FORTY-NINE9 TASTING ROOM REVIEWS1 Plus Dining Directory and 49 Varietals by Winery CALISTOGA PAGES 7=14

Spring/Summer 2012

Napa Valley Preferred Wine Country DAY TRIPS x

x x x

FuN x FAcT x

NINE TRIpS WINE TASTING from Calistoga to Carneros A publication of FORTY-NINE9 TASTING ROOM REVIEWS1 plus Dining Directory and 49 Varietals by Winery CALISTOGA PAGES 7=14

On & Around HOWELL MTN PAGES 15=21

SAGE CANYON ST. HELENA PAGES 32=36 PAGES 22=31

RUTHERFORD/ OAKVILLE PAGES 37=43

See the complete Napa Valley map on pages 78 & 79 OAK KNOLL/ STAGS LEAP DAY TRIP PAGES 44=48 ROUTES

NAPA PAGES 49=56 COOMBSVILLE PAGES 57=61

MT. VEEDER/ LOS CARNEROS PAGE 62=67 Not to Scale 49 preferred Napa Valley Preferred Napa Valley Tasting Room Reviews

1313 Main Fine Wine, Retail, Tasting Bar 54 Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards 21 Arger Martucci Vineyards 29 August Briggs 10 Baldacci Family Vineyards 45 Ballentine Vineyards 24 Beringer Vineyards 26 DAY9 Wine Tasting Trips TRIPS Bravante Vineyards 18 Burgess Cellars 20 Ca’Momi Winery & Enoteca 52 Calistoga 7-14 Calistoga Wine Stop 9 Castello di Amorosa 12 On & Around Howell Mountain 15-21 Chappellet Winery 36 St. Helena 22-31 Corley Family Winery – Monticello 48 Cuvaison Estate Wines – Calistoga 8 Sage Canyon 32-36 Cuvaison Estate Wines - Los Carneros 65 Ehlers Estate 23 Rutherford/Oakville 37-43 Etude Wines 67 Farella Vineyard 58 Oak Knoll/Stags Leap 44-48 Frank Family Vineyards 13 Hagafen Cellars 47 Napa 49-56 The Hess Collection 63 Coombsville 57-61 Kuleto Estate 35 Merryvale Vineyards 27 Mt. Veeder/Carneros 62-67 Mumm Napa 40 Napa Valley Wine Train 53 Nichelini Family Winery 34 ON THE COVER: COURTESY OF ST. CLEMENT VINEYARD Nicholson Ranch 64 Pope Valley Winery 16 Porter Family Vineyards 60 A Publication of Raymond Vineyards 30 Reata Winery 50 Rustridge Ranch & Winery 33 Rutherford Hill Winery 38 Rutherford Ranch Winery 39 Saddleback Cellars 41 St. Clement Vineyard 25 St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery 43 Saintsbury 66 669 Broadway, Suite B • Sonoma, CA 95476 Sodaro Estate Winery 59 P.O. Box 92 • El Verano, CA 95433 Stags’ Leap Winery 46 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674 Summit Lake Vineyards 17 PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Tulocay Winery 61 Direct (707) 938-3734 Turnbull Wine Cellars 42 [email protected] Twomey Cellars 11 MANAGING EDITOR Chandra Grant V. Sattui Winery 28 Phone 707-938-1783 • Fax 707-938-3674 Viader Vineyards 19 [email protected] Vinoce/Twenty Rows 55 ADVERTISING RoseAnn Trzesniewski Whitehall Lane Winery 31 REPRESENTATIVE Phone 707-334-1930 • Fax 707-938-3674 [email protected] OFFICE MANAGER Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 • Fax 707-938-3674 OTHER Email [email protected] Stagecoach Express 5 Destiny Wine Tours 6/68 EDITORIAL Introductions by Abigail Zimmerman CONTRIBUTORS Karin Aroud, Michelle Baker, Alexandra Charsley, Calistoga Balloons 14/69 Ronda Giangreco, Charles Neave, Nan Reiley, Thomas Kinkade Gallery 51 Josh Stein and Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Fumé Bistro & Bar 56/73 Dining Directory 71-73 LOOK FOR US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER! Varietals by Winery 74-77 Wineries Map 78-79 Notes on Wine Tasting in The Napa Valley It’s a good idea to plan to visit several wineries as every wine-tasting experience offered is different. With so many distinctive viticultural areas within The Napa Valley, one can easily taste many of the world’s best varietials and winemaking style without learning the region. Listed below are five basic types of tasting experiences. The experience will vary in style from winery to winery! Wine Bar Tasting The most common tasting experience is a Wine Bar Tasting. You step up to the bar where typically a list of wines being poured is displayed. Expect to pay a tasting fee between $10-$40. Some tasting bars will offer you the option to taste a library or reserve wine. Exercising this option increases the fee, but will allow you to taste very unique, old or rare wines. Sit Down Tasting A Sit Down Tasting usually requires an appointment, and there may be a slightly higher fee than a wine bar fee. Seated in an elegant room, you are poured several wines by your winery host. Expect your host to describe the unique characteristics of each wine and how it was made. Table Service Tasting A Table Service Tasting, popular at sparkling wine facilities, is a tasting experience where you are seated at a ery to pour the first round. Then you move to another table and the tastings are brought to you. place within the winery to sample the next wine. This ex- Walk Around Tasting perience continues until all the wines are tasted. A Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and Barrel Tasting a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine on Another popular tasting experience that can be part your tour, and may take you to a garden area of the win- of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guide takes a “wine thief,” a special siphon placed into a hole in the top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a matur- ing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wine is like in the middle of developing its full potential. Why make an appointment? Some wineries are so small that they need to know when you are coming so someone will be there to greet you. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limit the number of guests that can visit each day. Others have sit-down tastings that start and end at specific times. It’s always a good idea to schedule your appointments well in advance of your visit because some of the more popular wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance. WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM

4 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Let Us Ship Your Napa Valley Memories Home! Sue Bailey and Larry Rupp met on a blind date in 1996. But • Call anytime during business hours and get the unlike most blind dates, this one went smashingly well. Instant owners on the phone! spark…chemistry…and fireworks! • Stagecoach Express & Co. will stop in at Napa With a little bit of luck and a whole lot of work ethic, this hotels and wineries to pick up your shipping orders couple embarked on a new life and new business together when in – so you do not have to come to them, they will 1998, they purchased Stagecoach Express & Co. come to you! “We are partners in business and partners in life,” laughs Sue. • Stagecoach Express & Co. Shipping is known “We specialize in wine shipping to be sure, but we can also ship throughout the Napa Valley for paying attention to much, much more.” the needs of their customers… and satisfying each “We’ve shipped everything even tree branches and grapevines!” one. Owners Larry and Sue will truly pay attention Stagecoach owners and staff have endless experience in shipping to every detail of your order. all matters of items tourists and locals need expedited across these • Services include: Product packaging services, United States and beyond. online shipping forms, rental mailboxes, To date, Stagecoach Express & Co. has been helping Napa photocopying, faxes and stamps. Valley locals and visitors for over 14 years. A big part of this stellar • Centrally located! Easy-on and easy-off access to legacy though is their commitment to customer service and Hwy. 29 at Vallerga’s Redwood Plaza Shopping attention to detail. Stagecoach Express staff will even pick up Center, Stagecoach Express is Napa’s premier hub directly from your B&B, hotel and even the winery where you for shipping all of your Napa purchases home. purchased wine. Just call ahead or after your purchase. A Heart Warming Cause: “Show Meow the Money” Stagecoach Express and co. Mr. Ed (1991-2010) came along with the purchase of the Stagecoach Express & Co business. Taken in as a kitten found in Let Us Ship Your Napa Valley Memories Home! the gutter, Mr. Ed became a fixture in the shipping store and soon Open Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. became nicknamed the “Counter Cat.” A handsome orange tabby, Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mr. Ed inspired Sue and Larry to begin raising money for other homeless and shelter animals. In 2010, Mr. Ed passed away. But 3379 Solano Avenue, Napa, CA 94558 the “Show Meow the Money” jar in his memory is alive and well (707) 257-1888, Toll Free: 1-877-232-5054 on the Stagecoach counter and earns money every day for his Fax: (707) 257-1891 fellow, less fortunate furry friends. By Abigail Zimmerman Email [email protected] Free Shipping Boxes with wine shipments! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 5 I’ll tell you – the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and he’s passionate about what he does. He loves talking with LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Ray’s wife all kinds of people – young people, older people, people is credited with choosing the name for the company from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a (great name, by the way!). real “people person.” He told me, “I meet my passengers as FuN FAcT clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says “after driving a big fire take them home with me.” Next thing you know, Ray will truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! sports car!” Not to worry, though, Ray is a true profes- sional and pilots his limo with great care. Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would pLAN AHEAD know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isn’t your At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their fleet (but they’ll be adding more soon), so make sure driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous to book your trip well in advance! training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. KuDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOuRS Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, It doesn’t get any better than that! bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. Destiny Wine Tours The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a Tours are available seven days a week spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound (707) 254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Your car is waiting – let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

Mention this story and get 20% oﬀ your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.

6 For more Day Trip ideas, visit www.WineCountryThisWeek.com CalistogaCalistoga sits in the top end of Napa Valley like a cork in a wine bottle. Flat Iron Grill This lively, well-preserved historic small-town and surrounding region 1440 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-1220, www.flatirongrill.com simply delights everyone. Delicious restaurants, glorious mountains, Flat Iron Grill revels in its recently restored historic space! There is nothing dusty diverse art galleries, world-famous hot springs, eclectic bookstores and about this intimate, yet friendly restaurant. Open for dinner daily, don't miss roadside stands, boutique shopping and happy locals combine to make the hickory smoked baby back ribs. Calistoga a favorite of Napa Valley locals and visitors. LODGING FOOD Brannan cottage Inn cafe Sarafornia 109 Wappo Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-4200, www.brannancottageinn.com 1413 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-0555, www.cafesarafornia.com One of the original 25 Hot Springs Resort cottages from 1860. The best breakfast in town! Owners Madeline & Drake are the vivacious stewards Close walking proximity to famed Calistoga Hot Springs (across the street!) and of this famed, historic diner. For more than 100 years, Cafe Sarafina has been only two blocks to downtown Calistoga, makes this charming inn a repeat hit. serving up delicious fare and good people. Don't miss the huevos rancheros! Six rooms are available year round. Brannan's pink Mansion 1374 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-2233, www.brannansgrill.com 1415 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-0558, www.pinkmansion.com Go for the winning wine list (with rare Napa and Sonoma cult labels) Escape, indulge & dream! Built in 1870 by Napa's original stage line owner, and stay for the fine foods and great atmosphere. Brannan proudly the Pink Mansion is a lovely, private and restful destination that retains the sponsors local, artisanal producers and their dishes are the better for it. elegance of its historic past. Rates include gourmet breakfast for two and This summer, dine alfresco on the patio! afternoon wine and appetizers. JoLe Solage 1457 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, (707) 942-5938, www.jolerestaurant.com 755 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, 1-866-942-7442, www.solagecalistoga.com From Farm to Table. JoLe is OpenTable.com's "Diner's Choice Winner" for 2010 – Where cosmopolitan luxuries take on an enlightened, comfortable attitude! a wonderful compliment to owners and husband-and-wife team Matt and Offering a healthy, green environment, 89 eco-friendly studios and Michelin star Sonjita Spector. Enjoy the delicious menu and mouth-watering pastries! rated Solbar restaurant, Solage is a stylish and naturally brilliant hotel! calistoga Ranch 580 Lommel Road, Calistoga, 1-800-942-4220, www.calistogaranch.com Driving Time: 16 minutes From Cuvasion Tucked into a private canyon in the Upper Napa Valley on a 157-acre site, the to Calistoga Wine Stop 2+ miles luxury resort captures the rich culture of food, wine and nature. to August Briggs 1+ miles to Twomey 1+ miles to Castello di Amorosa 1 mile THINGS TO DO to Frank Family 1 mile castello di Amorosa Total 8 miles 4045 N. St. Helena Highway, (707) 967-6272, www.castellodiamorosa.com A tour of the incredible 13th century, 107 room, Tuscan style castle and winery – complete with chapel and torture chamber – is highly recommended! Sharpsteen Museum 1311 Washington Street, Calistoga (707) 942-5911, www.sharpsteen-museum.org This museum is a wonderful spot to learn about upper Napa Valley history and old Calistoga. Exhibit subjects include Sam Brannan, Wappo Native Americans, one-time-local Robert Louis Stevenson and artifacts from the survivors of the Donner Party. petrified Forest 4100 Petrified Forest Road, Calistoga (707) 942-6667, www.petrifiedforest.org Step back in time, more than 3 million years, and follow the trail of majestic petrified redwood giants arrayed before you in a fascinating grove in beautiful California wine country. Old Faithful Geyser 1299 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga, (707) 942-6463 Old Faithful of California is one of the three "Old Faithful" geysers in the world. Bursting regularly and throwing thousands of gallons of water high into the air, Old Faithful is a glorious sight. Other attractions include the Not to Scale petting zoo and picnic grounds. Open daily, 9am-6pm in the summer.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Calistoga 7 CALISTOGA

Cuvaison’s original tasting room and historic winery VARIETALS in Calistoga, is on the east side of the Silverado Trail Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel, nestled at the base of the Vaca Mountain Range. The Cabernet Sauvignon and a unique port-style dessert wine called Espiritu. tasting room has a contemporary take on the classic tast- FuN FAcT ing environment, offering an intimate experience where Reserve your gourmet picnic lunch 24 hours in advance guests can gather at the bar or enjoy a seated tasting. on Cuvaison’s website and all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Visit www.cuvaison.com for details and to Tree shaded picnic grounds are a popular attraction reserve your picnic today! to visitors. Leave the fuss and muss behind by making a cLuB BENEFITS reservation for a gourmet picnic lunch online! Learn Access to limited releases, savings on wine and about the Picnic Here program under “Fun Facts.” tasting room merchandise and invitations to member-only parties. Cuvaison is most prominently known for their estate GREEN INITIATIVES grown Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They also produce Sustainable vineyard practices, cork recycling, other varietals as well including Zinfandel, Sauvignon 1,428 solar panels, eco-friendly packaging and much more ... it’s all part of a commitment to reducing their Blanc, Syrah and their port style dessert wine. And don’t carbon footprint. forget about their rich, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon wines; particularly the award-winning Brandlin from cuvaison Estate Wines Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cuvaison’s fabled Mount Veeder estate vineyard located 4550 Silverado Trail North, Calistoga 1200' above the valley floor. (707) 942-2468 • www.cuvaison.com If Calistoga is your destination, don’t miss visiting Follow Cuvaison on Cuvaison Estate Wines’ tasting room. Facebook and Twitter! Two complimentary tastings with wine purchase.

8 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com CALISTOGA 9 www.calistogawinestop.net calistoga Wine Stop Wine calistoga Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 6 to a.m. 10 from daily Open (707) 942-5556 or 1-800-648-4521 or 942-5556 (707) 1458 Lincoln Ave. #2, Calistoga, CA 94515 CA Calistoga, #2, Ave. Lincoln 1458 Without even a hint of hyperbole, there’s everything you there’s hyperbole, of a hint even Without think might you what from Stop, Wine in the can imagine suddenly may you wines to Classics’ Valley ‘Napa of as the with family and friends, share to and want own, call your cellar. private your and add to – has one of the richest – and most interesting Calistoga Valley. in the Napa histories From Go left will ﬁnd it all. (mainly) or go right and you and much ‘bar food,’ small plates, and pizzas to steaks more. and bookstores newsstands boutiques, galleries, Shops, ﬁnd in a small town. and so much to of the years, throughout has special events Calistoga every check the various sort to Be sure imaginable. visit. and then plan your websites VARIETALS HISTORY FOOD &WINE DOWNTHE STREET pLAN AHEAD By charles Neave charles By This wine shop is located in California’s oldest railroad building! oldest railroad in California’s This wine shop is located Calistoga Wine Stop sits in the Golden State’s oldest railroad oldest State’s Golden the in sits Stop Wine Calistoga “We specialize in smaller producers and winemakers that do that winemakers and producers smaller in specialize “We

As Tom said recently, “My wife Tammy and I concentrate on concentrate I and Tammy wife “My recently, said Tom As

They are also able to ship world-wide and can pack wine pack can and world-wide ship to able also are They When you get back home be sure to remember: If you’re If remember: to sure be home back get you When

from labels you might not have heard of. heard have not might you labels from agree when you visit and begin to see a wide variety of wines, of variety wide a see to begin and visit you when agree spectrum of wines in a great setting? I think not, as you’ll soon you’ll as not, think I setting? great a in wines of spectrum building. Is there a more charming a place to take in a broad a in take to place a charming more a there Is building. smallest producers.” smallest Calistoga’s Wine Stop. “We showcase Napa and Sonoma’s and Napa showcase “We Stop. Wine Calistoga’s not have a formal tasting room,” said Tom Pelter, proprietor of proprietor Pelter, Tom said room,” tasting formal a have not production lots that aren’t widely distributed.” Tom and Tom distributed.” widely aren’t that lots production wines that are a little off the beaten path; those with small with those path; beaten the off little a are that wines www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Tammy Pelter purchased Calistoga Wine Stop in 1986. With 1986. in Stop Wine Calistoga purchased Pelter Tammy their years of experience in the business, they are able to able are they business, the in experience of years their recommend wines for any occasion, for cellaring or for or cellaring for occasion, any for wines recommend everyday enjoyment. They also produce their own family wine, family own their produce also They enjoyment. everyday a Pelter Cabernet Sauvignon, which is available for purchase for available is which Sauvignon, Cabernet Pelter a only in their shop. their in only for you to take with you to the airport. “Our combination of combination “Our airport. the to you with take to you for fair pricing, personalized service and wine knowledge has knowledge wine and service personalized pricing, fair helped us serve thousands of customers over the years.” the over customers of thousands serve us helped not in the area they’ll ship and offer ten-percent discounts on discounts ten-percent offer and ship they’ll area the in not case sales. It’s all part of their commitment to providing unique providing to commitment their of part all It’s sales. case wines to those who appreciate the best. the appreciate who those to wines CALISTOGA

August Briggs is on its second generation of dreamers proving you can make them come true – if you work hard enough. When August WHAT TO TASTE The question is what not to taste? With wines “Joe” Briggs decided to move on from the wine business into some ranging from the refreshing Chardonnay to the well-deserved relaxation with his wife, he did so by letting his nephew, decadent Petite Sirah, there are 15 wines Jesse Inman, and three key, longtime employees, Colette Milliman, Lisa crafted from 8 varietals, which will suit almost Salling and Matt Gacso, buy the business. In 1995, Joe produced his everyone’s taste. first wines under his own label, and in 2002, he took the leap of faith to pLAN AHEAD Tuesdays are appointment-only tastings; those buy the land for the winery’s first location on the Silverado Trail. At the desiring a more personal tasting of the wines end of 2011, Generation Two took over, relocating the tasting room in should plan ahead. Same-day appointments the process. are sometimes available. The winery’s philosophy was very simple but definitely against the LITTLE KNOWN FAcT norm at the time: find the best grapes in the best vineyards in Napa and If you are searching for small-production and Sonoma and make the best wines possible from them – and not just the hard to ﬁnd wines, August Briggs is a perfect choice. With an annual production of 3,500 usual suspects, either. Joe determinedly sought out unusual but terrific cases almost all of their wines are sold only at varieties, making a name for his seldom-seen-elsewhere Charbono along the tasting room. the way. VARIETALS The tasting room is definitely a cut above the Valley norm. On any Cabernet Sauvignon, Charbono, Chardonnay, given day, two, three or even all four of the now-owners are on site, Petite Sirah, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Rosè, Syrah, Zinfandel pouring the wines. Why change what works? “Wines of provenance, not pretense” is the key, and, since the owners are there, the passion is August Briggs apparent with every pour; Generation Two is now mostly adjusted to their Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. new roles, but Lisa is still amazed at the “huge compliment” Joe paid the Friday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. four of them when he let them “keep doing what we love,” but spend 1307 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515 some time around these folks and you’ll see it wasn’t an accident. Come (707) 942-4912 visit August Briggs yourself and taste the wide-ranging goodness the four www.augustbriggswinery.com ex-employees and now-owners are happy to share with you: journey to Social Networking: Calistoga and taste their success yourself. Enjoy! By Josh Stein Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, 4Square, Yelp! Complimentary wine tasting for two with this story.

