local getaways

A Day Out in Yountville

By Casey Gillespie

Enjoy an afternoon feasting on gourmet bites and bubbles at Chandon.

A trip to Yountville is an escape like no other. Considered by many to be the culinary heart of Napa Valley, the walkable village has a laid-back, small-town feel punctuated by personable service, first-class wines and an air of total relaxation (wine time is a thing). The area was originally owned by Mexico, but in 1836 George C. Yount received an 11,887-acre land grant from the Mexican government that stretched from Yountville to just below the southern border of St. Helena, extending the width of the valley. It wasn’t until the 1850s that Yount created the six-block stretch with a public square that we know as Yountville today. And because of Yountville’s distinct microclimate, it has its own AVA (American Viticultural Area). Here is where we’ll be eating, drinking, shopping and staying this fall.

Courtesy of RH (this page); courtesy of Chandon (opposite) RH Yountville

Alchemy Works

6540 WASHINGTON STREET www.alchemyworks.us

This is where Coastal California meets the South of France and we are here for it. With breezy wardrobe additions, dreamy coffee-table books and small must-have items like Earl Home cereal bowls, chic coin purses and luxurious body oils, it’s a store we’ll return to again and again.

b Spa at Bardessono

6526 YOUNT STREET www.bardessono.com

Surely a day packed with culinary delights merits a visit to a local pampering oasis? Situated in the middle of town, b Spa incorporates local botanicals — and ingredients hand-picked from the on-site garden — into each of its treatments. Bliss awaits.

Chandon

1 CALIFORNIA DRIVE www.chandon.com

While Chandon is Napa’s go-to for incomparable sparkling wine, a visit to the winery also spotlights chef Juan Cabrera’s gastronomic prowess. Try the Epicurean Experience, a five-course food-and-wine pairing that incorporates not only sparkling wines, but some of the estate’s impressive still wines, too, with an inventive, seasonal menu that will both surprise and delight.

Finesse, The Store

6540 WASHINGTON STREET www.finessethestore.com

Chef Thomas Keller’s presence is felt throughout Yountville and so it would be a crime to leave without a little something to remind you of that. Whether it is a K+M Milk Chocolate Truffle Fries artisanal chocolate bar, kitchen shears or a French Laundry scented candle, this store is a must.

Hestan Vineyards

6548 WASHINGTON STREET www.hestan.com

Hestan was born out of the owners’ deep passion for delicious food and great wine. So it is no surprise that in addition to a delectable wine tasting experience, you can find the crème de la crème of cookware (Thomas Keller even has a revered line of pots and pans here) and dining accessories. Your kitchen is going to thank you.

Maison Fleurie

6529 YOUNT STREET www.maisonfleurienapa.com Part of the Four Sisters hotel group, Maison Fleurie is a little slice of provincial heaven in the heart of Wine County. Reminiscent of a quaint French country inn, this boutique hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, top-notch service (expect a call when your room is ready for check-in) and a homestyle breakfast included with every stay.

Mini Model

6523 WASHINGTON STREET www.themodelbakery.com

The Model Bakery is famous for its fluffy English muffins and irresistible buttery pastries and this shrunk-down version of the original does not disappoint. While tourists queue up around the block at Bouchon, join the locals here.

Priest Ranch Wines Tasting Room

6490 WASHINGTON STREET www.priestranchwines.com

Priest Ranch cabernets are the embodiment of what Napa Valley is known for, but don’t take our word for it: stop into the Yountville tasting room and sip for yourself. If you want to enjoy something truly memorable, look no further than the Bacon & Wine experience and prepare to be wowed.

Regiis Ova Champagne and Caviar Lounge

6480 WASHINGTON STREET www.regiisova.com

Caviar is definitely having a moment and at this newly opened lounge right in the heart of Yountville you have the opportunity to learn more about this go-to delicacy. Go all out and try the tasting, but don’t underestimate the deliciousness of a Royal Caviar Deviled Egg or the Waffle and Eggs with Siberian caviar.

RH Yountville

6725 WASHINGTON STREET www.rh.com

A tried-and-true favorite — no visit to Yountville is complete without a meal at RH. Chandelier-laced olive trees and an air of whimsy make for an unforgettable visit every time. And if you haven’t experienced the RH Wine Vault yet, it’s time. Small, independent winemakers from both Napa and Sonoma are the specialty, with many available only here and at the wineries themselves.

Silver Trident Winery

6495 WASHINGTON STREET www.silvertridentwinery.com

A stark — and welcome — contrast to other tasting rooms in the area, Silver Trident feels like stepping into the home of a dear friend. The coziness is due in no small part to the floor-toceiling Ralph Lauren Home Collection decor, which pairs perfectly with every glass of wine. Don’t hesitate to ask about the design items and art; they are available for purchase.

SilverTrident’s tasting room

art credit Regiis Ova Champagne and Caviar Lounge Silver Trident Winery