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Napa
Valley Winery Reviews |
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WINERY REVIEW KEY
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All H.
Montanile™ reviews are on a scale of
"1" to "12" bottles.
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highest rating is "12" = |
"BUY
A CASE" |
| A
rating of 9 and above = |
Excellent |
| 8
to 9 = |
Very
Good |
| 6
to 8 = |
Good
to Average |
| 5
to 6 = |
Average |
| 5
and below = |
Poor
to Fair |
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The Wine is rated on its appearance, bouquet and taste.
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| The
Ambiance (experience) reflects
the physical environment of the tasting room and the knowledge and courtesy of the
staff. |
| The
Winery Review is a reflection of its individual characteristics and
the physical aesthetic qualities of the winery and it's grounds. |
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The ratings reflect wines available only for tasting, not those
wines available for sale at the winery or your local retailer. The
wines available for tasting obviously change
with each vintage. |
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The art of wine tasting is a unique experience and ultimately subjective. We at
H.
Montanile™ hope
to guide you through a wonderful and delicious
experience in Napa and Sonoma.
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- Picnicking
is permitted at these wineries. |
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- Grape Note. |
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BEAULIEU
VINEYARD 1960 St. Helena
Highway (Hwy 29), Rutherford, 707.967.5230 HOURS: Tasting: 10:00-5:00 Tours: 11:00-4:00 daily
Tasting Fee: Georges Latour Reserve room only
($18.00)
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BEAULIEU is
pronounced "bale" "u". Skip the regular tasting
room and head straight for the reserve room. The wines are
spectacular. |
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| 10 |
WINE: |
The Latour Reserve room offers an array
of Vintages. These classic vintages are also for sale. All of these fine
wines, in keeping with the Georges Latour tradition, are the standard by
which all other cabs are measured.
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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The tasting room is simple and elegant.
The staff walks you through your tasting, offering insights into each one
of these fabulous wines. |
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8
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WINERY:
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Several small rustic and brick buildings
adorn these quaint grounds. Take the tour and enjoy. |
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BERINGER 2000
Main Street (Hwy 29), St. Helena 707.963.4813 HOURS: Tasting: 10:00-6:00
Tasting Fee: for reserve tasting Tours:
10:00-5:00 daily
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| 9 |
WINE: |
Beringer produces a full array of
wines. All are consistently good. The reserve Cabernet is a knockout. Reserves are poured
for a fee in the upstairs of the Rhine house. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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Perfectly suited for a
delightful afternoon of wine tasting. The staff is both knowledgeable and friendly. |
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12
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WINERY:
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Flowered gardens decorate one of
the more historic wineries of the valley. The Rhine house, which was constructed in the
latter half of the 19th century, epitomizes the elegance of this winery. Tours through the
original aging cellars should not be missed. Sniff, sip, sit and enjoy! |
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CAIN
VINEYARD & WINERY 3800 Langtry Road St., Helena
707.963.1616 HOURS: Tastings & Tours: given Thursday -
Saturday and by appointment only. Tasting fee: None
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| 9.5 |
WINE: |
The Cain Musque (white) is partially malolactic
fermented with a floral bouquet. The 1997 Cain Cuvee is loaded with
tannins and is billed as a Bistro wine. The 1996 Cain Concept, currently
the only estate bottled wine, is a delicious wine, which was a little
tight still with tannins yet, not overwhelming. The
1996 Cain Five is an excellent Bordeaux styled wine with firm tannins with
years to age, the true star of the Cain family. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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You are greeted by a warm and friendly staff
that will take you on an informative tour of Cain's fabulous winery with a
tasting that follows in a delightful room around a large wooden table. |
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12
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WINERY:
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A fabulous drive along
Spring Mountain high on top of a ridge sits Cain. The magnificent views
are absolutely breathtaking and worth the journey, a twenty five-minute
ride from the town of St. Helena and an absolute must. Take your camera
and enjoy. |
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CAKEBREAD
8300 St. Helena Way (Hwy 29), Rutherford 707.963.5221 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-4:30 Tasting Fee: $3.00 for non-vintners/$5.00 for vintners/etched
glass included with both Tours: by appointment.
