Napa Valley Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

DAY TRIPS
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Spring/Summer 2012
Napa Valley Preferred Wine Country
FuN FAcT
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A publication of
49
1 TASTING ROOM REVIEWS plus Dining Directory and

Varietals by Winery
from Calistoga to Carneros
FORTY-NINE
NINE WINE TASTING
TRIpS
CALISTOGA
PAGES 7 14
On & Around HOWELL MTN

PAGES 15 21
SAGE CANYON ST. HELENA

PAGES 22 31 PAGES 32 36
RUTHERFORD/ OAKVILLE
PAGES 37 43
See the complete Napa Valley map on pages 78 & 79
OAK KNOLL/ STAGS LEAP DAY TRIP ROUTES

PAGES 44 48
NAPA
PAGES 49 56
COOMBSVILLE
PAGES 57 61
MT. VEEDER/ LOS CARNEROS

PAGE 62 67 Not to Scale
Preferred Napa Valley
DAY TRIPS
9 Wine Tasting Trips
Calistoga On & Around Howell Mountain St. Helena Sage Canyon Rutherford/Oakville Oak Knoll/Stags Leap Napa Coombsville Mt. Veeder/Carneros 7-14 15-21 22-31 32-36 37-43 44-48 49-56 57-61 62-67
49 preferred Napa Valley Tasting Room Reviews

1313 Main Fine Wine, Retail, Tasting Bar Andersons Conn Valley Vineyards Arger Martucci Vineyards August Briggs Baldacci Family Vineyards Ballentine Vineyards Beringer Vineyards Bravante Vineyards Burgess Cellars CaMomi Winery & Enoteca Calistoga Wine Stop Castello di Amorosa Chappellet Winery Corley Family Winery Monticello Cuvaison Estate Wines Calistoga Cuvaison Estate Wines - Los Carneros Ehlers Estate Etude Wines Farella Vineyard Frank Family Vineyards Hagafen Cellars The Hess Collection Kuleto Estate Merryvale Vineyards Mumm Napa Napa Valley Wine Train Nichelini Family Winery Nicholson Ranch Pope Valley Winery Porter Family Vineyards Raymond Vineyards Reata Winery Rustridge Ranch & Winery Rutherford Hill Winery Rutherford Ranch Winery Saddleback Cellars St. Clement Vineyard St. Supry Estate Vineyards & Winery Saintsbury Sodaro Estate Winery Stags Leap Winery Summit Lake Vineyards Tulocay Winery Turnbull Wine Cellars Twomey Cellars V. Sattui Winery Viader Vineyards Vinoce/Twenty Rows Whitehall Lane Winery OTHER Stagecoach Express Destiny Wine Tours Calistoga Balloons Thomas Kinkade Gallery Fum Bistro & Bar Dining Directory Varietals by Winery Wineries Map 54 21 29 10 45 24 26 18 20 52 9 12 36 48 8 65 23 67 58 13 47 63 35 27 40 53 34 64 16 60 30 50 33 38 39 41 25 43 66 59 46 17 61 42 11 28 19 55 31
ON THE COVER: COURTESY OF ST. CLEMENT VINEYARD
A Publication of
669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476 P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433
707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Direct (707) 938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com Chandra Grant Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com RoseAnn Trzesniewski Phone 707-334-1930 Fax 707-938-3674 rmtrue@comcast.net Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com Introductions by Abigail Zimmerman Karin Aroud, Michelle Baker, Alexandra Charsley, Ronda Giangreco, Charles Neave, Nan Reiley, Josh Stein and Sue Straight, The Wine Wench
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Notes on Wine Tasting in The Napa Valley

Its a good idea to plan to visit several wineries as every wine-tasting experience offered is different. With so many distinctive viticultural areas within The Napa Valley, one can easily taste many of the worlds best varietials and winemaking style without learning the region. Listed below are five basic types of tasting experiences. The experience will vary in style from winery to winery!
Wine Bar Tasting

The most common tasting experience is a Wine Bar Tasting. You step up to the bar where typically a list of wines being poured is displayed. Expect to pay a tasting fee between $10-$40. Some tasting bars will offer you the option to taste a library or reserve wine. Exercising this option increases the fee, but will allow you to taste very unique, old or rare wines.
Sit Down Tasting

A Sit Down Tasting usually requires an appointment, and there may be a slightly higher fee than a wine bar fee. Seated in an elegant room, you are poured several wines by your winery host. Expect your host to describe the unique characteristics of each wine and how it was made.
Table Service Tasting

A Table Service Tasting, popular at sparkling wine facilities, is a tasting experience where you are seated at a table and the tastings are brought to you. ery to pour the first round. Then you move to another place within the winery to sample the next wine. This experience continues until all the wines are tasted.
Walk Around Tasting

A Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine on your tour, and may take you to a garden area of the win-
Barrel Tasting
Another popular tasting experience that can be part of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guide takes a wine thief, a special siphon placed into a hole in the top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a maturing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wine is like in the middle of developing its full potential.
Why make an appointment?

Some wineries are so small that they need to know when you are coming so someone will be there to greet you. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limit the number of guests that can visit each day. Others have sit-down tastings that start and end at specific times. Its always a good idea to schedule your appointments well in advance of your visit because some of the more popular wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance.
WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Let Us Ship Your Napa Valley Memories Home!

Sue Bailey and Larry Rupp met on a blind date in 1996. But unlike most blind dates, this one went smashingly well. Instant sparkchemistryand fireworks! With a little bit of luck and a whole lot of work ethic, this couple embarked on a new life and new business together when in 1998, they purchased Stagecoach Express & Co. We are partners in business and partners in life, laughs Sue. We specialize in wine shipping to be sure, but we can also ship much, much more. Weve shipped everything even tree branches and grapevines! Stagecoach owners and staff have endless experience in shipping all matters of items tourists and locals need expedited across these United States and beyond. To date, Stagecoach Express & Co. has been helping Napa Valley locals and visitors for over 14 years. A big part of this stellar legacy though is their commitment to customer service and attention to detail. Stagecoach Express staff will even pick up directly from your B&B, hotel and even the winery where you purchased wine. Just call ahead or after your purchase.
Call anytime during business hours and get the owners on the phone! Stagecoach Express & Co. will stop in at Napa hotels and wineries to pick up your shipping orders so you do not have to come to them, they will come to you! Stagecoach Express & Co. Shipping is known throughout the Napa Valley for paying attention to the needs of their customers and satisfying each one. Owners Larry and Sue will truly pay attention to every detail of your order. Services include: Product packaging services, online shipping forms, rental mailboxes, photocopying, faxes and stamps. Centrally located! Easy-on and easy-o access to Hwy. 29 at Vallergas Redwood Plaza Shopping Center, Stagecoach Express is Napas premier hub for shipping all of your Napa purchases home.
A Heart Warming Cause: Show Meow the Money

Mr. Ed (1991-2010) came along with the purchase of the Stagecoach Express & Co business. Taken in as a kitten found in the gutter, Mr. Ed became a fixture in the shipping store and soon became nicknamed the Counter Cat. A handsome orange tabby, Mr. Ed inspired Sue and Larry to begin raising money for other homeless and shelter animals. In 2010, Mr. Ed passed away. But the Show Meow the Money jar in his memory is alive and well on the Stagecoach counter and earns money every day for his fellow, less fortunate furry friends. By Abigail Zimmerman
Stagecoach Express and co.

Let Us Ship Your Napa Valley Memories Home! Open Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 3379 Solano Avenue, Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1888, Toll Free: 1-877-232-5054 Fax: (707) 257-1891 Email shipping@stagecoachexpress.com
Free Shipping Boxes with wine shipments!

Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with all kinds of people young people, older people, people from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Your car is waiting let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench
LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wife is credited with choosing the name for the company (great name, by the way!). FuN FAcT Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says after driving a big re truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a sports car! Not to worry, though, Ray is a true professional and pilots his limo with great care. pLAN AHEAD At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their eet (but theyll be adding more soon), so make sure to book your trip well in advance! KuDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOuRS Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! It doesnt get any better than that!
Destiny Wine Tours

Tours are available seven days a week 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa (707) 254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com
Mention this story and get 20% o your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
For more Day Trip ideas, visit www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Calistoga
Calistoga sits in the top end of Napa Valley like a cork in a wine bottle. This lively, well-preserved historic small-town and surrounding region simply delights everyone. Delicious restaurants, glorious mountains, diverse art galleries, world-famous hot springs, eclectic bookstores and roadside stands, boutique shopping and happy locals combine to make Calistoga a favorite of Napa Valley locals and visitors.
Flat Iron Grill 1440 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-1220, www.flatirongrill.com Flat Iron Grill revels in its recently restored historic space! There is nothing dusty about this intimate, yet friendly restaurant. Open for dinner daily, don't miss the hickory smoked baby back ribs. LODGING Brannan cottage Inn 109 Wappo Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-4200, www.brannancottageinn.com One of the original 25 Hot Springs Resort cottages from 1860. Close walking proximity to famed Calistoga Hot Springs (across the street!) and only two blocks to downtown Calistoga, makes this charming inn a repeat hit. Six rooms are available year round. pink Mansion 1415 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-0558, www.pinkmansion.com Escape, indulge & dream! Built in 1870 by Napa's original stage line owner, the Pink Mansion is a lovely, private and restful destination that retains the elegance of its historic past. Rates include gourmet breakfast for two and afternoon wine and appetizers. Solage 755 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, 1-866-942-7442, www.solagecalistoga.com Where cosmopolitan luxuries take on an enlightened, comfortable attitude! Offering a healthy, green environment, 89 eco-friendly studios and Michelin star rated Solbar restaurant, Solage is a stylish and naturally brilliant hotel! calistoga Ranch 580 Lommel Road, Calistoga, 1-800-942-4220, www.calistogaranch.com Tucked into a private canyon in the Upper Napa Valley on a 157-acre site, the luxury resort captures the rich culture of food, wine and nature. THINGS TO DO castello di Amorosa 4045 N. St. Helena Highway, (707) 967-6272, www.castellodiamorosa.com A tour of the incredible 13th century, 107 room, Tuscan style castle and winery complete with chapel and torture chamber is highly recommended! Sharpsteen Museum 1311 Washington Street, Calistoga (707) 942-5911, www.sharpsteen-museum.org This museum is a wonderful spot to learn about upper Napa Valley history and old Calistoga. Exhibit subjects include Sam Brannan, Wappo Native Americans, one-time-local Robert Louis Stevenson and artifacts from the survivors of the Donner Party. petrified Forest 4100 Petrified Forest Road, Calistoga (707) 942-6667, www.petrifiedforest.org Step back in time, more than 3 million years, and follow the trail of majestic petrified redwood giants arrayed before you in a fascinating grove in beautiful California wine country. Old Faithful Geyser 1299 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga, (707) 942-6463 Old Faithful of California is one of the three "Old Faithful" geysers in the world. Bursting regularly and throwing thousands of gallons of water high into the air, Old Faithful is a glorious sight. Other attractions include the petting zoo and picnic grounds. Open daily, 9am-6pm in the summer.
FOOD cafe Sarafornia 1413 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-0555, www.cafesarafornia.com The best breakfast in town! Owners Madeline & Drake are the vivacious stewards of this famed, historic diner. For more than 100 years, Cafe Sarafina has been serving up delicious fare and good people. Don't miss the huevos rancheros! Brannan's 1374 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-2233, www.brannansgrill.com Go for the winning wine list (with rare Napa and Sonoma cult labels) and stay for the fine foods and great atmosphere. Brannan proudly sponsors local, artisanal producers and their dishes are the better for it. This summer, dine alfresco on the patio! JoLe 1457 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-5938, www.jolerestaurant.com From Farm to Table. JoLe is OpenTable.com's "Diner's Choice Winner" for 2010 a wonderful compliment to owners and husband-and-wife team Matt and Sonjita Spector. Enjoy the delicious menu and mouth-watering pastries!
Driving Time: 16 minutes From Cuvasion to Calistoga Wine Stop 2+ miles to August Briggs 1+ miles to Twomey 1+ miles to Castello di Amorosa 1 mile to Frank Family 1 mile Total 8 miles
Not to Scale www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Calistoga
CALISTOGA
Cuvaisons original tasting room and historic winery in Calistoga, is on the east side of the Silverado Trail nestled at the base of the Vaca Mountain Range. The tasting room has a contemporary take on the classic tasting environment, offering an intimate experience where guests can gather at the bar or enjoy a seated tasting. Tree shaded picnic grounds are a popular attraction to visitors. Leave the fuss and muss behind by making a reservation for a gourmet picnic lunch online! Learn about the Picnic Here program under Fun Facts. Cuvaison is most prominently known for their estate grown Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They also produce other varietals as well including Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and their port style dessert wine. And dont forget about their rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon wines; particularly the award-winning Brandlin from Cuvaisons fabled Mount Veeder estate vineyard located 1200' above the valley floor. If Calistoga is your destination, dont miss visiting Cuvaison Estate Wines tasting room.
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and a unique port-style dessert wine called Espiritu. FuN FAcT Reserve your gourmet picnic lunch 24 hours in advance on Cuvaisons website and all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Visit www.cuvaison.com for details and to reserve your picnic today! cLuB BENEFITS Access to limited releases, savings on wine and tasting room merchandise and invitations to member-only parties. GREEN INITIATIVES Sustainable vineyard practices, cork recycling, 1,428 solar panels, eco-friendly packaging and much more ... its all part of a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.
cuvaison Estate Wines

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4550 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga (707) 942-2468 www.cuvaison.com Follow Cuvaison on Facebook and Twitter!
Two complimentary tastings with wine purchase.

CALISTOGA
Calistoga Wine Stop sits in the Golden States oldest railroad building. Is there a more charming a place to take in a broad spectrum of wines in a great setting? I think not, as youll soon agree when you visit and begin to see a wide variety of wines, from labels you might not have heard of. We specialize in smaller producers and winemakers that do not have a formal tasting room, said Tom Pelter, proprietor of Calistogas Wine Stop. We showcase Napa and Sonomas smallest producers. As Tom said recently, My wife Tammy and I concentrate on wines that are a little off the beaten path; those with small production lots that arent widely distributed. Tom and Tammy Pelter purchased Calistoga Wine Stop in 1986. With their years of experience in the business, they are able to recommend wines for any occasion, for cellaring or for everyday enjoyment. They also produce their own family wine, a Pelter Cabernet Sauvignon, which is available for purchase only in their shop. They are also able to ship world-wide and can pack wine for you to take with you to the airport. Our combination of fair pricing, personalized service and wine knowledge has helped us serve thousands of customers over the years. When you get back home be sure to remember: If youre not in the area theyll ship and offer ten-percent discounts on case sales. Its all part of their commitment to providing unique wines to those who appreciate the best. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Without even a hint of hyperbole, theres everything you can imagine in the Wine Stop, from what you might think of as the Napa Valley Classics to wines you may suddenly call your own, and want to share with family and friends, and add to your private cellar. HISTORY Calistoga has one of the richest and most interesting histories in the Napa Valley. FOOD & WINE Go left (mainly) or go right and you will nd it all. From steaks and pizzas to small plates, bar food, and much more. DOWN THE STREET Shops, galleries, boutiques, newsstands and bookstores and so much to nd in a small town. pLAN AHEAD Calistoga has special events throughout the years, of every sort imaginable. Be sure to check the various websites and then plan your visit.
calistoga Wine Stop

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 1458 Lincoln Ave. #2, Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-5556 or 1-800-648-4521 www.calistogawinestop.net
This wine shop is located in Californias oldest railroad building!

CALISTOGA
August Briggs is on its second generation of dreamers proving you can make them come true if you work hard enough. When August Joe Briggs decided to move on from the wine business into some well-deserved relaxation with his wife, he did so by letting his nephew, Jesse Inman, and three key, longtime employees, Colette Milliman, Lisa Salling and Matt Gacso, buy the business. In 1995, Joe produced his first wines under his own label, and in 2002, he took the leap of faith to buy the land for the winerys first location on the Silverado Trail. At the end of 2011, Generation Two took over, relocating the tasting room in the process. The winerys philosophy was very simple but definitely against the norm at the time: find the best grapes in the best vineyards in Napa and Sonoma and make the best wines possible from them and not just the usual suspects, either. Joe determinedly sought out unusual but terrific varieties, making a name for his seldom-seen-elsewhere Charbono along the way. The tasting room is definitely a cut above the Valley norm. On any given day, two, three or even all four of the now-owners are on site, pouring the wines. Why change what works? Wines of provenance, not pretense is the key, and, since the owners are there, the passion is apparent with every pour; Generation Two is now mostly adjusted to their new roles, but Lisa is still amazed at the huge compliment Joe paid the four of them when he let them keep doing what we love, but spend some time around these folks and youll see it wasnt an accident. Come visit August Briggs yourself and taste the wide-ranging goodness the four ex-employees and now-owners are happy to share with you: journey to Calistoga and taste their success yourself. Enjoy! By Josh Stein
WHAT TO TASTE The question is what not to taste? With wines ranging from the refreshing Chardonnay to the decadent Petite Sirah, there are 15 wines crafted from 8 varietals, which will suit almost everyones taste. pLAN AHEAD Tuesdays are appointment-only tastings; those desiring a more personal tasting of the wines should plan ahead. Same-day appointments are sometimes available. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT If you are searching for small-production and hard to nd wines, August Briggs is a perfect choice. With an annual production of 3,500 cases almost all of their wines are sold only at the tasting room. VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Charbono, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Ros, Syrah, Zinfandel
August Briggs
Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1307 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-4912 www.augustbriggswinery.com Social Networking: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, 4Square, Yelp!
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Complimentary wine tasting for two with this story.

CALISTOGA
The Duncan family of Silver Oak fame founded Twomey Cellars in 1999 to explore varietals other than Cabernet and to honor Director of Winemaking, Daniel Barons vision of creating a world-class California Merlot. Ray Twomey Duncan and his four sons, Mike, Kevin, Tim and David run the operation that includes two wineries in two regions. The name Twomey is of Gaelic origin, Rays mothers maiden name. Theres an elaborate family crest in the lobby. Its surprising how many customers with the same name find the winery. If youre a Twomey theres no charge for your tasting. Twomey Calistoga is a lovely stop offering a warm welcome. Located just south of Calistoga, the estate is surrounded by gardens and vineyards, lush lawns and stone walls, and a charming gazebo is a sweet spot for sipping wine. The stylish tasting room with its slate floors and sleek, curving, bar offers a relaxed spot to sample wines, and a huge picture window gives you a peek into the barrel room. For a $10 fee try current releases including the 2010 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, a selection of 2009 Pinot Noir and the 2007 Napa Valley Single Vineyard Merlot. Managing Partners, Tim and David Duncan are Pinot Noir enthusiasts. This passion led to the creation of Twomeys Pinot Noir program, and today the portfolio includes four Pinots, each representing the best growing regions and sites in California. In 2008 Twomey Cellars began producing Sauvignon Blanc from the 12-acre Estate Vineyard in Calistoga that surrounds the winery. This single vineyard wine expresses the soil and sunny climate in which it was grown, offering fresh, bright flavors that perk up any meal. The Duncan familys goal has always been to create exceptional food-friendly, handcrafted wine that is delicious and drinkable upon release, a philosophy from which the family does not stray. Visit and By Diana Greenwood youll surely agree.
VARIETALS Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc pINOT & pIZZA cELEBRATION On April 28, from 12 to 4 p.m., come to Twomey for the release of their 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, 2010 Russian River Pinot Noir, 2010 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir and 2010 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir to be paired with pizzas from the wood-red oven. Watch the website for the 2010 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir and 2008 Napa Valley Merlot release in the fall. pRIVATE TASTINGS Twomey Cellars hosts private events and can accommodate up to 50 people either in the cellar or outside under the gazebo. Catering is available. Private tastings in the barrel room are also available for $15 per person. STAY cONNEcTED Follow Twomey Cellars on Facebook and Twitter @silveroak to receive news, winemaker notes and special event info on both Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars.
Twomey cellars calistoga Napa Valley

Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1183 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga | (707) 942-2489 1-800-505-4850 for tour reservations and private event planning or visit www.twomey.com
Apply $10 tasting fee toward purchase of current release wines.

