) 812-6853 American $ KENZO NAPA (707) 294-2049 Asian $$$ KITCHEN DOOR (707) 226-1560 Global $$ LA TABERNA (707) 224-5551 Spanish $ LA TOQUE AT THE WESTIN (707) 257-5157 French $$$

LIVE FIRE PIZZA (707) 346-3993 Californian $$

OENOTRI (707) 252-1022 Italian $$$

MANGO ON MAIN (707) 253-8880 Asian $$

OLIVE & HAY (707) 251-1950 Italian $$

MIMINASHI (707) 254-9464 Asian $$$

PASTA PREGO (707) 492-8026 Italian $$

MOLINARI CAFFE (707) 927-3623 Bakery/Cafe $

RED HEN CANTINA (707) 255-8125 Mexican $

MOMO HOUSE (707) 637-4476 Global $

RISTORANTE ALLEGRIA (707) 254-8006 Italian $$$

MORIMOTO (707) 252-1600 Asian $$$$ NAPA GENERAL STORE (707) 259-0762 American $$ NAPA NOODLES (707) 492-8079 Asian $$ NAPA VALLEY BISTRO (707) 666-2383 American $$$

SOUTHSIDE CAFE (707) 492-3733 Californian $ SOUTHSIDE CAFE (second location) (707) 819-2400 Californian $ SWEETIE PIES (707) 257-7280 Bakery/Cafe $$

NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN (800) 427-4124 Global $$$

COURTESY OF MEADOWOOD GRILL

SKY & VINE ROOFTOP BAR (707) 819-2490 Californian $$

TARLA GRILL (707) 255-5599 Mediterranean $$$

NAPKINS BAR & GRILL (707) 927-5333 American $$

THE GRILL AT SILVERADO RESORT (707) 257-5400 Californian $$$

NORMAN ROSE TAVERN (707) 258-1516 American $$

THE Q RESTAURANT & BAR (707) 224-6600 Barbecue $$

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THE GRILL AT MEADOWOOD (707) 968-3144 Californian $$$$

GILLWOODS BAKERY & CAFE (707) 963-1788 Bakery/Cafe $

THE RESTAURANT AT MEADOWOOD (707) 967-1205 Californian $$$$

GOOSE & GANDER (707) 967-8779 American $$$

TRA VIGNE PIZZERIA AND RESTAURANT (707) 967-9999 Italian $$

GOTT’S ROADSIDE (707) 963-3486 American $$ HARVEST TABLE AT HARVEST INN (707) 967-4695 Californian $$$ THE RESTAURANT AT CIA COPIA (707) 967-2555 Californian $$ THE RUNWAY BY PATRICK (707) 258-6115 American $$

YAK & YETI (707) 666-2475 Indian $$

THE VIEW BAR & GRILL AT CHARDONNAY GOLF CLUB (707) 257-1900 American $$

ZUZU RESTAURANT (707) 224-8555 Spanish $

TORC (707) 252-3292 Global $$$

BISTRO & BAR AT AUBERGE DU SOLEIL (707) 967-3111 Californian $$$

TRANCAS STEAKHOUSE (707) 258-9990 Steakhouse $$ VELO PIZZERIA (707) 492-3975 American $ VILLA ROMANO (707) 252-4533 Italian $ 138

VINELEVEN AT NAPA VALLEY MARRIOTT (707) 253-8600 Californian $$

RUTHERFORD

RUTHERFORD GRILL (707) 963-1792 American $$$ THE RESTAURANT AT AUBERGE DU SOLEIL (707) 967-3111 Californian $$$$

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ST. HELENA ACACIA HOUSE AT LAS ALCOBAS (707) 963-9004 Californian $$$ ARCHETYPE (707) 968-9200 American $$$ BRASSWOOD (707) 302-5101 Californian $$$ CAFFE DELLA VALLE (707) 968-5257 Bakery/Cafe $ CLIF FAMILY BRUSCHETTERIA (707) 968-0625 Californian $$ COOK ST. HELENA (707) 963-9181 Italian $$ FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH (707) 963-4555 American $$$

MARKET (707) 963-3799 American $$$

YOUNTVILLE AD HOC (707) 944-2487 American $$$ BISTRO JEANTY (707) 944-0103 French $$$

MODEL BAKERY (707) 963-8192 Bakery/Cafe $

BOTTEGA AT V MARKETPLACE (707) 945-1050 Italian $$$

PRESS ST. HELENA (707) 967-0550 Steakhouse $$$$

BOUCHON BISTRO (707) 944-8037 American $$$

ROADHOUSE 29 (707) 302-3777 Barbecue $$

BRIX RESTAURANT AND GARDENS (707) 944-2749 Californian $$

ST. HELENA BISTRO (707) 963-3371 American $$ THE BAKERY CAFÉ BY ILLY (707) 967-1100 Bakery/Cafe $ THE CHARTER OAK (707) 302-6996 Californian $$$

CICCIO (707) 945-1000 Italian $$ COQUETA NAPA VALLEY (707) 244-4350 Spanish $$ LA CALENDA (707) 204-6030 Mexican $$

In St. Helena, Gary’s Wine and Marketplace is a one-stop shop for wine, specialty foods, coffee, breakfast items, salads, and more. LUCY RESTAURANT & BAR AT BARDESSONO (707) 204-6030 Californian $$$ MUSTARDS GRILL (707) 944-2424 American $$$ OTTIMO (707) 944-0102 Italian $ PERRY LANG’S RESTAURANT (707) 944-1112 American $$ PROTEA (707) 415-5035 Global $$ R+D KITCHEN (707) 945-0920 Global $$ RESTORATION HARDWARE (707) 339-4654 Californian $$$ REDD WOOD AT NORTH BLOCK (707) 299-5030 Californian $$$ THE FRENCH LAUNDRY (707) 944-2380 American $$$$

COURTESY OF GRAN ELÉCTRICA/DAVID KRKLJUS

Gran Eléctrica

ST. HELENA

Eat, Drink, Learn

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone is California’s culinary college. Set in a historic 19th-century estate that once housed the Christian Brothers winery, CIA at Greystone is educating tomorrow’s culinary leaders — but food and wine enthusiasts can experience Greystone’s offerings with enriching public programs. For unique dining, reserve a table at student-run Gatehouse Restaurant. A prix-fixe menu features seasonal fare prepared by CIA at Greystone’s talented student chefs, with many ingredients sourced from the on-site gardens. Other offerings give a taste of Greystone’s culinary mission. Hands-on cooking classes range from one-day programs to CIA instructor-led boot camps focusing on a technique or cuisine. Explore the historic building and grounds on a fascinating public tour, including a stop at the Barrel Room. Shop the Spice Islands Marketplace, stocked with cookbooks, culinary tools, local artisan-made products, and cool items for kids. Enjoy light fare and refreshments at The Bakery Café by illy or the Tasting Bar to round out the CIA at Greystone experience. ciachef.edu/cia-california |

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THE GUIDE I CULINARY MODEL BAKERY (WORTH WAKING UP FOR!) Shouldn’t the beginning of your Napa Valley day be as wonderful as the end of your day? Swap the wine glass and charcuterie plate for a hot latte and freshly made pastry from St. Helena’s iconic Main Street bakery. Hit the Spot Avoid sugar overload with these lighter options: The blueberry scone, sour cream-cinnamon muffin, and multigrain muffin. Coffee Art Wrap your hands around a warm mug. Is there any better way to wake up?

Fuel Up The Original Breakfast Sandwich is served on Model’s must-try English muffins.

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Do the Twist Decadent cinnamon twists are perfect for sharing. Or not!

Rise and Shine LOCALLY OWNED BAKERIES AND COFFEE SHOPS HELP GET THE DAY STARTED RIGHT. TRY A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES.