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| 9.5 |
WINE: |
Consistently good wines are poured from this
vineyard. The fragrant sauvignon Blanc is a winner. The cabernet is one of
the finest and an excellent edition to your cellar. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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Intimate tasting rooms with a sophisticated
and friendly staff. |
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8
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WINERY:
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Beautiful flowers
welcome you to this charming new winery, opened in 1996. Parking is
limited so arrive early. |
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CAYMUS 8700 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford 707.967.HOURS:
Tasting: 10:00-3:00 on the hour by appointment - no fee Tours:
none
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CAYMUS' has been the recipient of the unparalleled award winning reputation
by WINE SPECTATOR. |
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| 11 |
WINE: |
Tasting includes CAYMUS' white selection
including the delicious Conundrum, which is only sold at the vineyard. Although, the
Special Select Cabernet will no longer be poured, Caymus'
cabernets are stellar. Buy when released, as Caymus will sell it's entire stock and
cellars nothing. First come, first served. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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Simple yet elegant. Tastings are offered in small groups (by appointment only), in a lovely
room seated around a large wooden table. The sommelier educates you
about Caymus and the wines during the relaxing and delightful tasting. |
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8.5
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WINERY:
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Off the beaten path situated amidst the Cabernet Sauvignon
vines of the valley somewhere between Hwy 29 and the Silverado Trail sits this hidden
beauty. |
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CHATEAU
MONTELENA 1429 Tubbs lane, Calistoga 707.942.5105
HOURS: Tasting: 10:00-4:00 Tours: by
appointment.
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Do not arrive too close to the end of tasting time or you may not
be well received. |
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11
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WINE: |
A winner of the Paris tasting in 1976, Chateau
Montalena took the world by storm with its 1973 Chardonnay. While the selection varies,
usually 3 wines are poured. The cabernets are generally of an older vintage while the rest
are current. All are exceptional. |
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8
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AMBIANCE:
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Here you will find a serious wine taster's winery with a
serious staff. Go early. |
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11
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WINERY:
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After tasting the wines, be sure to walk the grounds where
you will see a building reminiscent of a French castle. Follow the garden to the pond. It is truly spectacular. |
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| CHIMNEY ROCK
5350 Silverado Trail, Yountville 707.257.2641 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: $3.00 Tours: by appointment
fee: $5.00. |
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7
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WINE: |
Situated in the Stag's Leap District, well known for its cabernet sauvignons, appears to have influenced this
winery's recent focus on cabs rather than it's longstanding mainstay of a variety of
whites. |
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9
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AMBIANCE:
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A pleasant high ceiling
tasting room greets you warmly as does the staff. |
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9.5
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WINERY:
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Stucco stonewalls flank the
entrance to the vineyard. The long driveway leads you through the vineyards to the tasting
room set at the foot of the mountain. Truly a gem. |
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CLOS PEGASE
1060
Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga 707.259.2200 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tours: 11:00 & 2:00/art collection.
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12
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WINE: |
BUY A CASE! Outstanding! Forget the past. Clos
Pegase has arrived. The reds: fruity, smooth, delicate, and elegant with a firm hint of tannins at
the end. Drink now or cellar and enjoy later! |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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The staff is extremely knowledgeable about the wines and
is not shy to recommend their own personal favorites. You will feel at home in this
vineyard's tasting room. |
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12
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WINERY:
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The grand yet austere facade hides the opulent art
collection decorating the winery. The open air gardens in the center are inviting and lead
you to the magnificently appointed tasting room where the large casks of wine can be
viewed through a sheer glass wall. Taste the wine and experience Clos Pegase culture. Do
visit the underground caves. |
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| COSENTINO
7415 St. Helena Highway (Hwy 29), Yountville
707.944.1220 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00-5:30 daily Summer till 5:00 Tours: none
Tasting Fee: $3.00 |
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7
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WINE: |
The
red is a Bordeaux blend that is fruity and has a tannic finish. The Cigar
Zinfandel has become one of Napa's more popular wines with its ripe fruit
and spicy finish. |
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9
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AMBIANCE:
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A
long tasting bar and friendly staff make for a pleasant visit. |
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8
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WINERY:
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A modern winery with modest grounds right off of Highway 29 and next door
to the famous Mustards Grill. |
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CUVAISON 4550 Silverado Trail, Calistoga 707.942.6266
HOURS: Tasting: 10:00-5:00 Tours:
by appointment.
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9.5
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WINE: |
From Cuvaison's Chardonnay to it's fabulous
cabernet and magnificent merlot your palette will welcome the splendor of each.