10 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com CALISTOGA

The Duncan family of Silver Oak fame founded Twomey Cellars in 1999 to explore varietals other than Cabernet and to honor Director VARIETALS of Winemaking, Daniel Baron’s vision of creating a world-class Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc California Merlot. Ray Twomey Duncan and his four sons, Mike, pINOT & pIZZA cELEBRATION Kevin, Tim and David run the operation that includes two wineries in On April 28, from 12 to 4 p.m., come to Twomey for the release two regions. The name “Twomey” is of Gaelic origin, Ray’s mother’s of their 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, 2010 Russian River Pinot Noir, maiden name. There’s an elaborate family crest in the lobby. It’s 2010 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir and 2010 Sonoma Coast surprising how many customers with the same name find the winery. Pinot Noir to be paired with pizzas from the wood-ﬁred oven. If you’re a “Twomey” there’s no charge for your tasting. Watch the website for the 2010 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir and Twomey Calistoga is a lovely stop offering a warm welcome. 2008 Napa Valley Merlot release in the fall. Located just south of Calistoga, the estate is surrounded by gardens pRIVATE TASTINGS and vineyards, lush lawns and stone walls, and a charming gazebo is Twomey Cellars hosts private events and can accommodate a sweet spot for sipping wine. The stylish tasting room with its slate up to 50 people either in the cellar or outside under the floors and sleek, curving, bar offers a relaxed spot to sample wines, gazebo. Catering is available. Private tastings in the barrel and a huge picture window gives you a peek into the barrel room. room are also available for $15 per person. For a $10 fee try current releases including the 2010 Napa Valley STAY cONNEcTED Sauvignon Blanc, a selection of 2009 Pinot Noir and the 2007 Napa Follow Twomey Cellars on Facebook and Twitter @silveroak to Valley Single Vineyard Merlot. receive news, winemaker notes and special event info on both Managing Partners, Tim and David Duncan are Pinot Noir Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars. enthusiasts. This passion led to the creation of Twomey’s Pinot Noir program, and today the portfolio includes four Pinots, each Twomey cellars calistoga representing the best growing regions and sites in California. In 2008 Twomey Cellars began producing Sauvignon Blanc from the 12-acre Napa Valley Estate Vineyard in Calistoga that surrounds the winery. This single Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. vineyard wine expresses the soil and sunny climate in which it was Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. grown, offering fresh, bright flavors that perk up any meal. 1183 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga | (707) 942-2489 The Duncan family’s goal has always been to create exceptional food-friendly, handcrafted wine that is delicious and drinkable upon 1-800-505-4850 for tour reservations release, a philosophy from which the family does not stray. Visit and and private event planning you’ll surely agree. By Diana Greenwood or visit www.twomey.com Apply $10 tasting fee toward purchase of current release wines. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 11 CALISTOGA

Dario Sattui knows how to give a wine country experience unlike any other, and his latest winery, Castello di Amorosa, WHAT TO TASTE opened in 2007 after fourteen years of planning and Lovers of a good rosé should try the “Giola” Rosato di construction, is true to the Sattui form. The 107 rooms of the Sangiovese for an Italian-inﬂuenced style, and those in search of Big Reds need look no further than the Reserve 13th-century-styled castle contain ramparts, hand-painted Cabernet, “Il Barone,” and the Super Tuscan, “La murals, a torture chamber and labyrinthine cellars amidst their Castellana,” which adds Cab and Merlot to Sangiovese. 121,000 square feet, making the Castello a winery like no other anywhere in the United States. There’s even a chapel pLAN AHEAD There are a variety of innovative tour options – which houses a public Sunday Latin Mass, too, and all this be sure to call to reserve your spots! takes place inside a structure of imported European brick, wood and iron, as well as more than 8,000 tons of Napa stone. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT It took fourteen years of construction to bring the Castello As is to be expected, given the Sattui philosphy of wine, to life – and there’s an authentic torture chamber! there are lots of options – at least a dozen and a half at last count. These various offerings can be tasted as part of the WINE AWARDS General Admission and Tasting or the Reserve Tasting, and • Bien Nacido Chardonnay – 92 points from Wine Spectator • La Castellana – 92 points from Robert Parker wine and chocolate pairing is always an option, too, as is • Il Barone – 94 points from Robert Parker non-alcoholic bottled grape juice for non-imbibers. Touring options abound and definitely help to heighten the experience. Reservations are highly recommended if not actually required, so plan ahead accordingly as you choose from a Tour and Tasting, Tour and Reserve Tasting, Young Adult Tour, Royal Food and Wine Pairings in the Royal Apartment, Horse-Drawn Vineyard Tour or Hiking Vineyard castello di Amorosa Tour. Each takes about two hours, including the wine tasting, Open daily 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and each also includes barrel tasting, too, in the Grand Barrel 4045 North St. Helena Hwy., Calistoga Room. For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Blending (707) 967-6272 Seminar is for you – and you take home your own Super Tuscan! As you can see, Castello di Amorosa is clearly not to be www.castellodiamorosa.com missed – make sure it’s at the top of your Napa Valley itinerary. Follow Castello di Amorosa Enjoy! By Josh Stein on Facebook and Twitter.

12 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com CALISTOGA

If there ever was a benign cult, it would be that centered around Napa Valley’s Frank Family Vineyards. Mention their VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Merlot Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, any of their Cabernets or and Cabernet Sauvignon, plus the rare Winston Hill Red. other wines to someone who loves the grape and their eyes will They also make limited amounts of Zinfandel Port and brighten showing their desire for a taste. Yes, their wine is that many of the wines are crafted in limited reserve good, and a visit to their northern-valley tasting room becomes programs. almost a pilgrimage. SpARKLING, ANYONE? The tasting room – in the impeccably restored Craftsman Be sure to ask about their Sparkling Wines, produced house – has been rated among the top in the nation. And, in the French méthode champenoise. while praise for the winery, the wines and the tasting room may RATINGS be completely up-to-the minute, its history goes back more Most wineries, if they’d ever get a score of 90 or above on than 125 years. In 1884, it was known as Larkmead Winery; a wine from critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., would jump for joy and pop the cork on a bottle of bubbles. So imagine the today, it is considered to be a prime example of California Wine euphoria when the winery received ﬁve scores in the Country architecture, listed on the National Register of Histori- nineties recently. cal Places. HOLLYWOOD The grounds are expansive, with a beautiful lawn, picnic ta- Owner Richard Frank is a recipient of an Emmy for lifetime bles, majestic oaks and trimmed hedges that complement the achievement. He was also chairman of Walt Disney winery and tasting room. Inside the tasting rooms, the business Television, president of Walt Disney Studios for almost ten of winemaking is balanced with good humor and as much infor- years and president of the Paramount Television Group. mation as you want. Or simply enjoy the tastes. That is perfectly fine with them. Frank Family Vineyards As tasting room manager, Dennis Zablosky, (an icon in his Open daily 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For parties of six or more appointments are necessary. own right) says, “I want visitor’s memories of the winery to be as much about their experience here as the wines they taste.” These 1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga wines are pretty spectacular, as you will discover on your first 1-800-574-9463 or (707) 942-0859 visit – but assuredly not your last. By charles Neave www.frankfamilyvineyards.com “You’ll never have better wine ... or a better time.” www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 13 CALISTOGA

Calistoga Balloons is a unique and intimate flying experience over the scenic northern end of the Napa Valley. These flights are more rural in nature, providing pristine views. Experience Old Faithful Geyser, the dramatic Palisade Cliffs, Mt. St Helena, as well as spectacular views of world-renown landmarks, vineyards and wineries including Chateau Montelena – the winery that put California’s Napa Valley number one in the world, Castello di Amorosa – the authentic 12th century Tuscan Castle-winery, Sterling Vineyards – a hilltop winery via aerial tram, along with Bennett Lane Winery, GOOD TO KNOW Envy Winery, Vincent Arroyo Winery and more. Calistoga is a Early mornings in Napa Valley are usually cool. It is unique destination whose vistas will remain with you for a recommended that you wear layered clothing and a jacket depending on the time of year. During the flight, lifetime! it will get warmer so you will want to be able to remove Your adventure begins just after sunrise, between 6 a.m. layers as the day progresses. It is also recommended and 7 a.m., when hot air ballooning flight conditions are best that you wear sneakers or comfortable shoes that and the morning sunlight enhances the natural beauty. Guests protect your feet. Bring sunglasses and cameras and enjoy the flight! meet at the historic Railroad Depot at 1458 Lincoln Avenue in friendly and quaint, Calistoga and off to the morning’s VISIT determined launch site. After the crew inflates the balloon, Your magniﬁcent ﬂight and Champagne brunch guests hop into the wicker basket. Once everyone is in, the hot costs only $239 per person. air balloon is ready to go and you begin your gentle ascent. calistoga Balloons After about an hour of enjoying the breathtaking views of Napa Valley, the hot air balloon will be navigated to a landing 1458 Lincoln Ave, Railcar #15, Calistoga, CA 94515 site, then your ballooning party is transported to the historic (707) 942-5758 | 1-888-995-7700 Calistoga Inn for a celebratory Champagne brunch! www.calistogaballoons.com By Alexandra charsley On Facebook and Twitter

Check the website for special pricing and vacation packages: www.calistogaballoons.com.

14 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com On & Around Howell Mountain

Beginning on the Silverado Trail, this trip includes Conn Valley, Howell Mountain and Pope Valley with striking Driving Time: 50 minutes From Pope Valley Winery views from high elevations to rolling hills on the valley to Summit Lake Winery 6 miles floor. You can see what Napa County was like in the early to Bravante Vineyards 4 miles to Viader Vineyards 2 miles pioneer days. Be sure to plan a full day for this one – to Burgess Cellars > 1 mile it’s a beautiful drive and you’ll want to take in the sites. to Anderson’s Conn Valley 6 miles Most of these wineries require prior appointment and Total 19 miles watch for the addresses or you might miss them. FOOD college Market 15 Angwin Plaza, Angwin, (707) 965-6321 Here you will find plenty of options for picnicking. Other than salami (meat-free products only), this store has any other grocery items you may need. pope Valley Market 5850 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, (707) 965-9922 This small market with some snack lunch items and local organic herbs. It's a great place to stop and grab an ice cream treat during your drive on a hot summer day. LODGING camping – Bothe-Napa State park Hwy 29 & Larkmead Road between St. Helena/Calistoga 1-800-444-PARK Vacation Rentals Look online for vacation rentals on Howell Mountain. There are some very nice private homes available . THINGS TO DO Las posadas State Forest 5850 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, (707) 965-9922 Hiking trails include a 4.4 mile, full loop trail that passes a pioneer cemetary dating back to the 1800s Howell Mountain challenge Sunday, August 8 (707) 965-6346, web2.puc.edu/Pioneers/HMC If mountain biking is your speed, this is a 10 mile cir- cuit that’s hilly on smooth to medium-rough trails with lots of trees … a fun course! Not to Scale

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com On & Around Howell Mountain 15 ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN HOWELL AROUND & ON Along a winding country road, up an unpaved drive and past Gus – a big, friendly, chocolate lab – you’ll find one of GOOD TO KNOW the most unpretentious, down-to-earth tasting rooms around. • Pope Valley was originally called Locallomes after the The Pope Valley Winery offers a wine tasting experience Indians who first settled the valley. The name was changed to Pope Valley after Julian Pope was given a far removed from the ostentatious fare to be found at some land grant to the area by the Mexican government. of the more well-known wine country destinations. Here After the governor signed it, Julian Pope paid twenty- you will be treated less like a visitor and more like a friend. five cents and Pope Valley became his! Winding through picturesque fields, undulating • The Pope Valley Winery was originally the Burgundy vineyards and oak-studded hills, one gets the feeling of Winery & Olive Factory and was managed by Ed Haus. being transported back in time. The Pope Valley Winery • The cave, entirely hand-dug, took nine years to build! was founded in 1897 by Ed Haus. The original farmhouse • Winemaker, David Eakle reports that his favorite wine still graces the property, as well as a blacksmith’s workshop is the Pope Valley Reserve Cabernet. “I love its com- complete with the tools of the trade. The winery itself is plexity and the fruit-forward flavor.” housed in an historic building that was designed, before • Don’t miss the incredible Zinfandel Port! This rich, electricity was brought to the site, to utilize the slope of the luscious wine is a great finish to a meal and the perfect hill to move the grapes through the process of becoming ending for a day in the wine country. fine wine. • Pope Valley Winey offers a wonderful cheese basket The Eakle family now runs the winery and produces that pairs beautifully with their wines. Take one with 5,000 cases of wine a year from estate-grown fruit, with you, along with a glass of Pope Valley wine and sit out some from vines that are nearly seventy years old. Pope under the towering oaks that look out over miles of vineyards. This is what wine tasting is all about! Valley Winery is noted for its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve. The Eakle Ranch Merlot is a lush, pope Valley Winery fruitful wine that will complement nearly any dish. They Open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. also produce Sangiovese, Sangiovese Rosé, Zinfandel, Zinfandel Port as well as Old Vine Chenin Blanc and a 6613 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley Sparkling Blanc De Blancs to be released soon. “Turn left and go back 100 years.” By Ronda Giangreco (707) 965-1246 | www.popevalleywinery.com

Mention Day Trips for a complimentary re-usable Pope Valley Winery tote bag!

16 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

If you find yourself on the back roads leading to Summit Lake Winery, chances are you are thinking yourself seriously GOOD TO KNOW lost. No need to worry. One of the most good-natured • Summit Lake Vineyard’s very first commercial release winemakers you’ll ever meet is waiting for you. He’ll also help was their ’78 Zinfandel, and it took the coveted Double you find your way back down the hill. Gold at the California State Fair. It also sold out in just eight days! Bob Brakesman of Summit Lake Vineyards personifies the pioneer spirit that led many to this area to try their hand at • Other than their flagship Zinfandel, all the other small winemaking. His motivation was a love of wine, but his lot wines are named for the grandchilden. Some of the lots as small as 50 cases! knowledge didn’t go much further than how to extract a cork from a bottle. However Bob and his late wife, Sue, had such • When Bob and Sue first purchased their twenty-eight warm personalities that it wasn’t long before they were able to acre vineyard, it was totally overgrown with manzanita, cajole their way into getting some of the most learned minds in poison oak and coyote weed. Several years later, they even found an old tractor that had been completely the business to provide both practical information and hidden by bushes! equipment to help them build their winery. The land at Summit Lake didn’t seem to hold very much • It took three long years and much hard work to hand-plant their thirteen acres of vineyards. Thankfully, promise. It was overgrown and rugged, but had been planted they had many friends willing to help who were all decades ago with a small vineyard. While the couple was able to rewarded with fantastic wine. coax the vines into producing a quality wine, the old plants just • This year is the fortieth anniversary. Summit Lake Vine- could not produce the quantity of fruit needed. With the help of yards is still going strong and still one of the few friends, they planted more vines and began to build their wineries that can boast of being completely family winery. owned and operated. Today, Bob and his family produce several wonderful wines, including a Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel Summit Lake Vineyards Port and Rosé which are all estate grown, as well as their Open by appointment only Howell Mountain Zinfandel which “put them on the map.” 2000 Summit Lake Drive, Angwin By Ronda Giangreco (707) 965-2488 | www.summitlakevineyards.com Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 17 At the end of a drive that sweeps through vineyards sits ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN HOWELL AROUND & ON VARIETALS Howell Mountains’ Bravante Vineyards, home to premium, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and estate-grown wines. Here, the commitment is always, and Cabernet Sauvignon unwaveringly, to quality. “That goal drives everything we do in BARRELS the vineyard and in the cellar,” said founder and proprietor Humidity-constant caves are full of American, French and Hungarian oak barrels. George Bravante, a respected grower of citrus, stone fruit and table grapes in the Central Valley. “We’re focused on crafting TOpOGRApHY As removed as the winery is from the bustle of consistently delicious and well-made wines from our historic the Valley floor, it is still barely ten minutes from the appellation. intersection of Deer Park Road and the Silverado Trail. “From the beginning, our philosophy has been grounded in So there it sits, remote but easily accessible and the result is a casual, unhurried, relaxed and informative one word: commitment. Commitment to creating world-class tasting environment. wine and commitment to the winemaking styles that best HARVESTING express the varietals. And that quality starts in the vineyard.” At harvest they hand pick into small, five pound trays to The education and enjoyment begins in the compact but keep the integrity of each individual berry prior to crush; comfortable tasting room, just off the winemaking facility, with and they harvest in small lots, only as the unique sections of their vineyards ripen one-by-one. gleaming silver tanks and a modern crusher-destemmer. Doors open on each end. Outside are entrances to the naturally SpEcIAL Ask about the much-coveted Simpatico blended from the temperature and humidity controlled caves, an integral part of finest barrel-selected wine from each vintage, and Trio, a their barrel aging program. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blend. You begin your tour and tasting with a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Along the way you’ll hear anecdotes and Bravante Vineyards history inside the caves and outdoors, where the views are Open Wed-Sun 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment. spectacular. It is education at its most sublime – an hour of Just give them a call, they’re happy to see you! learning, but mostly it’s about the enjoyment of both wine and 300 Stone Ridge Road, Angwin place. By charles Neave (707) 965-2552 | www.bravantevineyard.com

Mention Day Trips for complimentary tasting for two.

18 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN Alan & Delia Viader

From your perch high on a mountain rim, as you look down on a stunning vista of vineyards and take your first sip of Viader wine, it GOOD TO KNOW will dawn on you that this experience is one that will live in your • All of the rocks used in the building of the tasting room, offices, planters and walls were collected memory forever. The sweeping panoramic views that unfold before from the lands surrounding the vineyards. you are some of the most magnificent on earth, befitting of the Especially selected are the ones covered with elegant, take-your-breath-away wine that a gracious winery host has moss and those with unique shapes that just poured for you. represent the natural beauty of the mountain’s Viader Winery only makes red wine, but not just any red wine. It terrain in the architectural elements of each has been the vision of one very determined and talented woman, structure. Delia Viader, to plant a European style vineyard, with vines oriented • There are eight different types of lavender up and down the steep hillside of Howell Mountain and create wines growing on the estate. Not only are they gorgeous that can compete with the finest in the world. Such a vineyard flowering plants, but they attract bees and requires meticulous hand farming resulting in wines that consistently contribute to the aromatic nature of Viader wines. garner rave reviews from discriminating wine lovers. • The familial atmosphere carries on with Delia’s Delia’s signature wine, Viader Proprietary Red Blend, features two young grandsons (and possible third Cabernet Sauvignon with a significant component of Cabernet Franc. generation winemakers) happily pulling grapes Delia’s aim was to create a wine that enhances a meal, and showcases off the vines around harvest time with an all-encompassing smile. the charming elegance of Cabernet Franc together with the incredible structure of mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. Described as • Viader is 1200 feet above the Napa Valley floor on the rocky slopes of Howell Mountain. The “Liquid Cashmere” by many, the Viader Proprietary Red Blend European design of the vineyards, with the vines displays silky tannins that Delia attributes to her mature oriented up and down the steep hillsides, is a “first-growth” vineyard estate, now managed by her son, Alan Viader. planting method that optimizes sun exposure, To round out the experience, her daughter-in-law Mariela Viader, vine density and erosion control. a Thomas Keller trained chef, can prepare hors d’oeuvres, lunch or dinner to pair with Viader wines for your special occasion or private Viader Vineyards event with as little as three weeks advance notice. Please call ahead to make an appointment A truly spectacular winery, coupled with magnificent wines…the essence of an awe-inspiring Napa Valley Experience. 1120 Deer Park Road, Deer Park, CA 94576 By Ronda Giangreco (707) 963-3816 | www.viader.com Two-for-one tasting with this Day Trips guide – (a $45 value!). www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 19 There is one very important element that truly ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN HOWELL AROUND & ON defines Burgess Cellars: the unique site. As Steve Burgess GOOD TO KNOW says, “It is why our wines are different. It is why we are • The original grapes were planted by Italian emigrant different.” Carlo Rossini in 1891 on property originally homsteaded in Located high on Howell Mountain, and commanding a the 1870s. breathtaking view of the Napa Valley, Burgess can trace its • Tom Burgess bought his small mountain-side winery in 1972 origins to a winery that was established on the property in after falling in love with wine in the 1960s while touring Europe. the 1880s. That was long before cars or paved roads existed • From an open-air, mountainside porch you can see all the way to link the property to civilization. The vineyards were from Saint Helena to Calistoga. planted with the help of mules, dynamite and the hard work of people whose vision is reflected today in the fine • Their signature wine is the Cabernet Sauvignon, a big, bold wine that represents this varietal at its best. wines of Burgess. “We’ve been sustainable since before the word was invented. With us it has always been a necessity,” • Burgess Winery keeps a large selection of wines in their relates Steve. library, offering guests the opportunity to buy aged wines. The wines in their library program are stored in ideal condi- For those who wish to visit the historic wine country of tions until release. “If you see our ‘library selection’ sticker on the Napa Valley, an afternoon at Burgess is essential. the wine,” Mr. Burgess said, “it means that it has either never The tasting room experience at Burgess is refreshingly left our cellar or it’s only been shipped from us to the retailer free of pretentiousness. Located in their barrel room, the at the time of its library release.” tasting bar is often manned by one of the family members. • Steve Burgess, the winery’s head of sales and marketing, Burgess wines are elegant and complex with purity and was actually born during the winery’s first harvest! balance, and include an array of Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah. They also make a few wines that are only available at Burgess cellars the winery. Their Grenache and Petite Sirah are true “finds” Call for an appointment. that you won’t get anywhere else. Their flagship wine, 1108 Deer Park Road, St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon, thrives on the western slopes of How- email: [email protected] ell Mountain near the winery. By Ronda Giangreco 1-800-752-9463 | www.burgesscellars.com Mention Day Trips for 10% off of a purchase of six bottles and 15% off of case purchases.