PHOTO CREDIT

BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

The Model Bakery

Bouchon Bakery

In 1908, The Model Bakery opened its doors on St. Helena’s Main Street. Today, early birds still flock to this flagship location for their morning pick-me-up. Model Bakery has added two more locations — an outpost in downtown Napa’s Oxbow Public Market and a grab-and-go counter in Yountville. What to order? The bakery’s famous handmade English muffins. These buttery, fluffy muffins are so delicious that Oprah named them to her Favorite Things List two years in a row. the model bakery. com

Thomas Keller’s tiny jewel box of a bakery, with charming yellow awnings and pale green exterior, is as picture-perfect on the outside as it is inside, where glass cases are filled with flaky croissants and pain au chocolat, decadent muffins, scones, macarons, and just about every other kind of sweet treat imaginable. Bouchon Bakery overlooks Washington Street in Yountville. Take your goodies to the shaded gravel courtyard and watch the town wake up. thomaskeller.com

Pretty Parfaits Gluten-free — and guilt-free!

Butter Cream Bakery & Diner Since 1948, Butter Cream has been serving Napa locals mouth-watering glazed donuts (try the maple raised) and hearty breakfast staples. (You can’t miss its iconic pink-and-white-striped exterior.) Snag a seat at the counter and fuel up with buttermilk pancakes and bacon hot off the griddle. buttercreambakery. com

Brasswood Bar + Bakery In St. Helena you’ll find an artisan bakery, deli, and culinary boutique with a selection of handmade baked goods for meals on the go. Really hungry?

Try the breakfast burrito or fried egg sandwich. brasswood.com

Le Paris Artisan & Gourmet Café From macarons and morning buns to eclairs and tarts, start the day on a sweet note with French pastries in American Canyon. leparisartisan.com

Oakville Grocery From fresh pastries and savory egg sandwiches to healthy quinoa bowls and all-natural juices, find something for everyone at this iconic spot. Grab breakfast to go or savor it in the adjacent courtyard before a day of wine tasting. oakville grocery. com

Naysayer Coffee Roasters Confused by craft coffee? Take a cupping class to taste five different single origins and take a bag of your favorite home. Find Naysayer at the St. Helena Farmers Market every Friday and every Saturday at the Calistoga Farmers Market. naysayercoffee.com

Soul Rebel Coffee Calistoga’s newest early-morning hotspot serves organic, fair-trade coffee and tea, fresh fruit smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. Get your greens in with the Green Machine juice, a revitalizing blend of cucumber, celery, apple, and parsley. soulrebelcoffee.com

CAN’T COMMIT TO JUST ONE SPOT? Book the Rooted Fork weekend brunch tour, a walking food tour in downtown Napa. Find more details and booking info at rootedfork foodietours.com.

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t h g i n e t la

NOT READY TO CALL IT A NIGHT? HERE’S WHERE TO GO.

NAPA CA’ MOMI OSTERIA Live music on the weekends starts at 10 p.m. CADET WINE + BEER BAR Open ‘til 1 a.m. during the week and 2 a.m. on weekends DOWNTOWN JOE’S BREWERY & RESTAURANT Check the calendar for live music, karaoke, and DJ nights JAM CELLARS The wine and music studio is open until midnight Thursday through Saturday NAPKINS BAR & GRILL DJ, bottle service, and a late-night menu

CALISTOGA SUSIE’S BAR This dive bar is open until 2am every night, with a DJ on Saturdays

ST. HELENA ANA’S CANTINA Karaoke every Thursday until 1:30 a.m.

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Happiest Hour AFTER TWO OR THREE WINERY VISITS A DAY, YOU COULD BE SUFFERING FROM PALATE FATIGUE. LUCKILY, THE REMEDY IS SIMPLE. A CRAFT COCKTAIL AT THESE LOCAL HAPPY HOUR HOTSPOTS IS THE PERFECT REFRESH. BY JESS LANDER JUNCTION BREWERY & GRILL In American Canyon, this laid-back spot was designed with funky recycled materials (think gym bleachers from the ‘50s.). Junction brews their own beer, the cocktails pay homage to local landmarks, and with a wide selection of burgers and flatbreads, you might just abandon your dinner plans and stay here all night. junctionbreweryandgrill.com SKY & VINE Enjoy #Instaready views of downtown Napa from this alfresco perch on the rooftop of the Archer Hotel. Sky & Vine does things differently — their late-night Reverse Happy Hour keeps the fun going long after dinner with drinks and snack deals. (Don’t miss their famous Lobster Corn Dog). Cozy up to the firepit with a barrel-aged cocktail, then challenge your group to a game of giant Jenga. skyandvine.com GRAN ELÉCTRICA Whether you like your margarita on the rocks, blended, or with an extra kick, downtown Napa’s energetic Mexican joint has you covered. Pair your marg with an order of tacos for the best happy hour this side of the border. granelectrica.com

LUCY RESTAURANT & BAR At Lucy, nestled in the Bardessono Resort in Yountville, the inventive craft cocktails are almost too pretty to sip (almost!). Post up fireside in the courtyard for libations and shared plates before walking to dinner in Yountville, Napa Valley’s culinary capital. bardessono.com CALISTOGA INN RESTAURANT & BREWERY Between the Adirondackencircled firepit, patio bar, and massive beer garden, this is a top place to chill outdoors after the tasting rooms close. Wash down their signature and spicy Best Wings with a house cocktail or pint brewed right on site. calistogainn.com GOOSE & GANDER Ready to shake things up? Head to this St. Helena hotspot for fun events like Whiskey Wednesdays (for a flight of whiskey) or Tiki Thursdays (tiki drinks, plus spam-pineapple burgers). Snag a table in the basement bar or outside on the patio and toast to another day in Napa Valley. goosegander.com

COURTESY OF GRAN ELÉCTRICA/DAVID KRKLJUS

lley

napa va

TIM CARLSON PHOTOGRAPHY

ST. HELENA

Right at Home

Stellar food and a friendly public house vibe makes Goose & Gander one of the most exciting spots on the Napa Valley dining scene. The seasonally driven menu, brought to life by executive chef Nic Jones, is full of unexpected flavors and touches of decadence (think elevated bar bites, or the divine G&G bone marrow burger served with duck fat fries). Set in a historic Arts and Crafts-style bungalow in downtown St. Helena, the ambiance is as inviting as the menu: Dine on the cozy-chic main floor, the lush patio, or the cool basement bar. A finely curated, robust wine list boasts Napa Valley vintners, while expertly crafted cocktails shine. goosegander.com BVgoosegandernapa VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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Other Sips

WHEN YOUR TEETH TURN PURPLE, IT’S TIME TO SWITCH THINGS UP.

COFFEE Perk up from a day of Cabernet with a coffee cupping experience at Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company. Sample five French pressed coffees from three growing regions and discuss flavor and aromatics — just like during a wine tasting. Then, blend them together to create your perfect cup and leave with a bag of beans. napavalleycoffee.com TEA Enjoy afternoon tea at the Ackerman Heritage House, an 1888 Queen Anne Victorian that’s been restored to its heyday. On select Sundays, it hosts traditional English tea service in antique cups with dainty treats. ackermanheritage house.com 144

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Behind the Barrel

Q&A WITH ELAINE ST. CLAIR, WINEMAKER AND BREWER AT ST. CLAIR BROWN BY JESS LANDER

Q: A:

Elaine St. Clair is a bit of an anomaly. She’s the only woman in the United States to hold the commercial title of both winemaker and brewer. She’s worked over 30 years for wineries and breweries, cofounding one of the area’s originals, Napa Ale Works. Today, her downtown Napa outpost St. Clair Brown — which she opened with longtime friend and colleague Laina Brown in 2014 — is also one-of-a-kind. It’s the only tasting spot in Napa Valley operating as a boutique winery and a nano-brewery in one. Housed in a chic urban greenhouse, St. Clair Brown also serves small plates, sourced from their verdant on-site garden, and hosts live music and local food truck nights.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT MAKING WINE AND BEER?

Napa Valley is such a diverse and complex area with so many different soil types and amazing vineyards to work with. I like to work with the fruit and really try to make a wine that brings out the best in the vineyard. With brewing, the equipment is a lot better nowadays for small microbrewing, and I’m able to source a lot of organic ingredients that weren’t available to me early on in my career. It’s 2 fun to bring the beers to the next level and make them the best that I can. I love what you can do to really focus on the flavor, but still produce a beer that’s balanced.

