Must Visit Wineries in Napa

Must Visit Wineries in Napa

Napa Valley in California is considered the best wine-making region in the United States and among the top 10 on the planet. The Mediterranean-like climate and its geological characteristics gave the region the privilege of producing high-quality grapes that are equal to the famous French and Italian varieties. Today, there are almost 500 wineries in Napa Valley and most of them are open to the public and host venues like wine tasting, tours, and barbecues. We hope that this Must Visit Wineries in Napa post inspires you.

Many of them can also provide accommodation inside the wineries, a fact that makes the experience even more enjoyable. During the last three decades, Napa Valley evolved into a top tourist destination and enjoys more than four million visitors per year. Among the hundreds of wineries, some stand out. In the rest of the article, there is a short presentation of the best wineries in Napa Valley, California.

Must Visit Wineries in Napa

Schramsberg

Nestled in the hills above St. Helena, Schramsberg Vineyards specializes in sparkling wines and offers tours of their caves, used for storing and aging their prestigious bottles. Schramsberg Winery is a producer of sparkling wine. The quality of its wines is comparable to that of famous world brands like Mumm. The winery has an enormous network of caves constructed a century ago by the Chinese railroad workers. Schramsberg’s catalog includes the 2007 J.Davies Cabernet Sauvignon (limited production), the J. Schram Brut Rose, a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay aged for seven years, and the multi-vintage Mirabelle Brut. Schramsberg has a camping sight that hosts a Harvest camp in the fall and a Blending camp in the spring. The winery is located at 1400 Schramsberg Road in Calistoga.

Robert Mondavi

The winery was founded in 1966. It is most known for its dry Sauvignon Fume Blanc, a term created by Robert Mondavi himself. Other varieties are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Merlot. The Robert Mondavi Vineyard also has a private collection that includes Riesling, Syrah, and Zinfandel. Robert Mondavi hosts great events like live concerts, wine tours, and harvest parties. The winery is located on Highway 29 in Oakville.

Chateau Montelena

The iconic winery Chateau Montelena is known for its stunning French-style chateau and its 1973 Chardonnay's triumph over French wines in the “Judgment of Paris,” offers tours and tastings showcasing its rich history and award-winning wines. Perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the valley, Chateau Montelena is best known for its 1973 Chardonnay that triumphed in the “Judgment of Paris” blind tasting, putting Napa Valley wines on the world map. Enjoy their winery tour and savor their classic Chardonnay amidst the picturesque landscape.

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Beaulieu Vineyard

Established in 1852, Beaulieu Vineyard is Napa Valley's oldest continuously operating winery. Immerse yourself in their historic caves and enjoy tastings of their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon.

Paradise Ridge

Paradise Ridge Winery was established in 1991. Although it does not have a lot of history behind it, its products won nine awards in the last seven years. The most known wines of Paradise Ridge are the 2006 Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2001 Late Disgorge (sparkling white), and the 2008 Brides Blush Rose. Besides wine tasting, the winery can organize business events and weddings. Paradise Ridge is located in Santa Rosa, 4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive.

Franciscan Oakville Estate

Justin Mayer produced Franciscan’s first wine in 1975. Nowadays, the winery’s catalog includes Signature and limited-production wines. Its most known products are the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, and the 2006 Magnificat (limited). The winery organizes special wine tours and seminars daily. Franciscan is located on Highway 29 at Galleron Road.

Opus One Winery

This renowned and stunning winery, a collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, offers a glimpse into the world of luxury winemaking. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Opus One Winery is a masterpiece of modern architecture.  Their iconic Opus One blend is a must-try, and the winery tour provides fascinating insights into their meticulous production process. Enjoy a tour and tasting amidst the undulating titanium curves of the building. 

PRO TIP: If you're planning to visit multiple wineries, consider purchasing a Napa Valley Wine Train ticket. The train travels through the valley, stopping at several wineries along the way. It's a great way to see the scenery and enjoy some wine tasting without having to drive.

Castello di Amorosa

Inspired by 13th-century Tuscan castles, Castello di Amorosa is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Take a tour of this faux castle and marvel at its intricate details while enjoying their estate wines.