20 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN

In 1984, Todd Anderson began staking out his vineyard’s trellis system with his father, Gus Anderson. In fact, he GOOD TO KNOW personally cleared every inch of the former hay field that • Anderson Conn Valley will customize your wine experience to suit your tastes. You can arrange for barrel would become his world famous vineyard. Many boast of tastings in their cave and food pairings. Todd will even building their own winery, but few can state that they actually supply you with a premium cigar to enjoy with your pounded each post. Todd’s devotion to doing things himself glass of Cabernet! didn’t end with construction, though. His mastery of winemaking has earned him top accolades from some of the • If you’re here during the week, you’ll get to witness the winemaking process ﬁrsthand. This is a working most discriminating wine experts in the world. His Ghost winery. You might even be asked to help! Horse wines have never been beaten in competition against some of the most pricy and revered wines produced. Never. • There is a story behind each of their wines and it What is truly amazing is that when you visit Anderson is an entertainment event in itself to hear them. Conn Valley, you get to spend time with Mr. Anderson You won’t be bored by the usual winery babble at himself. Very rarely is such a prominent and knowledgeable Anderson’s Conn Valley. winemaker so accessible to the public. Todd will take you • Be sure and give an ear-scratch to one of the multiple into his barrel room and give you a firsthand account of the winery dogs. If Kira, Todd’s Vizsla, isn’t out hunting passion and precision behind his wines. His riveting tales pheasants or quail, she’ll escort you into the tasting behind the creation of each wine are a match to the artistry in room herself. In her absence, Scout, the lovable each glass poured. Ridgeback is happy to play the host. While the winery is known for ultra-premium wines that command top prices, Anderson Conn Valley has a wonderful Anderson’s conn Valley Vineyards selection of more affordable wines, as well. They have long Tastings by Appointment been known for their 100% Estate Reserve Cabernet Monday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sauvignon, but they are fast becoming known for their 680 Rossi Road, St. Helena outstanding Pinot Noir, too. Don’t miss the Bordeaux-style blends which include the Éloge and Right Bank, either. These (707) 963-8600 | www.connvalleyvineyards.com complex and full-bodied wines are stunning examples of the Look for them on Facebook genre. By Ronda Giangreco and become a fan. “Come visit us in our new estate tasting room!” www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 21 St.The special little town ofHelena St. Helena is located seven short miles south of Calistoga on Foothill Blvd/CA Hwy 29. The playground of the tres chic and tasteful, St. Helena’s one Main Street is filled to the brim with gourmet bakeries, acclaimed restaurants, couture clothes, and lavish home decor and kitchen shops.

FOOD Vineyard country Inn THINGS TO DO Anna’s cantina 201 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-1000 Weekends at the culinary Institute 1205 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-4921 www.vineyardcountryinn.com of America (cIA) A great place to meet locals and indulge in some karoake! A three diamond, AAA approved lodge offer- 2555 Main Street, St. Helena A must for Thursday night visitors and public-singing- ing 21 suites with fireplaces. Using lovely 1-888-995-1699 fans. Anna's is a locals hangout that happily welcomes old world brick, the Vineyard Inn courtyards, www.ciaachef.edu/enthusiasts visitors. pool, and lounge areas provide a great place to Select a cooking or wine class at the world-famous CIA. Gott’s Roadside "Tray Gourmet" unwind after that busy day of wine tasting! 933 Main Street, St. Helena (707) 963-3486, www.gottsroadside.com "Mighty Fine Eats!" indeed. Keeping alive the traditions of handmade American food. Artisanal ingredients in traditional recipes combine for a refreshing take on old roadside favorites. Don't miss the burgers and fries! Guigni Deli 1227 Main Street, St. Helena, (707) 963-3421 An absolute must! Guigni Deli is known for their “Guigni Juice” – it makes every sandwich incredible. Model Bakery 1357 Main Street, St. Helena (707) 963-8192, www.themodelbakery.com Start your day with fresh coffee and hand-made pastry. Tra Vigne 1050 Charter Oak Street, St. Helena (707) 963-444, www.travignerestaurant.com Italian inspired cuisine, remarkable 200 count wine list V. Sattui Winery Corner of Hwy. 29 & White Lane, St. Helena (707) 963-7774, www.vsattui.com

Perfect spot for a wine country picnic with cheeses, meats, salads and panini as well as BBQ fare and pizzas on weekends during spring, summer and fall. Better to schedule two Day Trips when visiting LODGING St. Helena wineries! Inn at Southbridge Driving Time: 8 minutes From Ehlers Estate 1020 Main Street, St. Helena to Ballentine 1+ miles 1-800-520-6800, www.innatsouthbridge.com to St. Clement >1 mile to Beringer >1 mile Ideally located in the center of St. Helena. to Merryvale 1 mile to V. Sattui 1 mile Meadowood to Arger Martucci >1 miles 900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena to Raymond >1 miles to Whitehall Lane >1 miles 1-800-458-8080, www.meadowood.com Total 9 miles Luxury country resort unfolds across 250 lush acres with tennis courts, croquet lawns, 9-hole golf course and spa. Not to Scale

22 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ST. HELENA

Imagine an estate in the traditional sense, where forty-two contiguous acres are laid out such that no part of the vineyard is WHAT TO TASTE In addition to a Merlot which will remind you why you fell more than six hundred yards from the central winery, a classical in love with the varietal, the limited production estate European design little-seen in the United States. Imagine that Cabernet Franc and the ultra-low production estate vineyard divided into five blocks by soil type, and then subdivided Petite Verdot, made from one single acre!, are wines you into twenty-five sub-blocks – of six different Cabernet Sauvignon will ﬁnd nowhere else – don’t miss them! clones, seven sub-blocks of Merlot and four of Cabernet Franc. Now pLAN AHEAD imagine that this special place is nestled at the top of the Napa Valley Private tastings, including the daily “Perfectly Paired” wine in the narrow space between the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain and hand-made chocolate pairing, barrel samples, and ranges, where a unique microclimate of morning fog and full sitdown experiences, are available by appointment only; afternoon sun accompanied by heat-alleviating breezes, which has also available is picnic seating in the Olive Grove, also been certified organic by CCOF and biodynamic by Demeter. reserved exclusively for club members. Lastly, imagine that it’s run by a non-profit foundation, guaranteeing LITTLE KNOWN FAcT that one hundred percent of the proceeds go to cardiovascular Winemaker Kevin Morrisey and his family hold dual research. American-French citizenship, in keeping with the Now stop imagining: it’s all genuine at Ehlers Estate, where the winery’s philosophy of age-old European technique goal is “making great wines” from small lots of estate fruit. in proven California soil. Winemaker Kevin Morrisey expresses this best as an “unwavering VARIETALS commitment to authentic winegrowing” with the aim of making the Cabernet Franc, multiple Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlot, world, both locally and globally, a better place. Petite Verdot, Rosè of Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc – The winery is justly well known for the 120 Over 80 Cab-based all estate fruit! blend and the Cabernet Sauvignon 1886, but other releases are quite Ehlers Estate exclusive and well worth the trip. Tasting room-only bottlings include Open daily 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Petite Verdot. Very few 3222 Ehlers Lane, St. Helena wineries in Napa have direct control over the range of Bordeaux varietals, and so few are able offer bottlings like these. People often For reservations, call (707) 963-5972 wonder what true commitment to a better way of life would be like. ehlersestate.com Come visit Ehlers Estate and wonder no more. By Josh Stein www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 23 ST. HELENA ST.

The tasting room may be new but there is a lot of history VARIETALS behind this winery situated north of St. Helena. John Chardonnay, Old Vine Chenin Blanc, Petit Verdot, Petite Ballentine emigrated in 1910 from County Tyrone, Ireland to Sirah, Syrah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet San Francisco. His family estate was called Deer Park and it Sauvignon, Zinfandel Port and a very rare sparkling became a major influence in his life. His son Van grew up in Malvasia Bianca Frizzante that is perfect for that special the Napa Valley helping to plant vineyards, prune vines and occasion or for a spur-of-the moment picnic. make wine. FOOD pAIRING The history of this winery involves other families and any Try their rich Port with dark chocolate after a meal, or just as a special treat any time of day. number of hardworking characters, many of them members of the Pocai family from Italy. Over time, their winemaking, their pRODucTION families and their fortunes intertwined. Even the devastating About 10,000 cases a year. San Francisco earthquake of 1906 played a part. GEOGRApHY Luck was also a major player, especially when it came to The hills that create the Napa Valley also help shape the the acquisition of some of the best vineyard land in the entire wines made in this part of Northern California Wine Country, as their altitude also impacts the climate and Napa Valley. Luck can never be an underestimated component soil. To the east of this winery is the Vaca Range, on the when it comes to successful winemaking, something that other side of the Valley; to the west, across from the continues to this day. winery, are the Mayacamas. When you enter the tasting room at this working winery, GREEN FAcT you find a long, stylish room with pale green walls, an The winery is now 100-percent solar powered, L-shaped bar and lots of stone and wood. Windows on the just one of their many green eﬀorts. north side look out on vineyards, the floor is slate, the lighting modern, and you are likely to find yourself talking to the Ballentine Vineyards owners and their enthusiastic staff. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment only The wines offered for tasting include wonderful examples of what the Napa Valley is justly famous for, and you’ll find 2820 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena your own favorites as you taste your way through Ballentine’s (707) 963-7919 list of offerings. By charles Neave www.ballentinevineyards.com

Check the website for Wine Club Member oﬀers and discounts on local lodging.

24 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ST. HELENA

Words hardly do justice to St. Clement Vineyards and Tasting Room. Set high above the Napa Valley floor in an 1870s ONLY AT THE WINERY! Victorian house, St. Clement is at once regal and inviting. St. Clement produces 13 wines, but only ﬁve of them are in distribution. The remaining eight are secret little gems St. Clement Vineyards was a private residence until 30 years that you can only ﬁnd in the tasting room. ago when it became a winery dedicated to producing world-class wines. DON’T MISS: The home itself was built in 1878 and is a remarkable piece Oroppas Cabernet Sauvignon, a unique wine of Cabernet with a splash of Merlot, Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc, of California Victorian architecture. Think period-appropriate is a Bordeaux blend from four distinct Napa mountain paint, decor and details like carved arrows in the eaves to ward vineyards. Produced since 1991, Oroppas never rates off evil spirits! below 90 points, including the current 2007 Oroppas and Today, the St. Clement Tasting Room respects the history of it’s a steal at $55 per bottle! the building and welcomes guests to taste a $20 flight of four St. VARIETALS Clement wines (whites and red). You may also select the Single Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Vineyard Tasting for $25. This exclusive tasting includes your Chardonnay choice of four of the limited-production, single-vineyard wines – appointment recommended. A BIT OF REcENT HISTORY In 1976, local doctor William Casey purchased the historic St. Clement Vineyards nurtures long-term relationships with property and launched the St. Clement’s wine label. The some of the best grape growers in Napa Valley. Instead of cross of “St. Clement” was a tribute to Casey’s ancestors owning its own acreage, St. Clement produces wine with the who helped to found the state of Maryland. best quality grapes sourced from diverse AVAs such as Howell Mountain, Mount Vedeer, Rutherford and Spring Mountain. St. clement Vineyard More than 33 different soil series and 100 different soil Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. variations are represented in St. Clement wines. Winemaker Danielle Cyrot is able to take these exceptional grapes and 2867 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena produce St. Clement wines with extraordinary depth and Call to learn about tasting experiences. complexity. By Abigail p. Zimmerman 1-866-877-5939 • www.stclement.com

Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting! *Terms and conditions apply – see winery for details. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 25 ST. HELENA ST.

For more than 130 years, Beringer Vineyards has reflected FuN FAcT: the rewards of hard labor, agricultural pride and determined Beringer Vineyards has Victorian-era roots and is the viticultural stewardship. oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley! German emigrant Jacob Beringer followed his brother In 2001, the entire winery site was designated a Historic Frederick to the New World in 1868 to begin a new life. District on the National Register of Historic Places. Hearing of California’s warm, sunny climate, the brothers VARIETALS: headed west to Napa Valley. Vintage cellar worker, Jacob Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, White Zinfandel as well as Beringer was thrilled to find Napa’s rocky, well-drained soils Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir similar to those of his native Rhine Valley. WHAT TO TASTE: From the beginning, the Beringer brothers were vastly ahead The 2007 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a of the oenological times. Frederick and Jacob built a specialty release wine crafted from a blend of seven premier Napa Valley vineyards. A blend of mountain and gravity-flow winery and steam-powered grape crusher, then valley ﬂoor fruit, this Cabernet retails for $115. It also enlisted the help of Chinese laborers to hand-dig tunnels within scored 97 points in Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate in the hills of Napa Valley. Today, these caves still perfectly cellar December 2010. and age wine in a stable 58-degree environment – one crucial cALLING ALL FOODIES! key to Beringer’s continued success in winemaking. Find recipes to perfectly pair with Beringer wines on the Beringer wines are world-famous for crafting classic wines winery’s website. This month? Dungeness crab cakes from Napa’s finest appellations and vineyards. Founder Jacob’s with cucumber and cilantro slaw paired with the Private foresight in recognizing the quality and potential of grape Reserve Chardonnay. growing in the Napa Valley is part of the living heritage of Beringer Vineyards Beringer Vineyards. In its third century, Beringer is led by Open daily May 29-Oct. 22, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winemaker Laurie Hook who produces wines that speak Oct. 23-May 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. eloquently of Beringer’s rich history and contemporary elegance. Laurie speaks volumes when she says “you can’t make wine 2000 Main Street , St. Helena only through science...trust your intuition as well.” It is this 1-866-708-9463 • www.beringer.com blend of art and science that elevates Beringer wines above the Follow Beringer Vineyards on Facebook and rest. By Abigail p. Zimmerman learn of new releases and special events!

Mention Day Trips and receive a two-for-one tasting! *Terms and conditions apply – see winery for details.

26 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ST. HELENA

If a movie company were to design a set, they could not do better than to replicate the historic, family-owned Merryvale VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, Vineyards property. From the ivy on the front of the building to Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Antiqua the manicured grounds, tall trees and the fountain outside, to Dessert Wine and Profile Red Wine (Cabernet Franc, the expanse of wood, wood beams and ochre walls inside. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot – There is also the Library Room where great vintages of a classic Bordeaux blending) under the Prestige, Merryvale wines gently rest, and the magnificent Cask Room Signature and Starmont labels. Some are available in separated from the tasting room by just an iron gate. In this limited quantity as older library wines. stone-walled room are double-tiered racks of enormous AWARDS century-old oak casks and on either side as you enter, even To be honest, far too many to mention. On an larger monuments to the grape. environmental “green” level, they have received multiple certifications. “Our goal is to craft elegant, complex, world-class wines in the finest European style, yet reflecting the fruit from Napa HISTORIc TRIVIA The Merryvale winery building was the first new winery Valley’s finest vineyards. To that end, we emphasize quality built in the Napa Valley after Prohibition was (at last!) over quantity with no compromises.” repealed. To discover how this statement manifests itself in the bottle FuN FAcT and in the glass, plan a visit to Merryvale’s spacious tasting Look around the tasting room to discover just what an room. With its polished U-shaped wood bar, it has plenty of artisan can do with barrel staves. space – even on the busiest weekends. You can choose from pRIVATE EVENTS the two tasting options: The Signature Tasting that offers four Contact the winery for information about hosting your wines to taste and the Profile Tasting that has five. own memorable special event at the winery. The winery also offers a Wine & Cheese Experience or an Merryvale Vineyards hour-long Sommelier Grand Reserve Tasting, each by Open 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily appointment. In March, June, September and December, Barrel Tours are by appointment Tastings are available that also feature food pairings and live 1000 Main Street, St. Helena entertainment. This truly is a magical environment where the (707) 963-7777 | www.merryvale.com people are friendly, the setting is one-of-a-kind, and the wines they pour are magnificent. By charles Neave Facebook & Twitter Mention Day Trips for a 2-for-1 Signature Tasting! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 27 ST. HELENA ST.

Vittorio Sattui was an Italian immigrant who founded a winery in San Francisco in 1885, and is the great-grandfather of Dario VARIETALS Sattui, who opened his own winery in St. Helena in 1975. It’s like a Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Syrah, slice of Italy, with a busy piazza of stone walls, courtyards, a tower, Sangiovese, Chardonnay, White Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Madeira, Sparkling Wines, Muscat and cellars, fountain and expansive picnic grounds. Of course, a more. selection of award-winning wines is always available. It all begins when you enter the Italian Deli & Marketplace, HuNGRY? where you can shop an expansive variety of house-made Enjoy food and wine pairings and pick up a snack, sandwiches, salads, meats and over 200 cheeses. The famous a picnic, something savory or sweet to nibble on all from weekend BBQ is especially tantalizing. Next stop, the tasting area, the deli where you’ll ﬁnd more than 200 cheeses and an offering a variety of wine tasting options. There’s a whole list of rich assortment of food items and gifts. Cabernets, Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels from which to choose; and if pLAN FOR IT you like white wines, V. Sattui produces highly-rated Chardonnays, The winery has a BBQ on warm weather weekends. Sauvignon Blancs and Muscat wines. They are also one of the SpEcIAL EVENTS biggest producers of Riesling in both dry and off-dry styles. With If you’re planning a wedding or dinner, everything you the Premium Tasting you’ll try a flight of six single-vineyard and need for a special event is within those stone walls. limited-release wines. All Sattui wines are available exclusively at the winery or online at www.vsattui.com, making a visit to the SpEcIAL OFFERS tasting room just a little more special. Consider membership to the Cellar Club or Wine of the So, what are the critics saying? V. Sattui offers more than a Month Club, which allows year-round access to taste a dozen 90+ point rated wines from the likes of the Wine Enthusiast, portfolio of their best wines and invitations to special events. Wine Spectator, Connoisseurs Guide and more. V. Sattui was named 2012 Winery of The Year at not one but V. Sattui Winery two major wine competitions – the Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition and the Monterey Wine Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. in winter) Competition! If that were not enough, their 2009 Gilsson Zinfandel 1111 White Lane, St. Helena was named “Best Zinfandel” at the 2012 San Francisco Chronicle (707) 963-7774 | www.vsattui.com Wine Competition. The list goes on and on…with 34 gold, platinum and best of class medals earned in 2012 alone, V. Sattui Follow V. Sattui Winery on Facebook wines are worth their weight in gold! and Twitter @vsattui1885.

Enjoy a wine tasting upgrade with a copy of this article.

28 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ST. HELENA

When Napa Valley is bustling and it’s time for a break, drop by Arger-Martucci Vineyards where you can enjoy award VARIETALS winning wines in a relaxing and unpretentious setting. Iliad (white blend), Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Odyssey Located just south of St. Helena, the winery is quaint and (Estate Reserve), Cabernet Franc, Petite Syrah, and Dul- picturesque. The tasting room’s poolside picnic area, complete cinea (dessert wine). with an outdoor gazebo, boasts a beautiful view of the FuN FAcT Mayacamas Mountains and offers guests the ideal atmosphere Although he has been making wine for over 35 years to taste exceptional wines away from the crowds. and has crafted many award-winning wines, Dr. Arger Arger-Martucci is a boutique, family-owned winery that is has never taken a formal winemaking class! more than a business venture between two owners. It is a love and appreciation of making great wine that is shared by two VINEYARDS families – one Greek, the other of Italian descent. Owners All red wines, with the exception of the Petite Syrah, are Kosta Arger and Rich Martucci first met and became close estate grown on their mountainside Odyssey Vineyards, friends through a Reno, NV wine tasting group in the ’80s. At which are located 1,400 feet above the Napa Valley ﬂoor the time, Arger was establishing himself as an accomplished on Atlas Peak. cardiologist and skilled home winemaker, while Martucci was FAMILY working to build the struggling bank he had acquired. Dr. The next generation is also involved in the winery full Arger, who learned to make wine in the ’70s from the time. Anthony Arger handles the outside sales and legendary Joe Heitz of Heitz Cellars, had always dreamed of marketing duties, while Vince Martucci is the assistant starting a Napa Valley winery. In 1998, both families were winemaker and oversees the tasting room. looking for property in the Napa Valley and decided it was the perfect time to partner and start a winery. SpEcIAL OFFERS The Arger-Martucci partnership is ideal – Rich manages the Ask about the Arger-Martucci Wine Club – financial aspects of the business, while Kosta handles the it’s one of the best deals in the Napa Valley! winemaking. Still a practicing cardiologist in Reno, Dr. Arger spends his weekends, holidays and the harvest in Napa Valley. Arger-Martucci Vineyards The winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and its Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. estate reserve, Bordeaux-style blend, the Odyssey. They also Appointments are encouraged. produce a handful of other delicious reds, along with an elegant white blend called the Iliad. Stop by and enjoy this 1455 Inglewood Avenue, St. Helena wonderful Napa Valley secret. (707) 963-4334 | www.arger-martucci.com Present this page at the winery and receive a two-for-one Tasting! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 29 ST. HELENA ST.

