In our last issue, we introduced you to 15 of the Napa Valley’s more than 500 wineries offering outstanding tasting experiences. We only tapped the surface! Here are 15 more.
B Cellars Vineyards & Winery
bcellars.com
This gem of a winery recently opened its new estate facility on the Oakville Cross Road. Tastings are by reservation only. You’re greeted by a winery guide who gives you a personalized tour through the culinary gardens, caves, and vineyards. All tastings are artfully paired with food. We recommend the Chef’s Garden Pairing where you tour the garden and orchard, tasting along the way.
Bello Family Vineyards
bellofamilyvineyards.com
The tastefully sleek design of this tasting room makes it feel more like a chic cocktail lounge. In fact, it’s open until six, making it an ideal place for a predinner tasting. Divine wines, highlighted by the Megahertz Cabernet Sauvignon, await. You can also arrange a tasting in the nearby vineyard, where you can climb a tower for a spectacular view of the valley floor.
Cairdean Estate
cairdeanestate.com
Wine tasting is only the beginning at this winery situated at the base of Spring Mountain. Drop in for a tasting in the bistro-style main tasting room and then pick up a sandwich at the on-site bakery for an impromptu lunch on the patio. There’s also the raved-about Farmer & The Fox restaurant, an inventive British-themed gastro pub, where reservations are strongly suggested.
HALL Rutherford
hallwines.com/hall-rutherford
Don’t let the stunning high-tech architecture fool you, HALL Rutherford was designed purposefully to make you feel at home the moment you arrive. You have a full menu of tasting experiences to choose from, many with an educational component, including a fascinating cooking series. Make a reservation for a tour and private tasting, or even a marriage proposal in one of three romantic spots.
Jamieson Ranch Vineyards
jamiesonranch.com
A perfect first or last stop on your wine tasting itinerary! Jamieson Ranch is perched on a sloping hill overlooking Napa’s Carneros. The massive ranch-style building boasts a fabulous outdoor veranda where you can drink in the view while you sample the wines. Napa “comfort food” inspired by ranch-grown and locally sourced ingredients, a wood-fired oven, and artisan cheeses invite you to linger longer.
Robert Mondavi Winery
robertmondaviwinery.com
The backbone of hospitality in the Napa Valley, Robert Mondavi offers more touring and tasting options than ever. We suggest Harvests of Joy or Garden to Table, because they include a walking tour through the winery followed by an exquisite meal with views of the legendary To Kalon Vineyard. Not enough time? The 30-minute Discovery Tour will give you a good taste of the land.
Quintessa
quintessa.com
Although the building is a head turner (it blends seamlessly into the natural landscape), you can’t see the best part of this property from the road. Make a reservation for the Quintessential Quintessa tasting experience. You’ll be greeted by a private host who will lead you to a private pavilion to sample the distinctive wines overlooking a crystal clear lake and an undulating landscape—truly breathtaking!
Silverado Vineyards
silveradovineyards.com
Offering one of the best views on the Silverado Trail, this hospitable winery now offers tastings on its enchanting terrace by appointment only. Sample single vineyard wines paired with artisan cheeses, or make arrangements for a private tour of Saddle Block vineyard, where you can taste the wines in the shade of a mighty 300-year-old oak tree. There are more options to suit more interests.
Tamber Bey Vineyards
tamberbey.com
You don’t have to love horses to fall in love with Tamber Bey’s new tasting room, in the heart of a 22-acre world-class equestrian facility in Calistoga. The tasting bar, located in the facility’s original barn clubhouse, is warm and inviting. Sample the excellent wines with a lineup of savory cookies! Stroll out to the courtyard and watch horses train in the distance.
ZD Wines
zdwines.com
Walk-ins are always welcome at this famed family-owned winery, but consider your tour options here. The Eco Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting leads you through a Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard, while the Cellar Tour includes a barrel sampling. ZD also has a private room offering beautiful vineyard views. If you opt for the Abacus Wine Tasting, you’ll see for yourself as you sample top tier wines paired with cheese.