For serious wine lovers, a Napa Valley wine tour becomes almost a pilgrammage. You can drive up and down the Silverado Trail and tick off the famous names in wine production as you pass their gates and vineyards. Because there are so many, however, you must plan your visit carefully. Here, you’ll find some of the best Napa wineries to visit.
Long gone are the days when you could pop into a winery and sample their wines for free. If you want to visit a particular winery, reserve to guarantee your spot. Some do accept walk-ins, however. Since each winery has different rules and options, make sure you visit web pages to scope out what you want to do. Some offer wine experiences, often with food, while others allow you to belly up to the tasting bar. Regardless, expect to pay for your tasting.
Note: Because of the pandemic, call ahead to make sure your planned stops are open. Websites are updated as rules change.
Best Winery for High-End Cabernet: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
Most Beautiful Setting: Artesa
Best Winery You Haven’t Heard About: Bell Wine Cellars
Visit for Sparking Wine: Domaine Chandon
If You Love White Wine: Cakebread Cellars
Most Interesting Property: The Hess Collection
The One Everyone Talks About: Castello di Amorosa