There are times when there are simply not enough adjectives in the English language to describe something. That VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, could well be the case with Raymond Vineyards. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon including Generations – The facility itself is welcoming and the experiences this their famously smooth, much coveted and silky Cab. iconic winery offers go on and on. In addition to the traditional BLEND AWAY tastings, there is the wine education program, which includes Be a ‘Winemaker for a Day’ and discover what goes into wine and food pairings or an interactive program which making truly fine wine, then take home a bottle with your showcases wine and food “marriages.” There is also “Earth & own label. Plus it’s great fun. Air” held in the almost surrealistic Crystal Cellar (when you FuN FAcTS visit you will understand the name) which features the winery’s • Dogs are always welcome. They have the winery owner District Collection Cabernets poured from Baccarat decanters, (and his dog, Frenchy) to thank. and the Arts & Crafts option, which is sub-titled “Guess the • When you walk from the parking lot to the tasting Blend.” It is perhaps an understatement to say it is impossible room, look to your right, grab your camera and you’ll to be bored at this winery. If for a second you think you have understand what “Getting framed at Raymond run out of things to try, walk down the Corridor of Senses Vineyards” means. between the Crystal Cellar and the main tasting room. You will WINE cLuB never consider wine the same. Raymond has one of the most popular wine clubs in the Since the crafting of fine wine is literally rooted in the soil, entire Valley, and not just because of the many benefits a it is only fitting that this is recognized here, and to a degree membership offers. seldom seen anywhere else. Called the “Theater of Nature,” it is a walk through the garden and the barnyard, with more edible Raymond Vineyards and decorative plants than almost anyone could name. There Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, tours by appointment are goats, sheep, chickens a-plenty and other attractive fowl as 849 Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574 well. Placards tell you the role they each play, and in five minutes to five hours you appreciate not just the harmony but (707) 963-3141 | www.raymondvineyards.com the necessity of this natural co-existence at a working winery. Follow Raymond Vineyards By charles Neave on Facebook & Twitter. Reserve your Raymond experience online: www.raymondvineyards.com/Visit-Us.

30 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com ST. HELENA

For years Whitehall Lane has been known for its wide variety of wines, incredible Cabernets and friendly staff. VARIETALS The Leonardini family owns and operates the winery and has Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, created a portfolio of limited-production wines found only at Merlot and Pinot Noir the winery. cHOcOLATE EXpERIENcE To introduce visitors to Whitehall Lane and do some Please call for details! painless wine education, they offer daily tastings covering such cLuB ROOM topics as the art and science of winemaking, the valley history A seated VIP tasting experience with light fare in the and just plain fun facts. They talk about varietals, sensory Club Room overlooking the Estate Vineyard and evaluations of wine and pairing wine with food. During each Barrel Room. By appointment only. session you’ll sample a variety of current-release wines such Seatings at 11 a.m., 1 and 2:30 p.m. daily. as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and EDucATION Cabernet Sauvignon. Public tours are conducted that are fun, educational and For the most discerning visitors they offer an exclusive wine provide a behind-the-scenes look at a family-owned tasting experience in their Club Room, perched atop the working winery. They can also set one up especially for winery’s newest addition. You’ll enjoy a seated tasting of Reserve you! Call for daily times and options. Cabernet with a winery concierge in this beautiful setting with a GREAT GIFT sweeping view of vineyards from indoors and on the deck. Indulge yourself with the gift of being part of their A charcuterie platter is available to accompany your tasting. extended family – join the wine club! Whether for yourself An appointment is required. Allow an hour so you can relax or for someone special, it’s like getting the Napa Valley’s and fully enjoy the experience. ﬁnest delivered to your doorstep three times a year. There Actually, there are all sorts of wine surprises in the Club is a reds-only option. Visit whitehalllane.com for details. Room. You may get a preview of an unreleased wine, a vertical from the library, or a horizontal tasting of all the winery’s Whitehall Lane Winery Cabernets. They now produce two single-vineyard Cabernet Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sauvignons: the Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet from the 1563 St. Helena Highway South, St. Helena St. Helena appellation, and the Millennium MM Vineyard 1-800-963-9454 x19 | www.whitehalllane.com from Rutherford. But the fact is that no matter which of the tasting options you choose, you can be guaranteed an Look for Whitehall Lane Winery experience you’ll long remember. on Facebook and Twitter Ask about Reserve Tasting, with access to the winery-exclusive, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons poured side by side. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 31 Sage Canyon

FROM THE WRAPAROuND DECK AT AuBERgE Du SOLEiL BiSTRO & BAR This central, verdant quilt of Napa Valley boasts countless principal wineries that makes Napa so famous: Whitehall Lane, grgich Hills, Mumm Napa, Cakebread to name just a few. if you seek grandeur, striking beauty and wine country elegance, Rutherford is a great place to begin!

FOOD Rutherford Grill 1180 Rutherford Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1792, www.hillstone.com Located at the crossroads of Hwy 29 and Rutherford Road, the Rutherford Grill has been serving fabulous food to locals and tourists of Napa Valley for decades. Don't miss the fantastic selection of appetizers and entrees!

LODGING Rancho caymus Inn 1140 Rutherford Road, Rutherford 1-800-845-1777, www.ranchocaymus.com Rustic elegance at its most charming. Surrounded by the all-consuming fragrance and visual splendor of Napa Valley, the Rancho Caymus Inn is a tranquil, petite 26-room Inn that is designed and Driving Time: 13 minutes decorated to capture the simpler times of early Cali- From Rustridge fornia. to Nichelini 3.5 miles to Kuleto 1 mile to Chappellet 3 miles Auberge du Soleil Total 7.5 miles 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1211, www.aubergedusoleil.com The discreet entrance off the Silverado Trail is your first clue of the refined, uber chic elegance awaiting (guests only) at this exclusive creme-de-la-creme hotel in premier Napa Valley. Entrance to Auberge is very restricted to guests only though the discerning public is welcome to dine at the Micheline star restaurant or sip that $130 per glass of vintage Champagne on the Terrace. Not to Scale

32 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com SAGE CANYON

There are not many places left that still look and feel like the Napa Valley of the early 1900s. RustRidge Ranch, Winery and B & B is one VARIETALS such place. It is well worth the fifteen-minute drive from the Silverado Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Trail as each turn and twist takes you further away from modern life, back Racehorse Red and White, Sauvignon Blanc to a simpler connection with the land. Since the 1950s, the ranch has been a breeding and training facility for racing thoroughbreds, and since WHAT TO TASTE the 1970s, it has been a source of excellent grapes; it has only been since To enjoy best what the estate has to oﬀer and the unique microclimate of Chiles Valley, owners Susan 1985 that wine has been made on site. Lying 1,000 feet above the valley Meyer and Jim Fresquez proudly recommend their floor, this is a special microclimate perfect for premium winegrowing, many-times-gold winning Chardonnay and yielding later-starting and longer-hanging grapes. Equally, the land itself is Zinfandel. organically dry-farmed and the ranch is home to a variety of four-footed creatures from deer to fox to bobcats, as well as more than eighty species pLAN AHEAD of birds. While this estate allows for all kinds of unique The RustRidge tasting room is virtually in the vineyards. Tastings experiences, they are by appointment only – and need to be scheduled ahead of time. Visitors have choices at 11 a.m., same-day appointments are often accommodated. 1 or 3 p.m. of a sit-down tasting of current releases, a reserve and library tasting of aged reds, a Wine and Herb food and wine pairing from the LITTLE KNOWN FAcT gardens, or a Wine and Chocolate tasting. RustRidge Ranch is just one 600-acre piece Additionally, the bed and breakfast has several comfortable of the 10,000-acre Spanish land grant, bedrooms, wonderful views, a tennis court and miles of hiking trails named Rancho Catacoula, granted to Colonel Joseph B. Chiles in 1844. through the vineyards and hills. The ranch Labradors will be your guides. The wines are the ultimate stars, though, and they don’t disappoint. Everything the winery makes has won many golds and received high RustRidge Ranch & Winery scores. In additon to Cabernet Sauvignon, two different Chardonnays, 2910 Lower Chiles Valley Road, St. Helena Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc and several Zinfandels, the fun and delicious Racehorse Red, a Cab/Zin blend, is not to be missed. Few winegrowers (707) 965-9353 | rustridge.com produce wines that speak so directly of the vineyard and of the varietal character of the grape. RustRidge wines are true to their Chiles Valley appellation with distinctive fruit aromas and flavors and Chiles Valley spice. Mention this article to receive a 10% discount in addition to any other applicable oﬀers! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 33 RUTHERFORD

Since 1890...step back in time and let us take care of you! WHAT TO TASTE The oldest family-owned winery in the Napa Valley, Nichelini was The family is justifiably proud of all of their releases, but established in the Chiles Valley District by Italian-Swiss pioneer if pressed and asked when unaccompanied by other winemaker Anton Nichelini in 1890. Anton planted many of the sites family members, universal praise was heaped upon the still in use by the current generations of this family enterprise. Not white Old Vine Muscadelle de Bordelais, made from only is this one of the longest continuous winemaking families in the Sauvignon Vert vines planted in 1946, and the United States, but the scenic drive to Chiles Valley will take you back, Old Vine Zinfandel, made from vines planted in 1929 by Anton Nichelini himself. mile by mile, to a simpler time. With the exception of the road, much of what surrounds looks as it did one hundred years ago during the pLAN AHEAD first heyday of winemaking in the North Coast. Many of the winery’s bottlings are made in such small Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a snapshot of Napa quantities that only club members gain access to them. The same goes for barrel tastings, wine-and-food events winemaking circa 1900, including a gigantic Roman-style wine press and vineyard tours.Consider joining the wine club when which was used commercially until 1955. The vineyards are nearby you visit to have total access to winery life. and range in age from two-decades to nearly ten decades – that’s what comes of caretaking the same set of rows generation after generation. LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Anton Nichelini was the ﬁrst Swiss settler in Chiles Valley, Inside the 1895 seven-bedroom farmhouse, the bottom floor is now a establishing his homestead in 1884. A number of his tasting room, and outside are picnic tables and a bocce court. No vines are still producing! reservations are required for groups of up to a dozen, and the winery does offer tours of the facility and barrel chai. VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Old Vine Muscadelle Another benefit of being in the wine business as a family for so (Sauvignon Vert), Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Rosè of Cabernet long is the ability to make wines which speak from the winemaker’s Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Old Vine Zinfandel. passion rather than for large commercial distribution. The tasting room is generally the only place to taste and purchase these fifty- to Nichelini Family Winery one hundred-case lots, and not many other locations anywhere, let Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. alone in Napa, can give you access to heritage bottlings of old world reds like Petite Sirah and Primitivo. What’s most impressive, though, is Monday-Friday by appointment the guiding philosophy the family will share with you while you are 2950 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena there, tasting the wines and enjoying the locale: “We encourage you to (707) 963-0717 step back in time and let us take care of you.” Absolutely! By Josh Stein www.nicheliniwinery.com Bring in Day Trips and receive two tastings for the price of one.

34 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com SAGE CANYON

Winding through the eastern hills of the Napa Valley one would be forgiven for believing it impossible for a GOOD TO KNOW winery to be in such a remote setting. While snaking • An accompanying cheese plate comes with the purchase of a through the back roads, a sense of anticipation builds. tour and tasting. Something wonderful must be around the next turn. • The winery is 1250 feet above the valley floor with sweeping Indeed it is. views of Lake Hennessey and the vineyards of the Napa Valley. Upon arrival, you will feel as though you just stepped • Their most unique wine is the Moscato which is fermented dry (i.e. almost no residual sugar), making it one of the few into a faraway land. The outdoor ambiance is a blend of Moscatos that is not a dessert wine. This wine is the ideal Old World Europe and California’s Hispanic influenced pairing for oysters! history. Once inside, visitors are greeted with a feast for the • The “Amalfi Coast” is a magnificent picnic area that overlooks eyes in every corner. Massive one-of-a-kind lighting our dramatic hillside vineyards and is the perfect backdrop fixtures fashioned from gnarled tree limbs illuminate for events, picnics or private dinners. classic mission-style furnishings. • There are nine wood-burning ovens for making pizzas The gracious staff of Kuleto Estate will start you off on the estate. with a “walking splash” of their refreshingly approachable • Make an appointment for a Cabernet tasting offered at Rosato, a dry rosé. You will then head out for a tour of the 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays for grounds of this magnificent estate, passing by the “Amalfi” $60 per person ($30 for wine club members) focusing on the Vineyard Designate Cabernets and offering a cheese and patio that overlooks our picturesque landscape, complete charcuterie pairing. with rolling vineyards and an awe-inspiring view of the valley below. Standing at the point overlooking Lake Kuleto Estate Hennessey, one will gaze on a vista that is unparalleled in Daily tours and tasting, by appointment scope. at 10:30 and 11:45 a.m., 1:00 and 2:30 p.m. The estate tour is followed up by a leisurely tasting on the outdoor terrace. Your guide will pour a variety of 2470 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena ultra-premium wines paired with artisan cheeses to create (707) 302-2209 | www.kuletoestate.com a perfect marriage of savory sensations. Follow Kuleto Estate on Facebook. 10% off wine purchases when you bring in your copy of Day Trips! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 35 SAGE CANYON SAGE

A visit to enchanted Chappellet Winery is a list-topping necessity for the true wine country adventurer, for this is a place VARIETALS of unparalleled vineyard beauty; the ultimate discovery of soli- Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chenin tary splendor at the pinnacle of an intriguing detour above and Blanc, Malbec, Zinfandel, Bordeaux Blend, Chardonnay beyond the valley floor. THE SETTING Intrepid tasting room guests arriving at Chappellet might The experience at Chappellet is one of breathtaking find themselves a tad disorientated at the understated exterior scenery, educational and interactive walks through of the winery atop Pritchard Hill. A narrow, fern-lined footpath the vineyards and of course, extraordinary wines. from the parking area is the only indication that you are enter- ing the secluded winery. FAMILY Once inside, there is no mistaking the understated level Sustainability is taken seriously at Chappellet, of sophistication in the production and cellaring facilities. where farming has been a way of life for the In place of a formal tasting room, visitors are treated to the family-owned winery for more than forty years. authentic experience of sampling extraordinary Cabs, cool Today, Pritchard Hill is home to many members of climate Chardonnay and Mountain Cuvee inside the barrel- the Chappellet family. storage facility, complete with a banquet table, mood lighting, ambient heating and stylish down jackets for inclement weather. SuSTAINABILITY The 90-minute tasting tours are all about the making of Chappellet’s vineyards are organically certiﬁed. exceptional mountain wines, as visitors are guided through the The winery employs sustainable practices in all production process and a delightfully entertaining and informa- facets of its operation. tive stroll with vineyard vistas. chappellet Winery Standing some 1,200 scenic feet above Lake Hennessy, across from Mount St. Helena, visitors are kept company on their tour Tours & tastings daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. by the sounds of bluebirds, owls, kestrels and red tail hawks Tasting only appointments available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. drawn by the winery’s outstanding organic vineyards. Visitors can’t help but be captivated by the rustic charm of 1581 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena this remote, hilltop locale where one could quite happily set up (707) 286-4219 | www.chappellet.com/visit camp and stay awhile among the vines and the sound of nature in a gloriously protected spot.

36 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Oakville is part of beautiful, rolling, unincorporated Napa County. Oakville began in the 1860s as a waterstop for the tourist steam trains owned Rutherford/Oakvilleby the Napa Valley Train Company. Still known as a great tourist locale, Oakville is best known for its great little artisan grocery store, post-office and 24 surrounding world-famous wineries. FOOD Oakville Grocery 7856 Highway 29, Oakville, CA 94562 (707) 944-8802, www.oakvillegrocery.com Built in 1881, this "little country store" has sold local, all-California sundries, deli delights, and confections for more than 120 years... This is a great place to find gifts!

Rutherford Grill 1180 Rutherford Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1792, www.hillstone.com Located at the crossroads of Hwy 29 and Rutherford Road, the Rutherford Grill has been serving fabulous food to locals and tourists of Napa Valley for decades. Don't miss the fantastic selection of appetizers and entrees!

THINGS TO DO Robert Mondavi Summer concert Series Highway 29, Oakville, CA94562 1-888-766-6328, www.robertmondavi.com Enjoy cool outdoor concerts at the Napa Valley Opera House OR under the imposing Mayacamas.

LODGING Rancho caymus Inn 1140 Rutherford Road, Rutherford 1-800-845-1777, www.ranchocaymus.com Rustic elegance at its most charming. Surrounded by the all-consuming fragrance and visual splendor Driving Time: 20 minutes of Napa Valley, the Rancho Caymus Inn is a tran- From Rutherford Hill quil, petite 26-room Inn that is designed and to Rutherford Ranch >1 mile to Mumm Napa 1 mile decorated to capture the simpler times of early Cali- to Saddleback Cellars 4 miles fornia. to Turnbull 2+ miles to St. Supéry Estate 2+ miles Total 8.5 miles Auberge du Soleil 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford (707) 963-1211, www.aubergedusoleil.com The discreet entrance off the Silverado Trail is your first clue of the refined, uber chic elegance awaiting (guests only) at this exclusive creme- de-la-creme hotel in premier Napa Valley. En- trance to Auberge is very restricted to guests only though the discerning public is welcome to dine at the Micheline star restaurant or sip that $130 per glass of vintage Champagne on the Terrace. Not to Scale

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 37 RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

“Rutherford Hill is a family owned winery,” says John Terlato, DAILY GuIDED TOuR WITH WINE TASTING “And our family is passionate about and committed to crafting A guided tour of the winery, which includes the tasting of high quality wines.” At Rutherford Hill, a Terlato Family five Napa Valley red wines, launches daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Tour guests are escorted through the property, all five classic Bordeaux red varietals are hand-crafted winery’s cellars and magnificent cave system with stops under the watchful eye of winemaker Marisa Taylor Huffaker. to taste wines along the way. Winemaking techniques, Huffaker only uses the highest quality fruit hailing 100% from Napa Valley information and Rutherford Hill’s history are all discussed. Groups are limited to 20 guests, $25 per vineyards inside the Napa Valley. person. Founded in 1972, Rutherford Hill Winery was a pioneer in SpEcIAL OFFERS the development of California Merlot. Today, Merlot remains a The tasting room always has an interesting special offer flagship varietal among its collection of impressive wines. for guests. Vertical boxed sets are one example. Large format bottles and rare library wines are also available. Rutherford Hill sits on the secluded eastern hillside of the Napa Valley, just off the Silverado Trail. The well-appointed tasting pLAN AHEAD The popular tours and picnic grounds fill up fast. Call room is inside the handsome wooden winery. Climbing roses ahead to reserve a picnic table or a spot on a tour. When and well-tended gardens add to the property’s charm. An picnicking, please note that, due to legal reasons, only expansive courtyard area is the setting for outdoor wine tasting, Rutherford Hill wines may be consumed. and picnic tables with stunning views of the Napa Valley are VARIETALS Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, scattered among graceful olive trees. Winery visitors are Malbec, Sangiovese, dry rosé, Syrah, Zinfandel Port, delighted to encounter wines they have enjoyed in fine Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. restaurants as well as other limited-production wines sold only Rutherford Hill Winery at the winery. Along with an engaging collection of red wines, A Terlato Family Property Rutherford Hill offers beautiful interpretations of Chardonnay Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sauvignon Blanc as well as a gorgeous dry rosé, several 200 Rutherford Hill Road, just off Silverado Trail impressive red wine blends and a fortified wine, Zinfandel Port. (707) 963-1871 • www.rutherfordhill.com Visit Rutherford Hill and see why “Life looks better from Rutherford Hill.” Please present this article for a special offer at the tasting room.

38 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

Of the 16 sub-appellations in the Napa Valley the Rutherford AVA may be the most renowned. Legendary winemaker André VARIETALS Tchelistcheff said, “It takes Rutherford dust to grow great Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel and a Zinfandel Port-style wine Cabernet.” The Zaninovich family acquired the winery and estate vineyards FuN FAcT in 2000, but have been growing grapes and crafting wines for three Corks are a natural and renewable resource produced from generations. The winery grounds include a century-old olive grove the bark of cork oak (Quercus Suber to be exact). in Portugal and an unpretentious, homey atmosphere makes it a peaceful during spring and summer, the thick outer bark is harvested by respite in a day of winery hopping. Visitors are welcome to enjoy hand (mechanized processes have not replaced the age-old methods) without damaging the tree. in fact, studies have picnics under the oak trees. shown that cork harvesting actually adds to the tree’s health Rutherford Ranch’s full line of award-winning, premium Napa and vigor. You can see one of these amazing specimens at the Valley varietals include a selection of Cabernet Sauvignons (several winery. only available at the winery), Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel and Rhiannon, a deep, rich proprietary red blend. GREEN “Our winemaking team crafts elegant, true-to-the-varietal wines Ask about the winery's Sustainability Certiﬁcation from the with fruit sourced from the two estate vineyards and other select California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance vineyards throughout the valley. The cooler sites yield grapes with LABELS bright, rich flavors and tropical fruit characteristics. Warmer sites The wines of Rutherford Wine Company include within the valley produce grapes with deep, intense flavors. Together Rutherford Ranch Winery, Round Hill, Scott Family Estate they provide the winemakers with an unequaled palette of flavor (Arroyo Seco), Lander-Jenkins Vineyards and Predator. and character and quality.” All of the wines are available in the tasting room along with Rutherford Ranch Winery Scott Family Estate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the family’s Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. vineyards in Monterey County. Visitors can also enjoy the winery’s 1680 Silverado Trail South, St. Helena signature Chocolate & Wine pairing – a unique wine experience with local artisan chocolates – and purchase family-produced olive (707) 968-3200 | www.rutherfordranch.com oil and organically grown raisins (a visitor and staff favorite). Take Look for Rutherford Ranch Winery the time to discover these “Wines Worth Knowing.” on Facebook and Twitter.