1-2: COURTESY OF ST. CLAIR BROWN

SPIRITS Tour Napa Valley Distillery (the first to open in Napa Valley following Prohibition), then imbibe a flight of uniquely flavored spirits made with fresh fruits like Meyer lemon and nectarine. This downtown Napa warehouse’s second-floor loft has been transformed into a 1920s glam tasting salon. Short on time? Pop by the outpost at Oxbow Public Market. napadistillery.com

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MAKING WINE AND BEER?

With wine, it’s so important to have your vineyard sources, and you have to start with your grapes and take them all the way from the vineyard to the 3 winemaking, so it’s a much longer process. For beer, it’s more like cooking. You have a lot of different ingredients you can work with. I’m more focused on the recipes, and you get a much faster turnaround. You see the beer in about six weeks, as opposed to waiting one to two years for the wine.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT NAPA VALLEY’S BURGEONING BEER SCENE?

3-4: COURTESY OF ST. CLAIR BROWN; 5: COURTESY OF STONE BREWING

People in the wine industry, in general, love and have an appreciation for craft-brewed beer. After working with wine all day, they want to relax with something different and perhaps more refreshing. We have a great showing of winery people who want to sit in our garden after work, and they recommend us to their visitors who are looking for more options.

for the beer drinkers

NAPA VALLEY’S CRAFT BEER SCENE CONTINUES TO GROW. WE’LL RAISE A PINT TO THAT!

AMERICAN CANYON JUNCTION BREWERY & GRILL (707) 649-2285

BEER

There’s a beer revolution (literally!) brewing in Napa Valley, with roughly a dozen spots to tap into. The largest concentration of breweries are scattered throughout downtown Napa, where you can create your own self-guided brewery walking tour. Sip pints from global names like Stone to local operations including Trade, Tannery Bend, and Downtown Joe’s. 4

1: A beer flight at St. Clair Brown; 2: Elaine St. Clair; 3: Laina Brown; 4: Enjoy a tasting in the garden at St. Clair Brown; 5: Stone Brewing overlooks downtown Napa and the Napa RIver

CALISTOGA CALISTOGA INN RESTAURANT & BREWERY (707) 942-4101 LINCOLN AVENUE BREWERY (THE LAB) (707) 544-8277

NAPA DOWNTOWN JOE’S BREWERY AND RESTAURANT (707) 258-2337 FIELDWORK BREWING COMPANY (707) 266-1582

NAPA PALISADES SALOON (707) 296-1552 NAPA SMITH @ VISTA COLLINA (707) 666-2592 NAPA VALLEY DISTILLERY (707) 265-6272 ST. CLAIR BROWN WINERY (707) 255-5591 STONE BREWING NAPA (707) 252-2337 TANNERY BEND BEERWORKS (707) 681-5774 TRADE BREWING (707) 492-8223

ST. HELENA MAD FRITZ TAP ROOM (707) 968-5097

DID YOU KNOW? St. Helena’s Harvest Table, at Harvest Inn, brews their own beers on-site. Try the IPA or blonde ale. VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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THE GUIDE I CULINARY CLASSES

Back to School CULINARY SCHOOL, THAT IS! BY LAUREN EBERLE

From basic food pairings to multi-day boot camps, Napa Valley’s diverse collection of culinary programs are best in class. At-home chefs and foodies alike will enjoy fun, hands-on learning, and delicious meals sure to boost their cooking confidence.

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SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

LET’S GET STARTED Pull up a seat for one of The Village Food & Wine Center’s themed cooking classes. Designed by Chef Vincent Lesage and under the guidance of a host of guest chefs and bakers, classes range from Easy Entertaining and Brunch & Bubbles to Tacos + Tequila and Rustic + Refined Pasta Making. Learn helpful tips and tricks while being guided through Napa-inspired recipes, then settle in for a paired, multicourse meal complete with take-home recipe cards. (Approximately $90, including tax and gratuity; 1.5 to 3 hours.)

more classes CAKEBREAD CELLARS

(707) 963-5222 Rutherford CIA AT COPIA

(707) 967-2500 Napa COOKING WITH JULIE

(707) 227-5036 Napa NAPA VALLEY COOKING SCHOOL

(707) 967-2901 St. Helena

TOP: ISTOCK; BOTTOM: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

world’s premier culinary colleges. At its Greystone campus, immersive and intensive multiday boot camps go beyond the “hows” of cooking to train students to think like a professional chef. Basic Training Boot Camp ($2,250) is a five-day, handson course to master classic culinary techniques, while programs like The Best of Boot Camp World Tour ($1,795) present a four-day intercontinental journey through the fundamentals of cooking a variety of world cuisines.

GREAT FOR GROUPS From girlfriend getaways to corporate team-building retreats, at The Culinary Institute of America at Copia private classes suit groups of almost any size and can be customized to match interests and experience. Bond over baking, blind taste together, and even have a healthy cooking competition. Hands-on instructive classes, ranging from Knife Skills 101 to Exploring Chilean Cuisine, let learners get their hands messy as they practice pro-level techniques taught by CIA chefs and sommeliers. Want to sit back and relax? Demonstration-style courses offer intimate interactions with the school’s skilled educators. Groups can also split into teams and go head-to-head as they

execute a menu and battle it out for top prize from a CIA judge. (Rates and session times vary based on course selection.)

PERFECT YOUR PAIRINGS A great match of

food and wine will enhance an entire meal. At Cakebread Cellars, a variety of themed cooking classes fill the calendar, such as Dungeness Crab and Chardonnay, or Cassoulet and Cabernet. Each class includes a tour, wine tastings, and three-course lunch paired with wine. Peju Winery’s Interactive Culinary Experience brings guests into the winery’s kitchen or to the vineyard’s wood-fired brick oven to prepare a meal. Pick produce from the on-site garden and learn tips for making wine-country cuisine at home. Pono Wines’ tasting experience includes a four-course meal prepared by participants (with the help of a chef!).

NAPA VALLEY WINE ACADEMY

(855) 513-9738 Napa PEJU PROVINCE

(707) 963-3600 Rutherford SILVERADO COOKING SCHOOL

(707) 927-3591 Napa THE CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA AT GREYSTONE

(707) 967-1100 St. Helena THE STUDIO BY FEAST IT FORWARD

(707) 819-2403 Napa THE VILLAGE FOOD & WINE CENTER

(707) 251-3067 Napa

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A Day at the Museum ADD THESE CULTURAL AND HISTORIC DESTINATIONS TO YOUR ITINERARY. BY MATT VILLANO

Considering the valley’s great wine, fantastic food, and epic outdoor adventures, it’s easy to gloss over the region’s top-quality museums. But these museums — some of which rank among the best in the Bay Area — are worth a closer look.

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1: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND DI ROSA CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART, NAPA /ISRAEL VALENCIA.

THE GUIDE I ARTS + CULTURE

Art for All

“A

rt and culture in the Napa Valley is so diverse, there’s truly something for everyone,” says Chris DeNatale, president and CEO of Arts Council Napa Valley. “The art scene here is thriving, and supporting local artists is of huge importance to our community.”