The Eris Vineyard Pinot Noir is outstanding. These
wines are stunning. The Carneros vineyard grapes should not be missed. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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If your grandparents owned a vineyard, this would
be it. Warmth and hospitality permeate the tasting room. Although sometimes busy, an
attentive staff makes you feel at home. |
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10
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WINERY:
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A split front door welcomes you while the grounds
feel like you are on vacation at your very own B & B. |
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DOMAIN
CARNEROS Duhig Road
off Highway 12/121(5 miles West of Napa) 707.257.0101
HOURS: Tasting: Mon-Thurs
10:30-6:00, Fri-Sun 11:00-3:00 Tours:
11:00,1:00 & 3:00 daily
Tasting Fee: By the glass (Finger foods)
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10.5
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WINE: |
Bubblie, Bubblie, Bubblie! Aside from their recent release of an excellent Pinot
Noir this house is dedicated to producing sparkling wines. All of the
wines are fresh and delicious especially Domaine Carneros' La Reve.
Indulge. A variety, you may order a bottle, sit, sip, relax and enjoy. |
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11.5
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AMBIANCE:
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A spectacular "cafe" like atmosphere
awaits you at this tasting room with a wait staff that attends to your
every tasting need including delicious edibles. |
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11
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WINERY:
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Styled
after a French chateau perched a top a hill overlooking its' vineyards
this winery is a delight for the senses. The tasting room is simple yet,
elegantly appointed with high ceilings, a fireplace and beautiful views. |
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DOMAIN
CHANDON California
Drive (off Hwy 29), Yountville 707.944.2280 HOURS:
Tasting:
11:00 - 6:00 daily hours vary in the winter. Tours: 11:00
- 5:00 on the hour daily. Tasting Fee: Sold by the
glass, so prices vary.
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A Fabulous
place for lunch, dinner or just a bottle of bubbly on the patio.
The wine list is outstanding & extensive. |
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11
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WINE: |
Domain
Chandon offers a wide array of sparkling wines, Chandon brings pleasure to
all of your senses. From the Roses to the Bruts Chandon is heaven for
sparkling wines lovers. The Etoile is Chandon's pricey classic and is well
worth every sip. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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Charm
and elegance is the order of the day at Domain Chadon. Sit at a patio
table on a sunny day and order by the bottle or glass. Taste fine
sparkling wines over a gourmet lunch or please your palette at the tasting
bar. The staff is as sophisticated as the wines and will treat you like
royalty. |
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12
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WINERY:
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Nestled
into the countryside this contemporary structure is surrounded by gardens
and vineyards. You'll feel as if you have arrived at a very fine country French
restaurant. |
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FORMAN VINEYARDS St. Helena
707.963.0234
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FRANCISCAN 1178
Galleron road @ Hwy 29, Rutherford 707.963.7111 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: $3.00 Tours: none
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8
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WINE: |
Represented by four
labels: Franciscan, Mt. Vedeer, Pinnacles and Estancia. A solid showing across the board.
The Mt. Veeder label stands a bottle above the others. |
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8
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AMBIANCE:
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Friendly and
informative. |
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7.5
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WINERY:
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The tasting room and gift
shop are one. One might wish for more gardens and typical vineyard scenery. |
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| FREEMARK ABBEY 3022
St. Helena Way (Hwy 29), St. Helena 707.963.9694 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: $3.00 Tours: 2:00 daily |
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9
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WINE: |
It's premiere is the sweet
dessert wine Edelwein Gold, a Johannesburg Riesling. But don't overlook their cabernet, as
it is once again a shinning star of the vineyard. |
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9
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AMBIANCE:
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A brief wine education
can be found here by the friendly staff. |
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7.5
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WINERY:
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A turn of the century stone
structure invites you into the comfortable tasting room. |
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FROG'S
LEAP 8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford 707.963.4704 HOURS:
Tasting & Tours: given Monday-Friday
9:00-4:00 by appointment only.