Complimentary Wine Tasting Pass – Purchase one tasting and receive one complimentary tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 39 RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

Mumm Napa began in 1979 as a quest to find the ideal winegrowing area in the United States by the legendary French GOOD TO KNOW Champagne house of G.H. Mumm. Guy Devaux, who had No tasting reservations are required for the Patio or more than 40 years of experience creating fine still and Tasting Salon or Oak Terrace. For groups of six or more, sparkling wines in France, South America and the United advance reservations are necessary, call 1-866-783-5826 States, found Napa Valley to be the ideal climate. In 1986, or email [email protected]. Mumm Napa was completed and still produces sparkling wine During the high season, consider the 10 or 11 a.m. tour, using the méthode champenoise process. as the 1 and 3 p.m. time slots ﬁll up quickly and it’s best Three distinct seated tasting experiences with personal table to visit earlier in the day on the weekends. service are available. Enjoy the beautiful outdoor Patio, taste in the glass-enclosed Tasting Salon while enjoying views of the VISIT surrounding vineyards, or sit on the Oak Terrace for an The wine shop has an array of items to bring the exclusive library flight with more spectacular views. Mumm Wine Country lifestyle home with you plus an amazing Napa offers many exclusive wines only available here so come assortment of Champagne ﬂutes! The tasting rooms, and experience the luxury of sparkling wine in the gallery and wine shop are open daily from 10 a.m. to quintessential wine country setting. 4:45 p.m. Visit their website at mummnapa.com before One of the most unique features of the winery, their Fine Art you go for a current tasting coupon. Photography Gallery features a permanent collection by Ansel Adams as well as rotating exhibits by prominent photographers VARIETALS throughout the year. Pick up a glass of bubbly at the Tasting Sparkling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir Room and stroll through the galleries at your leisure. While you are here, take a 45-minute guided tour of the Mumm Napa winery, stroll through their Fine Art Photography Gallery or Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. browse in their wine shop. Guests proceed to the 8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA demonstration vineyard, into the working winery, finishing up in the Fine Art Photography Galleries. Four winery tours are 1-800-686-6272 | www.mummnapa.com available daily and the 10 a.m. tour is complimentary but Follow Mumm Napa doesn’t include a tasting. By Alexandra charsley on Facebook and Twitter

2-for-1 Tour Experience – Taste 3 sparkling wines and receive a logo flute on tour. Tours daily 11am 1pm and 3pm, $25.

40 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

Saddleback Cellars is an unpretentious, small winery VARIETALS nestled in the heart of the Oakville District. Sitting on 17 Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Viognier, Chardonnay, Rosé, acres (15 of which is planted in vines), Saddleback Cel- Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon lars is the passion of winemaker, Nils Venge who, with three decades in the wine business, has been a major HISTORY presence in the Napa Valley. He was, in fact, the first per- “I bought the property in 1976. I started the winery six son to obtain a perfect 100 score from wine critic Robert years later, though after the first crush I had to keep the barrels at neighboring Silver Oak for a year (due to the Parker Jr. for his Cabernet Sauvignon at neighboring restructuring and bonding of our building).” Today the Groth Winery. winery produces around 6,500 cases annually, made from Saddleback is casual, fun and informal. The word a number of different varietals. “boutique” is as close as this winery comes to taking on aires. One has the distinct impression that here, it is said FuN FAcT with a smile and perhaps a quiet chuckle. You leave pre- Known as "The King of Cab," Nils Venge can be seen on any given day tasting with new friends that come to visit tension behind as soon as you make the turn onto him at the winery. Who knows, you just may be the lucky Money Rd. and if there is an over-riding philosophy here first to try the upcoming release of his greatest wine yet – it seems to be: “Make terrific wine and have a great the 2007 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon! time.” The two are anything but mutually exclusive. The tastings can be, weather dictating, indoors around an antique oval wine tank top or outdoors next to the Saddleback cellars crush pad. There are picnic tables, vine-facing chairs and Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment market umbrellas with several wines to taste and enjoy. 7802 Money Road, Oakville Speakers hum with good ol’ country music to match the (707) 944-1305 western atmosphere. The “floor” outside the winery is www.saddlebackcellars.com bark and earth. “We are as close to the earth as we can Follow Saddleback Cellars get, just as mother nature intended.” By charles Neave on Facebook and Twitter.

Take a photo op on the “wine barrel” horse or the tractors that are parked on the property. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 41 RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

Turnbull Wine Cellars is a fabulous winery just off Highway WORLD cLASS FINE ART pHOTOGRApHY 29 in Oakville, in the famed Napa Valley AVA. When it comes to Turnbull Wine Cellars quietly boasts one of the ﬁnest great wine, the secret is to start with the best fruit. A key permanent photography collections on the West Coast. component of quality, Turnbull fruit captures the unique Past exhibitions have featured 60 to 90 privately owned, character of each of their four estate vineyards. original works by master photographers including Ansel The diversity of sourcing fruit from these four carefully Adams, Edward Weston, Berenice Abbott, Edward farmed ranches allows Winemaker Peter Heitz to create wines Striechen and Yousuf Karsh. Don’t miss the current with distinctive flavors that capture the personality of each site exhibit: “Birds of the World” Ornithology Prints 1735 - and growing season. 1899. Admission to the gallery is always complimentary. Experience Turnbull’s world-class photography collection FuN FAcT while you enjoy Turnbull wines in the Reserve Tasting Room The Turnbull name dates back to the early 1300s when a and Art Gallery. Game Keeper of Robert the Bruce saved the king’s life by This cavernous room holds oak wine barrels – floor to turning away a ferocious bull that had threatened to gore vaulted ceiling – and the label’s signature collection of privately the king. The grateful king knighted his subject “Turnbull” owned fine art photography. For $20 per person, guests visiting and awarded him a crest featuring a bull’s head twisted the Reserve Room will sample five of Turnbull’s Estate Grown, back that has adorned the Turnbull wines since its Single Vineyard reserve wines: Cabernet Franc, Merlot and three founding in 1979. Cabernet Sauvignons which demonstrate the characteristic effects of each vineyard’s terroir on the wine it produces. For a VARIETALS $10 tasting fee, guests may sample five estate grown wines in Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Red Blend, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc their Estate Tasting Room. The winery itself is special, too. Famous American architect and founder William Turnbull designed many other wineries in Turnbull Wine cellars Napa during the 1970s. However, when he set out to design this Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. signature winery, his vision was to create a winery where the aesthetics implied that every drop of wine was precious. Today, 8210 St. Helena Highway, Oakville Turnbull Cellars continues to honor the original design and 1-800-887-6285 intention of the property. By Abigail p. Zimmerman www.turnbullwines.com Visit the website for current releases, events and specials – www.turnbullwines.com

42 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery is owned by the Skalli family of France whose family has been making wine for FuN FAcTS several generations. The winery offers guests a new luxurious St. Supéry Estate is dog-friendly! Guests and their well-behaved pooches are welcome to spend an experience in wine tasting with their vertical tastings and afternoon in our park surrounded by amazing views of engaging tours. Their “From Vineyard to Glass” tour will the vineyards. St. Supéry Estate tastings can be enjoyed educate guests on seasonal farming activities and discuss the outdoors so guests and their furry companions can current growing cycle. Each tour includes wine tasting in the relish a beautiful afternoon in Napa together nestled cellar from tank or barrel and a guided tasting of finished along the vines. wines in one of St. Supéry Estate’s private tasting rooms. Or, schedule a “St. Supéry Estate’s Historical Tasting” and enjoy a VISIT tasting of Napa Valley Estate and Single-Vineyard Estate wines All current vintages, as well as library tasting ﬂights inside their historic Victorian “Atkinson House” overlooking are oﬀered daily. Call ahead to schedule a tour at the vineyards in Rutherford. Guests experience a taste of Napa 1-800-231-9116 or email [email protected]. Valley’s history along with St. Supéry Estate’s personal story Enjoy a vertical tasting of their award-winning and vineyard walk. Dollarhide “Single-Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon. For red wine enthusiasts, try four vintages of St. Supéry Their main building houses two recently renovated tasting Estate’s renowned Élu blend side by side and experience rooms and a fine art gallery. Guests are encouraged to view the how this Bordeaux-style red wine develops over time in art gallery which overlooks state-of-the-art technology in a the bottle. traditional Napa setting with catwalk views of the winemaking process. St. Supéry Estate has, in fact, carved out their niche as St. Supéry Estate a cutting-edge winery producing premium Bordeaux-style wines without sacrificing the charm of Napa. Vineyards & Winery Their Rutherford estate vineyard surrounds the winery and Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. is planted with the red Bordeaux varietals of Cabernet 8440 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Their (707) 963-4533 | www.stsupery.com other estate vineyard, Dollarhide Ranch, is nestled in a serene corner of Napa Valley and is the origin of most St. Supéry Follow St. Supéry Estate Estate wines. By Alexandra charsley on Facebook and Twitter. Mention this Day Trips and Enjoy Two Flights of Estate Cabernet Sauvignons for the Price of One. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 43 Spanning the width of central Napa Valley and encompassing both the Silverado Trail and Highway 29, Oak Knoll may be a bit less known to distant Oakvisitors, but in no way is it lessKnoll/Stags mighty than its neighboring AVAs! Filled with manicured vineyards and many new Leap wineries, Oak Knoll is an adventure in wine cultivation. Oak Knoll is known for its elegant Merlots, Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. Stags Leap AVA, situated along the southern end of the Silverado Trail just north of Oak Knoll, was the first AVA in the u.S. to be determined by the unique soil and terrain. Stags Leap produces world renowned Cabernet Sauvignon as well as other Bordeaux varietals.

FOOD Soda canyon Store Driving Time: 18 minutes From Baldacci 4006 Silverado Trail, Napa to Stags Leap 1+ miles (707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com to Hagafen 5+ miles to Monticello 1+ miles The perfect place to begin or end your day in Napa Total 8 miles Valley. Known year round for its delicatessen, espresso bar, boxed lunches, fine wine and gourmet cheese selection, this is a fun, insiders' favorite. Fumé Bistro 4050 Byway East, Napa (707) 257-1999, www.fumebistro.com Always seasonally correct, great service and comfortable seating. An American bistro with fare spiced with Italian, Mediteranean and French influences, Fumé Bistro's dishes are simple, honest and straight- forwardly delicious.

Bistro Don Giovanni 4110 Howard Lane, Napa Map Not to Scale (707) 224-3300, www.bistrodongiovanni.com From the outdoor terrace to the candlelight to crack- THINGS TO DO Napa Valley Bike Tours ling, wood-burning fireplace, Bistro Don Giovanni picnic at Soda canyon Store 6795 Washington Street, Yountville invites you to savor all things delicious from Napa 4006 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 (707) 944-2953 (707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com www.napavalleybiketours.com Valley. Purchase your picnic or boxed lunch inside and then Rent safe, clean bikes for a few hours, a whole day or LODGING enjoy it out in a creekside vineyard setting. Both even join in for a four-night bicycling vacation! Oak Knoll Inn shaded and sunny picnic options are available. Guided and self-guided tours also available. 2200 E. Oak Knoll Avenue, Napa Open daily, year-round. What a great find! (707) 255-2200, www.oakknollinn.com Wine Spectator Magazine reviewed the Oak Knoll Inn as "One of the most luxurious B&Bs in all of Napa Valley." It is easy to see why. Set within 600 acres of Chardonnay vineyards, the Inn's old stone building, graceful sweep of Cyprus trees and exqui- site service make Oak Knoll Inn a perfect retreat.

The cottages of Napa Valley 1012 Darms Lane, Napa (707) 252-7810, www.napacottages.com Welcome to your own private cottage in Wine Coun- try! Cottages come with gardens and tubs – the perfect place to indulge in a glass (or two) of wine at any time of the day. The basket of fresh pastries from Bouchon every morning doesn't hurt either!

44 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP

Baldacci Family Vineyards, started in 1997 when Tom and Brenda Baldacci purchased this sweet 17-acre parcel with ample WHAT TO TASTE hills and vales to provide the ideal setting to grow great Cabernet Winemaker Rolando Herrera recommends the Brenda’s Sauvignon. In 2001, the Baldaccis added a 7,000-square-foot Vineyard Cabernet for its display of fruit from a very special wine production cave in the hillside behind the tasting room. The vineyard block. Sales Manager Fran Leach praises the estate vineyard now produces classic Stags Leap District Cabernet Mathilde Pinot Noir because it delivers, “spring in a glass!” Sauvignon – silky-textured with ripe black fruit flavors and Naturally enough, owners Thomas and Brenda commend refined tannins, ready to enjoy now or ageworthy up to 10 years. the iV Sons Fraternity, named in honor of their four sons: That eye for the viticultural best is reflected enologically in Kevin, Michael, Tommy and Matthew. every bottling of Baldacci wines. Known best for affordably pLAN AHEAD excellent Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignons – there are The Cellar Reserve Tasting in the 1923 Farm House requires three, the single-block Brenda’s Vineyard, the Black Label 100% advance reservations for this very rare small-group Cabernet from all the vineyard blocks, and the IV Sons experience. Make sure not to miss your opportunity! Fraternity, which is a blend of the Cabernet with Merlot and Syrah from the Carneros Estate vineyard. Baldacci Family LITTLE KNOWN FAcT The Stags Leap District is Cabernet Country, but the Elizabeth Vineyards also produces the Ruppert Cabernet from Pinot Noir from the estate property in the southern Carneros Coombsville appellation and a range of Carneros wines, district has a justly earned cult following. including the Sorelle Chardonnay, the Elizabeth Pinot Noir and the Frederich Gewürztraminer. VARIETALS The new Cellar Reserve Tasting in the 1923 Farm House Three diﬀerent SLD Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnay, presents a rare opportunity to enjoy reserve and limited Pinot Noir and other “frequently changing” limited- production wines in a setting that evokes a time many decades ago production wines, including gewürztraminer and Syrah. before the valley was Napa Valley and wine was simply about the best the land could give. Come see for yourself what one family’s Baldacci Family Vineyards vision has produced along the eastern side of the Stags Leap District! Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by prior appointment Baldacci’s winery permit requires that visitors have a prior 6236 Silverado Trail, Napa • (707) 944-9261 appointment. It’s easy to get an appointment, often on the same Look for Baldacci Family Vineyards on Facebook, day, by calling (707) 944-9261. The staff will be genuinely happy to see you, and quite proud to show you their wares. Twitter: @BaldacciWinery and Yelp! Mention Day Trips to receive a Two-for-One Classic Tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 45 OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP KNOLL/STAGS OAK

Drive into the historic and world famous Stags’ Leap Winery and be transported back in time. FuN FAcT: The old stone Manor House was built more than 110 years By the 1920s, “Stags’ Leap Manor,” as it came to be ago from local rock and granite quarried nearby, and the winery known, was a fashionable destination spot for itself gave rise to the very legends that are the Napa Valley red vacationing Hollywood elite and bootleggers, wines. regardless of that pesky federal law called Prohibition. The property played host to legends of rum-runners, Located seven miles north of downtown Napa, Stags’ Leap is painted ladies, gangsters, gypsies, and even today, a fabled 240-acre estate and one of California’s first wineries. rumored ghosts. Grapes have been farmed here continuously since the 1880s. Stags’ Leap Winery is the namesake for Stags Leap AVA and DON’T MISS: some of the most idealized Napa Valley wines. Be sure to see the pool – one of the first swimming pools Unique terroir and succinct microclimate support Stags’ in all of California! Leap’s classic approach to winemaking, vineyard management and viticulture practices. As a result, the wines produced are VARIETALS: rich and show remarkable finesse and intensity. It’s no wonder Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Chardonnay, Stags’ Leap continues to enjoy a reputation as one of the nation’s Viognier and Rosé most critically acclaimed wineries. Indeed, Stags’ Leap wines HOW TO VISIT: embody the very expression of Napa’s finest grapes, soil and Make an appointment well in advance! climate. The Historical Tour and Tasting takes you through the his- Winemaker Christophe Paubert likes to say that “We didn’t tory, property and a tasting of five wines (red and white). invent winemaking, we just work hard at it.” And the label’s $45 per person. Tours are daily at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. current releases certainly benefit from this ethic. Be sure to try the Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon called “The Leap” ($75). This is Stags’ Leap most distinctive Cabernet, Stags’ Leap Winery made year after year from the block of vines located at the By advance appointment only doorstep to the Manor House in exceptionally well-drained volcanic soil. “The Leap” was created to showcase this intimate 6150 Silverado Trail, Napa vineyard block and to offer wine lovers and collectors a 1-800-395-2441 long-lived Cabernet. By Abigail p. Zimmerman www.stagsleap.com Mention Day Trips and receive $5 off your tasting.

46 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP

Hagafen, which means “the grapevine” in Hebrew, is a family winery just off the Silverado Trail in Napa that opened FuN FAcT Since 1980, their wines have been served on numerous in 2000. This boutique winery, owned by Ernie and Irit Weir, occasions at the White House, mostly at meals honoring produces ultra-premium wines that have earned numerous visiting Israeli prime ministers and presidents. This year, awards. As Ernie says, “Fine wine starts in the vineyard with the Hagafen 2007 Cuvee de Noirs sparkling wine was careful vineyard management. My goal is to showcase the best served at President Barack Obama’s annual White House that our land has produced. Our small lot bottlings start with Hanukkah dinner. superb fruit, and we seek to artisanally shape each to showcase VISIT its uniqueness and the specific region from which it originates. Their tasting room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For these reasons, our total annual production is only 8,000 with a picnic area in back. Tours are offered daily by cases.” appointment only at 11 a.m., except Saturdays. Call Ernie first came to Napa in the 1970s when he worked for ahead at 1-888-424-2336 or email at [email protected]. Domaine Chandon while attending UC Davis to study Visit their website hagafen.com, before you go for viticulture and enology. In 1997, Ernie left Domaine Chandon complimentary tasting passes or join their mailing list to build the Hagafen Cellars winery and tasting room. Their and follow them on Facebook to stay updated and receive special offers. intimate tasting room is a hidden little gem along the Silverado Trail with a relaxed atmosphere. Even though you are still in Hagafen cellars Napa, their location is private and serene. With all the attention their wines receive, Hagafen Cellars merits a visit Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. while in Napa Valley. Discover their hand-crafted wines poured Tours, by appointment only, daily in their tasting room or patio. are conducted daily at 11 a.m. While Hagafen is the winery’s main label, Prix Vineyards is 4160 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 the exclusive Reserve wine series sold only at the winery and to wine club members. These limited production wines define 1-888-HAGAFEN (424-2336) this small family run winery. Their own vineyards yield roughly e-mail: [email protected] half of the grapes used for their annual production. Their www.hagafen.com grapes are organically grown including some that are Follow Hagafen Cellars on purchased. By Alexandra charsley Facebook and Twitter. 15% off purchase of wine in tasting room with Day Trips. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 47 OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP KNOLL/STAGS OAK

Down in the Oak Knoll District of lower Napa Valley, The Corley Family’s Monticello Vineyards is a winery with a great story to tell and great wine to share FuN FAcT while they’re telling it. The four acres of grounds surrounding Jay Corley came to Napa Valley in 1969 with the spirit of a pioneer, intent on the Jefferson House are comprised of finding some land to grow his favorite varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He the same trees, shrubs and flowers found the perfect plot just north of the town of Napa in what is today known as Thomas Jefferson planted at his the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley. Jay was also a great admirer of Thomas Monticello estate in Virginia. Jefferson, who was not only a founding father but also America’s first great wine WHAT TO TASTE connoisseur. He honored the third President by naming the winery Monticello Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Vineyards – after Jefferson’s mountaintop home in Charlottesville, Virginia. In Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot 1984, the Corleys built their “Jefferson House,” an homage to Jefferson’s Noir and a Bordeaux-style red blend Monticello, on the Home Ranch that is now used as office space and to entertain guests. pLAN AHEAD Jay Corley has since passed the reins of the vineyards and winery to three of his The Home Ranch has a beautiful picnic sons: Kevin, winegrower and president; Stephen, who oversees sales and area and offers wines by the glass. marketing; and Chris, the winemaker. Chris, the youngest of the three brothers, Bring a picnic and enjoy! has worked at the winery the longest. Initially aiming to be a marine biologist, Chris eventually decided he would “rather drown in wine than sea water.” He worked in the cellar under other winemakers for 13 years before he earned the stripes to become head winemaker in 2002. corley Family Napa Valley/ In the quaint, rustic tasting room, the staff pours a little bit of everything the Monticello Vineyards Corleys produce from 80 acres of vines on the Home Ranch in the Oak Knoll District, as well as four other estate vineyards in Napa Valley. With 30 vintages Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. under their belts, the Corleys also like to show off their library wines in reserve 4242 Big Ranch Road tastings in the Jefferson House, where guests can slip into the comfortable black Napa, CA 94558 leather chairs and enjoy a flight of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. For Pinot lovers, there’s also some wonderful Pinot Noir from this estate that enjoys the cooling www.corleyfamilynapavalley.com influences of the San Pablo Bay. The Monticello Vineyards Pinot Noir ends up (707) 253-2802 being the surprise hit for many customers. “People come here for our Cabernet Follow the Corley Family Sauvignon or Chardonnay,” Stephen Corley says, “but they leave with Cabernet or on Facebook & Twitter. Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir.” By Michelle J. Baker Get 2 Classic Tastings for the price of 1 ($15 value)

48 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com NapaDowntown Napa is an essential stop for any visitor. This charming old town is filled with great shops, wine tasting venues, fine dining, inns and all sorts of special events happening along the recently restored waterfront and trees-lined avenues. For what‘s going on in Downtown Napa, visit the website at. Driving Time: 31 minutes www.napadowntown.com From Reata to Thomas Kinkade 7+ miles to Ca’Momi >1 mile FOOD to Wine Train >1 mile cole's chop House to 1313 Main >1 mile to Vinoce/Twenty Rows >1 mile 1122 Main Street, Napa to Fumé Bistro 3+ miles (707) 224-6328, www.coleschophouse.com Total 12+ miles Make your reservations for this classic American chop house in the heart of old town Napa. The menu features 21 dry-aged prime steaks, Certified Angus Beef, New Zealand lamb and fresh seafood.

celadon 500 Main Street, Napa (707) 254-9690, www.celadonnapa.com A quasi-casual dining experience, Celadon takes the best of Napa Valley produce, wines and foods and serves them up as “Global Comfort Foods” with a casual, stylish flair. No pretensions here … just delicious lunch and dinner!