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CALISTOGA
Dario Sattui knows how to give a wine country experience unlike any other, and his latest winery, Castello di Amorosa, opened in 2007 after fourteen years of planning and construction, is true to the Sattui form. The 107 rooms of the 13th-century-styled castle contain ramparts, hand-painted murals, a torture chamber and labyrinthine cellars amidst their 121,000 square feet, making the Castello a winery like no other anywhere in the United States. Theres even a chapel which houses a public Sunday Latin Mass, too, and all this takes place inside a structure of imported European brick, wood and iron, as well as more than 8,000 tons of Napa stone. As is to be expected, given the Sattui philosphy of wine, there are lots of options at least a dozen and a half at last count. These various offerings can be tasted as part of the General Admission and Tasting or the Reserve Tasting, and wine and chocolate pairing is always an option, too, as is non-alcoholic bottled grape juice for non-imbibers. Touring options abound and definitely help to heighten the experience. Reservations are highly recommended if not actually required, so plan ahead accordingly as you choose from a Tour and Tasting, Tour and Reserve Tasting, Young Adult Tour, Royal Food and Wine Pairings in the Royal Apartment, Horse-Drawn Vineyard Tour or Hiking Vineyard Tour. Each takes about two hours, including the wine tasting, and each also includes barrel tasting, too, in the Grand Barrel Room. For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Blending Seminar is for you and you take home your own Super Tuscan! As you can see, Castello di Amorosa is clearly not to be missed make sure its at the top of your Napa Valley itinerary. Enjoy! By Josh Stein
WHAT TO TASTE Lovers of a good ros should try the Giola Rosato di Sangiovese for an Italian-inuenced style, and those in search of Big Reds need look no further than the Reserve Cabernet, Il Barone, and the Super Tuscan, La Castellana, which adds Cab and Merlot to Sangiovese. pLAN AHEAD There are a variety of innovative tour options be sure to call to reserve your spots! LITTLE KNOWN FAcT It took fourteen years of construction to bring the Castello to life and theres an authentic torture chamber! WINE AWARDS Bien Nacido Chardonnay 92 points from Wine Spectator La Castellana 92 points from Robert Parker Il Barone 94 points from Robert Parker
castello di Amorosa
Open daily 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4045 North St. Helena Hwy., Calistoga (707) 967-6272 www.castellodiamorosa.com Follow Castello di Amorosa on Facebook and Twitter.
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CALISTOGA
If there ever was a benign cult, it would be that centered around Napa Valleys Frank Family Vineyards. Mention their Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, any of their Cabernets or other wines to someone who loves the grape and their eyes will brighten showing their desire for a taste. Yes, their wine is that good, and a visit to their northern-valley tasting room becomes almost a pilgrimage. The tasting room in the impeccably restored Craftsman house has been rated among the top in the nation. And, while praise for the winery, the wines and the tasting room may be completely up-to-the minute, its history goes back more than 125 years. In 1884, it was known as Larkmead Winery; today, it is considered to be a prime example of California Wine Country architecture, listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The grounds are expansive, with a beautiful lawn, picnic tables, majestic oaks and trimmed hedges that complement the winery and tasting room. Inside the tasting rooms, the business of winemaking is balanced with good humor and as much information as you want. Or simply enjoy the tastes. That is perfectly fine with them. As tasting room manager, Dennis Zablosky, (an icon in his own right) says, I want visitors memories of the winery to be as much about their experience here as the wines they taste. These wines are pretty spectacular, as you will discover on your first visit but assuredly not your last. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, plus the rare Winston Hill Red. They also make limited amounts of Zinfandel Port and many of the wines are crafted in limited reserve programs. SpARKLING, ANYONE? Be sure to ask about their Sparkling Wines, produced in the French mthode champenoise. RATINGS Most wineries, if theyd ever get a score of 90 or above on a wine from critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., would jump for joy and pop the cork on a bottle of bubbles. So imagine the euphoria when the winery received ve scores in the nineties recently. HOLLYWOOD Owner Richard Frank is a recipient of an Emmy for lifetime achievement. He was also chairman of Walt Disney Television, president of Walt Disney Studios for almost ten years and president of the Paramount Television Group.
Frank Family Vineyards

Open daily 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
For parties of six or more appointments are necessary.
1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga 1-800-574-9463 or (707) 942-0859 www.frankfamilyvineyards.com
Youll never have better wine ... or a better time.

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CALISTOGA
Calistoga Balloons is a unique and intimate flying experience over the scenic northern end of the Napa Valley. These flights are more rural in nature, providing pristine views. Experience Old Faithful Geyser, the dramatic Palisade Cliffs, Mt. St Helena, as well as spectacular views of world-renown landmarks, vineyards and wineries including Chateau Montelena the winery that put Californias Napa Valley number one in the world, Castello di Amorosa the authentic 12th century Tuscan Castle-winery, Sterling Vineyards a hilltop winery via aerial tram, along with Bennett Lane Winery, Envy Winery, Vincent Arroyo Winery and more. Calistoga is a unique destination whose vistas will remain with you for a lifetime! Your adventure begins just after sunrise, between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., when hot air ballooning flight conditions are best and the morning sunlight enhances the natural beauty. Guests meet at the historic Railroad Depot at 1458 Lincoln Avenue in friendly and quaint, Calistoga and off to the mornings determined launch site. After the crew inflates the balloon, guests hop into the wicker basket. Once everyone is in, the hot air balloon is ready to go and you begin your gentle ascent. After about an hour of enjoying the breathtaking views of Napa Valley, the hot air balloon will be navigated to a landing site, then your ballooning party is transported to the historic Calistoga Inn for a celebratory Champagne brunch! By Alexandra charsley
GOOD TO KNOW Early mornings in Napa Valley are usually cool. It is recommended that you wear layered clothing and a jacket depending on the time of year. During the flight, it will get warmer so you will want to be able to remove layers as the day progresses. It is also recommended that you wear sneakers or comfortable shoes that protect your feet. Bring sunglasses and cameras and enjoy the flight! VISIT Your magnicent ight and Champagne brunch costs only $239 per person.
calistoga Balloons
1458 Lincoln Ave, Railcar #15, Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-5758 | 1-888-995-7700 www.calistogaballoons.com On Facebook and Twitter
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Check the website for special pricing and vacation packages: www.calistogaballoons.com.
On & Around
Howell Mountain
Beginning on the Silverado Trail, this trip includes Conn Valley, Howell Mountain and Pope Valley with striking views from high elevations to rolling hills on the valley floor. You can see what Napa County was like in the early pioneer days. Be sure to plan a full day for this one its a beautiful drive and youll want to take in the sites. Most of these wineries require prior appointment and watch for the addresses or you might miss them. FOOD college Market 15 Angwin Plaza, Angwin, (707) 965-6321 Here you will find plenty of options for picnicking. Other than salami (meat-free products only), this store has any other grocery items you may need. pope Valley Market 5850 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, (707) 965-9922 This small market with some snack lunch items and local organic herbs. It's a great place to stop and grab an ice cream treat during your drive on a hot summer day. LODGING camping Bothe-Napa State park Hwy 29 & Larkmead Road between St. Helena/Calistoga 1-800-444-PARK Vacation Rentals Look online for vacation rentals on Howell Mountain. There are some very nice private homes available . THINGS TO DO Las posadas State Forest 5850 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, (707) 965-9922 Hiking trails include a 4.4 mile, full loop trail that passes a pioneer cemetary dating back to the 1800s Howell Mountain challenge Sunday, August 8 (707) 965-6346, web2.puc.edu/Pioneers/HMC If mountain biking is your speed, this is a 10 mile circuit thats hilly on smooth to medium-rough trails with lots of trees a fun course!
Driving Time: 50 minutes From Pope Valley Winery to Summit Lake Winery 6 miles to Bravante Vineyards 4 miles to Viader Vineyards 2 miles to Burgess Cellars > 1 mile to Andersons Conn Valley 6 miles Total 19 miles
Not to Scale
On & Around Howell Mountain
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ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN
Along a winding country road, up an unpaved drive and past Gus a big, friendly, chocolate lab youll find one of the most unpretentious, down-to-earth tasting rooms around. The Pope Valley Winery offers a wine tasting experience far removed from the ostentatious fare to be found at some of the more well-known wine country destinations. Here you will be treated less like a visitor and more like a friend. Winding through picturesque fields, undulating vineyards and oak-studded hills, one gets the feeling of being transported back in time. The Pope Valley Winery was founded in 1897 by Ed Haus. The original farmhouse still graces the property, as well as a blacksmiths workshop complete with the tools of the trade. The winery itself is housed in an historic building that was designed, before electricity was brought to the site, to utilize the slope of the hill to move the grapes through the process of becoming fine wine. The Eakle family now runs the winery and produces 5,000 cases of wine a year from estate-grown fruit, with some from vines that are nearly seventy years old. Pope Valley Winery is noted for its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve. The Eakle Ranch Merlot is a lush, fruitful wine that will complement nearly any dish. They also produce Sangiovese, Sangiovese Ros, Zinfandel, Zinfandel Port as well as Old Vine Chenin Blanc and a Sparkling Blanc De Blancs to be released soon. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW Pope Valley was originally called Locallomes after the Indians who rst settled the valley. The name was changed to Pope Valley after Julian Pope was given a land grant to the area by the Mexican government. After the governor signed it, Julian Pope paid twentyve cents and Pope Valley became his! The Pope Valley Winery was originally the Burgundy Winery & Olive Factory and was managed by Ed Haus. The cave, entirely hand-dug, took nine years to build! Winemaker, David Eakle reports that his favorite wine is the Pope Valley Reserve Cabernet. I love its complexity and the fruit-forward avor. Dont miss the incredible Zinfandel Port! This rich, luscious wine is a great nish to a meal and the perfect ending for a day in the wine country. Pope Valley Winey oers a wonderful cheese basket that pairs beautifully with their wines. Take one with you, along with a glass of Pope Valley wine and sit out under the towering oaks that look out over miles of vineyards. This is what wine tasting is all about!
pope Valley Winery

Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 6613 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley Turn left and go back 100 years. (707) 965-1246 | www.popevalleywinery.com
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Mention Day Trips for a complimentary re-usable Pope Valley Winery tote bag!
If you find yourself on the back roads leading to Summit Lake Winery, chances are you are thinking yourself seriously lost. No need to worry. One of the most good-natured winemakers youll ever meet is waiting for you. Hell also help you find your way back down the hill. Bob Brakesman of Summit Lake Vineyards personifies the pioneer spirit that led many to this area to try their hand at winemaking. His motivation was a love of wine, but his knowledge didnt go much further than how to extract a cork from a bottle. However Bob and his late wife, Sue, had such warm personalities that it wasnt long before they were able to cajole their way into getting some of the most learned minds in the business to provide both practical information and equipment to help them build their winery. The land at Summit Lake didnt seem to hold very much promise. It was overgrown and rugged, but had been planted decades ago with a small vineyard. While the couple was able to coax the vines into producing a quality wine, the old plants just could not produce the quantity of fruit needed. With the help of friends, they planted more vines and began to build their winery. Today, Bob and his family produce several wonderful wines, including a Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel Port and Ros which are all estate grown, as well as their Howell Mountain Zinfandel which put them on the map. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW Summit Lake Vineyards very rst commercial release was their 78 Zinfandel, and it took the coveted Double Gold at the California State Fair. It also sold out in just eight days! Other than their agship Zinfandel, all the other small lot wines are named for the grandchilden. Some of the lots as small as 50 cases! When Bob and Sue rst purchased their twenty-eight acre vineyard, it was totally overgrown with manzanita, poison oak and coyote weed. Several years later, they even found an old tractor that had been completely hidden by bushes! It took three long years and much hard work to hand-plant their thirteen acres of vineyards. Thankfully, they had many friends willing to help who were all rewarded with fantastic wine. This year is the fortieth anniversary. Summit Lake Vineyards is still going strong and still one of the few wineries that can boast of being completely family owned and operated.
Summit Lake Vineyards

Open by appointment only 2000 Summit Lake Drive, Angwin (707) 965-2488 | www.summitlakevineyards.com
Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide.

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At the end of a drive that sweeps through vineyards sits Howell Mountains Bravante Vineyards, home to premium, estate-grown wines. Here, the commitment is always, and unwaveringly, to quality. That goal drives everything we do in the vineyard and in the cellar, said founder and proprietor George Bravante, a respected grower of citrus, stone fruit and table grapes in the Central Valley. Were focused on crafting consistently delicious and well-made wines from our historic appellation. From the beginning, our philosophy has been grounded in one word: commitment. Commitment to creating world-class wine and commitment to the winemaking styles that best express the varietals. And that quality starts in the vineyard. The education and enjoyment begins in the compact but comfortable tasting room, just off the winemaking facility, with gleaming silver tanks and a modern crusher-destemmer. Doors open on each end. Outside are entrances to the naturally temperature and humidity controlled caves, an integral part of their barrel aging program. You begin your tour and tasting with a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Along the way youll hear anecdotes and history inside the caves and outdoors, where the views are spectacular. It is education at its most sublime an hour of learning, but mostly its about the enjoyment of both wine and place. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon BARRELS Humidity-constant caves are full of American, French and Hungarian oak barrels. TOpOGRApHY As removed as the winery is from the bustle of the Valley oor, it is still barely ten minutes from the intersection of Deer Park Road and the Silverado Trail. So there it sits, remote but easily accessible and the result is a casual, unhurried, relaxed and informative tasting environment. HARVESTING At harvest they hand pick into small, ve pound trays to keep the integrity of each individual berry prior to crush; and they harvest in small lots, only as the unique sections of their vineyards ripen one-by-one. SpEcIAL Ask about the much-coveted Simpatico blended from the nest barrel-selected wine from each vintage, and Trio, a Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blend.
Bravante Vineyards
Open Wed-Sun 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment. Just give them a call, theyre happy to see you! 300 Stone Ridge Road, Angwin (707) 965-2552 | www.bravantevineyard.com
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Mention Day Trips for complimentary tasting for two.

Alan & Delia Viader
From your perch high on a mountain rim, as you look down on a stunning vista of vineyards and take your first sip of Viader wine, it will dawn on you that this experience is one that will live in your memory forever. The sweeping panoramic views that unfold before you are some of the most magnificent on earth, befitting of the elegant, take-your-breath-away wine that a gracious winery host has just poured for you. Viader Winery only makes red wine, but not just any red wine. It has been the vision of one very determined and talented woman, Delia Viader, to plant a European style vineyard, with vines oriented up and down the steep hillside of Howell Mountain and create wines that can compete with the finest in the world. Such a vineyard requires meticulous hand farming resulting in wines that consistently garner rave reviews from discriminating wine lovers. Delias signature wine, Viader Proprietary Red Blend, features Cabernet Sauvignon with a significant component of Cabernet Franc. Delias aim was to create a wine that enhances a meal, and showcases the charming elegance of Cabernet Franc together with the incredible structure of mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. Described as Liquid Cashmere by many, the Viader Proprietary Red Blend displays silky tannins that Delia attributes to her mature first-growth vineyard estate, now managed by her son, Alan Viader. To round out the experience, her daughter-in-law Mariela Viader, a Thomas Keller trained chef, can prepare hors doeuvres, lunch or dinner to pair with Viader wines for your special occasion or private event with as little as three weeks advance notice. A truly spectacular winery, coupled with magnificent winesthe essence of an awe-inspiring Napa Valley Experience. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW All of the rocks used in the building of the tasting room, oces, planters and walls were collected from the lands surrounding the vineyards. Especially selected are the ones covered with moss and those with unique shapes that represent the natural beauty of the mountains terrain in the architectural elements of each structure. There are eight dierent types of lavender growing on the estate. Not only are they gorgeous owering plants, but they attract bees and contribute to the aromatic nature of Viader wines. The familial atmosphere carries on with Delias two young grandsons (and possible third generation winemakers) happily pulling grapes o the vines around harvest time with an all-encompassing smile. Viader is 1200 feet above the Napa Valley oor on the rocky slopes of Howell Mountain. The European design of the vineyards, with the vines oriented up and down the steep hillsides, is a planting method that optimizes sun exposure, vine density and erosion control.
Viader Vineyards
Please call ahead to make an appointment 1120 Deer Park Road, Deer Park, CA 94576 (707) 963-3816 | www.viader.com
Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide (a $45 value!).

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There is one very important element that truly defines Burgess Cellars: the unique site. As Steve Burgess says, It is why our wines are different. It is why we are different. Located high on Howell Mountain, and commanding a breathtaking view of the Napa Valley, Burgess can trace its origins to a winery that was established on the property in the 1880s. That was long before cars or paved roads existed to link the property to civilization. The vineyards were planted with the help of mules, dynamite and the hard work of people whose vision is reflected today in the fine wines of Burgess. Weve been sustainable since before the word was invented. With us it has always been a necessity, relates Steve. For those who wish to visit the historic wine country of the Napa Valley, an afternoon at Burgess is essential. The tasting room experience at Burgess is refreshingly free of pretentiousness. Located in their barrel room, the tasting bar is often manned by one of the family members. Burgess wines are elegant and complex with purity and balance, and include an array of Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah. They also make a few wines that are only available at the winery. Their Grenache and Petite Sirah are true finds that you wont get anywhere else. Their flagship wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, thrives on the western slopes of Howell Mountain near the winery. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW The original grapes were planted by Italian emigrant Carlo Rossini in 1891 on property originally homsteaded in the 1870s. Tom Burgess bought his small mountain-side winery in 1972 after falling in love with wine in the 1960s while touring Europe. From an open-air, mountainside porch you can see all the way from Saint Helena to Calistoga. Their signature wine is the Cabernet Sauvignon, a big, bold wine that represents this varietal at its best. Burgess Winery keeps a large selection of wines in their library, offering guests the opportunity to buy aged wines. The wines in their library program are stored in ideal conditions until release. If you see our library selection sticker on the wine, Mr. Burgess said, it means that it has either never left our cellar or its only been shipped from us to the retailer at the time of its library release. Steve Burgess, the winerys head of sales and marketing, was actually born during the winerys rst harvest!
Burgess cellars
Call for an appointment. 1108 Deer Park Road, St. Helena email: customerservice@burgesscellars.com 1-800-752-9463 | www.burgesscellars.com
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Mention Day Trips for 10% off of a purchase of six bottles and 15% off of case purchases.
In 1984, Todd Anderson began staking out his vineyards trellis system with his father, Gus Anderson. In fact, he personally cleared every inch of the former hay field that would become his world famous vineyard. Many boast of building their own winery, but few can state that they actually pounded each post. Todds devotion to doing things himself didnt end with construction, though. His mastery of winemaking has earned him top accolades from some of the most discriminating wine experts in the world. His Ghost Horse wines have never been beaten in competition against some of the most pricy and revered wines produced. Never. What is truly amazing is that when you visit Anderson Conn Valley, you get to spend time with Mr. Anderson himself. Very rarely is such a prominent and knowledgeable winemaker so accessible to the public. Todd will take you into his barrel room and give you a firsthand account of the passion and precision behind his wines. His riveting tales behind the creation of each wine are a match to the artistry in each glass poured. While the winery is known for ultra-premium wines that command top prices, Anderson Conn Valley has a wonderful selection of more affordable wines, as well. They have long been known for their 100% Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, but they are fast becoming known for their outstanding Pinot Noir, too. Dont miss the Bordeaux-style blends which include the loge and Right Bank, either. These complex and full-bodied wines are stunning examples of the genre. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW Anderson Conn Valley will customize your wine experience to suit your tastes. You can arrange for barrel tastings in their cave and food pairings. Todd will even supply you with a premium cigar to enjoy with your glass of Cabernet! If youre here during the week, youll get to witness the winemaking process rsthand. This is a working winery. You might even be asked to help! There is a story behind each of their wines and it is an entertainment event in itself to hear them. You wont be bored by the usual winery babble at Andersons Conn Valley. Be sure and give an ear-scratch to one of the multiple winery dogs. If Kira, Todds Vizsla, isnt out hunting pheasants or quail, shell escort you into the tasting room herself. In her absence, Scout, the lovable Ridgeback is happy to play the host.
Andersons conn Valley Vineyards

Tastings by Appointment Monday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 680 Rossi Road, St. Helena (707) 963-8600 | www.connvalleyvineyards.com Look for them on Facebook and become a fan.
Come visit us in our new estate tasting room!