THE VALLEY’S PUBLIC ART SCENE

DI ROSA CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART, NAPA The best spot in the valley for contemporary art is di Rosa, a 217-acre parcel in the Carneros region. The site comprises multiple galleries, a sculpture park, and a 35-acre lake, as well as seemingly endless rolling hills of beautiful, wild land. The facility was founded by Rene di Rosa, a Napa vintner who sold his Winery Lake Vineyard in 1986 to support his vision of an “art park.” di Rosa’s permanent collection features works by Northern California artists from mid-20th century to early 21st century. Outside, take a self-guided tour of the 1/3-mile Sculpture Meadow, which features dozens of pieces. In addition to the art, the di Rosa Center has roughly six miles of hiking trails. However you spend your visit, this is a place you’ll connect with the countryside. dirosaart.org

2: COURTESY OF CHUCK WILLIAMS CULINARTY ARTS MUSEUM

CHUCK WILLIAMS CULINARY ARTS MUSEUM, NAPA Foodie history shines bright at this jewel of a museum, located on the second floor of the Culinary Institute of America Copia in downtown Napa. The free museum features 4,000 artifacts of specialty cookware, bread baking and culinary tools, appliances, and tableware — all part of the personal collection of Chuck Williams, the man behind Williams-Sonoma. Some of the more whimsical items include a collection of wooden rolling pins, a fanciful double boiler, and tureens shaped like boars, rabbits, and lambs. There’s also an antique stove and a brass duck press, an obscure tool for deboning ducks quickly. (The more you know!) ciaatcopia.com/chuck-williams-culinaryarts-museum 1: di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, sculptures by Robert Arneson (left) and Viola Frey (right) 2: Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum

NAPA VALLEY MUSEUM, YOUNTVILLE This museum, on the grounds of the California Veterans’ Home in Yountville, presents a threepart experience of art, nature, and history. Translation? In addition to traditional galleries with art exhibits, the museum also boasts a history gallery with a focus on the land and people who have written stories of the region’s past. At the CIA at Copia in downtown Napa, the museum has a popup photography exhibit on Paul and Julia Child that’s expected to run through the spring. At the main Yountville location, from February 1 – May 31, 2020, explore “Buzzed: The Beauty & Nature of Bees,” a science and art exhibition that features a sound installation, graphics, interactive displays, and photographs. The museum occasionally schedules hour-long docent tours, a helpful way to become acquainted with the collection. There’s also a well-stocked museum store, and a lovely sitting area with tree-lined views. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. napavalleymuseum.org

SHARPSTEEN MUSEUM, CALISTOGA The history of Calistoga is on full display at this museum, the personal collection of Ben Sharpsteen, a former town resident and animator for Walt Disney. One of the stars of the museum: Sam Brannan, who founded Hot Springs Resort in the 1860s and later founded the town of Calistoga. Exhibits include a look back at Brannan’s life, one of the original cottages he built in 1860, and a diorama of what the original resort looked like way back when. sharpsteenmuseum.org

DID YOU KNOW? Over the last few years, Napa Valley’s performing art venues have stepped it up a notch, with national headliners, top-flight comedians, authentic jazz, rhythm and blues, and even opera gracing the stages of the valley’s venues. For a list of venues, turn to p. 153. .

Some of the most interesting art in Napa Valley is free and out in the open for all to see. This public art is part of a concerted effort in recent years to increase accessibility to creative genius around town. One great example of the public art push: Napa’s Rail Arts District (RAD). This downtown neighborhood flanks the train tracks and Vine Trail with more than ten murals on the backs of warehouses that face the thoroughfare. The project even includes painted signal boxes along the train tracks. The Napa Art Walk showcases original sculpture from local artists. Pieces rotate every two years, and Art Walk maps are available online at napaartwalk.org. In downtown Yountville, take a self-guided walking tour of the Yountville Art Walk, where whimsical sculptures are accompanied by QR codes. Scan the code for more info on each piece and the artist behind it. Like what you see? Most pieces are for sale, and proceeds support Yountville’s arts programs.

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THE GUIDE I ARTS + CULTURE Napa Lighted Arts Festival, Meritage Resort & Spa

Napa Valley Film Festival

BOB MCCLENAHAN

Napa Lighted Arts Festival, The Opera House

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Festival Napa Valley, Far Niente

Let's get lit! DOWNTOWN NAPA SHINES NAPA LIGHTED ARTS FESTIVAL

January 11-19, 2020 Light becomes art in Downtown Napa. This free event features original artwork, with installations at more than a dozen downtown locations, that fuse technology and innovation. Pieces include light art, video art, 3D video mapping projections, lighting sculptures, and more. Don’t miss Friday night’s Lantern Parade in Veteran’s Park and Night Bloom at Oxford Commons, where tethered hot-air balloons light up the night sky. donapa.com/lights

Napa Lighted Arts Caption Festival, Napa Riverfront

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE ICONIC NAPA VALLEY EVENTS FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

July 17-26, 2020 Renowned performances at venues across the valley. festivalnapavalley.org

NAPA VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL November 11-15, 2020 Film screenings and industry events, paired with the region’s world-class culinary and wine offerings.

BOB MCCLENAHAN

napavalleyfilmfest.org

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NAPA

An Art Park for All

DI ROSA CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART offers visitors refuge to view the art of northern California in a singular setting. Protected under the Napa County Land Trust, the site features multiple galleries, a sculpture park, and a 35-acre lake in Napa Valley’s famed Carneros region. di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art originated as the vision of Rene di Rosa, a prolific collector whose famed vineyards enabled his development of a world-class art collection. Together with his wife Veronica, he used the sale of his vineyards to build an “art park” for the greater public. The organization was incorporated as a nonprofit public trust in 2000, and is a catalyst for transformative experiences with contemporary art of Northern California. Today, di Rosa presents contemporary exhibitions by Bay Area-based artists and an array of educational programs for all ages, in addition to maintaining a permanent collection of notable works by artists living or working in the Bay Area from the mid-twentieth century to the present day. dirosaart.org |

BVdirosaart

Clockwise from top: Gatehouse, Gallery 1, Winery lake. Photo: Wilfred J. Jones; Residence & Courtyard. Photo: Wilfred J. Jones; Installation view of “Assembling the Choreography of Protest,” a presentation of works from the di Rosa collection organized by artist Lexa Walsh addressing the topic of assembly. Courtesy of the artist and di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, Napa. Photo: Johnna Arnold

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MUSEUMS

Gordon Huether Studio & Gallery

CHUCK WILLIAMS CULINARY ARTS MUSEUM (707) 967-2500 Napa NAPA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY (707) 224-1739 Napa NAPA VALLEY MUSEUM (707) 944-0500 Yountville ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON MUSEUM (707) 963-3757 St. Helena SHARPSTEEN MUSEUM (707) 942-5911 Calistoga

PERFORMING ARTS BLUE NOTE NAPA (707) 880-2300 Napa

Be Inspired

QUENT CORDAIR FINE ART (707) 255-2242 Napa

BROWSE A GALLERY. SEE A SHOW. STROLL A MUSEUM. CREATIVITY FLOURISHES IN NAPA VALLEY.

ART GALLERIES AERENA GALLERIES & GARDENS (707) 603-8787 St. Helena

BOB MCCLENAHAN

ART GALLERY NAPA VALLEY (707) 254-2085 Napa BLUE HERON GALLERY (707) 944-2044 Yountville

CA’TOGA GALLERIA D’ARTE (707) 942-3900 Calistoga

DENNIS RAE FINE ART (707) 963-3350 St. Helena

CALDWELL SNYDER GALLERY (707) 200-5050 St. Helena

DI ROSA CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART (707) 226-5991 Napa

CALISTOGA POTTERY (707) 942-0216 Calistoga CHRISTOPHER HILL GALLERY (707) 963-0272 St. Helena

GALLERY 1870 (707) 944-9670 Yountville GORDON HUETHER STUDIO & GALLERY (707) 255-5954 Napa

IVY, TWIG & TWINE (707) 812-8234 Napa JESSEL GALLERY (707) 257-2350 Napa LEE YOUNGMAN GALLERIES (707) 942-0585 Calistoga NORTH BAY GALLERY (707) 945-0145 Yountville

SOPHIE’S CONTEMPORARY ART (707) 942-4231 Calistoga STIX AND STONES GALLERY (707) 942-6002 Calistoga

Visit the valley’s Welcome Centers for a full list of wineries with art collections.