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9.5
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WINE: |
Frog's zinfandels are stellar and their sauvignon
blanc is their shining star. All of Frog's Leap's Wines are delicious. This vineyard is a
must for any wine lover. |
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12
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AMBIANCE:
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By appointment only unless you happen upon a fair-haired
maiden who will invite you in for wine and the fruit that grows in the vineyard. Don't
chance it-make a date with Alice in the wonderland of the gardens and vineyards known as
Frog's Leap. |
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11
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WINERY:
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Nestled
into the countryside this contemporary structure is surrounded by gardens
and vineyards. You'll feel as if you have stumbled into a country home. |
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| GRGICH HILLS CELLARS 1829
St. Helena Way, Rutherford 707.963.2784 HOURS:
Tasting:
9:30-4:30 Tasting Fee: $3.00 (includes etched glass) Tours: by appointment |
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10.5
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WINE: |
Although very well known for
their outstanding chardonnay, their cabs age extremely well. Tannins don't overwhelm even
the young cabs, which are consistently extraordinary. Mike Grgich is also well known
for producing Chateau Montelena's 1973 Chardonnay, which won the Paris tasting in 1976. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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Delightful. Modest yet
charming. The staff greets you and spends time discussing each wine during
the tasting. |
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9
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WINERY:
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While the exterior is
simple, immediately stepping inside you are enveloped with the aromas of wine and the oak
casks, which hold the delightful nectar. The casking room is adjacent to and
visible from the tasting room. Take the tour. |
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GROTH
750 Oakville Cross Road, Oakville 707.944.0290 HOURS:
Tasting: Monday-Saturday 10:00-4:00 Tasting Fee: $5:00 which will be
deducted from purchase) Tours: 11:00 & 2:00 Sunday Friday all by
appointment. Call or you will be disappointed.
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10
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WINE: |
Less is most certainly more. The focus
here is on a handful of premiere Wines; fume blanc, chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon.
Don't miss a one. The cabernet is fruitful yet subtle to the palette absorbing gently and
elegantly. Buy what you can. Often the premier cabernet is limited to one bottle per
visit. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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A friendly sophisticated staff sits back and allows you
to educate and enjoy yourself while sipping on Groth's finest. Don't be afraid to ask
questions or engage in conversation because the staff is as fine as the wine. Maybe they
will even invite you for lunch. |
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11
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WINERY:
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The GROTH WINERY stands regally, set back from the road.
The interior is understated and elegant. Take your wine out to the patio overlooking the
lush romantic garden. A fine affair in all respects. |
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HEITZ 436
St.Helena Hwy (Hwy 29), St. Helena 707.963.3542 HOURS:
Tasting:
11:00-4:30 Tours: are given at 500 Taplin road Monday Friday 2:00
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10
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WINE: |
A wine to be cellared.
Lay Heitz' reds down in your cellar and allow the tannins to work. As the
wines in the
tasting room are often young and vibrant, age brings about a smooth velvety mature wine to
be savored. |
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8
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AMBIANCE:
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Plain and
gracious. Often only two wines are poured. It's quality not quantity. |
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7.5
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WINERY:
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A simple structure with a
small pouring room is the home to a very big wine. If you are serious about wines not
extravagance, visit this winery. |
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THE
HESS COLLECTION 4411 Redwood Road
(approximately 8 miles West of Hwy 29), Napa 707.255.1144 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-4:00 daily Tours: self guided Tasting Fee:
$3.00
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The drive to
the Hess Collection is off the beaten path; the art collection is
well worth the trip. |
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8
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WINE: |
The chardonnay and cab are the standouts. The
chardonnay has a strong, classis
oaky flavor while the cabernet has the intensity and depth of the mountain
soil from which it comes. The zin is also delicious. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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Fine art and fine wine make this truly an extraordinary experience. It's
more than wine, it's culture. |
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11
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WINERY:
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This old ivy covered structure is the classic style winery. The grounds
are beautifully manicured and adorned with magnificent flowers. Inside is
a gift and wine shop, a high ceiling and stone tasting room with several
floors of art work. Plan to take your time when visitng. |
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MERRYVALE 1000 Main Street, St. Helena
707.963.7777 HOURS: Tasting: 10:00-5:30
Tasting Fee: $5.00 Tours: none
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9
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WINE: |
Fine wines, particularly their chardonnay and
sauvignon blanc. The profile, a red blend, is the vineyard star. A
tremendous, elegant wine. Merryvale's Antigua, a vermouth, will not disappoint. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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Great! It's an open warm invitation to sip
great wine. You will want to stay for dinner and dine
in the fabulously elegant dining room which is only reserved for intimate affairs. |
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9
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WINERY:
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The warmth of the
interior melts away the stoic exterior. Go inside, sip the wine and enjoy. |
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If not offered for tasting, you may want to splurge and
buy a bottle of the profile series red. It's outstanding! |
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ROBERT
MONDAVI WINERY 7801 St. Helena
Highway (Hwy 29), Oakville 800-MONDAVI HOURS: Tastings: 10:00 - 5:00
Tours: On the hour, reservations are highly recommended. Tasting
Fee: None with the tour except the reserve wines. Tour fee: $10.00
per person.
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A fabulous tour not to be missed!