Fumé Bistro & Bar 4050 Byway East Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1999, \www.fumebistro.com/ Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fumé Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmer’s market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly welcoming atmosphere.

LODGING The Meritage Hotel & Spa 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, (707) 251-1900 1-866-370-6272, www.themeritageresort.com Lavish guest rooms and Napa’s only underground full-service Spa is sure to soothe your Map Not to Scale weary soul. Dine at the award-winning Siena restaurant. Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Napa Valley Napa Valley Opera House THINGS TO DO 1390 1st Street, Napa Town Center, Napa 1030 Main Street, Napa Oxbow public Market 644 1st Street, Napa, (707) 226-6529 (707) 258-8200, www.thomaskinkadeofnapavalley.com (707) 226-5392, www.nvoh.org www.oxbowpublicmarket.com This exclusive gallery specializes in the art of Celebrating 130 years of artistic excellence! One-of-a-kind foods, picnics, wines and unique Thomas Kinkade but also features the fine art of Check out Ziggy Marley, Court Yard Hounds, shopping all under one roof. Friday night music June Carey depicting the beautiful landscapes of the Paula Poundstone, Jim Messina and numerous and Saturday morning Farmers Markets are a treat. Napa Valley – a perfect wine country keepsake! opera performances for this summer!

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 49 NAPA

On a hilltop overlooking the southern edge of Napa Valley, Reata is surrounded by more than 300 acres of rolling hillsides GOOD TO KNOW and immaculate vineyards. The winery invites guests from • Reata now offers unique and private barrel tastings for around the world to enjoy its warm hospitality and wine tasting up to 12 guests. Tour their expansive barrel room and experiences that enliven the senses. sample wines that are currently being crafted and learn about how their wines are made. Two unfinished wines Reata’s spacious tasting room features a panorama of the in various stages of aging will be selected for each barrel winery’s picturesque vineyards and the sun-drenched hills of tasting. After sampling the wines, taste the finished Napa Valley. The ambiance here is a bottled wines and compare their scents and flavors. kick-off-your-boots-and-stay-awhile approach with programs Barrel tastings are held daily and by appointment only. and activities to support the laid back philosophy of the winery. Barrel tastings can be scheduled for private parties. Guests are invited to relax on the charming veranda with Whichever tasting you choose, Reata Winery will provide sweeping views of the Wine Country, unwind at the gorgeous you with a memorable wine tasting experience during tasting bar or relax on comfy cowhide chairs or by the fireplace. your stay in Napa Valley. The cost of a barrel tasting is Reata’s specially tailored wine tastings showcase the winery’s $30 and $15 will be credited to the purchase of a bottle latest releases for a tasting fee of $15, refunded with purchase. of wine. The wines featured during the tastings can include Estate Pinot • Reata is also available for events, up to 200 people. Grigio, Estate Viognier, Estate and Napa Valley Chardonnay, Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Estate and Sonoma Coast Pinot Reata Winery Noir, Estate Syrah and Napa Valley Petite Sirah. In addition to wine tasting, be sure to taste Reata’s Bee-Line Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. honey. Made from over 60,000 bees on the Estate, there are For reservations, call (707) 254-8673 ext. 119 four flavors of organic honey available in the tasting room. 1 Kirkland Ranch Road, Napa The wide range of Reata wines captures the unique (707) 254-8673 | www.reatawines.com character and style of the winery’s surroundings. Long, cool days on the ranch produce grapes that have great intensity of flavor, complexity, elegance and balance. These are wines that go beyond simple pleasure and capture the true character of the land. Bring in “Day Trips” to receive two-for-one tasting.

50 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com NAPA Vigna Del Sole by June Carey © 2001 Courtesy of The Greenwich Workshop®, Inc. Workshop®, Greenwich The © 2001 Courtesy of Del June Carey Sole by Vigna Imported Vines by June Carey © 2006 Courtesy of The Greenwich Workshop®, Inc. Workshop®, Greenwich The © 2006 Courtesy of June Carey by Vines Imported

What do you do if you’ve fallen in love with the Napa Valley and want to keep the flavor of the world-class wines and the feel of the vast FuN FAcTS vineyards fresh in your mind? Visit The Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley • The Gallery has rare, one-of-kind images Gallery and take a piece of Napa Valley home. with hand-sketched scenes on the back The gallery is the exclusive Napa Valley gallery for the fine art of June by Thomas Kinkade. These images are Carey. June’s art depicts the beautiful landscapes of the Napa Valley area only available though the gallery. and its wineries. June Carey began painting full time in 1982. On a late • Thomas Kinkade is America’s most summer afternoon escape, traveling to the Mendocino coast, she collected living artist. discovered the California wine country. “I spend my most inspiring times • 2008 marks the 25th anniversary of running after the perfect light with my camera, in California and Italy, Thomas Kinkade as a published artist. climbing fences, trees, being chased by dogs and field workers, and getting • June Carey owns a home in Arezzo, lost.” Her passion springs forth through the beauty of the fertile earth. Tuscany, Italy The Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley Gallery is a privately owned and • June Carey is a self taught artist and has operated Fine Art Gallery. Owners Michael and Kimberly Perata have been won many outstanding awards. avid fine art collectors for over a decade. “We specialize in finding sold-out and hard to find images at no cost to the collector,” says Kimberly. Carrol Thomas Kinkade Gallery Cox, Executive Gallery Director has specialized in Thomas Kinkade art work for more than 17 years. of Napa Valley This gallery is the destination among the vineyards. It’s located in the Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. heart of the hip and happening, historical downtown Napa, right in the Sunday 11 a.m to 5 p.m. middle of world renowned restaurants and wine tasting bars. Not only will Extended summer hours you find the perfect Thomas Kinkade or June Carey image for you and Thursday-Saturday your family, but you will be treated like family. The gallery is warm and Closed on Wednesdays homey, so it’s easy to picture one of the beautiful works of art on their 1390 1st Street, Napa Town Center walls, hanging in your own home. Napa, CA 94559 The Thomas Kinkade Gallery of Napa Valley also carries the Secret Art of Dr. Seuss – rare and sold out editions from his various collections. (707) 258-8200 By Karin Argoud Email [email protected] Thomas Kinkade of Napa Valley Gallery’s number one goal? Customer satisfaction.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 51 NAPA

From the beginning, Ca’ Momi chose to make their great wines from the finest grapes in Napa Valley. They wanted GOOD TO KNOW people to be able to drink their wines every night for dinner • While they do not offer a winery tasting room, and decided that in order to do that, they would not build you can visit the Ca’ Momi Enoteca in the an extravagant tasting room, but rather showcase all of their Oxbow Public Market to taste and purchase their delicacies in a perfect downtown Napa setting in the Oxbow fine wines, gourmet pizzas and sweets. Public Market. Their focus has always been “Obsessively Authentic Italian” and this view is realized at their Enoteca. • Ca’ Momi makes seriously good wine made at a Owners Dario De Conti, Valentina Guolo-Migotto and reasonable price so you can enjoy daily! Stefano Migotto want guests to experience a little slice of Italy. Ca’ Momi Enoteca is proud to offer authentic Italian food, • Ca’ Momi offers full service breakfast, lunch and dinner including Neapolitan-style pizzas from their wood-fired brick and reservations are accepted online through OpenTable or by calling in advance. oven made with organic, local and Italian ingredients. In Italy, food and wine are a part of life, and one needs the other. An Enoteca is a place to taste and buy wines and grab a quick bite. “We want this Enoteca to bring the real Italy ca’ Momi Winery & Enoteca straight to Napa,” says winemaker and certified trained Open daily at the Oxbow Public Market Pizzaiolo Dario De Conti. They were recently voted “Napa from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Valley’s Best Wood Oven Pizza” at the Silver Oak Pizza 610 First Street, Napa Competition so this is one place that should be on your list (707) 257-4992 | www.camomi.com to visit! Make a reservation at Ca’ Momi with OpenTable: If you like sweets, their pastry case is sure to tempt you. www.opentable.com/ca-momi-enoteca They offer authentic Italian sweets that can be enjoyed there with a glass of wine or a cappuccino. To complement their menu, they feature a unique wine list of Ca’ Momi wines and a selection of artisanal Italian producers. Their knowledgeable staff will help you choose the right wine for either a sweet or savory pairing to complete your meal. By Alexandra charsley Bring in Day Trips for a complimentary wine tasting, up to 4 people and 15% off Ca' Momi cases

52 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com NAPA

Only one wine tasting bar in Napa County is literally on rails and located in a historic Pullman car almost a century old. VARIETALS You name it, they might very well have it from a carefully The Wine Train’s wine bar reflects a time of luxurious passenger considered list. travel served with the exciting addition of today’s sophisticated pastimes – sipping wine, learning about wine and enjoying the pLAN AHEAD graciousness of life. The Napa Valley Wine Train runs year ’round with lunch Vineyards roll past and, depending upon the time of year, trains boarding at 10:50 a.m. Dinner trains open one to five nights a week boarding at 5:50 p.m. Be sure to check the you can watch the vineyards as they move slowly through their website. life cycle. At any given time, the wine bar will sport 40 to 50 bottles of FuN FAcT wine available to taste. Flights can be suggested and selected by The Wine Train is the first and only locomotive in the United States to convert to compressed natural gas. the wine educator staffing the bar, or you can pick and choose whatever flight you might fancy. HOW HEAVY? A stroll through this amazing vintage train with a wonderful Each of the 1915-1917 Pullman-made rail cars weigh lunch or dinner and a stop at the wine bar, is a chance to revisit approximately 80 tons.. American history and renew your own personal connections SpIcES with friends, family and life. Chef Kelly Macdonald is one of the masters when Dedicated to preserving a luxurious way of life, the Napa it comes to the use of spices – not to necessarily provide Valley Wine Train is instrumental in maintaining and using his- heat but a depth of flavor. toric rail cars that are very rare on the American landscape. In SpEcIAL OFFERS Napa, they also preserve an important transportation corridor Be sure to check their informative website. that would have been abandoned decades ago. They layer this with a unique and award-wining restaurant, and an opportu- Napa Valley Wine Train nity to explore the wine country in a relaxed and pampered 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa manner that takes place outside your windows as you roll along these historic rail tracks, removed from both traffic and care. (707) 253-2111 • winetrain.com By charles Neave Look for the Wine Train on Facebook and Twitter.

Check out Napa Valley’s only Evening Winery Tour. The ﬁrst of its kind! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 53 NAPA

A Bold, New Kind of Wine Destination in Downtown Napa! WINES BY THE TASTE, GLASS, FLIGHT OR BOTTLE Beautiful, intimate and sophisticated, but not the least bit Guests can sample a daily offering of 13 white and red stuffy, 1313 Main wine bar and lounge, located in downtown wines by the taste, glass, flight or bottle. Napa, is a place where friends can meet to relax and enjoy fine cRAFTED BEERS wine, craft beers and tasty, artisanal plates in a chic, urban Daily offerings of 13 brews. ambiance amidst supremely comfortable furnishings. Featuring ARTISANAL SMALL pLATES Small plates featuring local and artisanal cheeses, more than 1,300 rotating wine labels on a daily basis, guests charcuterie, breads and olives are paired with the daily can sample 13 reds and 13 whites by the taste, glass, flight or white and red wine lists. Plus, daily house-made sweets. bottle. HAppY HOuR Owner Al Jabarin and his top notch team of wine experts are Sunday through Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m. on hand to offer suggestions and to encourage guests to step Two-for-one menu, including wines by the glass, bottled beers and artisan plates. outside the box and discover new varietals and producers. Join INDuSTRY/HOSpITALITY pOLIcY them on Facebook and Twitter and receive invitations to Monday and Tuesday, industry and hospitality members spontaneous tastings of often difficult, sometimes impossible to can enjoy wines by the bottle onsite at retail shelf prices. procure cult wines from Al’s secret stash of old and unique WEEKEND BuBBLES & BEATS vintages. Every Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. to midnight 13 selections of Champagne/sparkling wines from In addition to the established producers and well-known around the world; plus DJ Triphop and lounge music. winemakers that are featured in tastings and dinners, 1313 Main WINEMAKER WEDNESDAY also showcases “garage wines” made by young and talented new Every Wednesday, 4 to 7 p.m. Meet the winemaker, taste winemakers that offer fresh ideas and products. the wines and receive a discount on bottle purchases. Although there’s plenty of wine knowledge/talk swirling 1313 Main around, the emphasis at 1313 Main is on the pleasures fine wine | retail | tasting bar surrounding wine – including…every Friday and Saturday, Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight Bubbles & Beats offers a selection of 13 Champagnes and Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. sparkling wines from around the world, plus local DJ Triphop 1313 Main Street, Napa and Lounge music. www.1313main.com | (707) 258-1313 Check for Weekly Spontaneous Specials offered through Facebook and Twitter.

54 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com NAPA

“This place is unique, that’s for sure,” said Tim Nuss, part of the family that owns Vinoce and Twenty Rows in Napa. Twenty VARIETALS Rows is not just in the Napa Valley but within city limits. The Vinoce: Cabernet Franc blend, Cabernet Sauvignon “place” he is talking about is the tasting room and winery on and Sauvignon Blanc Vallejo Street, a five-minute walk from the center of the city. Twenty Rows: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a Zinfandel blend “We’ve been here for about eight years,” Tim said. “And we really are the only family owned and operated winery in the city.” FAMILY The subtle cream and rust red colored front with flower Any day of the week you can run into one or boxes, a heavy metal Bordeaux-red door, black awning with all four of the Nuss family generations working, gold letters and a café table with two chairs, belie the fact that tasting and of course playing at the winery. inside is a handsome tasting room with wood table and chairs and polished tile floor. But this a working winery with oak bar- WHAT THEY’RE SAYING rels, tall stainless steel tanks, stacked cases and a loading dock. “Twenty Rows has a posh tasting room and top-notch Off to one side is a compact laboratory. wines but without the hoity-toity vibe.” The facility is owned by Brian and Lori Nuss who, for about – Ian White, 7x7 Magazine three decades, have developed an intimate knowledge of growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes on Mount SpEcIALS Veeder. Today they’re dedicated to creating wines that reflect the Be sure to check their website for oﬀers and for upcoming special events held at the winery. true expression of that appellation. Total annual output is a very respectable 10,000 cases a year, all in a building that was once a brewery. Vinoce and Twenty Rows The name Vinoce, is a play on the Nuss Family name and Tuesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Brian’s German-Italian heritage. “Nuss” means nut in German also by appointment on Monday and “noce” is nut in Italian. When intermingled with “vin” for 880 Vallejo Street, Napa wine, Vinoce means Wine Nut. Which, for anyone involved in www.twentyrows.com making first-rate wine, is probably a fairly accurate description. But for the visitor, what it means is a fun, one-of-a-kind experi- For tours and tasting, call Tim Nuss (707) 287-1063 ence. By charles Neave Follow them on Facebook.

Two-for-one Barrel Tasting ($30 value) with this story. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 55 NAPA

Mark my words: this comfy Napa restaurant will be your favorite new place. Beloved by locals and visitors to Napa wine country, Fumé GOOD TO KNOW Bistro & Bar caters to food lovers who already know you don’t need • Every Wednesday night during the summer the big, ego-driven restaurant to find the best food in town. months – don’t miss Farmer’s Market Meals. Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fumé Chef Terry Letson shops the Napa Valley Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmer’s Farmer’s Market that morning to ﬁnd what he market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly will prepare for dinner that night. Only the freshest, in-season foods are whipped up into a welcoming atmosphere. set price, fabulous three-course meal. Its no wonder Terry enjoys a passionate, local clientele. He invests in local farms, works to bolster community causes, and delivers • While the menu changes weekly, two items are fantastic, fresh, regional food and off the beaten path wines without always on the menu: house favorite’s Pork Chop and Salmon. the big price tags normally associated with fine dining in Napa Valley. One of eight kids, Terry’s love of food began first as survival and • Don’t miss Laura’s “No Chuck” Vegetarian morphed into passion. Later, with years of hard work, two successful Burger and Bistro Fries ($11) or the Flash Fried Los Angeles restaurants under his belt, Letson moved to his food and Calamari ($11). But each week the menu changes to reﬂect what’s most in season. wine Mecca – the Napa Valley – for the lifestyle and opened Fumé Bistro & Bar. Artistic talent is abundant in his family. Terry is married • Fumé is also well known for its full bar and to local artist Sheri DeBow whose artwork frequently adorns the walls favorite local bartender Adam White – come in of thier bistro. and let him make you one of his signature Understanding all elements of running a successful restaurant, seasonal drinks using the freshest ingredients. Happy Hour is Monday - Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Terry worked to build strong ties with local growers and producers of and the bar is always a friendly, bustling place. only the freshest produce, meats, cheeses and wines. His menu and the Bistro’s joyful cadence reflect his passion for delivering the best food, service and experience to each customer, each night. Fumé Bistro & Bar Rave reviews have not stopped since Fumé Bistro opened, even Open daily for Brunch, Lunch, garnering Terry the coveted Chef of the Year for New Cuisine in Dinner and even Happy Hour Northern California award! This American bistro is all about really good food, great wine and 4050 Byway East, Napa, CA 94558 an experience you want to share. By Abigail p. Zimmerman (707) 257-1999 | fumebistro.com Napa’s great American Bistro that is all about great food, great wines, and welcoming service!

56 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Coombsville has been a hidden treasure east of downtown Napa’s Oxbow district for years. Known mostly to pica pica Maize Kitchen locals and wine buffs, this region is experiencing a renaissance, and rightly so. The proper boundaries and 610 1st Street, #5, Napa, (707) 251-3757 name for this to-be-AVA may be pending, but one thing is for certain – the grapes from this plateau under Explore the undiscovered cuisine of Venezuela and mount St. george is one of the reasons Napa Valley is world renown for big, bold reds and elegant whites. pair these fine dishes with the best Napa Valley wines! Try the house signature dish: the Arepa. FOOD Kara's cupcakes Hog Island Oysters – Oyster Bar Model Bakery 610 1st Street, Napa, (707) 258-2253 641 1st Street, Napa 644 1st Street #B, Napa www.karascupcakes.com (707) 251-8113, www.hogislandoysters.com (707) 259-1128, www.themodelbakery.com Batch after batch of handmade, Hog Island is a local and tourist favorite. With A fixture in downtown St. Helena for over 80 organic cupcakes to dream about long after its simple menu, great wine list and perfect years, Model bakery specializes in artisan breads, you leave!! Don’t think about the calories – oyster bar, Hog Island is always a sure thing. organic stone ground flours, and a complete all ingredients are sourced from local vendors Gott's Roadside cafe range of pastry products and fine coffee or teas. and are organic. 644 1st Street, Napa (707) 224-6900, www.gottsroadside.com

Driving Time: 17 minutes Map Not to Scale One of the best burgers in all of Napa Valley! From Farella This ’50s style eatery may look like a roadside to Sodaro Estate > 1 mile to Porter Family > 4 miles diner but that burger or fried green tomato BLT is to Tulocay 2 miles made with only the finest ingredients. Fabulous, Total 6 miles every bite!

LODGING Milliken creek Inn & Spa 1815 Silverado Trail, Napa (707) 255-1197, www.millikencreekinn.com One of the most coveted luxury hotel & spas in Napa! Relax on three green acres overlooking the Napa River and unwind with that special glass of wine in hand. The Westin Verasa 1314 McKinstry Street, Napa (707) 257-1800, www.strawoodhotels.com Built snugly on the banks of the Napa River, the Westin is a calm, naturally beautiful haven of luxury accommodations, stylish suites richly appointed, fine wines and cuisine.

