Napa Valley is a glorious destination for lovers of legendary acclaimed wines and their grand estates. The countryside scenery is remarkable. The hotels and resorts are elegant and lavish. Finally, the gourmet food is extravagant. Perfectly beautiful!
The Small List
Best Hotel
Auberge du Soleil – An award winning, world class, French inspired luxurious resort in the heart of Napa offering the best the Wine Country has to offer.
Best Restaurants
The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil – Tables on the famous terrace are some of the best and most sought-after in Napa Valley where one can enjoy panoramic views of the neighboring vineyards and stunning sunsets. The adjacent Bistro & Bar, in a more relaxed contemporary style, is an inviting setting in which you can sip a cocktail by the fire, dine on lighter fare al fresco or enjoy one of the 40 wines served by the glass.
R & D Kitchen – Inspired by California’s indoor/outdoor culture, experience stunning vineyard views and flavorful dishes in Yountville, CA.
Rutherford Grill – Offers a robust wine list where you’re likely to be sitting next to a Vineyard Master and where American comfort food is key!
Greatest Vineyards and Wineries
Raymond Vineyards – Experience the Red Room. The red velvet lined room is lit by Baccarat chandeliers. The Crystal Cellar is an experience focusing on the wine and the decanting process. Undeniably, both experiences are a treat and the ultimate Napa Valley escape from the hustle of the world outside.
Opus One Winery – Opus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Monday. The result is a wine of absolute perfection. Gain insight into their French & American origins. Learn about the vineyard, their winemaking practices, and indulge!
Nickel & Nickel Vineyards – State of the art winemaking on a historic classic farmstead with an ultra modern winery for you to experience first hand their single-vineyard wines.
Cakebread Cellars – Enjoy a sumptuous sample of current release wines and the best wines they craft.
Robert Mondavi Winery – Mr. Mondavi believed that the path to a gracious lifestyle leads through the appreciation of wine, food, and art. He also believed that Napa Valley could be the center for that life. Be sure to visit the winery to experience this philosophy first hand.
Quintessa – An exceptional experience walking to a scenic overlook of the property, with sweeping views of the vineyards to taste one of the great wines of the world.
Castello di Amorosa – Authentically-built, this 13th century inspired Tuscan castle and winery is a place to enjoy a tasting of Italian-style wines, found exclusively at the Castello.
Best Vineyard in Saint Helena
Vineyard 7 & 8 – Vineyard 7 & 8 produces the highest quality handcrafted wines with wonderful depth and complexity. This unique vineyard is located above the fog in Saint Helena, CA. This brings late ripening, low yields, natural drainage, and infertile volcanic soil. The unique conditions add to the distinctive quality of the wine. Enjoy an in-depth, intimate look at how they craft their wines and tend to the vineyard.
Best Tasting Experience in Yountville
Ma(i)sonry – Located in downtown Yountville, enjoy a unique communal wine tasting experience.