5 Unique Winery Experiences in Napa Valley
I can't believe that it's taken me this long to write about my hometown but, nonetheless - here we are! Napa Valley is stereotypically known for two things: tourists and wine snobs. There are over 400 wineries in Napa Valley. 400. That's quite a buzz. It can be very overwhelming to decide where to go (and crowded) so I've compiled a list of some of my favorite unique wineries that offer a more off the beaten path experience. Enjoy!
Artesa
Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily
Located on the hilly outskirts of Napa, Artesa offers panoramic views of Napa and San Francisco Bay. In the 1980's Spain's oldest winemaking family began buying up property in the area. In 1997, Artesa, which means "handcrafted" in Catalan, was born. The space was architecturally designed to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings. They specialize in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Photo Credit: Sterling Vineyards
Sterling Vineyards
https://www.sterlingvineyards.com
Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily
This winery is in Calistoga is unlike any other because an aerial tram offering 360 degree views takes you up to the hill where Sterling Vineyards resides. Here you'll find stark white buildings inspired by the villages on the Greek island of Mykonos where Peter Newton, Sterling's founder, once lived. The best time to visit is in the fall when you can see the colors changing from the tram and you can even do a grape stomp during harvest season (usually in the month of October)!
Castello di Amorosa
http://www.castellodiamorosa.com
Hours: 9:30 AM to 6 PM daily
At Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, you can sip your wine in the Dark Ages. 4th generation vintner Dario Sattui (also the owner of V. Sattui in St. Helena) was inspired by the castles of Tuscany to create this 107-room castle complete with torture chamber and drawbridge (yes you read that right!). Guided tours give full access to the castle including a private tasting. You can also choose a standard tasting and roam the grounds freely. You might even see a few baby goats meandering about.
Photo Credit: Sonoma Magazine
Matanzas Creek Winery
Hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM daily
This Santa Rosa winery offers beautiful gardens and expansive views of the Napa Valley. Since its launch in 1977, it has built its reputation on Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot, though they produce limited quantities of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The best time to visit is between May and July because that is when the grounds become a purple wonderland bursting with the sights and smells of lavender.
Photo Credit: Sonoma County California
Buena Vista Winery
https://www.buenavistawinery.com
Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily
Before Napa and Sonoma were household names, there was Buena Vista. This winery located in Sonoma is every bit as gorgeous as it is old. It was founded in 1857 (wow) and is the oldest commercial winery in California. They have six tiers of wines to represent the region's diversity. I highly suggest doing the Historic Wine Museum Tour and Tasting.
Safe travels and happy sipping,
V.