CAMEO CINEMA (707) 963-9779 St. Helena JARVIS CONSERVATORY (707) 255-5445 Napa LUCKY PENNY COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER (707) 266-6305 Napa NAPA VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER AT LINCOLN THEATER (707) 944-9900 Yountville THE WHITE BARN (707) 987-8225 St. Helena UPTOWN THEATER (707) 259-0123 Napa

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THE GUIDE I WELLNESS

NAPA VALLEY

Inspired by the relaxed sophistication of the south of France. Infused with California soul. Auberge du Soleil has long been revered as the quintessential adult getaway in wine country. Synonymous with luxury, the 50 newly refurbished guest rooms and suites are tucked into a sun-kissed hillside olive grove thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situated just below the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic Michelin Star Restaurant and Bistro & Bar, where winemakers, guests, and visitors alike gather to take in the spectacular views. Enjoy a taste of Provence in the heart of Napa Valley. aubergedusoleil.com

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PHOTO CREDIT

Oh La L`a La L`a

State of Mind IT’S EASY TO DISCONNECT — AND RECHARGE — IN NAPA VALLEY. BY DANA REBMANN

Beyond the wine, one of the best reasons to visit here is to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There’s no better place to find much-needed rest and relaxation than Napa Valley.

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THE GUIDE I WELLNESS

er n n I d n fi Peace CURIOUS ABOUT LIFE IN A MONASTERY? In Calistoga, all visitors are welcome to explore Holy Assumption Monastery. There’s even a room available for female guests to stay overnight. Calm and quiet never sounded so good.

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1: Hiking in Napa Valley; 2: Holy Assumption Monastery; 3: Early-morning balloon ride 4: Spa Solage at Auberge du Soleil

Napa Valley has a natural beauty unlike any other — the green, rolling hills and sun-drenched valley floor are begging to be explored. Calming, immersive experiences throughout Napa Valley promote a sense of well-being with benefits that carry over long after your vacation has come to an end. For an elevated view, climb aboard a hot-air balloon at sunrise. As the sun fills the sky, you’ll glide quietly above grapevines and treetops, taking in the tranquility of wine country as it slowly wakes up to a new day. Once back on terra firma, smooth landings are often celebrated with a glass or two of local bubbles. Now that’s how to start a day. After taking in the lay of the land from above, one of the most rewarding ways to discover all the region has to offer is by foot. Clear your mind while hiking a stretch of Skyline Park’s more than 25 miles of trails. In St. Helena, travel back in time — and enjoy forgetting about the modern world — at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, where the 1846 water-powered grist mill grinds corn and wheat into meal or flour. Stroll among redwoods turned to stone after a volcanic explosion more than three million years ago at The Petrified Forest in Calistoga. Feeling relaxed yet?

PAMPER ME Fast-track the relaxing vibes by booking a full-blown spa day. Is there anything more relaxing than spending a day being spoiled at a luxurious spa? (We didn’t think so.) And when it comes to spas, wine country knows a thing or two about that. From mineral and mud baths to customized massages and full-body treatments, Napa Valley has a deep-rooted history of knowing how to pamper. When Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort opened in 1952, it was one of the first places in the valley to offer therapeutic mud baths using a one-of-a-kind mixture of Calistoga’s geothermal water and volcanic ash. Today, Doc’s family keeps the tradition of getting guests dirty in a colorful, retro setting. The laid-back,

1: BOB MCCLENHAN; 2:CALI GODLEY; 3: BOB MCLENAHAN; 4: COURTESY OF SPA SOLAGE AT AUBERGE DU SOLEIL/THOMAS CONCORDIA

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

quirky setting is enough to make your shoulders relax as soon as you step foot through the front door. Just down Lincoln Avenue in Calistoga, MoonAcre Spa & Baths at Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa has put a new, relaxing spin on happy hour. (As if happy hour needed to be more fun!). Every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., you can make a splash in one of their geothermal pools, enjoy two 25-minute spa treatments, and sip a glass of red, white, or bubbly for just $95. Happy hour spa options include massage, muds, baths, and a foot, hand, or scalp treatment. Taking time for self-care has never felt so smart — or hip. Guests at the award-winning Auberge du Soleil Spa have good reason to linger longer after a restorative treatment. An exclusive wellness tea blend created by Napa organic tea farm ERDA is poured for guests after all spa services. Handpicked, dried, and packaged, this spearmint/lemon verbena blend is a refreshing way to unwind even more in one of Napa Valley’s most tranquil settings.

TRY SOMETHING NEW CBD-infused massage is all the rage for soothing aches. At The Meritage Resort, Spa Terra’s CBD Wellness Massage combines Swedish massage techniques with organic herbs, including arnica and non-psychoactive CBD. The Heal Me treatment at Carneros Resort and Spa includes a spot treatment of warm camphor and full-spectrum CBD salve and full body arnica massage. Hightech tools are also used in holistic wellness experiences at the Spa at Carneros. During the Light Me Up treatment, LED light technology treats areas with pain and speed up healing. Magnesium-rich oil, massage, and sound therapy complete the treatment. Regardless of which service you choose, set aside an entire day for the Spa at Carneros. (Just wait until you see the view from the pool!) And when you realize you don’t want to leave? You’ll know you’re in that Napa Valley state of mind.

Book a Spa Day BECAUSE SPA DAYS ARE THE BEST DAYS. #NEVERLEAVING

AMERICAN CANYON SPA GAIA AT DOUBLETREE (707) 674-0168

CALISTOGA BATHS AT ROMAN SPA HOT SPRINGS & RESORT (800) 404-4772 CALISTOGA MOTOR LODGE & SPA (707) 942-0992 CALISTOGA RANCH * (707) 254-2820 CALISTOGA SPA HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-6269

BLUE WATER DAY SPA (707) 252-7079

ST. PIERRE MASSAGE (707) 255-1640

MASSAGE TO GO (707) 965-9500

THE PRESERVE AT THE NAPA VALLEY MARRIOTT HOTEL (707) 254-3330 TRUEREST FLOAT SPA (707) 254-9445

SENZA HOTEL (855) 253-6660 SPA AT CARNEROS RESORT * (707) 299-4850 SPA AT NAPA RIVER INN (707) 265-7537 SPA AT SILVERADO RESORT (707) 257-5555 SPA TERRA AT THE MERITAGE RESORT (844) 283-4588

THE MEADOWOOD SPA * (707) 967-1275

ST. HELENA ATRIO SPA AT LAS ALCOBAS (707) 963-9005 AUBERGE DU SOLEIL SPA * (800) 228-2490

YOUNTVILLE NORTH BLOCK SPA (707) 944-8080 SPA AT BARDESSONO (707) 204-6000 SPA VILLAGIO (707) 948-5050 THE SPA AT HOTEL YOUNTVILLE * (707) 967-7940 * For hotel guests only

HEALTH SPA NAPA VALLEY (707) 967-8800

DR. WILKINSON’S HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-4102 GOLDEN HAVEN HOT SPRINGS (707) 942-8000 GRAN ROCA SPA & WELLNESS AT FOUR SEASONS Opening 2020 (707) 709-2100 INDIAN SPRINGS RESORT & SPA (707) 942-4913 MOUNT VIEW HOTEL & SPA (707) 942-1500 SPA SOLAGE (707) 266-0825

CALISTOGA

NAPA

Renowned for its healing geothermal water and mud bath traditions, Baths at Roman Spa offers serenity to unwind with authentic Calistoga treatments, including private mudrooms for two, massages, and deluxe spa offerings for the ultimate wine country experience.

