Still haven't nailed down Mother's Day plans? A day in Napa Valley wine country always scores an easy A from the woman who taught you all you needed to know about caring for others.
From classic sit-down brunches, to a vigorous work-up-a-sweat hike, Napa Valley serves up diverse maternal indulgences.
For a traditional brunch with the whole brood, try out the newest Napa food and wine venue, The Village at Vista Collina Resort. Executive Chef Vincent Lesage’s extensive menu includes made-to-order omelets, assorted seafood, prime rib, farmers' market fruits and vegetables, and decadent desserts. A complimentary glass of rosé greets all Moms, a lavish buffet follows, and children can add the special ingredient of love to Mom's brunch at the Kids' Kitchen station, where they can prepare made-to-order pancakes for Mommy. Live jazz and special children’s activities round out the family-friendly event.
You'll have to roll up your sleeves and act as your own chef at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia, who's offering a more hands-on version of the classic Mother's Day brunch. Their DIY brunch bar puts you in control of both meal prep and consumption. Heralded culinary experts will show you how to prepare sumptuous flavor combinations in sweet and savory batters for gourmet waffles, pancakes, and crêpes. fPerfect your creations with a variety of fresh fillings and toppings, from fruits to herbs to nuts and cheeses.
Still to sedentary? Then the traditional Tuteur Mother's Day Hike might be the ticket. Long-time Land Trust supporter John Tuteur invites Mom and her loved ones to join him for his annual springtime trek in the rolling hills of east Napa. Start at ranch lands protected by Land Trust conservation easements and scout back-country trails over to Skyline Park. Be prepared to maintain a brisk hiking pace for six miles, with more than 1,000 foot elevation gain. Bring: sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, lunch, and plenty of drinking water.
If you're like me, and just want to hang out at a beautiful winery with numbingly tasty wine, dozens of wineries are offering up specials for the May 12 holiday.
Cliff Lede Vineyards
Cliff named the FEL portfolio of wines after his mother, Florence Elsie Lede, a home winemaker and early inspiration for his wine passion. On the day that honors his early influencer, Cliff Lede Vineyards will offer delicious, complimentary light bites and wines, including the debut of their crisp 2018 FEL Pinot Gris. Mothers will receive a colorful tulip, Florence’s favorite bloom.
Merryvale Vineyards
It’s time to celebrate you, Mom! With your paid Wine Tasting, all the Moms in the group will receive a complimentary splash of Solstice Sparkling Wine and a sweet Micaela Boreyko Strawberry Champagne Chocolate to pair. Advanced reservations are encouraged.
Grgich Hills Estate
This legendary Napa winery is hosting an exquisite buffet-style brunch on the back deck of their estate ranch house. Available for perfect pairing will be the 2018 Rosé Napa Valley, 2016 Chardonnay Miljenko's Selection and 2015 Merlot Napa Valley. All ladies will be greeted with a rose and refreshing white wine spritzer - the perfect start of a relaxing day surrounded by the ones they love.
V. Sattui
Treat Mom to a luxurious seated al fresco brunch on the Terrace overlooking Vittorio's Vineyard. Each delicious course will be paired with V. Sattui sparkling wines and 90+ point selections. The four-course brunch menu is prepared by Michelin Star Chef Stefano Masanti and team.
And that is just a small sampling of the Mother's Day festivities in Napa. But remember that it doesn't really matter if you plan an impressive wine country outing, or simply text your mother a witty Mother's Day meme. What she really wants is for you to know that she loves you. That's a lie. If you fail to treat her extravagantly on Mother's Day, then she loves your siblings who do much more than you. So make plans now.
~ Kay Syrah
Wine Country Guru Gal
Official Blog
purchase gift certificates