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St. Helena
FOOD Annas cantina 1205 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-4921 A great place to meet locals and indulge in some karoake! A must for Thursday night visitors and public-singingfans. Anna's is a locals hangout that happily welcomes visitors. Gotts Roadside "Tray Gourmet" 933 Main Street, St. Helena (707) 963-3486, www.gottsroadside.com "Mighty Fine Eats!" indeed. Keeping alive the traditions of handmade American food. Artisanal ingredients in traditional recipes combine for a refreshing take on old roadside favorites. Don't miss the burgers and fries! Guigni Deli 1227 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-3421 An absolute must! Guigni Deli is known for their Guigni Juice it makes every sandwich incredible. Model Bakery 1357 Main Street, St. Helena (707) 963-8192, www.themodelbakery.com Start your day with fresh coffee and hand-made pastry. Tra Vigne 1050 Charter Oak Street, St. Helena (707) 963-444, www.travignerestaurant.com Italian inspired cuisine, remarkable 200 count wine list V. Sattui Winery Corner of Hwy. 29 & White Lane, St. Helena (707) 963-7774, www.vsattui.com Perfect spot for a wine country picnic with cheeses, meats, salads and panini as well as BBQ fare and pizzas on weekends during spring, summer and fall.
The special little town of St. Helena is located seven short miles south of Calistoga on Foothill Blvd/CA Hwy 29. The playground of the tres chic and tasteful, St. Helenas one Main Street is filled to the brim with gourmet bakeries, acclaimed restaurants, couture clothes, and lavish home decor and kitchen shops. Vineyard country Inn 201 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-1000 www.vineyardcountryinn.com A three diamond, AAA approved lodge offering 21 suites with fireplaces. Using lovely old world brick, the Vineyard Inn courtyards, pool, and lounge areas provide a great place to unwind after that busy day of wine tasting! THINGS TO DO Weekends at the culinary Institute of America (cIA) 2555 Main Street, St. Helena 1-888-995-1699 www.ciaachef.edu/enthusiasts Select a cooking or wine class at the world-famous CIA.
LODGING Inn at Southbridge 1020 Main Street, St. Helena 1-800-520-6800, www.innatsouthbridge.com Ideally located in the center of St. Helena. Meadowood 900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena 1-800-458-8080, www.meadowood.com Luxury country resort unfolds across 250 lush acres with tennis courts, croquet lawns, 9-hole golf course and spa.
Better to schedule two Day Trips when visiting St. Helena wineries!
Driving Time: 8 minutes From Ehlers Estate to Ballentine 1+ miles to St. Clement >1 mile to Beringer >1 mile to Merryvale 1 mile to V. Sattui 1 mile to Arger Martucci >1 miles to Raymond >1 miles to Whitehall Lane >1 miles Total 9 miles
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ST. HELENA
Imagine an estate in the traditional sense, where forty-two contiguous acres are laid out such that no part of the vineyard is more than six hundred yards from the central winery, a classical European design little-seen in the United States. Imagine that vineyard divided into five blocks by soil type, and then subdivided into twenty-five sub-blocks of six different Cabernet Sauvignon clones, seven sub-blocks of Merlot and four of Cabernet Franc. Now imagine that this special place is nestled at the top of the Napa Valley in the narrow space between the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges, where a unique microclimate of morning fog and full afternoon sun accompanied by heat-alleviating breezes, which has also been certified organic by CCOF and biodynamic by Demeter. Lastly, imagine that its run by a non-profit foundation, guaranteeing that one hundred percent of the proceeds go to cardiovascular research. Now stop imagining: its all genuine at Ehlers Estate, where the goal is making great wines from small lots of estate fruit. Winemaker Kevin Morrisey expresses this best as an unwavering commitment to authentic winegrowing with the aim of making the world, both locally and globally, a better place. The winery is justly well known for the 120 Over 80 Cab-based blend and the Cabernet Sauvignon 1886, but other releases are quite exclusive and well worth the trip. Tasting room-only bottlings include the Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Petite Verdot. Very few wineries in Napa have direct control over the range of Bordeaux varietals, and so few are able offer bottlings like these. People often wonder what true commitment to a better way of life would be like. Come visit Ehlers Estate and wonder no more. By Josh Stein
WHAT TO TASTE In addition to a Merlot which will remind you why you fell in love with the varietal, the limited production estate Cabernet Franc and the ultra-low production estate Petite Verdot, made from one single acre!, are wines you will nd nowhere else dont miss them! pLAN AHEAD Private tastings, including the daily Perfectly Paired wine and hand-made chocolate pairing, barrel samples, and sitdown experiences, are available by appointment only; also available is picnic seating in the Olive Grove, reserved exclusively for club members. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Winemaker Kevin Morrisey and his family hold dual American-French citizenship, in keeping with the winerys philosophy of age-old European technique in proven California soil. VARIETALS Cabernet Franc, multiple Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Ros of Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc all estate fruit!
Ehlers Estate
Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 3222 Ehlers Lane, St. Helena For reservations, call (707) 963-5972 ehlersestate.com
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ST. HELENA
The tasting room may be new but there is a lot of history behind this winery situated north of St. Helena. John Ballentine emigrated in 1910 from County Tyrone, Ireland to San Francisco. His family estate was called Deer Park and it became a major influence in his life. His son Van grew up in the Napa Valley helping to plant vineyards, prune vines and make wine. The history of this winery involves other families and any number of hardworking characters, many of them members of the Pocai family from Italy. Over time, their winemaking, their families and their fortunes intertwined. Even the devastating San Francisco earthquake of 1906 played a part. Luck was also a major player, especially when it came to the acquisition of some of the best vineyard land in the entire Napa Valley. Luck can never be an underestimated component when it comes to successful winemaking, something that continues to this day. When you enter the tasting room at this working winery, you find a long, stylish room with pale green walls, an L-shaped bar and lots of stone and wood. Windows on the north side look out on vineyards, the floor is slate, the lighting modern, and you are likely to find yourself talking to the owners and their enthusiastic staff. The wines offered for tasting include wonderful examples of what the Napa Valley is justly famous for, and youll find your own favorites as you taste your way through Ballentines By charles Neave list of offerings.
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Old Vine Chenin Blanc, Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel Port and a very rare sparkling Malvasia Bianca Frizzante that is perfect for that special occasion or for a spur-of-the moment picnic. FOOD pAIRING Try their rich Port with dark chocolate after a meal, or just as a special treat any time of day. pRODucTION About 10,000 cases a year. GEOGRApHY The hills that create the Napa Valley also help shape the wines made in this part of Northern California Wine Country, as their altitude also impacts the climate and soil. To the east of this winery is the Vaca Range, on the other side of the Valley; to the west, across from the winery, are the Mayacamas. GREEN FAcT The winery is now 100-percent solar powered, just one of their many green eorts.
Ballentine Vineyards
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment only 2820 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena (707) 963-7919 www.ballentinevineyards.com
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Check the website for Wine Club Member oers and discounts on local lodging.
ST. HELENA
Words hardly do justice to St. Clement Vineyards and Tasting Room. Set high above the Napa Valley floor in an 1870s Victorian house, St. Clement is at once regal and inviting. St. Clement Vineyards was a private residence until 30 years ago when it became a winery dedicated to producing world-class wines. The home itself was built in 1878 and is a remarkable piece of California Victorian architecture. Think period-appropriate paint, decor and details like carved arrows in the eaves to ward off evil spirits! Today, the St. Clement Tasting Room respects the history of the building and welcomes guests to taste a $20 flight of four St. Clement wines (whites and red). You may also select the Single Vineyard Tasting for $25. This exclusive tasting includes your choice of four of the limited-production, single-vineyard wines appointment recommended. St. Clement Vineyards nurtures long-term relationships with some of the best grape growers in Napa Valley. Instead of owning its own acreage, St. Clement produces wine with the best quality grapes sourced from diverse AVAs such as Howell Mountain, Mount Vedeer, Rutherford and Spring Mountain. More than 33 different soil series and 100 different soil variations are represented in St. Clement wines. Winemaker Danielle Cyrot is able to take these exceptional grapes and produce St. Clement wines with extraordinary depth and complexity. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
ONLY AT THE WINERY! St. Clement produces 13 wines, but only ve of them are in distribution. The remaining eight are secret little gems that you can only nd in the tasting room. DONT MISS: Oroppas Cabernet Sauvignon, a unique wine of Cabernet with a splash of Merlot, Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc, is a Bordeaux blend from four distinct Napa mountain vineyards. Produced since 1991, Oroppas never rates below 90 points, including the current 2007 Oroppas and its a steal at $55 per bottle! VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay A BIT OF REcENT HISTORY In 1976, local doctor William Casey purchased the historic property and launched the St. Clements wine label. The cross of St. Clement was a tribute to Caseys ancestors who helped to found the state of Maryland.
St. clement Vineyard

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2867 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena Call to learn about tasting experiences. 1-866-877-5939 www.stclement.com *Terms and conditions apply see winery for details.
Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting!

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ST. HELENA
For more than 130 years, Beringer Vineyards has reflected the rewards of hard labor, agricultural pride and determined viticultural stewardship. German emigrant Jacob Beringer followed his brother Frederick to the New World in 1868 to begin a new life. Hearing of Californias warm, sunny climate, the brothers headed west to Napa Valley. Vintage cellar worker, Jacob Beringer was thrilled to find Napas rocky, well-drained soils similar to those of his native Rhine Valley. From the beginning, the Beringer brothers were vastly ahead of the oenological times. Frederick and Jacob built a gravity-flow winery and steam-powered grape crusher, then enlisted the help of Chinese laborers to hand-dig tunnels within the hills of Napa Valley. Today, these caves still perfectly cellar and age wine in a stable 58-degree environment one crucial key to Beringers continued success in winemaking. Beringer wines are world-famous for crafting classic wines from Napas finest appellations and vineyards. Founder Jacobs foresight in recognizing the quality and potential of grape growing in the Napa Valley is part of the living heritage of Beringer Vineyards. In its third century, Beringer is led by Winemaker Laurie Hook who produces wines that speak eloquently of Beringers rich history and contemporary elegance. Laurie speaks volumes when she says you cant make wine only through science...trust your intuition as well. It is this blend of art and science that elevates Beringer wines above the rest. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
FuN FAcT: Beringer Vineyards has Victorian-era roots and is the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley! In 2001, the entire winery site was designated a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. VARIETALS: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, White Zinfandel as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir WHAT TO TASTE: The 2007 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a specialty release wine crafted from a blend of seven premier Napa Valley vineyards. A blend of mountain and valley oor fruit, this Cabernet retails for $115. It also scored 97 points in Robert Parkers Wine Advocate in December 2010. cALLING ALL FOODIES! Find recipes to perfectly pair with Beringer wines on the winerys website. This month? Dungeness crab cakes with cucumber and cilantro slaw paired with the Private Reserve Chardonnay.
Beringer Vineyards
Open daily May 29-Oct. 22, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 23-May 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2000 Main Street , St. Helena 1-866-708-9463 www.beringer.com Follow Beringer Vineyards on Facebook and learn of new releases and special events! *Terms and conditions apply see winery for details. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
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Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting!
ST. HELENA
If a movie company were to design a set, they could not do better than to replicate the historic, family-owned Merryvale Vineyards property. From the ivy on the front of the building to the manicured grounds, tall trees and the fountain outside, to the expanse of wood, wood beams and ochre walls inside. There is also the Library Room where great vintages of Merryvale wines gently rest, and the magnificent Cask Room separated from the tasting room by just an iron gate. In this stone-walled room are double-tiered racks of enormous century-old oak casks and on either side as you enter, even larger monuments to the grape. Our goal is to craft elegant, complex, world-class wines in the finest European style, yet reflecting the fruit from Napa Valleys finest vineyards. To that end, we emphasize quality over quantity with no compromises. To discover how this statement manifests itself in the bottle and in the glass, plan a visit to Merryvales spacious tasting room. With its polished U-shaped wood bar, it has plenty of space even on the busiest weekends. You can choose from the two tasting options: The Signature Tasting that offers four wines to taste and the Profile Tasting that has five. The winery also offers a Wine & Cheese Experience or an hour-long Sommelier Grand Reserve Tasting, each by appointment. In March, June, September and December, Barrel Tastings are available that also feature food pairings and live entertainment. This truly is a magical environment where the people are friendly, the setting is one-of-a-kind, and the wines By charles Neave they pour are magnificent.
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Antiqua Dessert Wine and Prole Red Wine (Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot a classic Bordeaux blending) under the Prestige, Signature and Starmont labels. Some are available in limited quantity as older library wines. AWARDS To be honest, far too many to mention. On an environmental green level, they have received multiple certications. HISTORIc TRIVIA The Merryvale winery building was the rst new winery built in the Napa Valley after Prohibition was (at last!) repealed. FuN FAcT Look around the tasting room to discover just what an artisan can do with barrel staves. pRIVATE EVENTS Contact the winery for information about hosting your own memorable special event at the winery.
Merryvale Vineyards
Open 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily Tours are by appointment 1000 Main Street, St. Helena (707) 963-7777 | www.merryvale.com Facebook & Twitter
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ST. HELENA
Vittorio Sattui was an Italian immigrant who founded a winery in San Francisco in 1885, and is the great-grandfather of Dario Sattui, who opened his own winery in St. Helena in 1975. Its like a slice of Italy, with a busy piazza of stone walls, courtyards, a tower, cellars, fountain and expansive picnic grounds. Of course, a selection of award-winning wines is always available. It all begins when you enter the Italian Deli & Marketplace, where you can shop an expansive variety of house-made sandwiches, salads, meats and over 200 cheeses. The famous weekend BBQ is especially tantalizing. Next stop, the tasting area, offering a variety of wine tasting options. Theres a whole list of rich Cabernets, Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels from which to choose; and if you like white wines, V. Sattui produces highly-rated Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs and Muscat wines. They are also one of the biggest producers of Riesling in both dry and off-dry styles. With the Premium Tasting youll try a flight of six single-vineyard and limited-release wines. All Sattui wines are available exclusively at the winery or online at www.vsattui.com, making a visit to the tasting room just a little more special. So, what are the critics saying? V. Sattui offers more than a dozen 90+ point rated wines from the likes of the Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, Connoisseurs Guide and more. V. Sattui was named 2012 Winery of The Year at not one but two major wine competitions the Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition and the Monterey Wine Competition! If that were not enough, their 2009 Gilsson Zinfandel was named Best Zinfandel at the 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. The list goes on and onwith 34 gold, platinum and best of class medals earned in 2012 alone, V. Sattui wines are worth their weight in gold!
VARIETALS Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sangiovese, Chardonnay, White Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewrztraminer, Madeira, Sparkling Wines, Muscat and more. HuNGRY? Enjoy food and wine pairings and pick up a snack, a picnic, something savory or sweet to nibble on all from the deli where youll nd more than 200 cheeses and an assortment of food items and gifts. pLAN FOR IT The winery has a BBQ on warm weather weekends. SpEcIAL EVENTS If youre planning a wedding or dinner, everything you need for a special event is within those stone walls. SpEcIAL OFFERS Consider membership to the Cellar Club or Wine of the Month Club, which allows year-round access to taste a portfolio of their best wines and invitations to special events.
V. Sattui Winery
Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. in winter) 1111 White Lane, St. Helena (707) 963-7774 | www.vsattui.com Follow V. Sattui Winery on Facebook and Twitter @vsattui1885.
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ST. HELENA
When Napa Valley is bustling and its time for a break, drop by Arger-Martucci Vineyards where you can enjoy award winning wines in a relaxing and unpretentious setting. Located just south of St. Helena, the winery is quaint and picturesque. The tasting rooms poolside picnic area, complete with an outdoor gazebo, boasts a beautiful view of the Mayacamas Mountains and offers guests the ideal atmosphere to taste exceptional wines away from the crowds. Arger-Martucci is a boutique, family-owned winery that is more than a business venture between two owners. It is a love and appreciation of making great wine that is shared by two families one Greek, the other of Italian descent. Owners Kosta Arger and Rich Martucci first met and became close friends through a Reno, NV wine tasting group in the 80s. At the time, Arger was establishing himself as an accomplished cardiologist and skilled home winemaker, while Martucci was working to build the struggling bank he had acquired. Dr. Arger, who learned to make wine in the 70s from the legendary Joe Heitz of Heitz Cellars, had always dreamed of starting a Napa Valley winery. In 1998, both families were looking for property in the Napa Valley and decided it was the perfect time to partner and start a winery. The Arger-Martucci partnership is ideal Rich manages the financial aspects of the business, while Kosta handles the winemaking. Still a practicing cardiologist in Reno, Dr. Arger spends his weekends, holidays and the harvest in Napa Valley. The winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and its estate reserve, Bordeaux-style blend, the Odyssey. They also produce a handful of other delicious reds, along with an elegant white blend called the Iliad. Stop by and enjoy this wonderful Napa Valley secret.
VARIETALS Iliad (white blend), Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Odyssey (Estate Reserve), Cabernet Franc, Petite Syrah, and Dulcinea (dessert wine). FuN FAcT Although he has been making wine for over 35 years and has crafted many award-winning wines, Dr. Arger has never taken a formal winemaking class! VINEYARDS All red wines, with the exception of the Petite Syrah, are estate grown on their mountainside Odyssey Vineyards, which are located 1,400 feet above the Napa Valley oor on Atlas Peak. FAMILY The next generation is also involved in the winery full time. Anthony Arger handles the outside sales and marketing duties, while Vince Martucci is the assistant winemaker and oversees the tasting room. SpEcIAL OFFERS Ask about the Arger-Martucci Wine Club its one of the best deals in the Napa Valley!
Arger-Martucci Vineyards
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments are encouraged. 1455 Inglewood Avenue, St. Helena (707) 963-4334 | www.arger-martucci.com
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ST. HELENA
There are times when there are simply not enough adjectives in the English language to describe something. That could well be the case with Raymond Vineyards. The facility itself is welcoming and the experiences this iconic winery offers go on and on. In addition to the traditional tastings, there is the wine education program, which includes wine and food pairings or an interactive program which showcases wine and food marriages. There is also Earth & Air held in the almost surrealistic Crystal Cellar (when you visit you will understand the name) which features the winerys District Collection Cabernets poured from Baccarat decanters, and the Arts & Crafts option, which is sub-titled Guess the Blend. It is perhaps an understatement to say it is impossible to be bored at this winery. If for a second you think you have run out of things to try, walk down the Corridor of Senses between the Crystal Cellar and the main tasting room. You will never consider wine the same. Since the crafting of fine wine is literally rooted in the soil, it is only fitting that this is recognized here, and to a degree seldom seen anywhere else. Called the Theater of Nature, it is a walk through the garden and the barnyard, with more edible and decorative plants than almost anyone could name. There are goats, sheep, chickens a-plenty and other attractive fowl as well. Placards tell you the role they each play, and in five minutes to five hours you appreciate not just the harmony but the necessity of this natural co-existence at a working winery. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon including Generations their famously smooth, much coveted and silky Cab. BLEND AWAY Be a Winemaker for a Day and discover what goes into making truly ne wine, then take home a bottle with your own label. Plus its great fun. FuN FAcTS Dogs are always welcome. They have the winery owner (and his dog, Frenchy) to thank. When you walk from the parking lot to the tasting room, look to your right, grab your camera and youll understand what Getting framed at Raymond Vineyards means. WINE cLuB Raymond has one of the most popular wine clubs in the entire Valley, and not just because of the many benets a membership oers.
Raymond Vineyards
Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, tours by appointment 849 Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574 (707) 963-3141 | www.raymondvineyards.com Follow Raymond Vineyards on Facebook & Twitter.
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Reserve your Raymond experience online: www.raymondvineyards.com/Visit-Us.

ST. HELENA
For years Whitehall Lane has been known for its wide variety of wines, incredible Cabernets and friendly staff. The Leonardini family owns and operates the winery and has created a portfolio of limited-production wines found only at the winery. To introduce visitors to Whitehall Lane and do some painless wine education, they offer daily tastings covering such topics as the art and science of winemaking, the valley history and just plain fun facts. They talk about varietals, sensory evaluations of wine and pairing wine with food. During each session youll sample a variety of current-release wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. For the most discerning visitors they offer an exclusive wine tasting experience in their Club Room, perched atop the winerys newest addition. Youll enjoy a seated tasting of Reserve Cabernet with a winery concierge in this beautiful setting with a sweeping view of vineyards from indoors and on the deck. A charcuterie platter is available to accompany your tasting. An appointment is required. Allow an hour so you can relax and fully enjoy the experience. Actually, there are all sorts of wine surprises in the Club Room. You may get a preview of an unreleased wine, a vertical from the library, or a horizontal tasting of all the winerys Cabernets. They now produce two single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons: the Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet from the St. Helena appellation, and the Millennium MM Vineyard from Rutherford. But the fact is that no matter which of the tasting options you choose, you can be guaranteed an experience youll long remember.
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir cHOcOLATE EXpERIENcE Please call for details! cLuB ROOM A seated VIP tasting experience with light fare in the Club Room overlooking the Estate Vineyard and Barrel Room. By appointment only. Seatings at 11 a.m., 1 and 2:30 p.m. daily. EDucATION Public tours are conducted that are fun, educational and provide a behind-the-scenes look at a family-owned working winery. They can also set one up especially for you! Call for daily times and options. GREAT GIFT Indulge yourself with the gift of being part of their extended family join the wine club! Whether for yourself or for someone special, its like getting the Napa Valleys nest delivered to your doorstep three times a year. There is a reds-only option. Visit whitehalllane.com for details.
Whitehall Lane Winery

Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 1563 St. Helena Highway South, St. Helena 1-800-963-9454 x19 | www.whitehalllane.com Look for Whitehall Lane Winery on Facebook and Twitter
Ask about Reserve Tasting, with access to the winery-exclusive, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons poured side by side.
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Sage Canyon
FROM THE WRAPAROuND DECK AT AuBERgE Du SOLEiL BiSTRO & BAR
This central, verdant quilt of Napa Valley boasts countless principal wineries that makes Napa so famous: Whitehall Lane, grgich Hills, Mumm Napa, Cakebread to name just a few. if you seek grandeur, striking beauty and wine country elegance, Rutherford is a great place to begin! FOOD Rutherford Grill 1180 Rutherford Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1792, www.hillstone.com Located at the crossroads of Hwy 29 and Rutherford Road, the Rutherford Grill has been serving fabulous food to locals and tourists of Napa Valley for decades. Don't miss the fantastic selection of appetizers and entrees! LODGING Rancho caymus Inn 1140 Rutherford Road, Rutherford 1-800-845-1777, www.ranchocaymus.com Rustic elegance at its most charming. Surrounded by the all-consuming fragrance and visual splendor of Napa Valley, the Rancho Caymus Inn is a tranquil, petite 26-room Inn that is designed and decorated to capture the simpler times of early California. Auberge du Soleil 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1211, www.aubergedusoleil.com The discreet entrance off the Silverado Trail is your first clue of the refined, uber chic elegance awaiting (guests only) at this exclusive creme-de-la-creme hotel in premier Napa Valley. Entrance to Auberge is very restricted to guests only though the discerning public is welcome to dine at the Micheline star restaurant or sip that $130 per glass of vintage Champagne on the Terrace.
Driving Time: 13 minutes From Rustridge to Nichelini 3.5 miles to Kuleto 1 mile to Chappellet 3 miles Total 7.5 miles
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SAGE CANYON
There are not many places left that still look and feel like the Napa Valley of the early 1900s. RustRidge Ranch, Winery and B & B is one such place. It is well worth the fifteen-minute drive from the Silverado Trail as each turn and twist takes you further away from modern life, back to a simpler connection with the land. Since the 1950s, the ranch has been a breeding and training facility for racing thoroughbreds, and since the 1970s, it has been a source of excellent grapes; it has only been since 1985 that wine has been made on site. Lying 1,000 feet above the valley floor, this is a special microclimate perfect for premium winegrowing, yielding later-starting and longer-hanging grapes. Equally, the land itself is organically dry-farmed and the ranch is home to a variety of four-footed creatures from deer to fox to bobcats, as well as more than eighty species of birds. The RustRidge tasting room is virtually in the vineyards. Tastings need to be scheduled ahead of time. Visitors have choices at 11 a.m., 1 or 3 p.m. of a sit-down tasting of current releases, a reserve and library tasting of aged reds, a Wine and Herb food and wine pairing from the gardens, or a Wine and Chocolate tasting. Additionally, the bed and breakfast has several comfortable bedrooms, wonderful views, a tennis court and miles of hiking trails through the vineyards and hills. The ranch Labradors will be your guides. The wines are the ultimate stars, though, and they dont disappoint. Everything the winery makes has won many golds and received high scores. In additon to Cabernet Sauvignon, two different Chardonnays, Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc and several Zinfandels, the fun and delicious Racehorse Red, a Cab/Zin blend, is not to be missed. Few winegrowers produce wines that speak so directly of the vineyard and of the varietal character of the grape. RustRidge wines are true to their Chiles Valley appellation with distinctive fruit aromas and flavors and Chiles Valley spice.
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Racehorse Red and White, Sauvignon Blanc WHAT TO TASTE To enjoy best what the estate has to oer and the unique microclimate of Chiles Valley, owners Susan Meyer and Jim Fresquez proudly recommend their many-times-gold winning Chardonnay and Zinfandel. pLAN AHEAD While this estate allows for all kinds of unique experiences, they are by appointment only and same-day appointments are often accommodated. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT RustRidge Ranch is just one 600-acre piece of the 10,000-acre Spanish land grant, named Rancho Catacoula, granted to Colonel Joseph B. Chiles in 1844.
RustRidge Ranch & Winery