GREENHAUS EUROPEAN DAY SPA (707) 257-8837

Baths at Roman Spa

romanspahotsprings.com Bromanspahotsprings VISITNAPAVALLEY.COM | 2020

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CALISTOGA

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

The alluring mineral pools of Calistoga Spa Hot Springs have been a mainstay of Napa Valley visitors for generations. Find your bliss with a volcanic ash mud bath, a steam or mineral pool bath, or a massage treatment. The fitness studio offers yoga and other classes, while the newly renovated guest rooms and amenities enhance your relaxing getaway. calistogaspa.com BVAcalistogaspa

NAPA

Spa Terra

Spa Terra at The Meritage Resort and Spa puts the “ahh” in Napa with locally inspired treatments in a calming subterranean setting. Take sanctuary in the Estate Cave and embark on a journey of mind-body bliss. Unwind and center with a salt scrub, full body massage, and warm healing stones of the Ultimate Renewal Experience. With so much pampering, no wonder it was voted “Best Day Spa” by Napa Life Magazine. spaterra.com BVAmeritageresort

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THE GUIDE I FAMILY

Kids in Wine Country ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT CONNOLLY RANCH BY MATT VILLANO

Tire swinging at Connolly Ranch

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t’s a chilly Friday morning and the welcoming committee at Connolly Ranch in Napa is working overtime. One committee member boldly nibbles on a visitor’s shoelace. Another softly butts its head against a visitor’s purse. A third opens its mouth and lets everybody know how it really feels about all the visitors milling about the barnyard. The feedback: “Baaaaaaaaaa.” No, the welcome wagon here isn’t human. Instead, the greeters are goats — the perfect introduction to a magical place that’s all about giving visitors a true farm experience. Connolly Ranch is an education-centered working farm in the Browns Valley neighborhood of Napa. According to Heidi Soldinger, development director for Connolly Ranch, it’s a perfect place for the whole family. “It’s not a complicated concept: Nature provides all the learning resources kids and adults need,” she says. “Experiencing science, life science, and environmental science, through absorbing and interacting with a hands-on curriculum, leaves a lasting mark and educational moments for everyone who comes here.” There are three main spots to experience the 13-acre ranch: The barnyard, N: LY FU home to more than 40 different FAMI animals; the edible garden; and the grove, an open area surrounded by towering redwood and eucalyptus the shade and enjoy a sack lunch without no critters (except for those trees. the distractions of cell phones and comwho buzz between flowers). The barnyard, home to goats, puters. Soldinger says that while visitors There usually aren’t many other sheep, pigs, bunnies, and nearly two love the barnyard, most spend the bulk people. And the only being you feed dozen chickens, is by far the busiest area of their time building and playing in the is yourself. Depending on when you visit, on the farm. In the barn, visitors are grove. the “menu” might include cherry tomainvited to pull handfuls of hay and feed “There’s something about how toes, sugar snap peas, blackberries, and the animals, sit down in the goat pens open-ended the grove is — you can go up more. and read to the animals, or just wait to there and do pretty much whatever you The grove is a place of endless possibilpet the critters when they come on by. In want to do,” she says. “There are a lot ities. Take a spin on the tire swing. Play the chicken coop and surrounding area, of places on the ranch to relax, but that’s with the kiddos in the sand pit. Climb up guests can feed chickens, hunt for eggs, or usually where people go to connect with into the old redwood logs for a game of pet bunnies. If you’re lucky, Earl Gray, the nature.” role-play. Or just sit at the picnic tables in gray farm cat, will make an appearance (and proceed to follow you around for the rest of your visit). DID YOU KNOW? American Canyon is the closest town to neighboring kid The vibe in the garden is exactly attractions like Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and the Jelly Belly Factory. opposite that in the barnyard. There are

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TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF CONNOLLY RANCH; BOB MCCLENAHAN (4)

ens e r c s o N needed!

Memory Makers #FAMILYTIME

Stroll the Medieval-inspired castle at Castello di Amorosa (while mom and dad sip wine). @sarahromontoya

Refuel with a burger, fries, and ice cream from Gott’s Roadside at the Oxbow Public Market or in downtown St. Helena. @wildestcreams

In Calistoga, watch Old Faithful Geyser erupt roughly every 30 minutes — or feed the goats. @thesanaali

Tour the circa-1846 Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park in St. Helena. @jaclyn.olivia

At The Village at Vista Collina, play games and picnic on the lawn. @vistacollina

Tire kiddos out at one of many local parks, like Lyman Park in St. Helena. @theforeverfamily

BOB MCCLENAHAN

Bring the whole fam for a day of on-the-farm fun at Connolly Ranch. For more details, visit connollyranch. org.

The farm itself is more than a century old; it dates to 1917, when agriculture was a considerably more prominent part of downtown living. The farm was in the Connolly family until 1991 when Peggy Connolly donated the property to the Land Trust of Napa County in her will. Today, the Land Trust owns the property and leases it back to the city, while Soldinger’s nonprofit handles day-to-day operations. Connolly Ranch is open to the public on select days and times throughout the year. The most popular option: Farm Fridays, a guided and structured experience that takes place every Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Another option: Walk-in Wednesdays on the first Wednesday of every month. Finally, there’s the Second Saturdays program, which amounts to one-day drop-off camp from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Add to this an annual festival on Earth Day and the all-day November Harvest Festival shindig for families and kids of all ages, and there are plenty of options to get to know the historic ranch.

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NAPA

Napa Valley Bike Tours & Rentals Ride the Napa Valley Vine Trail, a car-free path that transports you to vineyards just four miles north of Napa. Offering bike rentals, guided tours to wineries, and electric bikes from downtown Napa. napavalleybiketours.com BVwillbikeforwine

YOUNTVILLE

Napa Valley Aloft

An iconic destination deserves an elevated adventure. Yountville’s family-owned Napa Valley Aloft is one of Napa Valley’s original hot-air balloon operators, providing bucket-list experiences since 1978. Embark on a sunrise flight and soar above treetops for bird’s-eye views of Napa Valley’s famed rolling hills and vineyards. Packages include semiprivate rides (up to 12 passengers) for maximum comfort. For a special occasion, book a private two- or four-person ride, and cap your flight with a champagne breakfast. Fully licensed and experienced pilots ensure a serene and memorable adventure. nvaloft.com BAnapavalleyaloft

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Ways to Play

FROM BOATS AND BALLOONS, TO TUK-TUKS AND TRAINS, FIND NEW THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT NAPA VALLEY. BY MARTHA-PAGE ALTHAUS

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ow do you want to see Napa Valley? We’ve rounded up a few of the most unconventional — and fun! — ways to explore the region. Share your pics and stories with us by tagging #VisitNapaValley. Happy exploring!

LACES AND LIMOS TUK TUK TOUR Gather up your best friends and embark on a customized wine-country tour like you’ve never done before. These all electric, open-air tuk-tuks are a seriously fun way to make an entrance at the wineries. lacesandlimos.com

HESS COLLECTION ATV EXCURSIONS

Anyone can tour a winery. But can you ride an ATV through the vineyard? At The Hess Collection, you can! The winery offers two ATV tours; during the Vine to Table tour, enjoy panoramic vineyard views from the ATV before a three-course lunch with wine pairings. hesscollection.com

NAPA RIVER GONDOLA

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

Trust us — it’s totally worth the early-morning wake-up call. Book a trip with Napa Valley Aloft; tours leave from Yountville and float above the valley’s vineyards as the morning fog rolls away and the sun begins to shine. Back on solid ground, toast to the morning with a Champagne brunch. Top that! nvaloft.com

NAPA VALLEY WINE TROLLEY

Sure, you could Uber to your next wine tasting. But why not take a restored California street cable car instead? Trolley tours include visits to multiple wineries, picnic lunch, and plenty of photo ops along the way. napavalleywinetrolley.com

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w the vie re e from h

NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN

Remember when train travel was glamorous? It still is aboard the iconic Napa Valley Wine Train. Book a half-day or full-day winery tour, with visits to wineries and gourmet meals served on the train. Special events fill the calendar year round, including a Murder Mystery train and, for the beer drinkers, the Happy Hour Hops train. winetrain.com

WALK THIS WAY

Follow the leader and book a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss a beat. Along the way, talk to in-the-know locals about their favorite spots around town. Sharpen your iPhone photography skills with The Art of Seeing’s three-hour

tour (artclarity.com). Stroll Napa’s Rail Arts District and learn about the artists behind each installation during a Paper Napan Walkabout (papernapan.com); each walk ends at a winery or brewery. For more touring with beverages, book a Hike & Wine tour with Active Wine Adventures (activewineadventures.com). Overwhelmed with Napa’s abundance of restaurants? Foodies on Foot (foodiesonfootnv.com) will lead the way to seven of downtown’s top eateries; sample a signature dish at each. When the day is done, watch the sun set over the river on a Wombat Charters Wetland Tour (wombat-charters.fishing). Snap that #Instaworthy pic and be sure to tag your favorite local tour guide. 1: Hess Collection ATV Tour; 2: Gondola on the Napa River; 3: Laces and Limos Tuk Tuk; 4: Biking the Vine Trail