THINGS TO DO Tillerman Tea 610 1st Street, #8, Napa (707) 265-0200, www.tillermantea.com Tea lover? Do NOT miss Tillerman Tea. Apply- ing the concept of terroir to tea, proprietor David Campbell brings a global knowledge of cultivation, craftsmanship and culture to every cup. Oxbow public Market 2180 Jefferson Street, Napa (707) 257-7878, www.oxbowpublicmarket.com Find everything you are looking for under one roof. Situated in the heart of Downtown Napa’s Oxbow District, the Public Market is a great collection of fine wines, foods & crafts purveyors.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 57 COOMBSVILLE

Rarely are you allowed access to one of the premiere winemakers of the Napa Valley. Most tasting rooms have you GOOD TO KNOW jockeying for position for a sample from someone hired to sim- • Farella Vineyard and Farella-Park wines is located in the ply pour wine. A visit to Farella Vineyard allows for a much Coombsville area, which is named after Nathan Coombs, more intimate and unforgettable wine tasting experience. Very the founder of the city of Napa. often it is winemaker Tom Farella himself who will take you on a tour of their vineyard and winery. Walking with him down the • Tom Farella’s favorite wine is their red blend, “Alta.” rows of vines, tasting ripe fruit as you go, or barrel tasting in the As he describes, “I love Alta because it is where all the colors come together. To compose the perfect cellar, you will hear his philosophy of winemaking firsthand. wine takes very careful attention to detail.” There are many passionate visionaries who have made the Napa Valley what it is today. Tom Farella, however, is one of the most • 100% estate bottled Farella wines have been made fascinating. A true renaissance man, this poet/winemaker has exclusively by Farella family members since 1985. managed to produce some of the most intriguing wines on the market today while maintaining the essence of a man whose job • Barrel tasting is one of Tom’s favorite ways to give visitors it is to work with the earth. While he considers himself more a a true picture of how his wines develop and mature. steward of the land rather than a winemaker, that stance under- • Look for Tom’s upcoming blog about winemaking on their states his immense talent. “The vineyard is the boss,” says Tom Facebook page, and read ﬁrsthand about the intricacies and his wines agree. and nuances of winemaking in the Napa Valley. Tom’s father, Frank Farella, planted the vineyard in 1979 and created “Farella-Park Vineyards” in 1985. Tom Farella is a man who does not take for granted what life has handed him. Farella Vineyard “It really is a fascinating thing to take a plant, stick it in the Open by appointment only. ground, grow some luscious fruit, ferment it naturally, age it in 2222 North 3rd Avenue, Napa an oak barrel, draw off the clear wine and put it in a bottle. This magic is what we offer from our little slice of a very unique spot (707) 254-9489 | www.farella.com on the planet.” By Ronda Giangreco Follow Farella Vineyard on Facebook. Mention Day Trips for two complimentary wine tastings.

58 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com COOMBSVILLE

If you’ve ever visited Sicily, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had been transported there when sitting at a table over- GOOD TO KNOW looking the magnificent vineyards of Sodaro Estate Winery. • Don’s grandfather, Giuseppe, with his family of eight, immigrated after a terrible drought in 1894 on a ship From the quintessential villa rising above the vineyards, to the headed for Ellis Island. Don’s home on the estate is styled rolling hills lined with vines, this is exactly why one travels to after the villas of his grandfather’s birthplace in Sicily. Italy. But you don’t need a passport to experience the sweeping • Their beautiful cave and tasting room is styled after vineyard views and fabulous wines of Sodaro Estates. A Don and Felicity’s personal wine cellar in their home. leisurely drive up a picturesque back road will deliver you to It features arched doorways and a stately iron gate. one of the most intimate and scenic wineries in Northern Cali- • Their winemakers, Bill and Dawnine Dyer, have more than fornia. 30 years of winemaking experience in the Napa Valley. The Sodaro family is exceedingly proud of their Sicilian Recognizing the importance of the vineyards, they have heritage. Their lineage of winemaking started with Giuseppe been at Sodaro Estate Winery since its inception. They Sodaro, a craftsman who made his name as a wine barrel worked with the Sodaros to design and build a winery from scratch that would perfectly suit the needs of the maker in Italy. Three generations later his grandson, Don So- winegrowing estate. daro and his wife Felicity would take that love of the vine to its • The dramatic dual-chamber winery cave is built into the fruition and become the owners of Sodaro Estate Winery. hillside above the vineyards, where small tank sizes facili- A visit to Sodaro Estates is not like your typical wine coun- tate winemaking in very small lots to preserve a broad try experience. Here you’ll be treated to a personal tour of the palette of ﬂavors during blending. vineyards and escorted along the rows of vines to learn about the passionate art of growing wine grapes. Sodaro Estate Winery Then you’re in the caves of Sodaro and their tasting room. Open by appointment only This magnificently appointed room is the perfect place in 24 Blue Oak Lane, Napa which to sample the craftsmanship from the winemaking team www.SodaroWines.com of Bill and Dawnine Dyer, the only husband and wife winemakers in the Napa Valley. In the hands of this talented duo, For tours & tastings, contact the grapes of the estate have produced some of the finest Andrew McUsic, (707) 251-8216 Cabernets and Cabernet blends in the area. A pairing of local cheeses will enhance your enjoyment of this delightful winery. Mention Day Trips to receive an exclusive barrel tasting along with your tour! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 59 COOMBSVILLE

At first glance, this unassuming winery looks like just GOOD TO KNOW another charming little family winery. But don’t be fooled. The • Five million years ago, a small sandpiper wandered along homey reception area picnic table is just the tip of the iceberg. the shore, leaving tiny tracks in the sand. Soon they were The real grandeur of this winery lies in a 17,000-square-foot, covered with sediment and fossilized. In digging out their state-of-the art cave that will leave you awestruck. cave, the Porter family found the large fossil that comes from either the Eiocene or Miocene period. The Dome Tasting Room, carved out of massive rock, is A large photo of this amazing piece of ancient history is breathtaking to say the least. Nearly thirty feet high, the cave displayed at the entrance to their tasting room. room required special sound buffers to reduce the echoing • The Porter Family’s magnificent cave is five hundred produced by the unique acoustics. Sound, however, is still and fifty feet long, fifty feet underground and encom- amplified in the room center, creating a magical sensation that passes 17,000 square feet. It houses their blending tanks, is difficult to explain. As you enter this astounding place and barrels and wine library. take your seat at the grand table, set with gleaming wine • The winery’s technical system is one of the most glasses for your private tasting, you know that something very modern in existence, with control systems that monitor special is about to happen. When the wine is poured, the and adjust environmental conditions, control fermenta- tion temperatures and provide immediate access to enchantment is complete. The Porter family prides itself on winery operations data. making small lots of handcrafted wines that reflect the marvelous growing conditions available in the Coombsville • Be sure to give the winery dogs – Alexander, Madison and Charlee – an ear scratch when you visit! area. Before a visit to the magnificent Dome Tasting Room, your porter Family Vineyards hosts (always a family member) will take you for a gentle stroll through the vineyards and up a hill overlooking nearly the Open daily by appointment 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. entire Napa Valley. From this lofty perch, you can see all of 1189 Green Valley Road, Napa those cars weaving their way up the valley as they search for 1-888-656-7696 wines and wine tasting experiences that will never come close www.porterfamilyvineyards.com to the one you’re about to enjoy. By Ronda Giangreco Bring in Day Trips for a two-for-one tasting – a $25 value!

60 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com COOMBSVILLE

Bill Cadman, the owner of Tulocay Winery is a treasure of information about wine. He is also a witty, humorous and thor- VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, oughly entertaining gentleman. Well, the “gentleman” part Syrah, Zinfandel and Chardonnay might be a bit of a stretch. Bill is old-time Napa, with not an ounce of pretentiousness about him. His irreverent, light- GOOD TO KNOW hearted take on the business of winemaking, however, belies his • Tulocay Winery is one of the oldest and smallest superior skills. This is seriously good wine. winery operations in the Napa Valley, providing the Nowhere else could you sit down with someone as knowl- most informal and unique tasting experience in the area. edgeable or as approachable as Bill Cadman. He simply does not • At his unassuming Tulocay Winery, Buddy, a little, have a snobbish bone in his body. But generosity is something yappy dog, will loudly announce your arrival. You’ll that he has in abundance. In this day of $30 tasting fees, Bill still then be escorted to the deck of Bill’s home or to his charges nothing to sample his fine wines. He does not maintain kitchen table, as the weather dictates, for one of the a pour list. He’ll just ask what you like and open bottles accord- most low-key and friendly wine tasting experiences ingly. you will ever enjoy. In 1972, Bill brazenly bought an old chicken farm and • Bill collects art and his home is ﬁlled with some very began pestering the local wineries for a job. He started his career interesting pieces. With just a little encouragement, by operating the crushers at Charles Krug. From there he went he’ll show them to you and tell you the stories behind them. on to enjoy a long history in the industry, working for the likes • Check out his website, www.tulocay.com for his latest of Robert Mondavi, Joe Heitz and other giants of the winemak- oﬀerings of great savings on his wines! ing world. In 1975, after consuming copious amounts of wine one evening, he made the presumptuous decision to open a winery himself. “My friends looked at the old chicken coops Tulocay Winery and declared them perfect for a winery. In my altered state, I Open by appointment only agreed!” What ensued was the creation of a refreshingly relaxed wine country experience and a Pinot Noir that would launch his 1426 Coombsville Road, Napa career. He has been enjoying the heck out of life ever since. For tours & tastings, call By Ronda Giangreco Bill Cadman, (707) 255-4064 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 61 Mt. Veeder has been producingVeeder/Los rich, Napa Valley wines since the 1860s. Distinct mountain fruit Carneros produces wines that speak volumes about the rugged, labor-intense environments from which they spring. Steep hillsides, rugged terrain and a surprise ancient seabed, violently shoved aloft by volcanic activity eons ago result in vines that produce tiny berries and immensely intense flavors. Just a few miles south of Mt. Veeder AVA, the climate changes dramatically. “Los Carneros” (the ram in Spanish), has long been known for its cool, coastal climate, natural beauty and unparalleled Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. LODGING di Rosa Stanly Lane Marketplace candlelight Inn Bed & Breakfast 5200 Sonoma Highway, Napa 3100 golden gate Drive, Napa 1045 Easum Drive, Napa (707) 480-4479, www.ds-produce.com (707) 257-3717, www.candlelightinn.com (707) 226-5991, www.dirosaart.com A fresh-produce market revered by foodies and local This lovely B&B is located near the bustle of down- A lyrical art and sculpture “gallery.” Join guided tastemakers. Everything is organic. Savor an iced town Napa but far enough away to provide each tours or hike the property solo and enjoy the unique guest with a serene, tranquil environment. Built in coffee drink and browse this great local wines and 1929, this Tudor mansion sits rimmed by strong metalworks juxtaposed with one of America's most gift items inside. A local favorite pumpkin patch in redwood trees, manicured gardens and a secluded lovely wine appellations. October. swimming pool. Decadent three course gourmet breakfasts start your day out right! carneros Inn Driving Time: 33 minutes 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa From Hess Collection (707) 299-4900, www.thecarnerosinn.com to Nicholson Ranch 11+ mile to Cuvaison 3+ miles The Carneros Inn, a Plumpjack Resort, is a unique to Saintsbury 1+ miles creation of architecture and culinary wonders. Fine to Etude >1 mile0 Total 16+ miles foods and luxurious rooms share emphasis evenly within a long, modern compound reminiscent of the area's silos, barns and rancher's cottages. FOOD Boon Fly cafe 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 299-4870, www.theboonflycafe.com The Boon Fly Cafe offers tasty beverages, breakfasts, lunch and dinner on premises or packed to go. Part of the Carneros Inn, the Boon Fly Cafe is centrally located to all of Carneros and a spot for easy, delicious, fresh foods. Try the Boon Fly Donuts at breakfast with hot coffee to start or the wine bar and appetizers after a long day. Farm at carneros Inn 4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa (707) 299-4880, www.thecarnerosinn.com Dinner at the Farm is a relaxed yet elegant affair. Enjoy the outdoor living room, cathedral ceilings, fireplaces and alfresco dining all summer long with wines from around the world and dishes made from Napa Valley bounty. THINGS TO DO Westwood Hills park 3107 Browns Valley Road, Napa (707) 257-9529 (1 mile west of Hwy 29) Enjoy three miles of trails through beautiful oak trees and grassy meadows. The Carolyn Parr Nature Museum (near the parking lot) offers a children's nature library and exhibits on indigenous flora and fauna to Napa Valley. Map Not to Scale

62 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS

A visit to The Hess Collection on Mount Veeder is a unique experience on many levels. There’s the historic building, once VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, classic occupied by the Christian Brothers and built in 1903; hillside Bordeaux blends, Petite Sirah, Late Harvest Chardonnay vineyards, beautifully tended grounds and an art collection that and small-production wines sold only at the winery. is in a league of its own. Then there are the wines available in Hess Small Block Series wines generate donations to 1% the tasting room near one of the barrel cellars. The museum, For The Planet, an environmental stewardship group. beginning a floor above, holds part of Swiss businessman TOuRS Donald Hess’s extraordinary collection of contemporary art. Special tours are oﬀered: Call (707) 255-1144 or go to their When it comes to the wines, The Hess Collection portfolio is website to schedule an educational, wine production tour followed by a current release wine presentation paired comprised of Hess Collection Mount Veeder and Hess Napa with local artisan cheeses. Valley. Hess Collection wines come from the steep Mount Veeder FOR THE SENSES estate vineyards and are an expression of this unique climate. Schedule a guided tour of the Hess Collection Contemporary Art Museum, and a taste of three wines They show structure, complexity and elegance. Hess Napa with food pairings. Call ﬁrst, reservations are required. Valley wines come from vineyard sites handpicked for their superior climate and location. Single vineyard wines come from OuTDOORS & GREEN Napa Valley sites handpicked for their superior climate and Experience the newest pairing of Mount Veeder wines with artisanal cheeses in the comfort of reclaimed teak location. Another notable achievement is that the estate wood tables and chairs, weather permitting. vineyards are sustainably farmed in accordance with founder Donald Hess’s philosophy to “nurture the land and return what The Hess collection you take.” Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The winery offers a wide variety of tasting options and food 4411 Redwood Road, Napa pairings. The art is a special treat. There are also complimentary (707) 255-1144 | www.hesscollection.com winery and vineyard tours offered almost daily. Call for the Look for The Hess Collection current schedule. By charles Neave on Facebook and Twitter.

Bring Day Trips along and receive one complimentary current release tasting with the purchase of one tasting. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 63 MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS VEEDER/LOS MT.

A Rare Legacy in Family and in Exceptional Wine GIRL pOWER! Nicholson Ranch Winery started as a family-owned farm in Ramona Nicholson is named 2010 Woman of the Year what the wine-world now worships as Sonoma Valley AVA. by the State of California’s 6th Assembly District. Nicholson Ranch has been, and still is, at the forefront of FAMOuS FOR pINOT! carefully growing and hand crafting some of Northern Be sure to try the 2008 Sonoma Valley Estate Pinot Noir. California’s finest wines, specifically Chardonnay and Pinot Winner of the famed San Francisco Chronicle competition, this dry-farmed Pinot is a perfect blend of Noir as well as Merlot and Syrah. The Ranch benefits greatly California and Burgundy with notes of minerals, dark from a trifecta of soil types, cool but sunny microclimate and fruit, wet hay and forest ﬂoor. And, the 2007 estate grown sloping hillsides. Pinot Noir is the winner of three gold medals, a double Ramona Nicholson is the backbone and exciting owner of gold and best in show. this winery. Born and raised on the soil she now literally tills DON’T MISS MY pERSONAL FAVORITE and farms herself, Ramona has grown up to take her family’s 2007 Cuvée Natalie Reserve Chardonnay. Named for property into the next generation of California grape-growing Ramona’s daughter, Cuvée Natalie may be one of the ﬁnest Chardonnays being poured in all of California. and winemaking history. Ramona is responsible for all aspects of their family-owned and operated vineyards and winery. She GOOD TO KNOW is highly regarded in the industry and, dare I say, serves as Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch or sunset lakeside or in the fountain courtyard sipping Nicholson Ranch wines! inspiration for leagues of aspiring winemakers and wine lovers. Nicholson Ranch is a must visit! Perched squarely on the cusp of Napa and Sonoma counties, it is a convenient drive Nicholson Ranch from either valley. With too many gold medals and best in class Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. awards to list, the Ranch is sure to please every visitor to wine 4200 Napa Road, Sonoma country. (707) 938-8822, Ext. 15 | nicholsonranch.com Call ahead for a winery tour! Plunge deep underground Follow Ramona and Nicholson Ranch on Facebook. into the labyrinth of caves and wine barrels on a private winery Learn first about tour. Call (707) 938-8822, ext 15 By Abigail p. Zimmerman special events and offers. Mention Day Trips and receive 2 for 1 tastings!

64 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS

The Cuvaison tasting room in the Carneros region of Napa is a spot that appeals on many levels. Their visu- VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel, ally stunning tasting room is situated in the middle of Cabernet Sauvignon and a unique port-style dessert wine estate vineyards and offers perfect lighting, modern called Espiritu. décor and a wrap-around deck with magnificent glass walls opening to the vineyards. FuN FAcT A Vineyard Walk and Tasting experience is oﬀered Friday They are also unique in that they offer seated tastings through Monday, and starts at 9:30 a.m. Visit the website where guests are catered to by friendly staff who are ex- at www.cuvaison.com for more details and to reserve your perts in Cuvaison wine and knowledgeable about what spot today! makes Napa Valley such a diverse area for winegrowing. cLuB BENEFITS Most prominently known for their Chardonnay and Access to limited releases, savings on wine and tasting room Pinot Noir, Cuvaison also produces limited quantities of merchandise and invitations to member-only parties.

Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and their port style GREEN INITIATIVES dessert wine for club members to taste and purchase. Sustainable vineyard practices, cork recycling, 1,428 solar And don’t forget about their rich, full-bodied Caber- panels, eco-friendly packaging and much more ... it’s all part net Sauvignon wines; particularly the award-winning of a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. Brandlin from Cuvaison’s fabled Mount Veeder estate vineyard located 1200’ above the valley floor. cuvaison Estate Wines Go, taste, relax and leave with a smile. What could Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment be better than that? Cuvaison’s Carneros tasting room 1221 Duhig Road, Napa should be on your “must see” list. Make a reservation (707) 942-2455 • www.cuvaison.com today!

Two complimentary tastings with wine purchase. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 65 MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS VEEDER/LOS MT.

The last time I was at Saintsbury in Los Carneros (“The Rams” in Spanish, when sheep vastly outnumbered vines in VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Vin Gris this part of southern Napa County) the small group that was AccLAIM leaving were all smiles. One mentioned that while you have to According to the respected Wine Spectator writer Matt know where you are going to find the winery (though in all Kramer, Saintsbury “single-handedly demolished the old honesty it is not really very difficult) they agreed that it was assertion that California cannot create Pinot Noirs of a Burgundian standard of delicacy and finesse.” Saintsbury well worth it. remains at the front of the Pinot Noir revolution. A tasting at this very rural winery might be inside – in a OuTDOORS compact room with a high, sloping ceiling, tile floors and Blooms change with the seasons. They often change wood tasting table with bottle green chairs – or outdoors, weekly or even overnight, and at certain times it seems where lush plantings of every sort fill in every space that the to be a butterfly sanctuary. gravel walkways and tasting area do not. Views stretch across FuN FAcT Vin Gris is the name used in Burgundy for a refreshing hundreds of acres of vineyards to the hills in the distance. rosé wine made from Pinot Noir. Saintsbury first Established in 1981 by Dick Ward and David Graves, embraced the tradition of this saigné style wine in 1989 Saintsbury set the standard for California Pinot Noir, and is still when, as they say back at the winery …”if life hands you lemons make lemonade!” Its popularity has since among the best. Part of their success has been the founders’ demanded an annual repeat performance. commitment to the vineyards of Carneros as a source of out- NOTE standing grapes. The entrance to Saintsbury is on Withers Road between The wines they offer include their very famous Pinot Noirs Los Carneros Avenue and Cuttings Wharf Road. (we told you they were very serious about this varietal), outstanding Syrahs, two artfully crafted Chardonnays and their Saintsbury fancifully named Vincent Vin Gris. Open daily (except Sunday) by appointment As to tastings, they are the first ones to say that, “We’re very 1500 Los Carneros Avenue, Napa flexible in what we do and in what we pour.” A wine lover’s (707) 252-0592 | www.saintsbury.com paradise in other words, and in every way. Follow Saintsbury on By charles Neave Facebook and Twitter. Complimentary tasting for two. Please let them know you are coming, [email protected].

66 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS

Etude Winery was founded to be a “winegrowing” house, not a “winemaking” house. Since its inception 25 years ago, Etude has pASSION! been on a quest for oenological perfection. What began 25 years ago as a philosophical state of Founder and Winemaker Jon Priest believes that great wines are mind is now a state-of-the-art winemaking facility where grown, not made, and that “inspired grape growing diminishes the the ancient art of winemaking is pursued with a singular passion. need for intervention by the winemaker.” Priest sums it up best: “Etude was founded on the philosophy GREEN ALL THE WAY that winemaking begins in the vineyard long before the harvest and Etude Winery is a Napa Certified GREEN Winery. that superior grape growing diminishes the need for intervention by Certified Fish Friendly Farming, too! the winemaker, resulting in wine that is grown, not made. This DON’T MISS THE WINE OF THE MONTH remains our approach today as we continue to build the Etude Etude’s 2008 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is a well- legacy.” structured and balanced Cabernet with solid tannic Working with viticulturalist Franci Ashton, Priest has developed integrity and fruit ripeness. $100 per bottle Etude Winery from this bold philosophical cornerstone into a premier producer of coveted wines. VARIETALS Already known for Carneros Pinot Noir and Napa Valley Cabernet Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon, Etude has now introduced brilliant Pinot Blanc, Pinot Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Rosé (Wines are subject Gris and Merlot to huge reviews. to availability and release.) Two delightful tastings are available at Etude. The Walk-In MuST TRY: WINE & FOOD pAIRING Tasting features five wines. These wines include the 2010 Etude Enjoy a private tasting experience for $35 per person. Chardonnay Carneros (1,200 cases produced, $32 per bottle), the Each guest will enjoy a flight of six Etude wines paired 2009 Etude Pinot Noir Carneros (17,000 cases produced/$42 per with three savory bites. Pairings are available Friday bottle) and the 2008 Etude GBR Estate (1,200 cases produced/$60 through Sunday at 10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. per bottle). *Maximum of eight people and reservations required. The Etude Seated Reserve Tasting may be enjoyed with an ($25 for Wine Club Members.) appointment made in advance and features five select, top-tier wines that include the 2011 Etude Rosé Pinot Noir Carneros (2400 cases Etude Wines produced/$26 per bottle), 2009 Etude Deer Camp Pinot Noir (960 Open daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. cases produced/$60 per bottle) and the one-of-a-kind 2008 Etude 1250 Cuttings Wharf Road, Napa Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville (296 cases produced/$100 per bottle). By Abigail p. Zimmerman (707) 257-5300 | etudewines.com

Mention Day Trips and receive a Two-for-One Tasting! *Terms and conditions apply – see winery for details.