Visit the Art Gallery and gift shop before you leave |
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10
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WINE: |
The Pinot Noir was absolutely delicious and
elegant. The 1996 Zinfandel was a delightful surprise with lots of
blackberry and spice, a very jammy and full-bodied wine. The 1996 Reserve
Cabernet is styled along the line of traditional cab; Full bodied, deep
and rich with complex berry flavors with firm but not overwhelming tannins
and long lustrous finish, a truly fine wine. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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An exceptional staff greets you at the Robert
Mondavi Winery. Your tour guide will delight in answering all of your
questions as you stroll through the winery and learn of it's history and
of Robert Mondavi's life long quest to preserve the environment. |
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11
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WINERY:
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Lush manicured lawns
and gardens await you at this Spanish Mission like winery. |
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| MUMM NAPA
VALLEY
8845 Silverado Trail, Rutherford 707.942.3434 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: by the flute or 1/2 flute Tours: 11:00-3:00 on
the hour
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10
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WINE: |
This is a sparkling winery,
no pun intended. If you like sparking wine or her French sister, champagne,
Mumm is a
must. The tasting is plentiful. Blanc de blanc, blanc de Noir and brut are all excellent.
You won't go home empty-handed, nor should you. |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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Wait to be seated
by the charming staff in a tasting room that looks more like a cafe. Indoors or outdoors, whatever is your pleasure. You will sip and
relax overlooking the splendor of the mumm vineyard. |
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10
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WINERY:
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The French owned winery offers the best of both worlds. If heaven were a sparkling
wine vineyard then you will have arrived. |
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| NAPA WINE COMPANY 1133
Oakville Cross Road, Oakville 707.944.1710 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:30-3:30 Tasting Fee: $3.00 by appointment Tours: none
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N/A
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WINE: |
The wide variety of labels
poured here make it an unfair proposition to rate. There many fine wines, including
the excellent Pahlmeyer. Be sure to taste the bold and
spicy Fife Zinfandel, a winner. This is a must as the wine offerings are
unparrralled. |
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10
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AMBIANCE:
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This facility is located
just off of Hwy 29 along side railroad tracks that are no longer in use. The tasting room is
light and airy. The pourer's come with a sense of humor, which makes their wine expertise
less intimidating. Come here to discover the variety of reserve and dessert wines as well. |
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N/A
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WINERY:
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As this is a storing and
crushing facility for many wines it does not fit into the winery category. |
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NEWTON VINEYARD 2555
Madrona Avenue, St. Helena 707.963.9000 Tasting & Tours: by
appointment only and only on Fridays at 11:00. Tasting fee: none
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NIEBAUM-COPPOLA ESTATE WINERY
1991 St. Helena Hwy (Hwy
29), Rutherford 707.963.9435 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: $7.50 includes etched glass Tours: 11:00 &
2:00 by appointment Tour Fee: $20.00 includes wine, cheese& etched
glass
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9
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WINE: |
The wines poured are generally styled after the
Italians. The zinfandel is good, especially the Panino label Zin, which is excellent.
Buy a glass at the wine bar to taste those wines not offered in the
tasting room. A luxury not offered often in other wineries. |
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10.5
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AMBIANCE:
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No detail is overlooked. From the tasting rooms to the
old casking rooms Coppola has spared no expense. Each room is unique in history and
splendor. |
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12
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WINERY:
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Wine, a wine bar, movie memorabilia and a
Tucker. What else
do you need? Don't miss the grand experience. Formerly the Inglenook
Chateau, Coppola
purchased the winery in 1994 and took great pride in restoring it into the
Grand Dame of
wineries of days past. |
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OPUS
ONE 7900 St.
Helena Hwy (Hwy 29), Oakville, 707.963.1979 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00 - 3:30 daily by appointment Tours: by appointment Tasting
fee: $25.00 per generous pour.
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12
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WINE: |
Buy
a Case, as there is only "One." Opus One wines are always
elegant, rich and well balanced. The wine is consistently rich,
deep and complex. Absolutely delicious! |
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11
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AMBIANCE:
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As
elegant as its' wine the Concierge greets you at the door and directs you
to the tasting room where the staff delights in the pour and invites you
to walk the grounds while you sip and savor the wine. |
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11
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WINERY:
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A
Mediterranean palace set in the 22nd century. With grand hallways, sitting
rooms and rooftop walkways complete with a view this spectacular winery
sits amidst its own vineyards. |
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PEJU PROVINCE
8466 St.Helena Hwy (Hwy 29), Rutherford 707.963.3600 HOURS:
Tasting: 10:00-6:00 (tasting fee $3.00) Tours:
are self-guided Garden
& sculpture collection.