1: COURTESY OF HESS VINEYARDS; 2: COURTESY OF NAPA VALLEY GONDOLA

A gondola ride down the Napa River is a laid-back way to see the sights from the water. Tours depart from Main Street Public Docks in the heart of downtown. Bring the family on this one! enjoy-napa-valley.com

Get outside

PLAN YOUR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ACTIVE WINE ADVENTURES (707) 927-1058

NAPA VALLEY BALLOONS, INC. (707) 944-0228

ART & CLARITY PHOTOGRAPHY ADVENTURES (707) 257-1166

NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS (707) 251-8687

BALLOONS ABOVE THE VALLEY (800) 464-6824

NAPA VALLEY VELO (707) 927-5486

CALISTOGA BALLOONS (707) 942-5758

PAPER NAPAN WALKABOUTS (707) 815-3845

CHARDONNAY GOLF CLUB (707) 257-1900

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES (707) 531-7711

ENJOY NAPA VALLEY (707) 227-7364 FOODIES ON FOOT (707) 208-4691

ST. HELENA CYCLERY (707) 963-7736

3: COURTESY OF LACES AND LIMOS; 4: JOSIAH ROE

NAPA NATIVE TOURS (707) 815-9091 NAPA VALLEY ALOFT BALLOON RIDES (707) 944-4400

ROOTED FORK FOODIE TOURS (707) 492-5696 SILVERADO RESORT AND SPA (707) 257-0200

GETAWAY ADVENTURES (800) 499-2453

NAPA VALLEY GONDOLA (707) 373-2100

WOMBAT CHARTERS (707) 738-8685

DID YOU KNOW?

Download the Let’s Roam app and book a scavenger hunt to uncover new finds in several Napa Valley towns.

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LAKE BERRYESSA

Lake Life

Lake Berryessa is the perfect getaway for outdoor lovers or anyone looking for fun and relaxation on the water. Pleasure Cove Marina offers plenty of ways to make the most of recreation on the lake. For watersports lovers, Pleasure Cove has the ideal boat for you. They offer tritoons, ski boats, kayaks, and paddle boards. Cast a line aboard their fishing boats, or spend a lazy few hours tubing. Pleasure Cove also offers many houseboat rental options, loaded with conveniences and extras like hot tubs and water slides. Houseboating with friends and family provides countless memories. Prefer to stay lakeside? Pleasure Cove also has cabin rentals, camp sites, and RV sites. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, or want to immerse yourself in the stillness of nature, explore one of Napa Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s little gems and see what Pleasure Cove Marina has to offer. goberryessa.com | Blakeberryessa

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the finish

Plan Your Visit to Napa Valley

BOB MCCLENAHAN

Getting Around 170 Travel Tips 172 Dog Days 173 Calendar of Events 174

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See You Soon

No matter where the road takes you, we hope you find yourself cruising past vineyards on the Silverado Trail soon.

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BOB MCCLENAHAN

What are you waiting for?

PHOTO CREDIT

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Who’s Driving?

designated drivers GRAFIN NAPA VALLEY WINE TOURS (707) 287-8209

BEAU WINE TOURS AND LIMOUSINE SERVICES (707) 257-0887

LACES AND LIMOS (707) 501-8089

CALIFORNIA WINE TOURS (707) 253-1300

TRANSIT Hop on the VINE, the fixed-route bus system that runs the length of the Valley. Uber and Lyft are also just a tap away.

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION Perfect for a day of wine-tasting. Choose from a variety of vehicle sizes; plus, local drivers are a wealth of information.

SHUTTLES Calistoga and St. Helena offer shuttles within city limits, and the Yountville Trolley offers free rides around town.

CLASSIC CONVERTIBLE WINE TOURS (707) 337-2702 DESTINATION NAPA VALLEY (707) 287-1086 DYNAMIC NAPA WINE TOURS (707) 252-2300

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SAVOR NAPA VALLEY WINE TOURS (707) 219-6120

NAPA DRIVING SERVICES (707) 227-2648

VERVE NAPA VALLEY (707) 253-2269

NAPA VALLEY CHAUFFEUR (877) 575-9994 NAPA VALLEY WINE COUNTRY TOURS (707) 266-3333 PLATYPUS WINE TOURS (707) 253-2723

Pure Luxury

TCP #12878

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MASTER WINE TOURS (707) 266-3750

SAFERIDE WINE TOURS (707) 320-7136

NAPA

TCP #12878

PURE LUXURY TRANSPORTATION (707) 253-0296

Combining a commitment to perfection with an expansive fleet, Pure Luxury delivers the perfect vehicle for your needs, wherever you want to go. Their chauffered fleet ranges from executive sedans to motor coaches, all with a superior combination of utility and luxury. Enjoy your journey, knowing that every detail is flawless. pureluxury.com Bpureluxurywinetours Vpure_luxury_transportation Apureluxurytrans

ILLUSTRATION: SVETA MEDVEDIEVA

LEAVE THE DRIVING TO SOMEONE ELSE AND BOOK A TOUR OF NAPA VALLEY. SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE RIDE. FOR MORE TRANSPORTATION TIPS, TURN TO P. 80.

ANDREW’S TOURS & TRANSPORTATION (415) 351-8702

NAPA

Going the Extra Mile

Add something extraordinary to a business event or corporate meeting. Beau Wine Tours is the premier choice for group wine tours of Napa Valley. Customized itineraries and top-flight executive transportation enhance a seamless, enjoyable exploration of wine country in style. Beau Wine Tour’s passionate, well-connected experts go beyond scenery and wine to offer an in-depth look at the region’s rich history and unique microclimates. From an executive retreat for ten to a corporate incentive program for 500, from wine seminars to team-building activities — expect a program that’s meaningful, with excellent service to match.

Abeau_wine_tours

PHOTO CREDIT

beauwinetours.com Bbeauwinetourslimousineservice |

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360 DESTINATION GROUP (707) 271-0177 ACCESS DESTINATION SERVICES (510) 447-0780 DESTINATION DESIGN GROUP (707) 258-2008 ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR (707) 253-8000 IMPACT DESTINATIONS AND EVENTS (415) 766-4170 MANY MORE TRAVELS (800) 227-3384 RELEVE UNLIMITED (805) 6681434 RMC, YOUR DESTINATION CONNECTION (707) 492-5172 WINE AND DINE EVENTS (707) 963-8930 WINE COUNTRY DESTINATIONS (707) 763-3400

Need to Know

NAPA VALLEY TRAVEL TIPS

GETTING HERE • AIRPORTS

Napa Valley is approximately 70 miles from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), 63 miles from Oakland International Airport (OAK), 75 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), and 47 miles from Sonoma County Airport (STS).

• AIRPORT SHUTTLES

Evans Transportation (evanstransportation. com) offers nine daily shuttles to and from SFO, and six daily shuttles to and from OAK to the City of Napa and to hotels in and near downtown Napa. The shuttles accept cash only and reservations are not required, except for scheduling transportation from designated Napa hotels. The Napa Airporter provides 24-hour daily door-to-door transportation to and from SFO, OAK, and SMF (napaairporter.com).

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• RENTAL CARS

All surrounding airports have rental car stations. If you’re driving from SFO, OAK, or SMF, bridge tolls may apply.

•

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION

Private services may be reserved for airport transportation and for winery tours. Most services can also schedule wine-tasting appointments for both individuals and groups. For a list of private transportation services, see p. 170.

•

SAN FRANCISCO BAY FERRY

The Ferry (sanfranciscobayferry.com) provides a scenic and leisurely route to the Napa Valley. It departs from downtown San Francisco’s Ferry Building, located along the Embarcadero waterfront, and is accessible by Bay Area Rapid Transit (bart. gov) from SFO. Take the Pittsburg/Baypoint

Line from SFO for approximately 30 minutes to the Embarcadero exit at the Ferry Building. The ferry to Vallejo takes approximately one hour. The terminal is 18 miles south of Napa. The Vallejo Ferry Terminal is just a block away from the Vallejo Transit Center, where connecting bus service to the Napa area via VINE is available.

