Usually, when someone thinks about California wine, Napa Valley comes to mind. It is a dream destination for wine connoisseurs and novices from all over the world. With its picturesque landscapes, world-class wineries, and delicious food choices, Napa Valley offers an all-around sensory journey into the world of wine.

If you’re unfamiliar with Napa Valley, here’s the rundown — it’s more than just a wine-producing region; it's a cultural experience steeped in viticulture. Home to over 400 wineries, the valley’s climate and geography are ideal for growing a variety of grapes. The picturesque rolling hills and valleys of Napa provide not just a backdrop for Instagrammable photos, but truly an experiential destination with breathtaking panoramic views, vibrant vineyards, and gorgeous architecture and gardens.

Napa Valley boasts a rich history featuring both old family-run wineries and modern establishments, where visitors can dive into the stories behind some of the region's most iconic vineyards. Each winery has its own unique charm, offering innovative wine-pairing experiences, cave tours, or art collections on display. Some of my personal favorites include:

1. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, known for winning the 1976 Judgment of Paris with their 1973 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, offers scenic views of its vineyards and the surrounding hills. They provide a variety of tours and tastings that help visitors understand their winemaking process, history, and vineyards. I gained a much deeper knowledge and appreciation of their wines when I went on one of the tours. My favorite wine here is the 2020 Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon, which is 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot. I love the berry and dark chocolate flavors on my palate; they definitely work well with a nice juicy tri-tip.

2. Sequoia Grove Winery is absolutely stunning because it’s literally nestled in a grove of Sequoia trees. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and one of my all-time favorite wineries to visit. Known for their Cabernet Sauvignons and other Bordeaux varietals, this winery offers a variety of tasting options and immersive experiences. If you go, try their Wine + Bites experience, which features a curated selection of wines paired with delicious bites carefully crafted by their culinary team. Alternatively, the Ultimate Wine & Food Experience lets you savor their Single-Vineyard and Reserve wines with unique food pairings that you would never think could work. When you visit, try the 2018 Napa Valley Syrah. With a 95-point rating, this wine is packed with different aromas and flavors that go well with hearty dishes like stews.

3. Ashes & Diamonds is considered 'a love letter to Napa Valley.' It offers a distinctive experience that sets it apart from many other wineries in the area, making it a compelling destination for visitors. The architecture blends mid-century modern aesthetics with contemporary elements, creating a visually appealing and welcoming environment that stands out in the landscape of Napa Valley wineries. Several tasting experiences are offered, allowing you to try various wine and food pairings and understand the depth of flavors. I personally love the Grand Vin №6 — 2019, a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc from 40-year-old vines that produces fresh red and blue fruit flavors with herbal and spice undertones.

If you’re planning a trip to Napa Valley, consider visiting some of these wineries. I highly recommend booking a private wine tour with Grapeline, so you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy a day personalized to highlight the best experiences that Napa Valley has to offer. Visit gogrape.com/napa to book your tour.

~ Kay Syrah

Wine Country Guru Gal