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8
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WINE: |
The cabernet sauvignon and
chardonnay are Peju's
star wines, but the Cab Franc was a true surprise. Tasting will not disappoint. |
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9
|
AMBIANCE:
|
It's friendly and easy going at this family owned winery.
The staff is accommodating and interested in conversing about the Wines during tasting. |
|
10.5
|
WINERY:
|
The winery driveway is lined with magnificent sycamores.
Once you arrive at the tasting room you will feel like you are in someone's garden filled
with an array of flowers, including white roses. Stay for a picnic. |
|
|
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JOSPEH
PHELPS VINEYARDS 200 Taplin Road (off the
Silverado Trail), St. Helena 707.963.2745 HOURS: Tasting
& Tours: by appointment, Monday - Saturday 9:00 -
5:00, Sunday 10:00 - 4:00. Tasting fee: none except
for Phelps' Insigna $10.00 and worth every penny!
|
|
:This tasting will take about 1
hour, so plan your day accordingly |
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12
|
WINE: |
BUY A CASE! En
Platicas ($10.00 per bottle) is an
absolutely delicious summer wine. Crisp, clean white with
no acid on the palette and a lot of citrus with delicate
flavors. The Vin du Mistral is a Grenache Rose wine
with hints of rose petal and cherry. The Phelps
Chardonnay is delightful. It is styled along the lines
of traditional white Burgundy and capable of aging for 5 -
10 years. This Chard is partially malolactic fermented. Le
Mistral is a delicious Rhone style red wine without
the harshness of the French reds. This wine will not overpower lighter fare,
yet has
enough backbone to be served with spicier dishes. The 1997
Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent wine, jammy, full
bodied, firm tannins and will age beautifully gaining
deeper complexity with time. This Cab can age for 10-20
years. The Phelps Port is a very soft smooth port,
which drinks more like a lovely dessert wine than a
heavier port styled wine.
The Joseph Phelps 1997 Insignia: An
outstanding wine, incredibly complex with blackberry,
cassis, deep and rich flavors with hints of chocolate and
tobacco with a long finish and delicious after taste,
which lingers on your palette. |
|
11
|
AMBIANCE: |
An extremely knowledgeable and
friendly staff guides you through the wine tasting, which
is set around a magnificent wood dining table in a special
room. A video is shown covering the history of
the winemaker and his vineyard. Children are welcome and
coloring books are available to keep them occupied during
the tasting. |
|
11
|
WINERY: |
While
you sit outside and sip Insignia you will have a fabulous
view of the Napa Valley hillside set above the Silverado
Trail in St. Helena. It is breathtaking and a must on your
trip through wine country. |
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|
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| PINE RIDGE 59015
Silverado Trail, Yountville 707.252.9777 HOURS: Tasting:
11:00-5:00 Tasting Fee: Tours: by appointment
call in advance to schedule your picnic.
|
|
9
|
WINE: |
Chenin blanc reigns
here. The reds tend to be full bodied and oaky. The reserve tasting may include their red
blend Epitome, which although good, will mature with age. If you happen to be offered the
Howell Mountain Cabernet you will be delighted. |
|
7
|
AMBIANCE:
|
Go to taste the
wines. Enjoy a stroll on the shady grounds, sit out on the patio or take a tour through
the aging caves. |
|
10
|
WINERY:
|
Pine Ridge is a
picturesque winery carved into the mountains of the Silverado trail. Shade trees on one
side and rolling hills covered with grape vines make this a stellar photo opportunity. |
|
|
|
| PLUMPJACK
620 Oakville Crossroad,
Oakville, 707.945.1220 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00 - 4:00 daily Tours: none Tasting fee: $5.00