Traffic 411 To avoid rush-hour traffic when driving, set your trip to drive at unusual times, especially later in the evening, after 8 p.m. If you’re traveling with at least two passengers, utilize carpool High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. Take advantage of the diamond lanes to cruise past other lanes of traffic. Make sure to note the times for HOV exclusive right to the special high-speed lanes on signs throughout Bay Area highways.

•

AMTRAK SAN JOAQUINS

A convenient way to travel up from the Bay Area and Central Valley. Take the Amtrak San Joaquins train to the Martinez station and transfer onto Amtrak Thruway Bus Route 7. Three stops later, arrive at Napa Soscol Gateway Transit Center, close to downtown.

DID YOU KNOW? Looking to skip the Bay Area traffic to and from the airport? Book a Voom helicopter flight.

additional services GLIDING EAGLE (707) 363-6311 TRE POSTI (707) 963-7600 WINE COUNTRY ENTERTAINMENT (707) 965-9862

PHOTO: MYLES MCGUINNESS; ILLUSTRATION: SVETA MEDVEDIEVA

Destination management companies

THE FINISH I PET FRIENDLY

If you #instalove your pup Bring 'em to Napa Valley! THEN SHARE YOUR PUP’S BEST PICS BY TAGGING #VISITNAPAVALLEY

St. Helena, CA

@keenanwinery

Napa, CA

@mr_wigglebutt

Napa, CA

Dog Days

@winedogs_hq

St. Helena, CA

@nocal_tater

Calistoga, CA

@axls_adventures

Rutherford, CA

@wineguy03

LET THE TAIL-WAGGING BEGIN! BY LAUREN EBERLE

an’s best friend fits right in here. More than 100 wineries welcome well-behaved pets. Leashed pooches can enjoy patio dining, and many restaurants will serve a water dish, too. Dozens of hotels and resorts provide special amenities — toys, treats, plush beds — for pups. At the end of the day, visit Alston Park, a nature preserve with a dog park. For more information, go to visitnapavalley.com/plan/pet-friendly.

Calistoga, CA

@garythesemicorgi

Yountville, CA

@thecorgicrew

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THE FINISH I CALENDAR Festival Napa Valley

or come f on s cab sea ENJOY SWEATER WEATHER IN NAPA VALLEY

#CabernetSeason moments to share the love.

Save the Date

PLAN AHEAD AND MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE SPECTACULAR 2020 EVENTS.

WINTER JANUARY 1

Napa Valley Resolution Run Celebrate the new year with a run through Yountville. napavalleyresolution run.com JANUARY 11 - 19

Napa Lighted Art Festival Celebration of creative arts and technology as light becomes art throughout downtown Napa. donapa.com/lights

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JANUARY 17 - 20

FEBRUARY 6 - 9

March 19 - 22

Napa Truffle Festival Top chefs and truffle experts come together for cooking classes, demos, and more. napatrufflefestival. com

Yountville International Short Film Festival Over 75 short films, plus culinary and wine events. yisff.com

Yountville Live Music, food, and wine celebration. yountvillelive.com

JANUARY 26 - FEB. 1

SPRING

Napa Valley Restaurant Week Enjoy multicourse, prix-fixe menus around the valley. visitnapavalley.com/ restaurantweek

MARCH 1

Napa Valley Marathon Follows the scenic Silverado Trail from Calistoga to Napa. napavalleymarathon. org

APRIL

Arts in April Month-long celebration of Napa County’s arts and culture offerings. artsinapril.com

BOB MCCLENAHAN

There’s never a bad time to visit Napa Valley. Mustard flowers are in bloom February – March, painting vineyards a gorgeous yellow hue. If you’re planning a trip during harvest season (late August – October), consider a mid-week getaway. Fall foliage starts to bloom in November, just in time for Cabernet Season. Cabernet Season, from November through April, occurs after the grapes are harvested and the temperatures are mild. Think cozy getaways, hearty cuisine, a crackling fireplace, and a glass of robust Cabernet. Find blog posts, tips, and special offers at cabernetseason.com. And don’t forget to tag your favorite

APRIL

AUGUST

NOVEMBER 11 - 15

DECEMBER

Cycle for Sight & Rotary Ride for Veterans Community cycling event to raise funds for local charities. cycle4sight.com

Blues, Brews & BBQ First Street, downtown Napa. donapa.com/event/ blues-brews-bbq

Napa Valley Film Festival Annual film festival. nvff.org

St. Helena Jingle All the Way Ice skating rink, visits from Santa, food trucks, and more. sthelenajingleallthe way.com

APRIL

SEPTEMBER

CampoVelo Food, fun, and cycling. campovelo.com MAY 22 - 24

BottleRock Napa Valley The biggest names in music headline this annual fest. bottlerocknapavalley. com

SUMMER JUNE 4 - 7

Auction Napa Valley The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier charity wine event. auctionnapavalley.org JUNE 10 - 13

Napa Valley Jazz Getaway Stellar lineup of jazz and R&B musicians. jazzgetaway.com JULY 17 - 26

Festival Napa Valley Arts and educational programs, making art accessible for all. festivalnapavalley.org

BOB MCCLENAHAN

JULY 26

Napa Porchfest Local musicians perform on front porches around downtown. napaporchfest.org

FALL

HOLIDAYS NOVEMBER

Calistoga Harvest Table Local restaurants serve dinner at tables set up downtown. visitcalistoga.com/ calistoga-harvest-table

Napaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Parade Second and Third streets, downtown Napa. donapa.com/event/ napas-christmasparade

SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER

Safeway Open Annual PGA TOUR season opener at Silverado Resort. safewayopen.com Safeway Open

Holidays in Yountville yountville.com/ holidays-in-yountville

DECEMBER

Reindeer Run 5K and 10K run through American Canyon. khopeinternational.org DECEMBER

Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade Small-town holiday charm. visitcalistoga.com/ lighted-tractor-parade

All Summer Long FRIDAY NIGHTS

Napa City Nights Summer Concert Series Live music on the banks of the Napa River. napacitynights.com EVERY OTHER THURSDAY

St. Helena Summer Concert Series Live music in Lyman Park. sthelena.com EVERY THURSDAY

Calistoga Concerts in the Park Concerts in Pioneer Park. visitcalistoga.com/ concerts-in-the-park JUNE - JULY

Margrit Mondavi Summer Concert Series 50th annual concert series featuring legendary artists at the vineyard. robertmondaviwinery. com EVERY SATURDAY

Farmers Markets Napa and Calistoga host Farmers Markets throughout the summer. calistogafarmers market.org napafarmersmarket.org

GET ALL THE INFO

Check VisitNapaValley. com/Events for more details and dates on all of these events, plus more.

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NAPA

Fine Passage

One of the few active historic passenger railroads in the United States, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers an engaging and memorable experience that echoes the glory days of train travel, with fine dining service, multicourse meals cooked to order on board, stops to experience legendary wineries along the rail line, Napa Valley scenery, and ultimate relaxation aboard exquisitely restored antique railcars. The Napa Valley Wine Train features vintage Pullman railcars faithfully restored with Honduran mahogany paneling, brass accents, etched glass partitions, and luxurious armchairs that evoke the spirit of luxury rail travel at the beginning of the twentieth century. Conveniently located in downtown Napa and easily accessible, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a car-free option that brings guests from San Francisco to Napa Valley via the San Francisco Bay Ferry. In 2015, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Ltd. — a collection of luxury hotels and resorts — entered into a partnership with Brooks Street, a California-based real estate development and investment company, for the purchase of the historic and iconic Napa Valley Wine Train. The purchase deepens Noble House’s roots in Northern California, expanding its portfolio to include attractions in the destinations its hotels call home. winetrain.com |

BVAwinetrain

RUTHERFORD

Welcoming Spirit Cakebread Cellars has been blending quality wines and warm hospitality since 1973. Book your visit and be among the first to explore their new Visitor Center. A variety of in-depth tours and wine and food pairings (by appointment only) immerse guests in the art of winemaking and culinary pairings. cakebread.com BVcakebreadcellars