Local Guide: Napa Valley Wine Tours

Napa Valley is renowned worldwide for its exceptional wine and picturesque vineyards. A wine tour in Napa Valley offers an unforgettable experience, combining exquisite wine tastings with stunning scenery.

My wife and I spent a delightful weekend exploring some of the best wineries in the region. Here’s our guide to the top Napa Valley wine tours.

1. Robert Mondavi Winery

Location: 7801 St Helena Hwy, Oakville, CA 94562
Phone: +1 888-766-6328
Website: robertmondaviwinery.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Daily)

Robert Mondavi Winery is one of the most iconic wineries in Napa Valley. Known for its rich history and exceptional wines, this winery offers a variety of tours and tastings. We enjoyed the Signature Tour & Tasting, which provided a comprehensive overview of the winemaking process and included a tasting of their finest wines.

2. Domaine Carneros

Location: 1240 Duhig Rd, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: +1 800-716-2788
Website: domainecarneros.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Daily)

Domaine Carneros is renowned for its sparkling wines and stunning chateau. The Art of Sparkling Wine Pairing tour offered us an in-depth look at how sparkling wines are made, followed by a tasting paired with gourmet bites. The views from the terrace are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass of bubbly.

3. Castello di Amorosa

Location: 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515
Phone: +1 707-967-6272
Website: castellodiamorosa.com
Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Daily)

Castello di Amorosa is a 13th-century-inspired castle and winery. The guided tour took us through the castle’s grand halls, dungeons, and tasting rooms. We loved the medieval ambiance and the variety of wines available for tasting, especially the reds. The Reserve Wine Tasting is highly recommended for those who want to sample some of the best vintages.

4. V. Sattui Winery

Location: 1111 White Ln, St Helena, CA 94574
Phone: +1 707-963-7774
Website: vsattui.com
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Daily)

V. Sattui Winery is one of the most popular wineries in Napa Valley, known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse wine selection. The Estate Tour & Tasting provided us with an informative journey through the vineyards and cellars, followed by a tasting of their award-winning wines. We also enjoyed a delicious picnic on the beautiful grounds.

5. Beringer Vineyards

Location: 2000 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
Phone: +1 707-257-5771
Website: beringer.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Daily)

Beringer Vineyards is the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley. The Historic Tour gave us a fascinating insight into the winery’s rich heritage, including a visit to the original wine tunnels. The wine tasting in the elegant Rhine House was a highlight, offering a selection of premium wines that showcased Beringer’s legacy.

6. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Location: 5766 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558
Phone: +1 707-944-2020
Website: stagsleapwinecellars.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Daily)

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is known for its legendary Cabernet Sauvignons. The Cellarius Kitchen Experience combined a winery tour with a food and wine pairing, highlighting the winery’s culinary excellence. The cave tour and barrel tasting were particularly memorable, offering a unique glimpse into the aging process of their acclaimed wines.

7. Silverado Vineyards

Location: 6121 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558
Phone: +1 707-259-6617
Website: silveradovineyards.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Daily)

Silverado Vineyards offers stunning views of the Napa Valley from its hilltop location. The Private Reserve Tasting allowed us to enjoy a curated selection of their best wines while overlooking the vineyards. The serene environment and knowledgeable staff made our visit truly enjoyable.

8. Opus One Winery

Location: 7900 St Helena Hwy, Oakville, CA 94562
Phone: +1 707-944-9442
Website: opusonewinery.com
Hours: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Daily)

Opus One Winery is known for its iconic Bordeaux-style blend. The winery tour included a walk through the beautiful grounds and state-of-the-art production facilities. The Private Tasting Room experience allowed us to savor the complexity and elegance of Opus One wines in an intimate setting.

9. Sterling Vineyards

Location: 1111 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
Phone: +1 800-726-6136
Website: sterlingvineyards.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Daily)

Sterling Vineyards offers a unique aerial tram ride to the hilltop winery, providing spectacular views of the Napa Valley. The self-guided tour allowed us to explore at our own pace, and the tasting on the terrace was delightful. We appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to try a wide range of wines.

10. Domaine Chandon

Location: 1 California Dr, Yountville, CA 94599
Phone: +1 707-944-2280
Website: chandon.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Daily)

Domaine Chandon is renowned for its sparkling wines. The winery tour included a detailed explanation of the méthode traditionnelle used to make their sparkling wines. We enjoyed a tasting flight on the terrace, paired with artisanal cheeses. The beautiful gardens and elegant ambiance made it a perfect end to our Napa Valley wine tour.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Fall (September to November) is harvest season, offering a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Spring (March to May) also provides pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Transportation: Consider booking a wine tour or hiring a driver to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Many tour companies offer customizable itineraries.

Reservations: Many wineries require reservations, especially for tours and tastings. It’s best to book in advance to secure your spot.

Overall Impression

Exploring Napa Valley's wineries was an incredible experience. Each winery offered its unique charm, exceptional wines, and beautiful settings. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Napa Valley is a must-visit destination.

Tips for Exploring Napa Valley

While you’re in Napa Valley, consider visiting these other top attractions:

• Napa Valley Wine Train: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the valley with gourmet dining.

• Oxbow Public Market: Explore local food vendors and artisanal products.

• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience stunning views of the vineyards from above.

• Napa Valley Vine Trail: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the valley.

• Yountville: Visit charming boutiques, art galleries, and top-rated restaurants.

Napa Valley is full of vibrant culture and endless things to do, making it an exciting destination for every traveler.