2910 Lower Chiles Valley Road, St. Helena (707) 965-9353 | rustridge.com
Mention this article to receive a 10% discount in addition to any other applicable oers!
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RUTHERFORD
Since 1890...step back in time and let us take care of you!
The oldest family-owned winery in the Napa Valley, Nichelini was established in the Chiles Valley District by Italian-Swiss pioneer winemaker Anton Nichelini in 1890. Anton planted many of the sites still in use by the current generations of this family enterprise. Not only is this one of the longest continuous winemaking families in the United States, but the scenic drive to Chiles Valley will take you back, mile by mile, to a simpler time. With the exception of the road, much of what surrounds looks as it did one hundred years ago during the first heyday of winemaking in the North Coast. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a snapshot of Napa winemaking circa 1900, including a gigantic Roman-style wine press which was used commercially until 1955. The vineyards are nearby and range in age from two-decades to nearly ten decades thats what comes of caretaking the same set of rows generation after generation. Inside the 1895 seven-bedroom farmhouse, the bottom floor is now a tasting room, and outside are picnic tables and a bocce court. No reservations are required for groups of up to a dozen, and the winery does offer tours of the facility and barrel chai. Another benefit of being in the wine business as a family for so long is the ability to make wines which speak from the winemakers passion rather than for large commercial distribution. The tasting room is generally the only place to taste and purchase these fifty- to one hundred-case lots, and not many other locations anywhere, let alone in Napa, can give you access to heritage bottlings of old world reds like Petite Sirah and Primitivo. Whats most impressive, though, is the guiding philosophy the family will share with you while you are there, tasting the wines and enjoying the locale: We encourage you to step back in time and let us take care of you. Absolutely! By Josh Stein
WHAT TO TASTE The family is justifiably proud of all of their releases, but if pressed and asked when unaccompanied by other family members, universal praise was heaped upon the white Old Vine Muscadelle de Bordelais, made from Sauvignon Vert vines planted in 1946, and the Old Vine Zinfandel, made from vines planted in 1929 by Anton Nichelini himself. pLAN AHEAD Many of the winerys bottlings are made in such small quantities that only club members gain access to them. The same goes for barrel tastings, wine-and-food events and vineyard tours.Consider joining the wine club when you visit to have total access to winery life. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Anton Nichelini was the rst Swiss settler in Chiles Valley, establishing his homestead in 1884. A number of his vines are still producing! VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Old Vine Muscadelle (Sauvignon Vert), Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Ros of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Old Vine Zinfandel.
Nichelini Family Winery

Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment 2950 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena (707) 963-0717 www.nicheliniwinery.com
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SAGE CANYON
Winding through the eastern hills of the Napa Valley one would be forgiven for believing it impossible for a winery to be in such a remote setting. While snaking through the back roads, a sense of anticipation builds. Something wonderful must be around the next turn. Indeed it is. Upon arrival, you will feel as though you just stepped into a faraway land. The outdoor ambiance is a blend of Old World Europe and Californias Hispanic influenced history. Once inside, visitors are greeted with a feast for the eyes in every corner. Massive one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures fashioned from gnarled tree limbs illuminate classic mission-style furnishings. The gracious staff of Kuleto Estate will start you off with a walking splash of their refreshingly approachable Rosato, a dry ros. You will then head out for a tour of the grounds of this magnificent estate, passing by the Amalfi patio that overlooks our picturesque landscape, complete with rolling vineyards and an awe-inspiring view of the valley below. Standing at the point overlooking Lake Hennessey, one will gaze on a vista that is unparalleled in scope. The estate tour is followed up by a leisurely tasting on the outdoor terrace. Your guide will pour a variety of ultra-premium wines paired with artisan cheeses to create a perfect marriage of savory sensations.
GOOD TO KNOW An accompanying cheese plate comes with the purchase of a tour and tasting. The winery is 1250 feet above the valley oor with sweeping views of Lake Hennessey and the vineyards of the Napa Valley. Their most unique wine is the Moscato which is fermented dry (i.e. almost no residual sugar), making it one of the few Moscatos that is not a dessert wine. This wine is the ideal pairing for oysters! The Amal Coast is a magnicent picnic area that overlooks our dramatic hillside vineyards and is the perfect backdrop for events, picnics or private dinners. There are nine wood-burning ovens for making pizzas on the estate. Make an appointment for a Cabernet tasting oered at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays for $60 per person ($30 for wine club members) focusing on the Vineyard Designate Cabernets and oering a cheese and charcuterie pairing.
Kuleto Estate
Daily tours and tasting, by appointment at 10:30 and 11:45 a.m., 1:00 and 2:30 p.m. 2470 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena (707) 302-2209 | www.kuletoestate.com Follow Kuleto Estate on Facebook.
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SAGE CANYON
A visit to enchanted Chappellet Winery is a list-topping necessity for the true wine country adventurer, for this is a place of unparalleled vineyard beauty; the ultimate discovery of solitary splendor at the pinnacle of an intriguing detour above and beyond the valley floor. Intrepid tasting room guests arriving at Chappellet might find themselves a tad disorientated at the understated exterior of the winery atop Pritchard Hill. A narrow, fern-lined footpath from the parking area is the only indication that you are entering the secluded winery. Once inside, there is no mistaking the understated level of sophistication in the production and cellaring facilities. In place of a formal tasting room, visitors are treated to the authentic experience of sampling extraordinary Cabs, cool climate Chardonnay and Mountain Cuvee inside the barrelstorage facility, complete with a banquet table, mood lighting, ambient heating and stylish down jackets for inclement weather. The 90-minute tasting tours are all about the making of exceptional mountain wines, as visitors are guided through the production process and a delightfully entertaining and informative stroll with vineyard vistas. Standing some 1,200 scenic feet above Lake Hennessy, across from Mount St. Helena, visitors are kept company on their tour by the sounds of bluebirds, owls, kestrels and red tail hawks drawn by the winerys outstanding organic vineyards. Visitors cant help but be captivated by the rustic charm of this remote, hilltop locale where one could quite happily set up camp and stay awhile among the vines and the sound of nature in a gloriously protected spot.
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chenin Blanc, Malbec, Zinfandel, Bordeaux Blend, Chardonnay THE SETTING The experience at Chappellet is one of breathtaking scenery, educational and interactive walks through the vineyards and of course, extraordinary wines. FAMILY Sustainability is taken seriously at Chappellet, where farming has been a way of life for the family-owned winery for more than forty years. Today, Pritchard Hill is home to many members of the Chappellet family. SuSTAINABILITY Chappellets vineyards are organically certied. The winery employs sustainable practices in all facets of its operation.
chappellet Winery
Tours & tastings daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tasting only appointments available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. 1581 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena (707) 286-4219 | www.chappellet.com/visit
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Rutherford/Oakville
Rutherford Grill 1180 Rutherford Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1792, www.hillstone.com Located at the crossroads of Hwy 29 and Rutherford Road, the Rutherford Grill has been serving fabulous food to locals and tourists of Napa Valley for decades. Don't miss the fantastic selection of appetizers and entrees! THINGS TO DO Robert Mondavi Summer concert Series Highway 29, Oakville, CA94562 1-888-766-6328, www.robertmondavi.com Enjoy cool outdoor concerts at the Napa Valley Opera House OR under the imposing Mayacamas. LODGING Rancho caymus Inn 1140 Rutherford Road, Rutherford 1-800-845-1777, www.ranchocaymus.com Rustic elegance at its most charming. Surrounded by the all-consuming fragrance and visual splendor of Napa Valley, the Rancho Caymus Inn is a tranquil, petite 26-room Inn that is designed and decorated to capture the simpler times of early California. Auberge du Soleil 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1211, www.aubergedusoleil.com The discreet entrance off the Silverado Trail is your first clue of the refined, uber chic elegance awaiting (guests only) at this exclusive cremede-la-creme hotel in premier Napa Valley. Entrance to Auberge is very restricted to guests only though the discerning public is welcome to dine at the Micheline star restaurant or sip that $130 per glass of vintage Champagne on the Terrace.
Oakville is part of beautiful, rolling, unincorporated Napa County. Oakville began in the 1860s as a waterstop for the tourist steam trains owned by the Napa Valley Train Company. Still known as a great tourist locale, Oakville is best known for its great little artisan grocery store, post-office and 24 surrounding world-famous wineries. FOOD Oakville Grocery 7856 Highway 29, Oakville, CA 94562 (707) 944-8802, www.oakvillegrocery.com Built in 1881, this "little country store" has sold local, all-California sundries, deli delights, and confections for more than 120 years... This is a great place to find gifts!
Driving Time: 20 minutes From Rutherford Hill to Rutherford Ranch >1 mile to Mumm Napa 1 mile to Saddleback Cellars 4 miles to Turnbull 2+ miles to St. Supry Estate 2+ miles Total 8.5 miles
Not to Scale
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RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
Rutherford Hill is a family owned winery, says John Terlato, And our family is passionate about and committed to crafting high quality wines. At Rutherford Hill, a Terlato Family property, all five classic Bordeaux red varietals are hand-crafted under the watchful eye of winemaker Marisa Taylor Huffaker. Huffaker only uses the highest quality fruit hailing 100% from vineyards inside the Napa Valley. Founded in 1972, Rutherford Hill Winery was a pioneer in the development of California Merlot. Today, Merlot remains a flagship varietal among its collection of impressive wines. Rutherford Hill sits on the secluded eastern hillside of the Napa Valley, just off the Silverado Trail. The well-appointed tasting room is inside the handsome wooden winery. Climbing roses and well-tended gardens add to the propertys charm. An expansive courtyard area is the setting for outdoor wine tasting, and picnic tables with stunning views of the Napa Valley are scattered among graceful olive trees. Winery visitors are delighted to encounter wines they have enjoyed in fine restaurants as well as other limited-production wines sold only at the winery. Along with an engaging collection of red wines, Rutherford Hill offers beautiful interpretations of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc as well as a gorgeous dry ros, several impressive red wine blends and a fortified wine, Zinfandel Port. Visit Rutherford Hill and see why Life looks better from Rutherford Hill.
DAILY GuIDED TOuR WITH WINE TASTING A guided tour of the winery, which includes the tasting of ve Napa Valley red wines, launches daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Tour guests are escorted through the winerys cellars and magnicent cave system with stops to taste wines along the way. Winemaking techniques, Napa Valley information and Rutherford Hills history are all discussed. Groups are limited to 20 guests, $25 per person. SpEcIAL OFFERS The tasting room always has an interesting special oer for guests. Vertical boxed sets are one example. Large format bottles and rare library wines are also available. pLAN AHEAD The popular tours and picnic grounds ll up fast. Call ahead to reserve a picnic table or a spot on a tour. When picnicking, please note that, due to legal reasons, only Rutherford Hill wines may be consumed. VARIETALS Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Sangiovese, dry ros, Syrah, Zinfandel Port, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Rutherford Hill Winery

A Terlato Family Property Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 200 Rutherford Hill Road, just off Silverado Trail (707) 963-1871 www.rutherfordhill.com
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RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
Of the 16 sub-appellations in the Napa Valley the Rutherford AVA may be the most renowned. Legendary winemaker Andr Tchelistcheff said, It takes Rutherford dust to grow great Cabernet. The Zaninovich family acquired the winery and estate vineyards in 2000, but have been growing grapes and crafting wines for three generations. The winery grounds include a century-old olive grove and an unpretentious, homey atmosphere makes it a peaceful respite in a day of winery hopping. Visitors are welcome to enjoy picnics under the oak trees. Rutherford Ranchs full line of award-winning, premium Napa Valley varietals include a selection of Cabernet Sauvignons (several only available at the winery), Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel and Rhiannon, a deep, rich proprietary red blend. Our winemaking team crafts elegant, true-to-the-varietal wines with fruit sourced from the two estate vineyards and other select vineyards throughout the valley. The cooler sites yield grapes with bright, rich flavors and tropical fruit characteristics. Warmer sites within the valley produce grapes with deep, intense flavors. Together they provide the winemakers with an unequaled palette of flavor and character and quality. All of the wines are available in the tasting room along with Scott Family Estate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the familys vineyards in Monterey County. Visitors can also enjoy the winerys signature Chocolate & Wine pairing a unique wine experience with local artisan chocolates and purchase family-produced olive oil and organically grown raisins (a visitor and staff favorite). Take the time to discover these Wines Worth Knowing.
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel and a Zinfandel Port-style wine FuN FAcT Corks are a natural and renewable resource produced from the bark of cork oak (Quercus Suber to be exact). in Portugal during spring and summer, the thick outer bark is harvested by hand (mechanized processes have not replaced the age-old methods) without damaging the tree. in fact, studies have shown that cork harvesting actually adds to the trees health and vigor. You can see one of these amazing specimens at the winery. GREEN Ask about the winery's Sustainability Certication from the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance LABELS The wines of Rutherford Wine Company include Rutherford Ranch Winery, Round Hill, Scott Family Estate (Arroyo Seco), Lander-Jenkins Vineyards and Predator.
Rutherford Ranch Winery

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1680 Silverado Trail South, St. Helena (707) 968-3200 | www.rutherfordranch.com Look for Rutherford Ranch Winery on Facebook and Twitter.
Complimentary Wine Tasting Pass Purchase one tasting and receive one complimentary tasting.
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RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
Mumm Napa began in 1979 as a quest to find the ideal winegrowing area in the United States by the legendary French Champagne house of G.H. Mumm. Guy Devaux, who had more than 40 years of experience creating fine still and sparkling wines in France, South America and the United States, found Napa Valley to be the ideal climate. In 1986, Mumm Napa was completed and still produces sparkling wine using the mthode champenoise process. Three distinct seated tasting experiences with personal table service are available. Enjoy the beautiful outdoor Patio, taste in the glass-enclosed Tasting Salon while enjoying views of the surrounding vineyards, or sit on the Oak Terrace for an exclusive library flight with more spectacular views. Mumm Napa offers many exclusive wines only available here so come and experience the luxury of sparkling wine in the quintessential wine country setting. One of the most unique features of the winery, their Fine Art Photography Gallery features a permanent collection by Ansel Adams as well as rotating exhibits by prominent photographers throughout the year. Pick up a glass of bubbly at the Tasting Room and stroll through the galleries at your leisure. While you are here, take a 45-minute guided tour of the winery, stroll through their Fine Art Photography Gallery or browse in their wine shop. Guests proceed to the demonstration vineyard, into the working winery, finishing up in the Fine Art Photography Galleries. Four winery tours are available daily and the 10 a.m. tour is complimentary but By Alexandra charsley doesnt include a tasting.
GOOD TO KNOW No tasting reservations are required for the Patio or Tasting Salon or Oak Terrace. For groups of six or more, advance reservations are necessary, call 1-866-783-5826 or email genevieve.bogle@pernod-ricard-usa.com. During the high season, consider the 10 or 11 a.m. tour, as the 1 and 3 p.m. time slots ll up quickly and its best to visit earlier in the day on the weekends. VISIT The wine shop has an array of items to bring the Wine Country lifestyle home with you plus an amazing assortment of Champagne utes! The tasting rooms, gallery and wine shop are open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Visit their website at mummnapa.com before you go for a current tasting coupon. VARIETALS Sparkling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Mumm Napa
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. 8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 1-800-686-6272 | www.mummnapa.com Follow Mumm Napa on Facebook and Twitter
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2-for-1 Tour Experience Taste 3 sparkling wines and receive a logo flute on tour. Tours daily 11am 1pm and 3pm, $25.
RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
Saddleback Cellars is an unpretentious, small winery nestled in the heart of the Oakville District. Sitting on 17 acres (15 of which is planted in vines), Saddleback Cellars is the passion of winemaker, Nils Venge who, with three decades in the wine business, has been a major presence in the Napa Valley. He was, in fact, the first person to obtain a perfect 100 score from wine critic Robert Parker Jr. for his Cabernet Sauvignon at neighboring Groth Winery. Saddleback is casual, fun and informal. The word boutique is as close as this winery comes to taking on aires. One has the distinct impression that here, it is said with a smile and perhaps a quiet chuckle. You leave pretension behind as soon as you make the turn onto Money Rd. and if there is an over-riding philosophy here it seems to be: Make terrific wine and have a great time. The two are anything but mutually exclusive. The tastings can be, weather dictating, indoors around an antique oval wine tank top or outdoors next to the crush pad. There are picnic tables, vine-facing chairs and market umbrellas with several wines to taste and enjoy. Speakers hum with good ol country music to match the western atmosphere. The floor outside the winery is bark and earth. We are as close to the earth as we can By charles Neave get, just as mother nature intended.
VARIETALS Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Viognier, Chardonnay, Ros, Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon HISTORY I bought the property in 1976. I started the winery six years later, though after the rst crush I had to keep the barrels at neighboring Silver Oak for a year (due to the restructuring and bonding of our building). Today the winery produces around 6,500 cases annually, made from a number of dierent varietals. FuN FAcT Known as "The King of Cab," Nils Venge can be seen on any given day tasting with new friends that come to visit him at the winery. Who knows, you just may be the lucky rst to try the upcoming release of his greatest wine yet the 2007 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon!
Saddleback cellars
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment 7802 Money Road, Oakville (707) 944-1305 www.saddlebackcellars.com Follow Saddleback Cellars on Facebook and Twitter.
Take a photo op on the wine barrel horse or the tractors that are parked on the property.
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RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
Turnbull Wine Cellars is a fabulous winery just off Highway 29 in Oakville, in the famed Napa Valley AVA. When it comes to great wine, the secret is to start with the best fruit. A key component of quality, Turnbull fruit captures the unique character of each of their four estate vineyards. The diversity of sourcing fruit from these four carefully farmed ranches allows Winemaker Peter Heitz to create wines with distinctive flavors that capture the personality of each site and growing season. Experience Turnbulls world-class photography collection while you enjoy Turnbull wines in the Reserve Tasting Room and Art Gallery. This cavernous room holds oak wine barrels floor to vaulted ceiling and the labels signature collection of privately owned fine art photography. For $20 per person, guests visiting the Reserve Room will sample five of Turnbulls Estate Grown, Single Vineyard reserve wines: Cabernet Franc, Merlot and three Cabernet Sauvignons which demonstrate the characteristic effects of each vineyards terroir on the wine it produces. For a $10 tasting fee, guests may sample five estate grown wines in their Estate Tasting Room. The winery itself is special, too. Famous American architect and founder William Turnbull designed many other wineries in Napa during the 1970s. However, when he set out to design this signature winery, his vision was to create a winery where the aesthetics implied that every drop of wine was precious. Today, Turnbull Cellars continues to honor the original design and intention of the property. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
WORLD cLASS FINE ART pHOTOGRApHY Turnbull Wine Cellars quietly boasts one of the nest permanent photography collections on the West Coast. Past exhibitions have featured 60 to 90 privately owned, original works by master photographers including Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Berenice Abbott, Edward Striechen and Yousuf Karsh. Dont miss the current exhibit: Birds of the World Ornithology Prints 1735 1899. Admission to the gallery is always complimentary. FuN FAcT The Turnbull name dates back to the early 1300s when a Game Keeper of Robert the Bruce saved the kings life by turning away a ferocious bull that had threatened to gore the king. The grateful king knighted his subject Turnbull and awarded him a crest featuring a bulls head twisted back that has adorned the Turnbull wines since its founding in 1979. VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Red Blend, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc
Turnbull Wine cellars

