With so many wineries and vineyards to choose from in the Napa Valley and Sonoma region, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a trip to this part of northern California. To help, we’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy an expertly-aged Cabernet Sauvignon, crisp Chardonnay and many more delicious wines. Whether you hop from tasting to tasting at different wineries, or choose to take your time exploring one vineyard in particular, we’re certain you’ll have a lovely time at every place on our list.
Amizetta Winery | St. Helena, California
Set in the hillside of Napa Valley, Amizetta Winery is a coveted property that boasts breathtaking views of growing vines, Lake Hennessey and the surrounding mountains. The tours and tastings at Amizetta Winery are by private appointment, and well worth planning ahead for. Add a stop here to your itinerary if you prefer red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon.
Baldacci Family Vineyards | Napa, California
Nurturing the 45 acres of vines that grow at the Baldacci Family Vineyards has become a family tradition passed from generation to generation. It’s known for producing premium estate wines, including some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. Join their Wine Club for regular wine shipments, or visit in person to purchase the perfectly aged wines.
Castello Di Amorosa | Calistoga, California
At Castello Di Amorosa you’ll find a gorgeous Tuscan-inspired castle to roam around before tasting delicious and flavourful wines. The property is open 364 days a year (closed on Christmas Day) and offers everything from guided tours of the grounds to “royal” food and wine pairings of the best hand-crafted Italian style wines and mouthwatering fare. Stock up on your favourites before you leave!
Ceja Vineyards | Napa, California
Family-owned by first generation Mexican-American wine growers, Ceja Vineyards is an inviting place to enjoy a glass of wine in the Carneros countryside. Vines are planted where the soil is best for each variety of wine grown, so that the “terroir” (earth) is truly reflected in every sip. Wines to sample here include estate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, among other blends.
Chateau Montelena Winery | Calistoga, California
Chateau Montelena Winery is a peaceful place where visitors can sample classically-styled wines that are well-balanced and tasty. The property has a great diversity of soils and slopes, which makes for the production of wines with unique layers of complex flavors. Make a tasting reservation here to enjoy wines with spicy, earthy-berry flavours and rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon.
Clos du Bois Winery | Geyserville, California
Traditional French winemaking techniques are coupled with the impeccable grapes of Sonoma to produce a variety of delectable wines at Clos du Bois Winery. Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic spot over a bottle of wine, or arrange for a premier wine tasting of six small-production wines. No matter what you opt to do, you won’t leave disappointed.
Corison Winery | St. Helena, California
Recognised for having wines that are both consistent and well-balanced, Corison Winery is a must-visit during a trip to Napa Valley. Let a guide take you around the property to see the sustainably farmed vineyards and, if the time is right, observe winemaking activities in the cellar. Don’t leave without sampling the wines and taking a photo in front of the picturesque Victorian-style barn.
Duckhorn Vineyards | St. Helena, California
Duckhorn Vineyards offers its visitors much more than just the chance to sip on fine wines. Tour the grounds, which include spectacular gardens and a unique collection of waterfowl, browse through the Duckhorn wine library, or simply take in the beauty of the majestic property from the porch at the Estate House. Just don’t leave empty-handed!
Heitz Wine Cellars | St. Helena, California
Indulge in the Heitz philosophy that a glass of wine is the perfect way to celebrate the best times in life, no matter how big or small they may be. Heitz Wine Cellars has been in the family for three generations and prides itself on producing some of the best wines in the pristine valley of St. Helena. The Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and the Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon are two favourites that you’ll want to try.
Long Meadow Ranch Winery | St. Helena, California
Long Meadow Ranch Winery has been revitalised over the years with the goal of producing world-class wine using organic and sustainable farming practices. The winery also aims to make their wines as “food-friendly” as possible, meaning that they pair perfectly with delectable foods like cheese and various meats. While you’re there, sample the variety of handcrafted extra virgin olive oils made on the property, too.
MacRostie Winery and Vineyards | Healdsburg, California
With both indoor and outdoor seating and lovely views of the Russian River Valley, visiting MacRostie Winery and Vineyards makes for an idyllic day in Sonoma. Start your day early and walk through the vines before choosing a wine flight to sip on at an intimate tasting on the patio. MacRostie has established itself as a leader in the area for its style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Monticello Vineyards | Napa, California
Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s statement that “good wine is a necessity of life,” Monticello Vineyards proudly produces indulgent, limited edition wines that can be sampled at the wine bar or during a private tasting. Monticello is composed of five small vineyards that produce grapes of different varietals used to make Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir and more.
Robert Mondavi Winery | Oakville, California
With a passion for winemaking and the goal of producing world-class wines, Robert Mondavi Winery is one of the best places in Napa Valley to enjoy a glass or two. Their signature is Fumé Blanc, which is made from the vineyard’s flavourful Sauvignon Blanc grapes. For other wines, grapes are sourced from the best local vineyards and then transformed into delicious wine on-site.
Silver Oak | Geyserville, California
Exceptional wines await at Silver Oak Cellars in Alexander Valley. Drop in for a tour of the beautiful grounds, or make a reservation to enjoy a custom wine experience with unique tastings and pairings. The winery is a favourite destination for wine lovers visiting Sonoma and offers a beautiful setting to indulge in fine wines.
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