Clos Pegase

The gravity-flow winery of Clos Pegase was designed by renowned architect Philippe Starck, blends seamlessly into the hillside with its whitewashed walls and minimalist aesthetic. Savor their Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay while appreciating the unique design.

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Fantesca Estate & Winery

This family-owned estate offers personalized experiences in a beautiful setting. Perched high on Spring Mountain, the Fantesca Estate & Winery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. Hike through their picturesque vineyards, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the rolling hills, and savor their elegant Cabernet Sauvignon.  Their biodynamic farming practices and focus on small-production wines result in unique and expressive wines. They also offer tours of their olive groves and cooking classes. 

Mayacamas Vineyards & Winery

Nestled high in the Mayacamas mountains, Mayacamas Vineyards offers stunning vistas and a taste of history. Founded in 1889, it's one of Napa's oldest wineries, producing acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Their cave tour and mountainside tastings are truly special experiences. This mountainside winery boasts stunning vistas and a focus on biodynamic farming practices. Take a tour of their historic stone winery and enjoy a tasting overlooking the valley.

Domaine Chandon

Immerse yourself in French-style sparkling wine at Domaine Chandon. This iconic winery, part of the Moët Hennessy group, sits in Yountville and boasts beautiful gardens, a chateau-like tasting room, and top-notch sparkling wines. Sip on their Blanc de Noirs or Brut Rosé while enjoying the elegant atmosphere.

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Immerse yourself in Napa Valley's rich winemaking history at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. Located in the renowned Stags Leap District, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars offers tours of their picturesque vineyards and tastings of their acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its depth and complexity. This historic winery, known for its role in the famous “Judgment of Paris,” offers tours and tastings that showcase their award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons and other varietals.

Beringer

Beringer was established in 1876 and it is the oldest winery in Napa Valley. After surviving Prohibition, it evolved into one of the best wineries. Its main wines are the 2007 Alluvium Red, the 2008 White Zinfandel, and the 1989 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Beringer organizes wine-tasting events for its guests and private galas for its members. The winery is located in St. Helena at 2000 Main Street. This historic winery offers a variety of affordable wine-tasting options, including self-guided tours and outdoor tastings overlooking the vineyards. Their Founders' Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and White Zinfandel are popular choices, and their historic Stone Cellar is worth a visit.

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Darioush Winery

Experience Persian-inspired luxury and hospitality at Darioush Winery. Get a taste of Persia at this opulent winery, inspired by the ancient palaces of Darius the Great. Immerse yourself in the rich décor, enjoy a gourmet Persian-inspired lunch, and savor their award-winning wines. This opulent winery, modeled after a 17th-century Persian palace, features stunning architecture, intricate gardens, and exceptional wines. Their Cabernet Franc and Shiraz are particularly noteworthy, and their tasting experiences are truly memorable.

Cakebread Cellars

The Cakebread Cellars family-owned winery is known for its warm hospitality and delicious wines. Enjoy a tour of their estate and a tasting in their charming tasting room overlooking the vineyards.

V. Sattui Winery

The popular V. Sattui Winery offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual wine-tasting experience. They have a wide variety of wines at accessible prices, along with a charming deli and picnic areas. Enjoy their signature Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc or their popular Zinfandel.

Raymond Vineyards

The family-owned Raymond Vineyards winery provides excellent value for money, with delicious wines and informative tours. Their Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are crowd-pleasers, and their tasting room offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

PRO TIP: Consider joining a guided wine tour to visit multiple wineries and learn about the region from an expert. This can be a great way to experience Napa Valley without having to worry about driving or planning your itinerary.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions to get you started. With over 400 wineries in Napa Valley, there are endless possibilities to explore! Do some research, read reviews, and choose wineries that appeal to your interests for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience.

These wineries in Napa Valley California are just a glimpse of what this magnificent place can offer. A visitor will have the opportunity to taste some of the best wines on the planet, in one of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. There is no doubt that a visit to the wineries in Napa Valley will offer many unforgettable memories. We hope that this Must Visit Wineries in Napa post inspires you. Happy travels!