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8210 St. Helena Highway, Oakville 1-800-887-6285 www.turnbullwines.com
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Visit the website for current releases, events and specials www.turnbullwines.com
RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE
St. Supry Estate Vineyards and Winery is owned by the Skalli family of France whose family has been making wine for several generations. The winery offers guests a new luxurious experience in wine tasting with their vertical tastings and engaging tours. Their From Vineyard to Glass tour will educate guests on seasonal farming activities and discuss the current growing cycle. Each tour includes wine tasting in the cellar from tank or barrel and a guided tasting of finished wines in one of St. Supry Estates private tasting rooms. Or, schedule a St. Supry Estates Historical Tasting and enjoy a tasting of Napa Valley Estate and Single-Vineyard Estate wines inside their historic Victorian Atkinson House overlooking the vineyards in Rutherford. Guests experience a taste of Napa Valleys history along with St. Supry Estates personal story and vineyard walk. Their main building houses two recently renovated tasting rooms and a fine art gallery. Guests are encouraged to view the art gallery which overlooks state-of-the-art technology in a traditional Napa setting with catwalk views of the winemaking process. St. Supry Estate has, in fact, carved out their niche as a cutting-edge winery producing premium Bordeaux-style wines without sacrificing the charm of Napa. Their Rutherford estate vineyard surrounds the winery and is planted with the red Bordeaux varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Their other estate vineyard, Dollarhide Ranch, is nestled in a serene corner of Napa Valley and is the origin of most St. Supry Estate wines. By Alexandra charsley
FuN FAcTS St. Supry Estate is dog-friendly! Guests and their well-behaved pooches are welcome to spend an afternoon in our park surrounded by amazing views of the vineyards. St. Supry Estate tastings can be enjoyed outdoors so guests and their furry companions can relish a beautiful afternoon in Napa together nestled along the vines. VISIT All current vintages, as well as library tasting ights are oered daily. Call ahead to schedule a tour at 1-800-231-9116 or email Events@stsupery.com. Enjoy a vertical tasting of their award-winning Dollarhide Single-Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. For red wine enthusiasts, try four vintages of St. Supry Estates renowned lu blend side by side and experience how this Bordeaux-style red wine develops over time in the bottle.
St. Supry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 8440 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA (707) 963-4533 | www.stsupery.com Follow St. Supry Estate on Facebook and Twitter.
Mention this Day Trips and Enjoy Two Flights of Estate Cabernet Sauvignons for the Price of One.
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Oak Knoll/Stags Leap

FOOD Soda canyon Store 4006 Silverado Trail, Napa (707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com The perfect place to begin or end your day in Napa Valley. Known year round for its delicatessen, espresso bar, boxed lunches, fine wine and gourmet cheese selection, this is a fun, insiders' favorite. Fum Bistro 4050 Byway East, Napa (707) 257-1999, www.fumebistro.com Always seasonally correct, great service and comfortable seating. An American bistro with fare spiced with Italian, Mediteranean and French influences, Fum Bistro's dishes are simple, honest and straightforwardly delicious. Bistro Don Giovanni 4110 Howard Lane, Napa (707) 224-3300, www.bistrodongiovanni.com From the outdoor terrace to the candlelight to crackling, wood-burning fireplace, Bistro Don Giovanni invites you to savor all things delicious from Napa Valley. LODGING Oak Knoll Inn 2200 E. Oak Knoll Avenue, Napa (707) 255-2200, www.oakknollinn.com Wine Spectator Magazine reviewed the Oak Knoll Inn as "One of the most luxurious B&Bs in all of Napa Valley." It is easy to see why. Set within 600 acres of Chardonnay vineyards, the Inn's old stone building, graceful sweep of Cyprus trees and exquisite service make Oak Knoll Inn a perfect retreat. The cottages of Napa Valley 1012 Darms Lane, Napa (707) 252-7810, www.napacottages.com Welcome to your own private cottage in Wine Country! Cottages come with gardens and tubs the perfect place to indulge in a glass (or two) of wine at any time of the day. The basket of fresh pastries from Bouchon every morning doesn't hurt either!
Spanning the width of central Napa Valley and encompassing both the Silverado Trail and Highway 29, Oak Knoll may be a bit less known to distant visitors, but in no way is it less mighty than its neighboring AVAs! Filled with manicured vineyards and many new wineries, Oak Knoll is an adventure in wine cultivation. Oak Knoll is known for its elegant Merlots, Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. Stags Leap AVA, situated along the southern end of the Silverado Trail just north of Oak Knoll, was the first AVA in the u.S. to be determined by the unique soil and terrain. Stags Leap produces world renowned Cabernet Sauvignon as well as other Bordeaux varietals.
Driving Time: 18 minutes From Baldacci to Stags Leap 1+ miles to Hagafen 5+ miles to Monticello 1+ miles Total 8 miles
Map Not to Scale

THINGS TO DO picnic at Soda canyon Store 4006 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 (707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com Purchase your picnic or boxed lunch inside and then enjoy it out in a creekside vineyard setting. Both shaded and sunny picnic options are available. Open daily, year-round. Napa Valley Bike Tours 6795 Washington Street, Yountville (707) 944-2953 www.napavalleybiketours.com Rent safe, clean bikes for a few hours, a whole day or even join in for a four-night bicycling vacation! Guided and self-guided tours also available. What a great find!
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OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP
Baldacci Family Vineyards, started in 1997 when Tom and Brenda Baldacci purchased this sweet 17-acre parcel with ample hills and vales to provide the ideal setting to grow great Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2001, the Baldaccis added a 7,000-square-foot wine production cave in the hillside behind the tasting room. The estate vineyard now produces classic Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon silky-textured with ripe black fruit flavors and refined tannins, ready to enjoy now or ageworthy up to 10 years. That eye for the viticultural best is reflected enologically in every bottling of Baldacci wines. Known best for affordably excellent Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignons there are three, the single-block Brendas Vineyard, the Black Label 100% Cabernet from all the vineyard blocks, and the IV Sons Fraternity, which is a blend of the Cabernet with Merlot and Syrah from the Carneros Estate vineyard. Baldacci Family Vineyards also produces the Ruppert Cabernet from Coombsville appellation and a range of Carneros wines, including the Sorelle Chardonnay, the Elizabeth Pinot Noir and the Frederich Gewrztraminer. The new Cellar Reserve Tasting in the 1923 Farm House presents a rare opportunity to enjoy reserve and limited production wines in a setting that evokes a time many decades ago before the valley was Napa Valley and wine was simply about the best the land could give. Come see for yourself what one familys vision has produced along the eastern side of the Stags Leap District! Baldaccis winery permit requires that visitors have a prior appointment. Its easy to get an appointment, often on the same day, by calling (707) 944-9261. The staff will be genuinely happy to see you, and quite proud to show you their wares.
WHAT TO TASTE Winemaker Rolando Herrera recommends the Brendas Vineyard Cabernet for its display of fruit from a very special vineyard block. Sales Manager Fran Leach praises the Mathilde Pinot Noir because it delivers, spring in a glass! Naturally enough, owners Thomas and Brenda commend the iV Sons Fraternity, named in honor of their four sons: Kevin, Michael, Tommy and Matthew. pLAN AHEAD The Cellar Reserve Tasting in the 1923 Farm House requires advance reservations for this very rare small-group experience. Make sure not to miss your opportunity! LITTLE KNOWN FAcT The Stags Leap District is Cabernet Country, but the Elizabeth Pinot Noir from the estate property in the southern Carneros district has a justly earned cult following. VARIETALS Three dierent SLD Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and other frequently changing limitedproduction wines, including gewrztraminer and Syrah.
Baldacci Family Vineyards

Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by prior appointment 6236 Silverado Trail, Napa (707) 944-9261 Look for Baldacci Family Vineyards on Facebook, Twitter: @BaldacciWinery and Yelp!
Mention Day Trips to receive a Two-for-One Classic Tasting.

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Drive into the historic and world famous Stags Leap Winery and be transported back in time. The old stone Manor House was built more than 110 years ago from local rock and granite quarried nearby, and the winery itself gave rise to the very legends that are the Napa Valley red wines. Located seven miles north of downtown Napa, Stags Leap is a fabled 240-acre estate and one of Californias first wineries. Grapes have been farmed here continuously since the 1880s. Stags Leap Winery is the namesake for Stags Leap AVA and some of the most idealized Napa Valley wines. Unique terroir and succinct microclimate support Stags Leaps classic approach to winemaking, vineyard management and viticulture practices. As a result, the wines produced are rich and show remarkable finesse and intensity. Its no wonder Stags Leap continues to enjoy a reputation as one of the nations most critically acclaimed wineries. Indeed, Stags Leap wines embody the very expression of Napas finest grapes, soil and climate. Winemaker Christophe Paubert likes to say that We didnt invent winemaking, we just work hard at it. And the labels current releases certainly benefit from this ethic. Be sure to try the Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon called The Leap ($75). This is Stags Leap most distinctive Cabernet, made year after year from the block of vines located at the doorstep to the Manor House in exceptionally well-drained volcanic soil. The Leap was created to showcase this intimate vineyard block and to offer wine lovers and collectors a long-lived Cabernet. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
FuN FAcT: By the 1920s, Stags Leap Manor, as it came to be known, was a fashionable destination spot for vacationing Hollywood elite and bootleggers, regardless of that pesky federal law called Prohibition. The property played host to legends of rum-runners, painted ladies, gangsters, gypsies, and even today, rumored ghosts. DONT MISS: Be sure to see the pool one of the rst swimming pools in all of California! VARIETALS: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Chardonnay, Viognier and Ros HOW TO VISIT: Make an appointment well in advance! The Historical Tour and Tasting takes you through the history, property and a tasting of ve wines (red and white). $45 per person. Tours are daily at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Stags Leap Winery

By advance appointment only 6150 Silverado Trail, Napa 1-800-395-2441 www.stagsleap.com
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Mention Day Trips and receive $5 o your tasting.

Hagafen, which means the grapevine in Hebrew, is a family winery just off the Silverado Trail in Napa that opened in 2000. This boutique winery, owned by Ernie and Irit Weir, produces ultra-premium wines that have earned numerous awards. As Ernie says, Fine wine starts in the vineyard with careful vineyard management. My goal is to showcase the best that our land has produced. Our small lot bottlings start with superb fruit, and we seek to artisanally shape each to showcase its uniqueness and the specific region from which it originates. For these reasons, our total annual production is only 8,000 cases. Ernie first came to Napa in the 1970s when he worked for Domaine Chandon while attending UC Davis to study viticulture and enology. In 1997, Ernie left Domaine Chandon to build the Hagafen Cellars winery and tasting room. Their intimate tasting room is a hidden little gem along the Silverado Trail with a relaxed atmosphere. Even though you are still in Napa, their location is private and serene. With all the attention their wines receive, Hagafen Cellars merits a visit while in Napa Valley. Discover their hand-crafted wines poured daily in their tasting room or patio. While Hagafen is the winerys main label, Prix Vineyards is the exclusive Reserve wine series sold only at the winery and to wine club members. These limited production wines define this small family run winery. Their own vineyards yield roughly half of the grapes used for their annual production. Their grapes are organically grown including some that are purchased. By Alexandra charsley
FuN FAcT Since 1980, their wines have been served on numerous occasions at the White House, mostly at meals honoring visiting Israeli prime ministers and presidents. This year, the Hagafen 2007 Cuvee de Noirs sparkling wine was served at President Barack Obamas annual White House Hanukkah dinner. VISIT Their tasting room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a picnic area in back. Tours are oered daily by appointment only at 11 a.m., except Saturdays. Call ahead at 1-888-424-2336 or email at visit@hagafen.com. Visit their website hagafen.com, before you go for complimentary tasting passes or join their mailing list and follow them on Facebook to stay updated and receive special oers.
Hagafen cellars
Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours, by appointment only, are conducted daily at 11 a.m. 4160 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 1-888-HAGAFEN (424-2336) e-mail: visit@hagafen.com www.hagafen.com Follow Hagafen Cellars on Facebook and Twitter.
15% o purchase of wine in tasting room with Day Trips.

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Down in the Oak Knoll District of lower Napa Valley, The Corley Familys Monticello Vineyards is a winery with a great story to tell and great wine to share while theyre telling it. Jay Corley came to Napa Valley in 1969 with the spirit of a pioneer, intent on finding some land to grow his favorite varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He found the perfect plot just north of the town of Napa in what is today known as the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley. Jay was also a great admirer of Thomas Jefferson, who was not only a founding father but also Americas first great wine connoisseur. He honored the third President by naming the winery Monticello Vineyards after Jeffersons mountaintop home in Charlottesville, Virginia. In 1984, the Corleys built their Jefferson House, an homage to Jeffersons Monticello, on the Home Ranch that is now used as office space and to entertain guests. Jay Corley has since passed the reins of the vineyards and winery to three of his sons: Kevin, winegrower and president; Stephen, who oversees sales and marketing; and Chris, the winemaker. Chris, the youngest of the three brothers, has worked at the winery the longest. Initially aiming to be a marine biologist, Chris eventually decided he would rather drown in wine than sea water. He worked in the cellar under other winemakers for 13 years before he earned the stripes to become head winemaker in 2002. In the quaint, rustic tasting room, the staff pours a little bit of everything the Corleys produce from 80 acres of vines on the Home Ranch in the Oak Knoll District, as well as four other estate vineyards in Napa Valley. With 30 vintages under their belts, the Corleys also like to show off their library wines in reserve tastings in the Jefferson House, where guests can slip into the comfortable black leather chairs and enjoy a flight of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. For Pinot lovers, theres also some wonderful Pinot Noir from this estate that enjoys the cooling influences of the San Pablo Bay. The Monticello Vineyards Pinot Noir ends up being the surprise hit for many customers. People come here for our Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay, Stephen Corley says, but they leave with Cabernet or By Michelle J. Baker Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir.
FuN FAcT The four acres of grounds surrounding the Jeerson House are comprised of the same trees, shrubs and owers Thomas Jeerson planted at his Monticello estate in Virginia. WHAT TO TASTE Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir and a Bordeaux-style red blend pLAN AHEAD The Home Ranch has a beautiful picnic area and oers wines by the glass. Bring a picnic and enjoy!
corley Family Napa Valley/ Monticello Vineyards

Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 4242 Big Ranch Road Napa, CA 94558 www.corleyfamilynapavalley.com (707) 253-2802 Follow the Corley Family on Facebook & Twitter.
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Get 2 Classic Tastings for the price of 1 ($15 value)

Napa
Downtown Napa is an essential stop for any visitor. This charming old town is filled with great shops, wine tasting venues, fine dining, inns and all sorts of special events happening along the recently restored waterfront and trees-lined avenues. For whats going on in Downtown Napa, visit the website at. www.napadowntown.com
FOOD cole's chop House 1122 Main Street, Napa (707) 224-6328, www.coleschophouse.com Make your reservations for this classic American chop house in the heart of old town Napa. The menu features 21 dry-aged prime steaks, Certified Angus Beef, New Zealand lamb and fresh seafood. celadon 500 Main Street, Napa (707) 254-9690, www.celadonnapa.com A quasi-casual dining experience, Celadon takes the best of Napa Valley produce, wines and foods and serves them up as Global Comfort Foods with a casual, stylish flair. No pretensions here just delicious lunch and dinner! Fum Bistro & Bar 4050 Byway East Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1999, \www.fumebistro.com/ Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fum Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmers market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly welcoming atmosphere. LODGING The Meritage Hotel & Spa 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, (707) 251-1900 1-866-370-6272, www.themeritageresort.com Lavish guest rooms and Napas only underground full-service Spa is sure to soothe your weary soul. Dine at the award-winning Siena restaurant. THINGS TO DO Oxbow public Market 644 1st Street, Napa, (707) 226-6529 www.oxbowpublicmarket.com One-of-a-kind foods, picnics, wines and unique shopping all under one roof. Friday night music and Saturday morning Farmers Markets are a treat.
Driving Time: 31 minutes From Reata to Thomas Kinkade 7+ miles to CaMomi >1 mile to Wine Train >1 mile to 1313 Main >1 mile to Vinoce/Twenty Rows >1 mile to Fum Bistro 3+ miles Total 12+ miles
Map Not to Scale

Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Napa Valley 1390 1st Street, Napa Town Center, Napa (707) 258-8200, www.thomaskinkadeofnapavalley.com This exclusive gallery specializes in the art of Thomas Kinkade but also features the fine art of June Carey depicting the beautiful landscapes of the Napa Valley a perfect wine country keepsake! Napa Valley Opera House 1030 Main Street, Napa (707) 226-5392, www.nvoh.org Celebrating 130 years of artistic excellence! Check out Ziggy Marley, Court Yard Hounds, Paula Poundstone, Jim Messina and numerous opera performances for this summer!
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NAPA
On a hilltop overlooking the southern edge of Napa Valley, Reata is surrounded by more than 300 acres of rolling hillsides and immaculate vineyards. The winery invites guests from around the world to enjoy its warm hospitality and wine tasting experiences that enliven the senses. Reatas spacious tasting room features a panorama of the winerys picturesque vineyards and the sun-drenched hills of Napa Valley. The ambiance here is a kick-off-your-boots-and-stay-awhile approach with programs and activities to support the laid back philosophy of the winery. Guests are invited to relax on the charming veranda with sweeping views of the Wine Country, unwind at the gorgeous tasting bar or relax on comfy cowhide chairs or by the fireplace. Reatas specially tailored wine tastings showcase the winerys latest releases for a tasting fee of $15, refunded with purchase. The wines featured during the tastings can include Estate Pinot Grigio, Estate Viognier, Estate and Napa Valley Chardonnay, Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Estate and Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, Estate Syrah and Napa Valley Petite Sirah. In addition to wine tasting, be sure to taste Reatas Bee-Line honey. Made from over 60,000 bees on the Estate, there are four flavors of organic honey available in the tasting room. The wide range of Reata wines captures the unique character and style of the winerys surroundings. Long, cool days on the ranch produce grapes that have great intensity of flavor, complexity, elegance and balance. These are wines that go beyond simple pleasure and capture the true character of the land.
GOOD TO KNOW Reata now oers unique and private barrel tastings for up to 12 guests. Tour their expansive barrel room and sample wines that are currently being crafted and learn about how their wines are made. Two unnished wines in various stages of aging will be selected for each barrel tasting. After sampling the wines, taste the nished bottled wines and compare their scents and avors. Barrel tastings are held daily and by appointment only. Barrel tastings can be scheduled for private parties. Whichever tasting you choose, Reata Winery will provide you with a memorable wine tasting experience during your stay in Napa Valley. The cost of a barrel tasting is $30 and $15 will be credited to the purchase of a bottle of wine. Reata is also available for events, up to 200 people.
Reata Winery
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For reservations, call (707) 254-8673 ext. 119 1 Kirkland Ranch Road, Napa (707) 254-8673 | www.reatawines.com
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Bring in Day Trips to receive two-for-one tasting.

