After just a few days in Napa, I’m by no means an expert. However, I wanted to share the restaurants and vineyards we visited and my thoughts. Overall we truly had an amazing and relaxing few days in Napa. I loved the slower pace of Napa. It was a great contrast to the hustle of San Francisco.
Honestly one of my favorite things we did in Napa was driving from place to place. The views were stunning. No matter where I was or what direction I looked, I was in awe. The rolling hills covered in perfect lines of grape plants is something I’ll never forget. I think I took over a 100 pictures of just the views. My girlfriends and I found ourselves taking our time on the drives just so we had more time to take in the stunning scenery around us.
Beringer - The winery is one of the oldest in Napa Valley and hearing the history was fascinating. We toured the grounds and got a chance to try the different grapes they grow. Our tasting was paired with a few appetizers. I liked learning how food and wine pairings can change the taste of both. My friends and I all agreed this was the perfect winery tour to start with. I think you need a reservation in advance for any tours or tastings.
Castello di Amorosa - After learning there was a castle in Napa, we had to stop and see it. We only spent a few minutes walking around and taking pics of the castle. I’ve heard the tour and tasting is amazing so I’ll definitely want to try it next time I’m in Napa.
Frog's Leap - After lunch we had a 1:30 porch tasting. I loved this leisurely afternoon tasting while we took in the views. We tasted 4 of their wines and they give you brief prescriptions. After the tasting you are welcome to a glass of your favorite and can take it as you walk thru the grounds. They have rocking and Adirondack chairs scattered throughout the grounds. I recommend a reservation for this winery.
Mumm Napa - As a big sparkling wine fan, I’d been waiting for this tasting all day! This winery is modern and they have a gorgeous patio! There are tours throughout the day but we decided to just sit and enjoy the view. We added some chocolates to our tasting to create the perfect ending to our first full day in Napa. You don't need a reservation for parties under 10.
William Hill Estate Winery - Casual, fun, cool. The vineyard tour was self guided which allowed us to stop and take lots of pictures. After the tour we sat on the patio for our tasting. I talked about my likes and dislikes and what I wanted to try and an individualized tasting was created! I loved every wine I tried. My friends and I all agreed this was our favorite winery of the trip and we really didn't want to leave! One of the things we loved most is that it wasn't crowded. I believe tastings are by reservation only but they are easy to make on their site.
Chandon - I already knew I love Chandon sparkling wine so when we had the chance I was glad we made it to this one. They have a huge area for tastings, indoor and outdoor. Once we had our glasses of bubbly we wandered thru the grounds for a bit to take in the views. This place is so big you don't need to make a reservation!
V. Sattui Winery - This was a busy, bustling place. It's in the town of St. Helena so your views aren't the vineyards like most other places. They have a picnic area and sell picnic food. We went at the end of the day and just did a tasting (there are so many wines to choose from). It's a different vibe than other places we went to. If you want a relaxing experience, I wouldn't recommend it. If you want lots of options for your tasting, this is the place! You don't need a reservation for it.
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