(4 wines) |
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|
9
|
WINE: |
Run,
don't walk to this rising star winery. The cabernet sauvignon is juicy and
full bodied with a mouthful of flavor. A lot of tannins with some
tightness on the finish. This delicious Cab can cellar a while. |
|
10
|
AMBIANCE: |
You
will feel like you just stepped inside your favorite watering hole. A very
social atmosphere with an equally educated and friendly staff. |
|
8
|
WINERY: |
Drive
through the vineyards to this artsy-like winery. You will not be
disappointed when you finally arrive. |
|
|
|
ROMBAUER
3522 Silverado Trail, St.
Helena 707.963.5170 HOURS: Tasting:
10:30-5:00 daily by appointment. Tours:
none Tasting
fee: $5.00
|
|
:Venture up
Rombauer's long driveway to discover a hidden treasure. |
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|
10
|
WINE: |
Known
for their chardonnay, a red lovers white that has layers of flavors. The
reds are equally as exciting. If your lucky the reserves will be poured as
they are full bodied and complex. For a winery known for its' whites,
Rombauer has managed to impress us with a cabernet that is worth the trip
- up the winding hill to this hidden treasure of a winery. |
|
11
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AMBIANCE: |
Friendly
and unpretentious. This small quaint winery is a place to relax, enjoy and
make friends with the staff and other visitors who have discovered this
gem. |
|
10.5
|
WINERY: |
Cool! It
cannot be seen from the road as it sits atop a mountain amidst a forest
filled with huge shade trees. The winery is fashioned after a rustic
lodge, complimenting its' surroundings. |
|
|
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SHAFER
VINEYARDS 6154 Silverado Trail, Napa
707.944.2877
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|
Review in process of
being updated. Please check back soon... |
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|
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| SILVERADO 6121 Silverado Trail, Napa
707.257.1770 HOURS: Tasting:
11:00-4:30 Tours: by appointment. Tasting Fee: $2.00 on
weekends. |
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|
|
7
|
WINE: |
The premiere wines of this
vineyard, which are the reserve cabernet and reserve chardonnay, are not offered for
tasting. The actual tasting wines a sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, merlot and cabernet are
solid fare. |
|
8.5
|
AMBIANCE:
|
Comfortable. The staff is
polite and invites you to sit and sip your wine in the picture window box overlooking the
valley. |
|
11.5
|
WINERY:
|
Poised atop the hills
overlooking the valley. This Spanish style winery offers outstanding views and peaceful
surroundings. |
|
|
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| SILVEROAK
CELLARS
915 Oakville Cross Road, Oakville 707.944.8808 HOURS:
Tasting: 9:00-4:00 Monday-Friday, Saturday 10:30-4:30 both by appointment Tours: 1:30 Monday Thursday by
appointment. Tasting Fee: $5.00 one
wine only, includes etched glass.
|
|
10
|
WINE: |
Cabernet, cabernet and
more cabernet. Admirers of cabernet sauvignon should not miss this vineyard, as
Silveroak
specializes only in cabernet. A lush, smooth and elegant wine. |
|
9
|
AMBIANCE:
|
A very busy winery. Make
an appointment during the week otherwise you will be lost in a sea of cabernet lovers. |
|
9
|
WINERY:
|
The winery is at the end of
a long driveway, which takes you through the vineyard. The tasting room is elegant, dark
and woody offering views of the casking room. |
|
|
|
SPOTTSWOODE
WINERY 1902 Madrona
Avenue, St. Helena 707.963.0134 Tastings & Tours:
By appointment only Tuesdays at 10:00 and Fridays at 2:30.
Tasting fee: none
|
|
This winery only is
allowed 20 visitors per week, due to zoning laws. Make your
reservation here well in advance, sometimes you will need to call
up to 3 months ahead of time. |
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|
11
|
WINE: |
The 1997 Sauvignon Blanc
is an excellent dry, crisp wine of which only 1200 cases
were produced. A rare and spectacular find, buy whenever
you can and enjoy! The 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon,
only 4000 cases released this fall 2000, is an
exceptionally elegant and sophisticated wine. Although, a
much bigger cab than the 1996 vintage it is soft with deep
fruit flavors and hints of plum. It is a focused wine with
balanced acidity. A delicious wine all around. |
|
11
|
AMBIANCE: |
While visiting this intimate
winery you may be surprised with a visit from the
winemaker, Rosemary Cakebread. The staff is small. They
are all extremely informative and friendly and play an
integral role in the Spottswoode family winery. |
|
10
|
WINERY: |
This
winery is a charming home set in a residential
neighborhood. The magnificent stone barn structure is home
to the Spottswoode wines. |
|
|
|
| STAG'S LEAP WINE CELLARS
5706 Silverado Trail, 707.944.2020 HOURS:
Tasting:
10:00-4:00 Tours: by appointment. Tasting Fee: $3.00
or free with tour.