What do you do if youve fallen in love with the Napa Valley and want to keep the flavor of the world-class wines and the feel of the vast vineyards fresh in your mind? Visit The Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley Gallery and take a piece of Napa Valley home. The gallery is the exclusive Napa Valley gallery for the fine art of June Carey. Junes art depicts the beautiful landscapes of the Napa Valley area and its wineries. June Carey began painting full time in 1982. On a late summer afternoon escape, traveling to the Mendocino coast, she discovered the California wine country. I spend my most inspiring times running after the perfect light with my camera, in California and Italy, climbing fences, trees, being chased by dogs and field workers, and getting lost. Her passion springs forth through the beauty of the fertile earth. The Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley Gallery is a privately owned and operated Fine Art Gallery. Owners Michael and Kimberly Perata have been avid fine art collectors for over a decade. We specialize in finding sold-out and hard to find images at no cost to the collector, says Kimberly. Carrol Cox, Executive Gallery Director has specialized in Thomas Kinkade art work for more than 17 years. This gallery is the destination among the vineyards. Its located in the heart of the hip and happening, historical downtown Napa, right in the middle of world renowned restaurants and wine tasting bars. Not only will you find the perfect Thomas Kinkade or June Carey image for you and your family, but you will be treated like family. The gallery is warm and homey, so its easy to picture one of the beautiful works of art on their walls, hanging in your own home. The Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Napa Valley also carries the Secret Art of Dr. Seuss rare and sold out editions from his various collections. By Karin Argoud
FuN FAcTS The Gallery has rare, one-of-kind images with hand-sketched scenes on the back by Thomas Kinkade. These images are only available though the gallery. Thomas Kinkade is Americas most collected living artist. 2008 marks the 25th anniversary of Thomas Kinkade as a published artist. June Carey owns a home in Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy June Carey is a self taught artist and has won many outstanding awards.
Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Napa Valley

Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m to 5 p.m. Extended summer hours Thursday-Saturday Closed on Wednesdays 1390 1st Street, Napa Town Center Napa, CA 94559 (707) 258-8200 Email tkofnapa@yahoo.com
Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley Gallerys number one goal? Customer satisfaction.
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Imported Vines by June Carey 2006 Courtesy of The Greenwich Workshop, Inc.
NAPA
Vigna Del Sole by June Carey 2001 Courtesy of The Greenwich Workshop, Inc.
NAPA
From the beginning, Ca Momi chose to make their great wines from the finest grapes in Napa Valley. They wanted people to be able to drink their wines every night for dinner and decided that in order to do that, they would not build an extravagant tasting room, but rather showcase all of their delicacies in a perfect downtown Napa setting in the Oxbow Public Market. Their focus has always been Obsessively Authentic Italian and this view is realized at their Enoteca. Owners Dario De Conti, Valentina Guolo-Migotto and Stefano Migotto want guests to experience a little slice of Italy. Ca Momi Enoteca is proud to offer authentic Italian food, including Neapolitan-style pizzas from their wood-fired brick oven made with organic, local and Italian ingredients. In Italy, food and wine are a part of life, and one needs the other. An Enoteca is a place to taste and buy wines and grab a quick bite. We want this Enoteca to bring the real Italy straight to Napa, says winemaker and certified trained Pizzaiolo Dario De Conti. They were recently voted Napa Valleys Best Wood Oven Pizza at the Silver Oak Pizza Competition so this is one place that should be on your list to visit! If you like sweets, their pastry case is sure to tempt you. They offer authentic Italian sweets that can be enjoyed there with a glass of wine or a cappuccino. To complement their menu, they feature a unique wine list of Ca Momi wines and a selection of artisanal Italian producers. Their knowledgeable staff will help you choose the right wine for either a sweet or savory pairing to complete your meal. By Alexandra charsley
GOOD TO KNOW While they do not oer a winery tasting room, you can visit the Ca Momi Enoteca in the Oxbow Public Market to taste and purchase their ne wines, gourmet pizzas and sweets. Ca Momi makes seriously good wine made at a reasonable price so you can enjoy daily! Ca Momi oers full service breakfast, lunch and dinner and reservations are accepted online through OpenTable or by calling in advance.
ca Momi Winery & Enoteca

Open daily at the Oxbow Public Market from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. 610 First Street, Napa (707) 257-4992 | www.camomi.com Make a reservation at Ca Momi with OpenTable: www.opentable.com/ca-momi-enoteca
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Bring in Day Trips for a complimentary wine tasting, up to 4 people and 15% o Ca' Momi cases
NAPA
Only one wine tasting bar in Napa County is literally on rails and located in a historic Pullman car almost a century old. The Wine Trains wine bar reflects a time of luxurious passenger travel served with the exciting addition of todays sophisticated pastimes sipping wine, learning about wine and enjoying the graciousness of life. Vineyards roll past and, depending upon the time of year, you can watch the vineyards as they move slowly through their life cycle. At any given time, the wine bar will sport 40 to 50 bottles of wine available to taste. Flights can be suggested and selected by the wine educator staffing the bar, or you can pick and choose whatever flight you might fancy. A stroll through this amazing vintage train with a wonderful lunch or dinner and a stop at the wine bar, is a chance to revisit American history and renew your own personal connections with friends, family and life. Dedicated to preserving a luxurious way of life, the Napa Valley Wine Train is instrumental in maintaining and using historic rail cars that are very rare on the American landscape. In Napa, they also preserve an important transportation corridor that would have been abandoned decades ago. They layer this with a unique and award-wining restaurant, and an opportunity to explore the wine country in a relaxed and pampered manner that takes place outside your windows as you roll along these historic rail tracks, removed from both traffic and care. By charles Neave
VARIETALS You name it, they might very well have it from a carefully considered list. pLAN AHEAD The Napa Valley Wine Train runs year round with lunch trains boarding at 10:50 a.m. Dinner trains open one to ve nights a week boarding at 5:50 p.m. Be sure to check the website. FuN FAcT The Wine Train is the rst and only locomotive in the United States to convert to compressed natural gas. HOW HEAVY? Each of the 1915-1917 Pullman-made rail cars weigh approximately 80 tons.. SpIcES Chef Kelly Macdonald is one of the masters when it comes to the use of spices not to necessarily provide heat but a depth of avor. SpEcIAL OFFERS Be sure to check their informative website.
Napa Valley Wine Train

1275 McKinstry Street, Napa (707) 253-2111 winetrain.com Look for the Wine Train on Facebook and Twitter.
Check out Napa Valleys only Evening Winery Tour. The rst of its kind!
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NAPA
A Bold, New Kind of Wine Destination in Downtown Napa! Beautiful, intimate and sophisticated, but not the least bit stuffy, 1313 Main wine bar and lounge, located in downtown Napa, is a place where friends can meet to relax and enjoy fine wine, craft beers and tasty, artisanal plates in a chic, urban ambiance amidst supremely comfortable furnishings. Featuring more than 1,300 rotating wine labels on a daily basis, guests can sample 13 reds and 13 whites by the taste, glass, flight or bottle. Owner Al Jabarin and his top notch team of wine experts are on hand to offer suggestions and to encourage guests to step outside the box and discover new varietals and producers. Join them on Facebook and Twitter and receive invitations to spontaneous tastings of often difficult, sometimes impossible to procure cult wines from Als secret stash of old and unique vintages. In addition to the established producers and well-known winemakers that are featured in tastings and dinners, 1313 Main also showcases garage wines made by young and talented new winemakers that offer fresh ideas and products. Although theres plenty of wine knowledge/talk swirling around, the emphasis at 1313 Main is on the pleasures surrounding wine includingevery Friday and Saturday, Bubbles & Beats offers a selection of 13 Champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world, plus local DJ Triphop and Lounge music.
WINES BY THE TASTE, GLASS, FLIGHT OR BOTTLE Guests can sample a daily oering of 13 white and red wines by the taste, glass, ight or bottle. cRAFTED BEERS Daily oerings of 13 brews. ARTISANAL SMALL pLATES Small plates featuring local and artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, breads and olives are paired with the daily white and red wine lists. Plus, daily house-made sweets. HAppY HOuR Sunday through Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m. Two-for-one menu, including wines by the glass, bottled beers and artisan plates. INDuSTRY/HOSpITALITY pOLIcY Monday and Tuesday, industry and hospitality members can enjoy wines by the bottle onsite at retail shelf prices. WEEKEND BuBBLES & BEATS Every Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. to midnight 13 selections of Champagne/sparkling wines from around the world; plus DJ Triphop and lounge music. WINEMAKER WEDNESDAY Every Wednesday, 4 to 7 p.m. Meet the winemaker, taste the wines and receive a discount on bottle purchases.
1313 Main
ne wine | retail | tasting bar Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 1313 Main Street, Napa www.1313main.com | (707) 258-1313
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Check for Weekly Spontaneous Specials oered through Facebook and Twitter.
NAPA
This place is unique, thats for sure, said Tim Nuss, part of the family that owns Vinoce and Twenty Rows in Napa. Twenty Rows is not just in the Napa Valley but within city limits. The place he is talking about is the tasting room and winery on Vallejo Street, a five-minute walk from the center of the city. Weve been here for about eight years, Tim said. And we really are the only family owned and operated winery in the city. The subtle cream and rust red colored front with flower boxes, a heavy metal Bordeaux-red door, black awning with gold letters and a caf table with two chairs, belie the fact that inside is a handsome tasting room with wood table and chairs and polished tile floor. But this a working winery with oak barrels, tall stainless steel tanks, stacked cases and a loading dock. Off to one side is a compact laboratory. The facility is owned by Brian and Lori Nuss who, for about three decades, have developed an intimate knowledge of growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes on Mount Veeder. Today theyre dedicated to creating wines that reflect the true expression of that appellation. Total annual output is a very respectable 10,000 cases a year, all in a building that was once a brewery. The name Vinoce, is a play on the Nuss Family name and Brians German-Italian heritage. Nuss means nut in German and noce is nut in Italian. When intermingled with vin for wine, Vinoce means Wine Nut. Which, for anyone involved in making first-rate wine, is probably a fairly accurate description. But for the visitor, what it means is a fun, one-of-a-kind experiBy charles Neave ence.
VARIETALS Vinoce: Cabernet Franc blend, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc Twenty Rows: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a Zinfandel blend FAMILY Any day of the week you can run into one or all four of the Nuss family generations working, tasting and of course playing at the winery. WHAT THEYRE SAYING Twenty Rows has a posh tasting room and top-notch wines but without the hoity-toity vibe. Ian White, 7x7 Magazine SpEcIALS Be sure to check their website for oers and for upcoming special events held at the winery.
Vinoce and Twenty Rows

Tuesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. also by appointment on Monday 880 Vallejo Street, Napa www.twentyrows.com For tours and tasting, call Tim Nuss (707) 287-1063 Follow them on Facebook.
Two-for-one Barrel Tasting ($30 value) with this story.

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NAPA
Mark my words: this comfy Napa restaurant will be your favorite new place. Beloved by locals and visitors to Napa wine country, Fum Bistro & Bar caters to food lovers who already know you dont need the big, ego-driven restaurant to find the best food in town. Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fum Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmers market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly welcoming atmosphere. Its no wonder Terry enjoys a passionate, local clientele. He invests in local farms, works to bolster community causes, and delivers fantastic, fresh, regional food and off the beaten path wines without the big price tags normally associated with fine dining in Napa Valley. One of eight kids, Terrys love of food began first as survival and morphed into passion. Later, with years of hard work, two successful Los Angeles restaurants under his belt, Letson moved to his food and wine Mecca the Napa Valley for the lifestyle and opened Fum Bistro & Bar. Artistic talent is abundant in his family. Terry is married to local artist Sheri DeBow whose artwork frequently adorns the walls of thier bistro. Understanding all elements of running a successful restaurant, Terry worked to build strong ties with local growers and producers of only the freshest produce, meats, cheeses and wines. His menu and the Bistros joyful cadence reflect his passion for delivering the best food, service and experience to each customer, each night. Rave reviews have not stopped since Fum Bistro opened, even garnering Terry the coveted Chef of the Year for New Cuisine in Northern California award! This American bistro is all about really good food, great wine and By Abigail p. Zimmerman an experience you want to share.
GOOD TO KNOW Every Wednesday night during the summer months dont miss Farmers Market Meals. Chef Terry Letson shops the Napa Valley Farmers Market that morning to nd what he will prepare for dinner that night. Only the freshest, in-season foods are whipped up into a set price, fabulous three-course meal. While the menu changes weekly, two items are always on the menu: house favorites Pork Chop and Salmon. Dont miss Lauras No Chuck Vegetarian Burger and Bistro Fries ($11) or the Flash Fried Calamari ($11). But each week the menu changes to reect whats most in season. Fum is also well known for its full bar and favorite local bartender Adam White come in and let him make you one of his signature seasonal drinks using the freshest ingredients. Happy Hour is Monday - Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. and the bar is always a friendly, bustling place.
Fum Bistro & Bar

Open daily for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and even Happy Hour 4050 Byway East, Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1999 | fumebistro.com
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Napas great American Bistro that is all about great food, great wines, and welcoming service!
Coombsville has been a hidden treasure east of downtown Napas Oxbow district for years. Known mostly to locals and wine buffs, this region is experiencing a renaissance, and rightly so. The proper boundaries and name for this to-be-AVA may be pending, but one thing is for certain the grapes from this plateau under mount St. george is one of the reasons Napa Valley is world renown for big, bold reds and elegant whites. FOOD Model Bakery 644 1st Street #B, Napa (707) 259-1128, www.themodelbakery.com A fixture in downtown St. Helena for over 80 years, Model bakery specializes in artisan breads, organic stone ground flours, and a complete range of pastry products and fine coffee or teas.
Driving Time: 17 minutes From Farella to Sodaro Estate > 1 mile to Porter Family > 4 miles to Tulocay 2 miles Total 6 miles
Coombsville
Kara's cupcakes 610 1st Street, Napa, (707) 258-2253 www.karascupcakes.com Batch after batch of handmade, organic cupcakes to dream about long after you leave!! Dont think about the calories all ingredients are sourced from local vendors and are organic.
Map Not to Scale
pica pica Maize Kitchen 610 1st Street, #5, Napa, (707) 251-3757 Explore the undiscovered cuisine of Venezuela and pair these fine dishes with the best Napa Valley wines! Try the house signature dish: the Arepa. Hog Island Oysters Oyster Bar 641 1st Street, Napa (707) 251-8113, www.hogislandoysters.com Hog Island is a local and tourist favorite. With its simple menu, great wine list and perfect oyster bar, Hog Island is always a sure thing. Gott's Roadside cafe 644 1st Street, Napa (707) 224-6900, www.gottsroadside.com One of the best burgers in all of Napa Valley! This 50s style eatery may look like a roadside diner but that burger or fried green tomato BLT is made with only the finest ingredients. Fabulous, every bite! LODGING Milliken creek Inn & Spa 1815 Silverado Trail, Napa (707) 255-1197, www.millikencreekinn.com One of the most coveted luxury hotel & spas in Napa! Relax on three green acres overlooking the Napa River and unwind with that special glass of wine in hand. The Westin Verasa 1314 McKinstry Street, Napa (707) 257-1800, www.strawoodhotels.com Built snugly on the banks of the Napa River, the Westin is a calm, naturally beautiful haven of luxury accommodations, stylish suites richly appointed, fine wines and cuisine. THINGS TO DO Tillerman Tea 610 1st Street, #8, Napa (707) 265-0200, www.tillermantea.com Tea lover? Do NOT miss Tillerman Tea. Applying the concept of terroir to tea, proprietor David Campbell brings a global knowledge of cultivation, craftsmanship and culture to every cup. Oxbow public Market 2180 Jefferson Street, Napa (707) 257-7878, www.oxbowpublicmarket.com Find everything you are looking for under one roof. Situated in the heart of Downtown Napas Oxbow District, the Public Market is a great collection of fine wines, foods & crafts purveyors.
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COOMBSVILLE
Rarely are you allowed access to one of the premiere winemakers of the Napa Valley. Most tasting rooms have you jockeying for position for a sample from someone hired to simply pour wine. A visit to Farella Vineyard allows for a much more intimate and unforgettable wine tasting experience. Very often it is winemaker Tom Farella himself who will take you on a tour of their vineyard and winery. Walking with him down the rows of vines, tasting ripe fruit as you go, or barrel tasting in the cellar, you will hear his philosophy of winemaking firsthand. There are many passionate visionaries who have made the Napa Valley what it is today. Tom Farella, however, is one of the most fascinating. A true renaissance man, this poet/winemaker has managed to produce some of the most intriguing wines on the market today while maintaining the essence of a man whose job it is to work with the earth. While he considers himself more a steward of the land rather than a winemaker, that stance understates his immense talent. The vineyard is the boss, says Tom and his wines agree. Toms father, Frank Farella, planted the vineyard in 1979 and created Farella-Park Vineyards in 1985. Tom Farella is a man who does not take for granted what life has handed him. It really is a fascinating thing to take a plant, stick it in the ground, grow some luscious fruit, ferment it naturally, age it in an oak barrel, draw off the clear wine and put it in a bottle. This magic is what we offer from our little slice of a very unique spot on the planet. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW Farella Vineyard and Farella-Park wines is located in the Coombsville area, which is named after Nathan Coombs, the founder of the city of Napa. Tom Farellas favorite wine is their red blend, Alta. As he describes, I love Alta because it is where all the colors come together. To compose the perfect wine takes very careful attention to detail. 100% estate bottled Farella wines have been made exclusively by Farella family members since 1985. Barrel tasting is one of Toms favorite ways to give visitors a true picture of how his wines develop and mature. Look for Toms upcoming blog about winemaking on their Facebook page, and read rsthand about the intricacies and nuances of winemaking in the Napa Valley.
Farella Vineyard
Open by appointment only. 2222 North 3rd Avenue, Napa (707) 254-9489 | www.farella.com Follow Farella Vineyard on Facebook.
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Mention Day Trips for two complimentary wine tastings.

COOMBSVILLE
If youve ever visited Sicily, youd be forgiven for thinking you had been transported there when sitting at a table overlooking the magnificent vineyards of Sodaro Estate Winery. From the quintessential villa rising above the vineyards, to the rolling hills lined with vines, this is exactly why one travels to Italy. But you dont need a passport to experience the sweeping vineyard views and fabulous wines of Sodaro Estates. A leisurely drive up a picturesque back road will deliver you to one of the most intimate and scenic wineries in Northern California. The Sodaro family is exceedingly proud of their Sicilian heritage. Their lineage of winemaking started with Giuseppe Sodaro, a craftsman who made his name as a wine barrel maker in Italy. Three generations later his grandson, Don Sodaro and his wife Felicity would take that love of the vine to its fruition and become the owners of Sodaro Estate Winery. A visit to Sodaro Estates is not like your typical wine country experience. Here youll be treated to a personal tour of the vineyards and escorted along the rows of vines to learn about the passionate art of growing wine grapes. Then youre in the caves of Sodaro and their tasting room. This magnificently appointed room is the perfect place in which to sample the craftsmanship from the winemaking team of Bill and Dawnine Dyer, the only husband and wife winemakers in the Napa Valley. In the hands of this talented duo, the grapes of the estate have produced some of the finest Cabernets and Cabernet blends in the area. A pairing of local cheeses will enhance your enjoyment of this delightful winery.
GOOD TO KNOW Dons grandfather, Giuseppe, with his family of eight, immigrated after a terrible drought in 1894 on a ship headed for Ellis Island. Dons home on the estate is styled after the villas of his grandfathers birthplace in Sicily. Their beautiful cave and tasting room is styled after Don and Felicitys personal wine cellar in their home. It features arched doorways and a stately iron gate. Their winemakers, Bill and Dawnine Dyer, have more than 30 years of winemaking experience in the Napa Valley. Recognizing the importance of the vineyards, they have been at Sodaro Estate Winery since its inception. They worked with the Sodaros to design and build a winery from scratch that would perfectly suit the needs of the winegrowing estate. The dramatic dual-chamber winery cave is built into the hillside above the vineyards, where small tank sizes facilitate winemaking in very small lots to preserve a broad palette of avors during blending.
Sodaro Estate Winery

Open by appointment only 24 Blue Oak Lane, Napa www.SodaroWines.com For tours & tastings, contact Andrew McUsic, (707) 251-8216
Mention Day Trips to receive an exclusive barrel tasting along with your tour!
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COOMBSVILLE
At first glance, this unassuming winery looks like just another charming little family winery. But dont be fooled. The homey reception area picnic table is just the tip of the iceberg. The real grandeur of this winery lies in a 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the art cave that will leave you awestruck. The Dome Tasting Room, carved out of massive rock, is breathtaking to say the least. Nearly thirty feet high, the cave room required special sound buffers to reduce the echoing produced by the unique acoustics. Sound, however, is still amplified in the room center, creating a magical sensation that is difficult to explain. As you enter this astounding place and take your seat at the grand table, set with gleaming wine glasses for your private tasting, you know that something very special is about to happen. When the wine is poured, the enchantment is complete. The Porter family prides itself on making small lots of handcrafted wines that reflect the marvelous growing conditions available in the Coombsville area. Before a visit to the magnificent Dome Tasting Room, your hosts (always a family member) will take you for a gentle stroll through the vineyards and up a hill overlooking nearly the entire Napa Valley. From this lofty perch, you can see all of those cars weaving their way up the valley as they search for wines and wine tasting experiences that will never come close to the one youre about to enjoy. By Ronda Giangreco
GOOD TO KNOW Five million years ago, a small sandpiper wandered along the shore, leaving tiny tracks in the sand. Soon they were covered with sediment and fossilized. In digging out their cave, the Porter family found the large fossil that comes from either the Eiocene or Miocene period. A large photo of this amazing piece of ancient history is displayed at the entrance to their tasting room. The Porter Familys magnicent cave is ve hundred and fty feet long, fty feet underground and encompasses 17,000 square feet. It houses their blending tanks, barrels and wine library. The winerys technical system is one of the most modern in existence, with control systems that monitor and adjust environmental conditions, control fermentation temperatures and provide immediate access to winery operations data. Be sure to give the winery dogs Alexander, Madison and Charlee an ear scratch when you visit!
porter Family Vineyards

Open daily by appointment 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1189 Green Valley Road, Napa 1-888-656-7696 www.porterfamilyvineyards.com
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Bring in Day Trips for a two-for-one tasting a $25 value!

COOMBSVILLE
Bill Cadman, the owner of Tulocay Winery is a treasure of information about wine. He is also a witty, humorous and thoroughly entertaining gentleman. Well, the gentleman part might be a bit of a stretch. Bill is old-time Napa, with not an ounce of pretentiousness about him. His irreverent, lighthearted take on the business of winemaking, however, belies his superior skills. This is seriously good wine. Nowhere else could you sit down with someone as knowledgeable or as approachable as Bill Cadman. He simply does not have a snobbish bone in his body. But generosity is something that he has in abundance. In this day of $30 tasting fees, Bill still charges nothing to sample his fine wines. He does not maintain a pour list. Hell just ask what you like and open bottles accordingly. In 1972, Bill brazenly bought an old chicken farm and began pestering the local wineries for a job. He started his career by operating the crushers at Charles Krug. From there he went on to enjoy a long history in the industry, working for the likes of Robert Mondavi, Joe Heitz and other giants of the winemaking world. In 1975, after consuming copious amounts of wine one evening, he made the presumptuous decision to open a winery himself. My friends looked at the old chicken coops and declared them perfect for a winery. In my altered state, I agreed! What ensued was the creation of a refreshingly relaxed wine country experience and a Pinot Noir that would launch his career. He has been enjoying the heck out of life ever since. By Ronda Giangreco
VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel and Chardonnay GOOD TO KNOW Tulocay Winery is one of the oldest and smallest winery operations in the Napa Valley, providing the most informal and unique tasting experience in the area. At his unassuming Tulocay Winery, Buddy, a little, yappy dog, will loudly announce your arrival. Youll then be escorted to the deck of Bills home or to his kitchen table, as the weather dictates, for one of the most low-key and friendly wine tasting experiences you will ever enjoy. Bill collects art and his home is lled with some very interesting pieces. With just a little encouragement, hell show them to you and tell you the stories behind them. Check out his website, www.tulocay.com for his latest oerings of great savings on his wines!
Tulocay Winery
Open by appointment only 1426 Coombsville Road, Napa For tours & tastings, call Bill Cadman, (707) 255-4064
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Mt. Veeder/Los Carneros

LODGING candlelight Inn Bed & Breakfast 1045 Easum Drive, Napa (707) 257-3717, www.candlelightinn.com This lovely B&B is located near the bustle of downtown Napa but far enough away to provide each guest with a serene, tranquil environment. Built in 1929, this Tudor mansion sits rimmed by strong redwood trees, manicured gardens and a secluded swimming pool. Decadent three course gourmet breakfasts start your day out right! carneros Inn 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 299-4900, www.thecarnerosinn.com The Carneros Inn, a Plumpjack Resort, is a unique creation of architecture and culinary wonders. Fine foods and luxurious rooms share emphasis evenly within a long, modern compound reminiscent of the area's silos, barns and rancher's cottages. FOOD Boon Fly cafe 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 299-4870, www.theboonflycafe.com The Boon Fly Cafe offers tasty beverages, breakfasts, lunch and dinner on premises or packed to go. Part of the Carneros Inn, the Boon Fly Cafe is centrally located to all of Carneros and a spot for easy, delicious, fresh foods. Try the Boon Fly Donuts at breakfast with hot coffee to start or the wine bar and appetizers after a long day. Farm at carneros Inn 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 299-4880, www.thecarnerosinn.com Dinner at the Farm is a relaxed yet elegant affair. Enjoy the outdoor living room, cathedral ceilings, fireplaces and alfresco dining all summer long with wines from around the world and dishes made from Napa Valley bounty. THINGS TO DO Westwood Hills park 3107 Browns Valley Road, Napa (707) 257-9529 (1 mile west of Hwy 29) Enjoy three miles of trails through beautiful oak trees and grassy meadows. The Carolyn Parr Nature Museum (near the parking lot) offers a children's nature library and exhibits on indigenous flora and fauna to Napa Valley. di Rosa 5200 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 226-5991, www.dirosaart.com A lyrical art and sculpture gallery. Join guided tours or hike the property solo and enjoy the unique metalworks juxtaposed with one of America's most lovely wine appellations. Stanly Lane Marketplace 3100 golden gate Drive, Napa (707) 480-4479, www.ds-produce.com A fresh-produce market revered by foodies and local tastemakers. Everything is organic. Savor an iced coffee drink and browse this great local wines and gift items inside. A local favorite pumpkin patch in October.
Mt. Veeder has been producing rich, Napa Valley wines since the 1860s. Distinct mountain fruit produces wines that speak volumes about the rugged, labor-intense environments from which they spring. Steep hillsides, rugged terrain and a surprise ancient seabed, violently shoved aloft by volcanic activity eons ago result in vines that produce tiny berries and immensely intense flavors. Just a few miles south of Mt. Veeder AVA, the climate changes dramatically. Los Carneros (the ram in Spanish), has long been known for its cool, coastal climate, natural beauty and unparalleled Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
Driving Time: 33 minutes From Hess Collection to Nicholson Ranch 11+ mile to Cuvaison 3+ miles to Saintsbury 1+ miles to Etude >1 mile0 Total 16+ miles
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Map Not to Scale www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS
A visit to The Hess Collection on Mount Veeder is a unique experience on many levels. Theres the historic building, once occupied by the Christian Brothers and built in 1903; hillside vineyards, beautifully tended grounds and an art collection that is in a league of its own. Then there are the wines available in the tasting room near one of the barrel cellars. The museum, beginning a floor above, holds part of Swiss businessman Donald Hesss extraordinary collection of contemporary art. When it comes to the wines, The Hess Collection portfolio is comprised of Hess Collection Mount Veeder and Hess Napa Valley. Hess Collection wines come from the steep Mount Veeder estate vineyards and are an expression of this unique climate. They show structure, complexity and elegance. Hess Napa Valley wines come from vineyard sites handpicked for their superior climate and location. Single vineyard wines come from Napa Valley sites handpicked for their superior climate and location. Another notable achievement is that the estate vineyards are sustainably farmed in accordance with founder Donald Hesss philosophy to nurture the land and return what you take. The winery offers a wide variety of tasting options and food pairings. The art is a special treat. There are also complimentary winery and vineyard tours offered almost daily. Call for the current schedule. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, classic Bordeaux blends, Petite Sirah, Late Harvest Chardonnay and small-production wines sold only at the winery. Hess Small Block Series wines generate donations to 1% For The Planet, an environmental stewardship group. TOuRS Special tours are oered: Call (707) 255-1144 or go to their website to schedule an educational, wine production tour followed by a current release wine presentation paired with local artisan cheeses. FOR THE SENSES Schedule a guided tour of the Hess Collection Contemporary Art Museum, and a taste of three wines with food pairings. Call rst, reservations are required. OuTDOORS & GREEN Experience the newest pairing of Mount Veeder wines with artisanal cheeses in the comfort of reclaimed teak wood tables and chairs, weather permitting.
The Hess collection

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 4411 Redwood Road, Napa (707) 255-1144 | www.hesscollection.com Look for The Hess Collection on Facebook and Twitter.
Bring Day Trips along and receive one complimentary current release tasting with the purchase of one tasting.
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A Rare Legacy in Family and in Exceptional Wine
Nicholson Ranch Winery started as a family-owned farm in what the wine-world now worships as Sonoma Valley AVA. Nicholson Ranch has been, and still is, at the forefront of carefully growing and hand crafting some of Northern Californias finest wines, specifically Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as well as Merlot and Syrah. The Ranch benefits greatly from a trifecta of soil types, cool but sunny microclimate and sloping hillsides. Ramona Nicholson is the backbone and exciting owner of this winery. Born and raised on the soil she now literally tills and farms herself, Ramona has grown up to take her familys property into the next generation of California grape-growing and winemaking history. Ramona is responsible for all aspects of their family-owned and operated vineyards and winery. She is highly regarded in the industry and, dare I say, serves as inspiration for leagues of aspiring winemakers and wine lovers. Nicholson Ranch is a must visit! Perched squarely on the cusp of Napa and Sonoma counties, it is a convenient drive from either valley. With too many gold medals and best in class awards to list, the Ranch is sure to please every visitor to wine country. Call ahead for a winery tour! Plunge deep underground into the labyrinth of caves and wine barrels on a private winery tour. Call (707) 938-8822, ext 15 By Abigail p. Zimmerman
GIRL pOWER! Ramona Nicholson is named 2010 Woman of the Year by the State of Californias 6th Assembly District. FAMOuS FOR pINOT! Be sure to try the 2008 Sonoma Valley Estate Pinot Noir. Winner of the famed San Francisco Chronicle competition, this dry-farmed Pinot is a perfect blend of California and Burgundy with notes of minerals, dark fruit, wet hay and forest oor. And, the 2007 estate grown Pinot Noir is the winner of three gold medals, a double gold and best in show. DONT MISS MY pERSONAL FAVORITE 2007 Cuve Natalie Reserve Chardonnay. Named for Ramonas daughter, Cuve Natalie may be one of the nest Chardonnays being poured in all of California. GOOD TO KNOW Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch or sunset lakeside or in the fountain courtyard sipping Nicholson Ranch wines!
Nicholson Ranch
Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4200 Napa Road, Sonoma (707) 938-8822, Ext. 15 | nicholsonranch.com Follow Ramona and Nicholson Ranch on Facebook. Learn first about special events and offers.
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Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tastings!

The Cuvaison tasting room in the Carneros region of Napa is a spot that appeals on many levels. Their visually stunning tasting room is situated in the middle of estate vineyards and offers perfect lighting, modern dcor and a wrap-around deck with magnificent glass walls opening to the vineyards. They are also unique in that they offer seated tastings where guests are catered to by friendly staff who are experts in Cuvaison wine and knowledgeable about what makes Napa Valley such a diverse area for winegrowing. Most prominently known for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Cuvaison also produces limited quantities of Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and their port style dessert wine for club members to taste and purchase. And dont forget about their rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon wines; particularly the award-winning Brandlin from Cuvaisons fabled Mount Veeder estate vineyard located 1200 above the valley floor. Go, taste, relax and leave with a smile. What could be better than that? Cuvaisons Carneros tasting room should be on your must see list. Make a reservation today!
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and a unique port-style dessert wine called Espiritu. FuN FAcT A Vineyard Walk and Tasting experience is oered Friday through Monday, and starts at 9:30 a.m. Visit the website at www.cuvaison.com for more details and to reserve your spot today! cLuB BENEFITS Access to limited releases, savings on wine and tasting room merchandise and invitations to member-only parties. GREEN INITIATIVES Sustainable vineyard practices, cork recycling, 1,428 solar panels, eco-friendly packaging and much more ... its all part of a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint.
cuvaison Estate Wines

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment 1221 Duhig Road, Napa (707) 942-2455 www.cuvaison.com
Two complimentary tastings with wine purchase.

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The last time I was at Saintsbury in Los Carneros (The Rams in Spanish, when sheep vastly outnumbered vines in this part of southern Napa County) the small group that was leaving were all smiles. One mentioned that while you have to know where you are going to find the winery (though in all honesty it is not really very difficult) they agreed that it was well worth it. A tasting at this very rural winery might be inside in a compact room with a high, sloping ceiling, tile floors and wood tasting table with bottle green chairs or outdoors, where lush plantings of every sort fill in every space that the gravel walkways and tasting area do not. Views stretch across hundreds of acres of vineyards to the hills in the distance. Established in 1981 by Dick Ward and David Graves, Saintsbury set the standard for California Pinot Noir, and is still among the best. Part of their success has been the founders commitment to the vineyards of Carneros as a source of outstanding grapes. The wines they offer include their very famous Pinot Noirs (we told you they were very serious about this varietal), outstanding Syrahs, two artfully crafted Chardonnays and their fancifully named Vincent Vin Gris. As to tastings, they are the first ones to say that, Were very flexible in what we do and in what we pour. A wine lovers paradise in other words, and in every way. By charles Neave
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Vin Gris AccLAIM According to the respected Wine Spectator writer Matt Kramer, Saintsbury single-handedly demolished the old assertion that California cannot create Pinot Noirs of a Burgundian standard of delicacy and nesse. Saintsbury remains at the front of the Pinot Noir revolution. OuTDOORS Blooms change with the seasons. They often change weekly or even overnight, and at certain times it seems to be a buttery sanctuary. FuN FAcT Vin Gris is the name used in Burgundy for a refreshing ros wine made from Pinot Noir. Saintsbury rst embraced the tradition of this saign style wine in 1989 when, as they say back at the winery if life hands you lemons make lemonade! Its popularity has since demanded an annual repeat performance. NOTE The entrance to Saintsbury is on Withers Road between Los Carneros Avenue and Cuttings Wharf Road.
Saintsbury
Open daily (except Sunday) by appointment 1500 Los Carneros Avenue, Napa (707) 252-0592 | www.saintsbury.com Follow Saintsbury on Facebook and Twitter.
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Complimentary tasting for two. Please let them know you are coming, Tasting@saintsbury.com.
Etude Winery was founded to be a winegrowing house, not a winemaking house. Since its inception 25 years ago, Etude has been on a quest for oenological perfection. Founder and Winemaker Jon Priest believes that great wines are grown, not made, and that inspired grape growing diminishes the need for intervention by the winemaker. Priest sums it up best: Etude was founded on the philosophy that winemaking begins in the vineyard long before the harvest and that superior grape growing diminishes the need for intervention by the winemaker, resulting in wine that is grown, not made. This remains our approach today as we continue to build the Etude legacy. Working with viticulturalist Franci Ashton, Priest has developed Etude Winery from this bold philosophical cornerstone into a premier producer of coveted wines. Already known for Carneros Pinot Noir and Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Etude has now introduced brilliant Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Merlot to huge reviews. Two delightful tastings are available at Etude. The Walk-In Tasting features five wines. These wines include the 2010 Etude Chardonnay Carneros (1,200 cases produced, $32 per bottle), the 2009 Etude Pinot Noir Carneros (17,000 cases produced/$42 per bottle) and the 2008 Etude GBR Estate (1,200 cases produced/$60 per bottle). The Etude Seated Reserve Tasting may be enjoyed with an appointment made in advance and features five select, top-tier wines that include the 2011 Etude Ros Pinot Noir Carneros (2400 cases produced/$26 per bottle), 2009 Etude Deer Camp Pinot Noir (960 cases produced/$60 per bottle) and the one-of-a-kind 2008 Etude Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville (296 cases produced/$100 per bottle). By Abigail p. Zimmerman
pASSION! What began 25 years ago as a philosophical state of mind is now a state-of-the-art winemaking facility where the ancient art of winemaking is pursued with a singular passion. GREEN ALL THE WAY Etude Winery is a Napa Certied GREEN Winery. Certied Fish Friendly Farming, too! DONT MISS THE WINE OF THE MONTH Etudes 2008 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is a wellstructured and balanced Cabernet with solid tannic integrity and fruit ripeness. $100 per bottle VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Ros (Wines are subject to availability and release.) MuST TRY: WINE & FOOD pAIRING Enjoy a private tasting experience for $35 per person. Each guest will enjoy a ight of six Etude wines paired with three savory bites. Pairings are available Friday through Sunday at 10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. *Maximum of eight people and reservations required. ($25 for Wine Club Members.)
Etude Wines
Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1250 Cuttings Wharf Road, Napa (707) 257-5300 | etudewines.com
Mention Day Trips and receive a Two-for-One Tasting! *Terms and conditions apply see winery for details.
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Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with all kinds of people young people, older people, people from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Your car is waiting let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench
LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wife is credited with choosing the name for the company (great name, by the way!). FuN FAcT Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says after driving a big re truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a sports car! Not to worry, though, Ray is a true professional and pilots his limo with great care. pLAN AHEAD At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their eet (but theyll be adding more soon), so make sure to book your trip well in advance! KuDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOuRS Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! It doesnt get any better than that!
Destiny Wine Tours

Tours are available seven days a week 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa 707-254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com
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Mention this story and get 20% o your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.
Calistoga Balloons is a unique and intimate flying experience over the scenic northern end of the Napa Valley. These flights are more rural in nature, providing pristine views. Experience Old Faithful Geyser, the dramatic Palisade Cliffs, Mt. St Helena, as well as spectacular views of world-renown landmarks, vineyards and wineries including Chateau Montelena the winery that put Californias Napa Valley number one in the world, Castello di Amorosa the authentic 12th century Tuscan Castle-winery, Sterling Vineyards a hilltop winery via aerial tram, along with Bennett Lane Winery, Envy Winery, Vincent Arroyo Winery and more. Calistoga is a unique destination whose vistas will remain with you for a lifetime! Your adventure begins just after sunrise, between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., when hot air ballooning flight conditions are best and the morning sunlight enhances the natural beauty. Guests meet at the historic Railroad Depot at 1458 Lincoln Avenue in friendly and quaint, Calistoga and off to the mornings determined launch site. After the crew inflates the balloon, guests hop into the wicker basket. Once everyone is in, the hot air balloon is ready to go and you begin your gentle ascent. After about an hour of enjoying the breathtaking views of Napa Valley, the hot air balloon will be navigated to a landing site, then your ballooning party is transported to the historic Calistoga Inn for a celebratory Champagne brunch! By Alexandra charsley
GOOD TO KNOW Early mornings in Napa Valley are usually cool. It is recommended that you wear layered clothing and a jacket depending on the time of year. During the flight, it will get warmer so you will want to be able to remove layers as the day progresses. It is also recommended that you wear sneakers or comfortable shoes that protect your feet. Bring sunglasses and cameras and enjoy the flight! VISIT Your magnicent ight and Champagne brunch costs only $239 per person.
calistoga Balloons
1458 Lincoln Ave, Railcar #15, Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-5758 | 1-888-995-7700 www.calistogaballoons.com On Facebook and Twitter
Check the website for special pricing and vacation packages: www.calistogaballoons.com.
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Do the Math
One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We wont pretend that its simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all.
A case of wine includes:

a dozen 750 ml bottles (or 24 half bottles) or 307.2 ounces total, which comes from almost 30 pounds of grapes.
A single bottle contains:

750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.
An acre of vineyard land can give the grower:

four-five tons of grapes (though it is also less, depending on a variety of farming and winemaking practices, and on the varietal and the vineyard One standard oak barrel of wine holds: location) which will give you 797 gallons of juice 295 bottles of wine (or 59 gallons) made from 740 pounds of grapes (or thirteen-and-a-half barrels) which is pretty close which works out to almost but not precisely 24+ cases of wine. to four thousand bottles of wine.
What does all that information on a wine label mean?
XYZ Winery
RESERVE
Dry Creek Sonoma County
The u.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. Brand name Designation for a special wine Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated Location where the grapes used were grown Grape Variety used Vintage year in which the grapes were picked Location where the wine was made and/or bottled (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say "Table Wine
ZINFANDEL
2002
Produced and Bottled by XYZ winery, Healdsburg, California
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ALCOHOL 14.6% BY VOLUME
fine dining
NApA Angle Restaurant & Bar 540 Main Street, 707 252-8115 Azzuro pizzeria & Enoteca 1260 Main Street, 707 255-5552 Bistro Don Giovanni 4110 Howard Lane, 707 224-3300 Boon Fly cafe 4048 Sonoma Highway, 707 299-4870 Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin' BBQ 975 First Street, 707 226-3976 caMomi 610 First Street, #10, 707-257-4992 celadon 500 Main Street, 707 254-9690 coles chop House 1122 Main Street, 707 224-6328 cuvee 1650 Soscol Avenue, 707 224-2330 Eikos 1882 Town Center, 707-501-4444 Farm at carneros Inn 4048 Sonoma Hwy, 707 299-4880 Fish Story 790 Main Street, 707 251-5600 Fum Bistro 4050 Byway East, 707 257-1999 Graces Table 1400 Second Street, 707 226-6200 Gotts Roadside cafe 644 1st Street, 707 224-6900 Hog Island Oysters Oyster Bar 610 1st Street, 707 251-8113 La Toque 1314 McKinstry Street, 707 257-5157 Morimoto Napa 610 Main Street, 707 252-1600 Oenotri 1425 Fisrst Street, 707 252-1022 Red Hen cantina 4175 Solano Avenue, 707 255-8125 Siena Restaurant at the Meritage Hotel & Spa, 875 Bordeaux Way, 707 251-1900 ubuntu 1140 Main Street, 707-258-1000 uva Trattoria 1040 Clinton Street, 707-255-6646 Zinsvalley Restaurant 1106 1st Street, 707 224-0695 Zuzu 829 Main Street, 707 224-0695 cALISTOGA Barolo 1457 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-9900 Brannans Grill 1374 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-2233 calistoga Inn & Brewery 1250 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-4101 Contemporary American & italian Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine French Cuisine Pizzeria italian Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine italian
Seafood and Contemporary American Cuisine Steakhouse and French Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Japanese Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Seafood Contemporary American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Seafood French Cuisine Japanese Cuisine italian Cuisine Mexican Cuisine italian, Seafood, Meditarranean Vegetarian Cuisine italian Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine California Tapas, Spanish & Mediterranean ' '
[Call for Details
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fine dining
Flat Iron Grill 1440 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-1220 Hydro Bar & Grill 1403 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-9777 JoLe Restaurant 1457 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-5938 Solage 755 Silverado Trail, 1-866-942-7442 Solbar 755 Silverado Trail, 707 226-0850 Wappo Bar & Bistro 1226 Washington Street, 707 942-4712 YOuNTVILLE Ad Hoc 6476 Washington Street, 707 944-2487 Bardessono 6526 Yount Street,707 204-6000 Bistro Jeanty 6510 Washington Street, 707 944-0103 Brix Restaurant 7377 Highway 29, 707 944-2749 Bottega 6525 Washington Street,707 945-1050 Bouchon Bistro 6534 Washington Street, 707 944-8037 Contemporary American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine French Cuisine French inspired California Cuisine italian Cuisine French Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Blend of regional Cuisine Traditional American/ Steakhouse Traditional American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine
toile Restaurant at Domaine Chandon, 1 California Drive, 707 204-7529 French Cuisine Hurleys 6518 Washington St, 707 944-2345 Mustards Grill 7399 St. Helena Highway, 707 944-2424 Redd 6480 Washington Street, 707 944-2222 ST. HELENA Brassica Mediterranean Kitchen & Wine Bar 641 Main Street, 707 963- 0700Mediterranean Cuisine cindys Backstreet Kitchen 1327 Railroad Avenue, 707 963-1200 Contemporary American Cuisine culinary Institute of America at Greystone (cIA) 2555 Main Street, 1-888-995-1699 Gotts Roadside cafe 933 Main Street, 707 963-3486 Market 1347 Main Street, 707-963-3799 press 587 St. Helena Highway, 707 967-0550 Terra 1345 Railroad Avenue, 707 963-8931 Contemporary American and Worldwide Foods Traditional American Cuisine Traditional American Cuisine Steakhouse Contemporary Asian insipired American Cuisine ' italian Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine Contemporary American Cuisine
Tra Vigne Restaurant 1050 Charter Oak Avenue, 707 963-4444 RuTHERFORD Alex 1140 Rutherfrod Road, 707 967-5500
italian Cuisine Contemporary/Traditional American Contemporary American Cuisine '
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Rutherford Grill 1180 Rutherford Road, 707 963-1792 Auberge du Soleil 180 Rutherford Hill Road, 707 963-1211
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Mark my words: this comfy Napa restaurant will be your favorite new place. Beloved by locals and visitors to Napa wine country, Fum Bistro & Bar caters to food lovers who already know you dont need the big, ego-driven restaurant to find the best food in town. Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fum Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmers market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly welcoming atmosphere. Its no wonder Terry enjoys a passionate, local clientele. He invests in local farms, works to bolster community causes, and delivers fantastic, fresh, regional food and off the beaten path wines without the big price tags normally associated with fine dining in Napa Valley. One of eight kids, Terrys love of food began first as survival and morphed into passion. Later, with years of hard work, two successful Los Angeles restaurants under his belt, Letson moved to his food and wine Mecca the Napa Valley for the lifestyle and opened Fum Bistro & Bar. Artistic talent is abundant in his family. Terry is married to local artist Sheri DeBow whose artwork frequently adorns the walls of thier bistro. Understanding all elements of running a successful restaurant, Terry worked to build strong ties with local growers and producers of only the freshest produce, meats, cheeses and wines. His menu and the Bistros joyful cadence reflect his passion for delivering the best food, service and experience to each customer, each night. Rave reviews have not stopped since Fum Bistro opened, even garnering Terry the coveted Chef of the Year for New Cuisine in Northern California award! This American bistro is all about really good food, great wine and an experience you want to share. By Abigail p. Zimmerman
GOOD TO KNOW Every Wednesday night during the summer months dont miss Farmers Market Meals. Chef Terry Letson shops the Napa Valley Farmers Market that morning to nd what he will prepare for dinner that night. Only the freshest, in-season foods are whipped up into a set price, fabulous three-course meal. While the menu changes weekly, two items are always on the menu: house favorites Pork Chop and Salmon. Dont miss Lauras No Chuck Vegetarian Burger and Bistro Fries ($11) or the Flash Fried Calamari ($11). But each week the menu changes to reect whats most in season. Fum is also well known for its full bar and favorite local bartender Adam White come in and let him make you one of his signature seasonal drinks using the freshest ingredients. Happy Hour is Monday - Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. and the bar is always a friendly, bustling place.
Fum Bistro & Bar