|
|
9
|
WINE: |
Stag's Leap is well known for
its superb reserve cabernets. Stag's leap 1973 Cabernet put California Wines on the map
when it won the 1976 Paris tasting. Tasting may include some of the finer reserves as well
as Stag's Leap's new label Hawks Crest, a more affordable option to the pricier
Stag's
label. |
|
9
|
AMBIANCE:
|
Tastings are held in the
corner of the aging cellars adjacent to the enormous aging casks. Although hectic at
times, the staff is always attentive and accommodating. |
|
10
|
WINERY:
|
Nestled at the foot of the
hills of in the Stag's Leap District of wine country, surrounded by large shade trees lies
a small group of buildings, which make up the winery. |
|
|
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STERLING
VINEYARDS 1111
Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga 707.942.3344 HOURS: Tasting:
10:30-4:30 daily Tours: self-guided
|
|
To get to
this winery you will ride above the vineyard in an aerial tramway |
|
|
9.5
|
WINE: |
Consistently
good, sterling makes an array of reds. The merlot was our favorite with
rich berry flavors with evenly balanced acidity on the finish. The cabs
are all delicious, all the time. |
|
11
|
AMBIANCE:
|
Spectacular, just like the views. The tasting room is done in a cafe-like
room surrounded by tall trees looking out over the valley. |
|
12
|
WINERY:
|
WOW! You have to take a Tram ride to the top of the mountain where this
impressive winery resides. Bring your camera as the views are some of the
best in the Valley. The tastings sometimes take you on a self-guided tour
through the winery where information place cards are placed for self
education. |
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|
|
VAN
DER HEYDEN Silverdao
Trail, Napa 707 HOURS: Tasting:
10:00 - 6:00 daily & by appointment Tours: none
|
|
The producer
of one of the only Late Harvest Cabernet Sauvignon in the World makes
this vineyard a must. Van der Heyden himself, will pour you the
wine and share stories. |
|
|
11
|
WINE: |
Desert wine heaven. The Late Harvest
Semillon is an absolute stunner! Initially on the palette distinct tastes
of apricot and honey moving into equally unique flavors of almond and
hazelnut with a long luxurious finish. A
fine showing all around. The Whites are crisp and refreshing. The
Chardonnay, unlike most California chards, has no oak, because Andre Van der Heyden
does not like them oaky and as the vintner he has free reign to
produce his wines, his way. The reds are also delicious, but the standout
is the Late Harvest Cabernet Sauvignon, the only one of its kind produced
in the world. There is no way to describe this wine's unique and splendid
flavor. You simply must taste it! Once you do you will be hooked forever! |
|
8
|
AMBIANCE:
|
Fun and enlightening. Andre educates you as you taste his wines. His wit,
charm and stories make for a great time. |
|
6
|
WINERY:
|
Set amongst the vineyards is this small family owned house with a
separate tasting room. Although, not one of the more impressive looking
wineries by far, the wines are the reason for visiting this winery time
and time again. Don't turn back when you see of the cats. |
|
|
|
VIADER
VINEYARDS 1120 Deer
Park Road, St. Helena 707.963.3816 HOURS: Tastings
and Tours: by appointment only, no fee.
|
|
To properly pronounce the
name of this vineyard remember the rhyme "if you dare"
then "Viader". This family owned vineyard produces only
4000 cases of its' truly spectacular bordeaux style blend. Delia Viader is both
the owner and winemaker of this absolute gem in wine country. |
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|
12
|
WINE: |
BUY A CASE! The1997
true Bordeaux styled wine that is harmonious. The wine is
a blend of cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon grapes.
This great wine will only improve over the next 10 - 20 years but still
drinks beautifully now with its' rich, deep flavors of
Cassis and Blackberry. A true stunner and a must have. |
|
12
|
AMBIANCE: |
The ambiance here is Delia
Viader herself. An elegant, sophisticated, bright and
talented winemaker whose personality is truly reflected in
her wines as well as her winery. |
|
12
|
WINERY: |
A
stunning hillside winery with the vineyards running from
the top to the bottom of the mountain. A magnificent view,
bring your camera. |
|
|
|
| WHITEHALL
LANE 1563 St.
Helena Highway (Hwy 29), St. Helena 707 HOURS:
Tasting:
11:00 - 6:00 daily Tours: 1:00 & 4:00 daily Tasting
fee: $3.00
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|
10.5
|
WINE: |
Whitehall
Lane makes a classis cabernet that is consistently complex, tannic and
full bodied. An impressive wine. The chardonnay and merlot also make
excellent showings. |
|
9
|
AMBIANCE: |
The
tasting room is light and airy. The staff makes the ambiance a pleasurable
experience all the way around. |
|
9
|
WINERY: |
A modern,
almost impressionistic structure, it's artistic. The view of the vineyards
from the outside is a shutter bugs photo opportunity. |
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For more wineries to visit while in Napa, visit http://napavalley.com/wineries.html
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