Open daily for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and even Happy Hour 4050 Byway East, Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1999 | fumebistro.com
Napas great American Bistro that is all about great food, great wines, and welcoming service!
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pinot B lanc
Gewurz tra
pinot G ri pinot G s/ rigio
Riesling
Viognie r
*Wines are subject to availability and release.
Andersons Conn Valley St. Helena, by appt: 707-963-8600 Arger-Martucci St. Helena, 10am-5pm (appt. encouraged), 707-963-4334 August Briggs Calistoga, daily 11am-5pm, Fri-Sat til 7pm, 707-942-4912 Baldacci Family Napa, daily by appt 10am-4pm, 707-944-9261 Ballentine St. Helena, by appt. only: daily 10am-5pm, 707-963-7919 Beringer St. Helena, daily 10am-6pm, 1-866-708-9463 Bravante Angwin, by appt: Wed-Sun 11am-4pm, 707-965-2552 Burgess Cellars St. Helena, by appointment only, 1-800-752-9463 Ca Momi Winery Napa, daily 7:30am-9pm, 707-257-4992 Castello di Amorosa Calistoga, daily 9:30am-6pm, 707-967-6272 Chappellet St. Helena, by appointment only, 707-963-7136 Corley Family/Monticello Napa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-253-2802
P21 P29 P10 P45 P24 P26 P18 P20 P52 P12 P36 P48
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Cuvaison Estate Calistoga 707-942-2468 P8 | Carneros 707-942-2455, 10am-5pm P65 Ehlers Estate St. Helena, daily 10:30am-4pm, 707-963-5972 Etude Wines Napa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-257-5300 Farella Winery Napa, by appointment only, 707-254-9489 Frank Family Vineyards Calistoga, daily 10am-5pm, 707-942-0859 Hagafen Cellars Napa, daily 10am-5pm, 1-888-424-2336 Hess Collection Napa, daily 10am-5pm, 707-255-1144 Kuleto Estate St. Helena, by appointment only, 707-302-2209 Merryvale Vineyards St. Helena, daily 10am-6:30, 707-963-7777 Mumm Napa Napa, daily 10am-4:45pm, 1-800-686-6272 Nichelini Family Winery St. Helena, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm, 707-963-0717
P23
8 8
P67 P58
P13 P47 P63 P35 P27 P40 P34 P64
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8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
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Nicholson Ranch Sonoma, daily 10am-6pm, 707-938-8822
Varietals
Other
Find Your Favorite Varietals
Sauvign on Blan c
miner
8
Barbera
cabern et Fran c
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
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vignon ne Grenach e Malbec
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 8 8 8 8 8
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
8 8 8
Merlot
8 8
petite S irah petit Ve rd ot
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
pinot N oir Sangiov ese
8 8 8 8 8 8
Syrah
Tempra primitivnillo/ o
Zinfand
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8 8
Other
Sparkli ng
Varietals
8 8
Ros
port
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Dessert Wines
chardo nnay
pinot B lanc
Gewurz tra
pinot G ri pinot G s/ rigio
Riesling
Viognie r
*Wines are subject to availability and release.
Pope Valley Winery Pope Valley, Thu-Sun 11am-5pm; 707-965-1246 Porter Family Winery Napa, by appt: daily 9am-5pm, 1-888-656-7696 Raymond Vineyards St. Helena, daily 10am-4pm, 707-963-6929 Reata Winery Napa, by appt: daily 10am-5pm, 707-254-8673 RustRidge Ranch & Winery St. Helena, by appt, 707-965-9353 Rutherford Hill Winery Rutherford, daily 10am-5pm, (707) 963-1861 Rutherford Ranch Winery St. Helena, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-963-3200 Saddleback Cellars Oakville, by appt: daily 10am-4pm, 707-944-1305 St. Clement Vineyard St. Helena, daily 10am-5pm, 1-866-877-5939 St. Supry Rutherford, daily 10am to 5pm, 707-963-4533 Saintsbury Napa, Mon-Sat by appt, 707-252-0592 Sodaro Estate Napa, by appointment only; 707-251-8216 Stags Leap Winery Napa, by advance appointment only, 1-800-395-2441 Summit Lake Angwin, by appointment only, 707-965-2488 Tulocay Napa, by appointment only, 707-255-4064 Turnbull Wine Cellars Oakville, daily 10am-4:30pm, 1-800-887-6285 Twenty Rows Napa, Tue-Sat 11am-5pm or by appt, 707-287-1063 Twomey Calistoga, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm, 707-942-2489 V. Sattui St. Helena, daily 9am-5pm (summer 9am-6pm), 707-963-7774 Viader Vineyards Deer Park, by appointment only, 707-963-3816 x110 Vinoce Napa, Tue-Sat 11am-5pm or by appt, 707-287-1063
P16
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
P60
P30
P50
P33
P38
P39
P41
P25
P43
8 8
P66
P59
P46
P17
P61 P42
P55
8 8
8 8 8 8 8 8
P11
P28
P19
76
P55
8 8 8 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
Whitehall Lane St. Helena, daily 10am-6pm, 1-800-963-9454
P31
Varietals
Other
Find Your Favorite Varietals
Sauvign on Blan c
miner
Barbera
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
cabern et Fran c c ab S au carigna vignon ne Grenach e
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
Malbec
8 8 8
Merlot
8 8 8 8
petite S irah petit Ve rd ot
8 8 8 8
pinot N oir
8 8 8
Sangiov ese
8 8
Syrah Tempra primitivnillo/ o
8 8 8 8
8 8
Zinfand Other
el
8 8 8 8 8
8 8 8 8 8
Sparkli ng Ros port Dessert Wines
Varietals
77
LA
WL
EY TOLL
TO CLEAR LAKE TO CLEAR LAKE

D NYON R
RD
Getting to Napa Valley

FROM MiLES
Jericho Canyon Old Faithful Chateau Tom Eddy Geyser Montelena OLD E N NETT LA Helena View BE N Johnston Bennett Lane Vincent OD 29 NE LA Arroyo ENWO Storybook Summers TUBBS E GR TO GEYSERVILLE Jax Tedeschi Family Envy Wines ALEXANDER VALLEY
BU T
128
James Creek Aetna Springs Heibel Ranch Outpost
IES EN DR MM IT DR
E
CO T
Calistoga Lava Vine B Cellars

FR SU
GE
A TS C
Lake Berryessa TRAVEL TiME

(Average) (Peak)
Petri ed Forest SUMMIT LAKE POPE VALLEY WINERY

Budge Browns Cleavage Creek Winery
TA
W
HIT
Up Valley Vintners/ Kene ck Ranch W.H. Smith &
YR
TL
Zahtila Vineyard
ED
AL
GR
AN
LN
TO SANTA ROSA
LA KE
Hans-Fahden
golden gate Bridge Bay Bridge Sacramento Santa Rosa
50 50 60 40
60 60 70 60
100 90 90 70
DU
MT
RK
BUCKEYE
TWOMEY
LA ME
ND
AD
Kelly Fleming Wines 29 Cali 351 Venge CUVAISON Phifer Clos AUGUST BRIGGS OLN AVE. Pegase Pavitt C LIN Rios Wine Co Dutch Henry Paoletti OnThEdge CALISTOGA WINE STOP Barlow E Wine Garage PINTofanelli Sterling Rancho de Las Flores (Wermuth) Saviez White Cottage OShaughnessy Ladera Neal Family
HOWE LL MT N
NA
WE
AL
MO
Diamond Mtn. Von Strasser

POPE VALLEY
DIA
Larkmead Vineyards
L SPGS
Teachworth
LA
N. FORK
Getting around Napa Valley

E POP YON CAN D ROA
ON
RS
PE
TE
Constant
CRYSTA L SPR IN
GS
CASTELLO DI AMOROSA
NE
Madrigal
UM RI
SA NI TA
BA
LE
CRYSTA
Reverie Diamond Terrace
FRANK FAMILY
G Cook Arkenstone
Tristant Cade Winery
BRAVANTE VIADER BURGESS Angwin

Eagle & Rose
CALISTOGA
RK PA
ER DE
Schramsberg J Davies
Pride Mountain
HOWELL MTN
ST. HELENA RD
Chateau Boswell Bennessere Failla Tudal Rombauer Hunnicutt Allora RS EHLE Casa V Madrone Boeschen Nuestra Duckhorn EHLERS ESTATE Trinchero Napa Valley DI LO Freemark Abbey A Dozen Vintners Revana
Howell Mountain
Downtown Napa to Yountville Yountville to St. Helena St. Helena to Calistoga Calistoga to Alexander Valley Downtown Napa to Sonoma Plaza
10 10 10 25 20
15 15 10 35 20
20 30 15 45 25
TO SANTA ROSA
D
CON N
O OW AD ME
TRY RD
N LA
LANG
Chiles Valley
Spring Mtn.
ST. HELENA
St. Helena
AP
TO SANTA ROSA
Volker Eisele Family
RUSTRIDGE
RU
TH
Y RD
Stony Hill BALLENTINER PARK Vineyard 29 DEE St. Helena Winery Sherwin Family Brehrens & Hitchcock ST. CLEMENT Markham Barnett Vineyards I Ritchie Creek SS Amizetta RO William Cole LLEY R VA SmithSchweiger Vineyards Vineyard Madrone ANDERSONS CONN VALLEY Varozza 7&8 Peacock Family 29 Keenan Charles Eagle Trace Paloma Guiliams SPRING O Krug D Terra Valentine Eeden MTN T Forman MTN Charbay AT Cala a PR LL Cellars WE Cain School House HO Juslyn BERINGER David N Buehler ST Spring Mountain PE Fulton FULTO PO Seavey Arns Winery Trespass DRONA Materra Orin MA Spottswoode Tamber Bey Swift MERRYVALE Newton ING Covenant Kent Rasmussen K St. Helena PR R OA Ruston Family SNapa Valley Farms CHARTECharter Oak R OAD Joseph Phelps IN Savour St Helena Long Meadow Ranch Marston Family T Clif Family R SPRINGSSalvestrin Murphy HU Kelham SULP NG Chase Family The Terraces Prager LEWELLI Louis M. Martini Hall Rutherford Sutter Home William Harrison FORD HIL Hall Heitz L ER & Mario Perelli-Minetti RUTHERFORD HILL Flora Springs V. SATTUI . Tayson Pierce Quintessa LN RUTHERFORD RANCH EL
Somerston
OPE VAL LE
ND ZIN FA
ARGER MARTUCCI
Corison Milat Del Dotto
ING
LEW
OOD
128
RAYMOND KULETO
GE SA
Brown Estate
N CA
WHITEHALL LANE
Rutherford Sullivan
Midsummer Conn Cellars Creek
Lake YO Hennessey N
LL GA
CHI LES P
12
NICHELINI
ROSSROAD
ON ER
128
DC
CONN CREE
K RD
RUTHERFORD
TO LAKE BERRYESSA AND SACRAMENTO

MO
128
NE
YR
OA
Fleury Girard Neyers Franciscan MUMM NAPA Frogs Leap LANE Continuum Estate HALL WHITE David Witt Rutherford Alpha Omega Honig R Caymus Arthur CHAPPELLET ERFO Grove RUTH Tres Sabores & ZD Wines Pia Napa Valley Beaulieu Pedemonte Cellars Provenance Round Pond NGER ELLE SK Miner Family Vineyards Elizabeth Spencer Grgich Hills Estate Oakville Ranch Plumpjack Rudd Rubicon Estate Peju Groth Gargiulo ST. SUPRY Y NLE Sawyer Cellars MA SADDLEBACK Swanson OAKS Sequoia Grove A BELL AD CELLARS Cakebread RO Vine Cli Winery SS RO Staglin Del Bondio TURNBULL OAKVILLE C Silver Oak Paraduxx Nickel & Nickel Opus One Robert Mondavi Napa Wine Company OA KVI
AIL TR DO RA VE SIL
OAKVILLE
L LE
GRADE
Far Niente
TR
Cardinale + Lokoya Goosecross Cellars

STATE LN.
Oakville Atlas Peak

LE CR S OS
INITY
ER
M T. V E E D
Paradigm Folie Deux & Napa Cellars Cosentino Kapcsandy

YO IL TV UN
Cli Lede Robert Sinskey Shafer Quixote AD RO
BALDACCI STAGS LEAP WINERY

Krupp Brothers Stagecoach Vineyard Antica
ON ROA D ANY
DRY CRE
YOUNT ST.
ON DIS
29
MA
EK RD
Taylor Family Silverado Vineyards Pine Ridge
Girard Wing Canyon

WAS
Yountville
HING TON
Lindstrom Robinson Family Stags Leap Wine Cellars Regusci Chimney Rock Clos du Val
AC SOD
Mayacamas Sky Godspeed

A FFM N
Stags Leap
James Cole Signorello Vineyards Darioush
VinRoc Bialla Vineyards William Hill Jarvis Kenzo Estate Del Dotto
AK RD
ATLAS PE
Jessup Hartwell Vineyards Ma(i)sonry Hope and Grace Cornerstone Cellars Hill Family Estate Somerston Page Wine Cellars V Wine Cellars Domaine Chandon IA Hopper Creek Blankiet Estate CALIFORN rivate Bell Wine Cellars KeeverD VIEW p AR EY Elyse CORLEY FAMILYS VIN
HO
YOUNTVILLE
MONTICELLO
Trefethen VINEYARDS E
OAK KNOL L AV
MS DAR
HAGAFEN CELLARS
Mount Veeder
RE DW OO DR OA D
Silenus Vintners Laird Black Cordon Sixteen by Twenty Wines OBrien Estate
A CH OR RD E AV
Reynolds Family Black Stallion Winery Van Der Heyden E LAN MAN Silverado Trail Wine Studio Razi HARD /Crushpad/Big Horn Cellars Ardente Winery Luna Vineyards Volta Wine Andretti
BIG RA NC H RD
O AVE
S OL AN
Yates Family
LL E Y RDY RD
AR NO LD
HESS COLLECTION
Mt.Veeder
VA
ETTE
Hendry Yates Family
Phoenix Vineyards
Oak Knoll
TRANCAS AVENUE
Boyd Judds Beaucanon Hill Estate Robert Biale Celani Family Dominari HdV Wines
SOSCOL
IC NT MO
LO EL
AD RO
TO HWY. 128
Moss Creek Winery, Altamura Vineyards & Winery & Suisun Valley Wineries
121
PUEBLO
JEFF
NS
OW
BR
VALLE
J.Kirkwood Fontanella
REDWOOD ROAD
BORR
D LIN
PART RICK RD
A
BROWNS
BRO WNS VALLEY RD
VINOCE AND TWENTY ROWS

1st ST .
Verismo Frazier
VI
MA
3RD
LEY OW NS VAL
LINCOLN
CA MOMI ENOTECA
ST A
AVE.
DR
Coombsville
Palmaz Vineyards
CENTRAL
ERSO
Robert Craig
IN
N
EN AG
RD
FARELLA PARK SODARO

McK inst ry
BR
. D AVE Black Cat E . 3R Ancien Tournesol Vineyards
M HO
O PS
N
COOMBSVILLE RD.
GR EE
Wine Country This Week Preferred Open to the public Open by appointment only
AV
E
PORTER FAMILY
N
12
NAPA
Young Ridge Estate
RD.
Whetstone
4TH AVE .
VA LL
Check the listings in the back for hours, address and phone number.
Gustavo Thrace Waterstone Tallulah VALLEJO Vintners Taste at Oxbow Collective Stonehedge 1313 MAINMason Uncorked John Anthony Olabisi/Trahan Ceja Bounty Hunter SO TULOCAY SC ElementsSTX Winery OL 3rd PINE Page Wine Cellars
EY
Wineries not open to the public are not represented.

Artesa
HE NR YR D.
ARNOLD DR.
Sonoma
LEVERONI RD
WEST IMO
LA AVE
Caldwell
KREUSER CANYO N RD
For corrections, deletions, additions, fax (707) 938-3674 or email info@winecountrythisweek.com

BROA
BURNDALE
Gu y Family
DE AL Y RD
Truchard D SONOMA
OL
121
ALT BAS
Sciandri
NICHOLSON RANCH
Michael Mondavi Family Winery
29 121
SONOMA
KAIS
TO PETALUMA AND HWY. 101
Not To Scale
NAPA VALLEY CORPORATE DR
116
at CornerStone Gardens Keating Winery
Domaine Carneros
DUHI
Madonna Estate
LOS CA
ER
12 CARNEROS RD Schug Anaba 121 Larson Carneros Family Homewood Estate Winery Bonneau Gloria Ferrer Meadowcroft Wines Caves & Vineyards
DWAY
KAISER
Modus Operandi /Juicebox Delectus Winery
CUVAISON ESTATE WINES

G RD
Falcor
SAINTSBURY ETUDE
CUTT
RNER OS RD
Patz & Hall

ING SW HAR FR D
R BO DE X AU
Los Carneros Region
Trinitas Acacia McKenzie Mueller Adastra Bouchaine

LAS AM
SOSCO L FERRY
Cline Jacuzzi Viansa Rams Gate
Elkhorn Peak Cellars

IGAS
REATA
KE LL Y
Bourassa Spelletich Vineyards

AIRPORT BLVD
BUCHLI STATION
TO SAN FRANCISCO AND HWY. 101
TO VALLEJO
TO 12 SACRAMENTO /SUISUN VALLEY
American Canyon

Napa Valley Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

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Napa Valley Day Trips Spring/Summer 2012

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DAY TRIPS

Napa Valley Preferred Wine Country

1 TASTING ROOM REVIEWS plus Dining Directory and

from Calistoga to Carneros

NINE WINE TASTING

On & Around HOWELL MTN

SAGE CANYON ST. HELENA

See the complete Napa Valley map on pages 78 & 79

OAK KNOLL/ STAGS LEAP DAY TRIP ROUTES

MT. VEEDER/ LOS CARNEROS

Preferred Napa Valley

49 preferred Napa Valley Tasting Room Reviews

ON THE COVER: COURTESY OF ST. CLEMENT VINEYARD

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476 P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE MANAGER

LOOK FOR US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER!

5 6/68 14/69 51 56/73 71-73 74-77 78-79

Notes on Wine Tasting in The Napa Valley

Wine Bar Tasting

Sit Down Tasting

Table Service Tasting

Walk Around Tasting

Why make an appointment?

Let Us Ship Your Napa Valley Memories Home!

A Heart Warming Cause: Show Meow the Money

Stagecoach Express and co.

Free Shipping Boxes with wine shipments!

Destiny Wine Tours

Not to Scale www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

cuvaison Estate Wines

Two complimentary tastings with wine purchase.

calistoga Wine Stop

This wine shop is located in Californias oldest railroad building!

Complimentary wine tasting for two with this story.

Twomey cellars calistoga Napa Valley

Apply $10 tasting fee toward purchase of current release wines.

Frank Family Vineyards

1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga 1-800-574-9463 or (707) 942-0859 www.frankfamilyvineyards.com

Youll never have better wine ... or a better time.

On & Around Howell Mountain

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

pope Valley Winery

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Summit Lake Vineyards

Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide.

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Mention Day Trips for complimentary tasting for two.

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Alan & Delia Viader

Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide (a $45 value!).

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

Andersons conn Valley Vineyards

Come visit us in our new estate tasting room!

Not to Scale www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

St. clement Vineyard

Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting!

Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting!

Mention Day Trips for a 2-for-1 Signature Tasting!

Enjoy a wine tasting upgrade with a copy of this article.

Present this page at the winery and receive a two-for-one Tasting!

Reserve your Raymond experience online: www.raymondvineyards.com/Visit-Us.