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 67 I’ll tell you – the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character and he’s passionate about what he does. He loves talking with LITTLE KNOWN FAcT Destiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Ray’s wife all kinds of people – young people, older people, people is credited with choosing the name for the company from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a (great name, by the way!). real “people person.” He told me, “I meet my passengers as FuN FAcT clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and Owner/Driver Ray Hanson says “after driving a big fire take them home with me.” Next thing you know, Ray will truck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving a own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees! sports car!” Not to worry, though, Ray is a true profes- sional and pilots his limo with great care. Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would pLAN AHEAD know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isn’t your At this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo in their fleet (but they’ll be adding more soon), so make sure driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous to book your trip well in advance! training to provide exemplary (and safe) service. KuDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOuRS Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs Five Star Rating on www.yelp.com! clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings, It doesn’t get any better than that! bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries and just about any kind of special event imaginable. Destiny Wine Tours The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a Tours are available seven days a week spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes 3295 Vichy Avenue, Napa fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages, water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound 707-254-0442 www.destinywinetours.com system, which will sooth your ears or rock your world, depending on your mood. Your car is waiting – let Destiny Wine Tours take you to your travel destination! By Sue Straight, The Wine Wench Mention this story and get 20% off your adventure with Destiny Wine Tours.

68 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Calistoga Balloons is a unique and intimate flying experience over the scenic northern end of the Napa Valley. These flights are more rural in nature, providing pristine views. Experience Old Faithful Geyser, the dramatic Palisade Cliffs, Mt. St Helena, as well as spectacular views of world-renown landmarks, vineyards and wineries including Chateau Montelena – the winery that put California’s Napa Valley number one in the world, Castello di Amorosa – the authentic 12th century Tuscan Castle-winery, Sterling Vineyards – a hilltop winery via aerial tram, along with Bennett Lane Winery, GOOD TO KNOW Envy Winery, Vincent Arroyo Winery and more. Calistoga is a Early mornings in Napa Valley are usually cool. It is unique destination whose vistas will remain with you for a recommended that you wear layered clothing and a jacket depending on the time of year. During the flight, lifetime! it will get warmer so you will want to be able to remove Your adventure begins just after sunrise, between 6 a.m. layers as the day progresses. It is also recommended and 7 a.m., when hot air ballooning flight conditions are best that you wear sneakers or comfortable shoes that and the morning sunlight enhances the natural beauty. Guests protect your feet. Bring sunglasses and cameras and enjoy the flight! meet at the historic Railroad Depot at 1458 Lincoln Avenue in friendly and quaint, Calistoga and off to the morning’s VISIT determined launch site. After the crew inflates the balloon, Your magniﬁcent ﬂight and Champagne brunch guests hop into the wicker basket. Once everyone is in, the hot costs only $239 per person. air balloon is ready to go and you begin your gentle ascent. calistoga Balloons After about an hour of enjoying the breathtaking views of Napa Valley, the hot air balloon will be navigated to a landing 1458 Lincoln Ave, Railcar #15, Calistoga, CA 94515 site, then your ballooning party is transported to the historic (707) 942-5758 | 1-888-995-7700 Calistoga Inn for a celebratory Champagne brunch! www.calistogaballoons.com By Alexandra charsley On Facebook and Twitter

Check the website for special pricing and vacation packages: www.calistogaballoons.com. www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 69 Do the Math

One of the questions most asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We won’t pretend that it’s simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. As with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all. A case of wine includes: …a dozen 750 ml bottles (or 24 half bottles) or 307.2 ounces total, = which comes from almost 30 pounds of grapes. A single bottle contains: …750 ml of wine which is 25.6 ounces made from about 2.4 pounds of grapes (39 oz.) and is enough for four or maybe five glasses.

An acre of vineyard land can give the grower: …four-five tons of grapes (though it is also less, depending on a variety of farming and winemaking practices, and on the varietal and the vineyard One standard oak barrel of wine holds: location) which will give you 797 gallons of juice …295 bottles of wine (or 59 gallons) made from 740 pounds of grapes (or thirteen-and-a-half barrels) which is pretty close which works out to almost – but not precisely – 24+ cases of wine. to four thousand bottles of wine .

What does all that information on a wine label mean? The u.S. Department of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward XYZ Winery way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. RESERVE • Brand name Dry Creek • Designation for a special wine Sonoma County • Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated • Location where the grapes used were grown ZINFANDEL • Grape Variety used 2002 • Vintage year in which the grapes were picked • Location where the wine was made and/or bottled Produced and Bottled by (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) XYZ winery, Healdsburg, California • Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say ALCOHOL 14.6% BY VOLUME "Table Wine”

70 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com fine dining breakfast brunch lunch dinner wine/beer full bar outdoor seatingentertainmentorganic/localpet goods friendly casual upscale reservations NApA

Angéle Restaurant & Bar – 540 Main Street, 707 252-8115 French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Azzuro pizzeria & Enoteca – 1260 Main Street, 707 255-5552 Pizzeria ' ' ' ' ' '

Bistro Don Giovanni – 4110 Howard Lane, 707 224-3300 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Boon Fly cafe – 4048 Sonoma Highway, 707 299-4870 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin' BBQ ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 975 First Street, 707 226-3976 Contemporary American Cuisine ca’Momi – 610 First Street, #10, 707-257-4992 italian ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' celadon – 500 Main Street, 707 254-9690 Seafood and Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' cole’s chop House – 1122 Main Street, 707 224-6328 Steakhouse and French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' cuvee – 1650 Soscol Avenue, 707 224-2330 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Eiko’s – 1882 Town Center, 707-501-4444 Japanese Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Farm at carneros Inn – 4048 Sonoma Hwy, 707 299-4880 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Fish Story – 790 Main Street, 707 251-5600 Seafood ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Fumé Bistro – 4050 Byway East, 707 257-1999 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Grace’s Table – 1400 Second Street, 707 226-6200 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Gott’s Roadside cafe – 644 1st Street, 707 224-6900 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Hog Island Oysters – Oyster Bar – 610 1st Street, 707 251-8113 Seafood ' ' ' ' ' '

La Toque – 1314 McKinstry Street, 707 257-5157 French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Morimoto Napa – 610 Main Street, 707 252-1600 Japanese Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Oenotri – 1425 Fisrst Street, 707 252-1022 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Red Hen cantina – 4175 Solano Avenue, 707 255-8125 Mexican Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Siena Restaurant – italian, Seafood, Meditarranean ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' at the Meritage Hotel & Spa, 875 Bordeaux Way, 707 251-1900 ubuntu – 1140 Main Street, 707-258-1000 Vegetarian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' uva Trattoria – 1040 Clinton Street, 707-255-6646 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Zinsvalley Restaurant – 1106 1st Street, 707 224-0695 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Zuzu – 829 Main Street, 707 224-0695 California Tapas, Spanish & Mediterranean ' ' ' ' ' ' cALISTOGA

Barolo – 1457 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-9900 Contemporary American & italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' [ ' '

Brannan’s Grill – 1374 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-2233 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' calistoga Inn & Brewery – 1250 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-4101 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

[Call for Details www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 71 fine dining breakfast brunch lunch dinner wine/beer full bar outdoor seatingentertainmentorganic/localpet goods friendly casual upscale reservations Flat Iron Grill – 1440 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-1220 Traditional American/ Steakhouse ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Hydro Bar & Grill – 1403 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-9777 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

JoLe Restaurant – 1457 Lincoln Avenue, 707 942-5938 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Solage – 755 Silverado Trail, 1-866-942-7442 ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Solbar – 755 Silverado Trail, 707 226-0850 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Wappo Bar & Bistro – 1226 Washington Street, 707 942-4712 Blend of regional Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

YOuNTVILLE

Ad Hoc – 6476 Washington Street, 707 944-2487 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Bardessono – 6526 Yount Street,707 204-6000 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Bistro Jeanty – 6510 Washington Street, 707 944-0103 French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Brix Restaurant – 7377 Highway 29, 707 944-2749 French inspired California Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Bottega – 6525 Washington Street,707 945-1050 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Bouchon Bistro – 6534 Washington Street, 707 944-8037 French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

étoile Restaurant – at Domaine Chandon, 1 California Drive, 707 204-7529 French Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Hurley’s – 6518 Washington St, 707 944-2345 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Mustards Grill – 7399 St. Helena Highway, 707 944-2424 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Redd – 6480 Washington Street, 707 944-2222 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

ST. HELENA

Brassica Mediterranean Kitchen & Wine Bar – 641 Main Street, 707 963- 0700Mediterranean Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen – 1327 Railroad Avenue, 707 963-1200 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

culinary Institute of America at Greystone (cIA) – Contemporary American and Worldwide Foods ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 2555 Main Street, 1-888-995-1699

Gott’s Roadside cafe – 933 Main Street, 707 963-3486 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Market – 1347 Main Street, 707-963-3799 Traditional American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

press – 587 St. Helena Highway, 707 967-0550 Steakhouse ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Terra – 1345 Railroad Avenue, 707 963-8931 Contemporary Asian insipired American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Tra Vigne Restaurant – 1050 Charter Oak Avenue, 707 963-4444 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

RuTHERFORD

Alex – 1140 Rutherfrod Road, 707 967-5500 italian Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Rutherford Grill – 1180 Rutherford Road, 707 963-1792 Contemporary/Traditional American ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

Auberge du Soleil – 180 Rutherford Hill Road, 707 963-1211 Contemporary American Cuisine ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' '

72 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Mark my words: this comfy Napa restaurant will be your favorite new place. Beloved by locals and visitors to Napa wine country, Fumé GOOD TO KNOW Bistro & Bar caters to food lovers who already know you don’t need the • Every Wednesday night during the summer big, ego-driven restaurant to find the best food in town. months – don’t miss Farmer’s Market Meals. Chef/Owner Terry Letson has crafted something unique at Fumé Chef Terry Letson shops the Napa Valley Bistro: great food, seasonally correct menus straight from the farmer’s Farmer’s Market that morning to ﬁnd what he market and regional growers, personal service and a friendly welcoming will prepare for dinner that night. Only the atmosphere. freshest, in-season foods are whipped up into a set price, fabulous three-course meal. Its no wonder Terry enjoys a passionate, local clientele. He invests in local farms, works to bolster community causes, and delivers fantastic, • While the menu changes weekly, two items are fresh, regional food and off the beaten path wines without the big price always on the menu: house favorite’s Pork Chop tags normally associated with fine dining in Napa Valley. and Salmon. One of eight kids, Terry’s love of food began first as survival and • Don’t miss Laura’s “No Chuck” Vegetarian Burger morphed into passion. Later, with years of hard work, two successful and Bistro Fries ($11) or the Flash Fried Calamari Los Angeles restaurants under his belt, Letson moved to his food and ($11). But each week the menu changes to wine Mecca – the Napa Valley – for the lifestyle and opened Fumé Bistro reﬂect what’s most in season. & Bar. Artistic talent is abundant in his family. Terry is married to local • Fumé is also well known for its full bar and artist Sheri DeBow whose artwork frequently adorns the walls of thier favorite local bartender Adam White – come in bistro. and let him make you one of his signature Understanding all elements of running a successful restaurant, Terry seasonal drinks using the freshest ingredients. worked to build strong ties with local growers and producers of only the Happy Hour is Monday - Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. freshest produce, meats, cheeses and wines. His menu and the Bistro’s and the bar is always a friendly, bustling place. joyful cadence reflect his passion for delivering the best food, service and experience to each customer, each night. Fumé Bistro & Bar Rave reviews have not stopped since Fumé Bistro opened, even Open daily for Brunch, Lunch, garnering Terry the coveted Chef of the Year for New Cuisine in Dinner and even Happy Hour Northern California award! This American bistro is all about really good food, great wine and an 4050 Byway East, Napa, CA 94558 experience you want to share. By Abigail p. Zimmerman (707) 257-1999 | fumebistro.com Napa’s great American Bistro that is all about great food, great wines, and welcoming service! www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 73 Find Your Favorite Varietals *Wines are subject to availability and release. chardonnay Gewurztraminer pinot Blanc pinot Gris/ pinot Grigio Riesling Sauvignon Blanc Viognier Other

Anderson’s Conn Valley – St. Helena, by appt: 707-963-8600 P21 8

Arger-Martucci – St. Helena, 10am-5pm (appt. encouraged), 707-963-4334 P29

August Briggs – Calistoga, daily 11am-5pm, Fri-Sat til 7pm, 707-942-4912 P10 8

Baldacci Family – Napa, daily by appt 10am-4pm, 707-944-9261 P45 8 8

Ballentine – St. Helena, by appt. only: daily 10am-5pm, 707-963-7919 P24 8 8

Beringer – St. Helena, daily 10am-6pm, 1-866-708-9463 P26 8 8 8

Bravante – Angwin, by appt: Wed-Sun 11am-4pm, 707-965-2552 P18 8

Burgess Cellars – St. Helena, by appointment only, 1-800-752-9463 P20

Ca’ Momi Winery – Napa, daily 7:30am-9pm, 707-257-4992 P52 8 8 8

Castello di Amorosa – Calistoga, daily 9:30am-6pm, 707-967-6272 P12 8 8 8 8

Chappellet – St. Helena, by appointment only, 707-963-7136 P36 8 8

Corley Family/Monticello – Napa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-253-2802 P48 8

Cuvaison Estate – Calistoga 707-942-2468 P8 | Carneros 707-942-2455, 10am-5pm P65 8 8

Ehlers Estate – St. Helena, daily 10:30am-4pm, 707-963-5972 P23 8

Etude Wines – Napa, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-257-5300 P67 8 8 8

Farella Winery – Napa, by appointment only, 707-254-9489 P58 8

Frank Family Vineyards – Calistoga, daily 10am-5pm, 707-942-0859 P13 8

Hagafen Cellars – Napa, daily 10am-5pm, 1-888-424-2336 P47 8 8 8 8

Hess Collection – Napa, daily 10am-5pm, 707-255-1144 P63 8 8 8 8 8 8

Kuleto Estate – St. Helena, by appointment only, 707-302-2209 P35 8

Merryvale Vineyards – St. Helena, daily 10am-6:30, 707-963-7777 P27 8 8

Mumm Napa – Napa, daily 10am-4:45pm, 1-800-686-6272 P40 8

Nichelini Family Winery – St. Helena, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm, 707-963-0717 P34 8 8

Nicholson Ranch – Sonoma, daily 10am-6pm, 707-938-8822 P64 8

74 Varietals www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Barbera cabernet Franc cab Sauvignon carignane Grenache Malbec Merlot petite Sirah petit Verdot pinot Noir Sangiovese Syrah Tempranillo/ primitivo Zinfandel Other Sparkling Rosé port Dessert Wines

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Varietals 75 Find Your Favorite Varietals

*Wines are subject to availability and release. chardonnay Gewurztraminer pinot Blanc pinot Gris/ pinot Grigio Riesling Sauvignon Blanc Viognier Other

Pope Valley Winery – Pope Valley, Thu-Sun 11am-5pm; 707-965-1246 P16 8 8

Porter Family Winery – Napa, by appt: daily 9am-5pm, 1-888-656-7696 P60 8

Raymond Vineyards – St. Helena, daily 10am-4pm, 707-963-6929 P30 8 8

Reata Winery – Napa, by appt: daily 10am-5pm, 707-254-8673 P50 8 8 8 8

RustRidge Ranch & Winery – St. Helena, by appt, 707-965-9353 P33 8 8 8

Rutherford Hill Winery – Rutherford, daily 10am-5pm, (707) 963-1861 P38 8 8

Rutherford Ranch Winery – St. Helena, daily 10am-4:30pm, 707-963-3200 P39 8 8

Saddleback Cellars – Oakville, by appt: daily 10am-4pm, 707-944-1305 P41 8 8 8 8

St. Clement Vineyard – St. Helena, daily 10am-5pm, 1-866-877-5939 P25 8 8

St. Supéry – Rutherford, daily 10am to 5pm, 707-963-4533 P43 8 8 8

Saintsbury – Napa, Mon-Sat by appt, 707-252-0592 P66 8 8

Sodaro Estate – Napa, by appointment only; 707-251-8216 P59

Stags’ Leap Winery – Napa, by advance appointment only, 1-800-395-2441 P46 8 8

Summit Lake – Angwin, by appointment only, 707-965-2488 P17

Tulocay – Napa, by appointment only, 707-255-4064 P61 8

Turnbull Wine Cellars – Oakville, daily 10am-4:30pm, 1-800-887-6285 P42 8 8

Twenty Rows – Napa, Tue-Sat 11am-5pm or by appt, 707-287-1063 P55 8

Twomey – Calistoga, Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm, 707-942-2489 P11 8

V. Sattui – St. Helena, daily 9am-5pm (summer 9am-6pm), 707-963-7774 P28 8 8 8 8

Viader Vineyards – Deer Park, by appointment only, 707-963-3816 x110 P19

Vinoce – Napa, Tue-Sat 11am-5pm or by appt, 707-287-1063 P55 8

Whitehall Lane – St. Helena, daily 10am-6pm, 1-800-963-9454 P31 8 8

76 Varietals www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Barbera cabernet Franc cab Sauvignon carignane Grenache Malbec Merlot petite Sirah petit Verdot pinot Noir Sangiovese Syrah Tempranillo/ primitivo Zinfandel Other Sparkling Rosé port Dessert Wines

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Varietals 77

128

TO TO

AND

Lake

SACRAMENTO

LAKE BERRYESSA

Berryessa TRAVELTiME

505060 6040 60 100 70 90 60 90 70

MiLES (Average) (Peak)

128

Brown Estate

Somerston

RUSTRIDGE

NICHELINI

Volker Eisele Family

Neyers

KULETO

L A

E P

E L I

CHAPPELLET

Vine Cli! Winery Continuum Estate Girard

SILVERADO TRAIL

Lake

David Arthur

FROM Bay Bridge Bay Sacramento Santa Rosa Getting to Napa Valley Napa to Getting Bridge golden gate Valley Napa around Getting Yountville Napa to Downtown Helena St. to Yountville 10 Calistoga to Helena St. Valley Alexander to Calistoga 15 Sonoma Plaza Napa to Downtown 10 20 20 25 10 15 20 35 10 30 25 45 15 N O

Y Hennessey

N 128 A

C E Miner Family Vineyards Chiles AG

Paraduxx S Valley

Piña Napa Valley

Gargiulo

Rudd

RUTHERFORD HILL

ROAD

MUMM NAPA

CANYON Cellars POPE POPE CELLARS

Amizetta Buehler SKELLENGER Midsummer

SADDLEBACK

ZD Wines

L Silver Oak L

I Plumpjack Oakville Ranch Oakville

H Groth

D Oakville

Caymus Conn

F Creek

S S

O R MONEY ROAD

C CONN CREEK RD D

Hall Rutherford RUTHERFORD RANCH

Eagle & Rose

ANDERSON’S CONN VALLEY ANDERSON’S CONN D Eagle Trace H

Joseph Phelps U

Seavey R

E ROSSI

H T

OAKVILLE CROSSROAD CROSSROAD OAKVILLE D U

A R

The Terraces O

POPE VALLEY R

R I

Frogs Leap L

Y P E A

T Quintessa L

TO A

V Round Pond

Napa Wine Company N

N Honig

O C

Opus One

CLEAR LAKE

Nickel &

TURNBULL

HOWELL MTN

N E

N O E

HOWELL MTN A Kelham Cakebread G Cade Winery

Y L

Budge Brown’s Cleavage Creek Winery A

Sequoia Grove

N T

O Arns Winery A

Heibel Ranch D C Sawyer Cellars

Howell ST. SUPÉRY ST. POPE VALLEY WINERY VALLEY POPE

C O

T O

I S

H W Kent Rasmussen

William Harrison

W O

Aetna Springs

E Peju Elizabeth Spencer Mountain Angwin

U Rutherford

BUCKEYE U

& Mario Perelli-Minetti

R Sullivan

HOWELL MTN HOWELL

N Beaulieu

Fleury L

Forman

A Alpha Omega

Del Bondio

BELLA OAKS BELLA MANLEY K

Ladera G

Franciscan SUMMIT LAKE DR S R G

LAKE N A

I P

VIADER R RAYMOND Arkenstone SUMMIT Robert Mondavi

James Creek Swanson

White Cottage P

Neal Family

BURGESS LN. ZINFANDEL

S R

E L ST POPE V. SATTUI V.

Staglin A D

T BRAVANTE

S Heitz

St. Helena Winery

R Louis M. Martini

Grove C

MERRYVALE Charter Oak Charter Rubicon Estate

Provenance Rutherford

Outpost N. FORK CRYSTAL SPGS CRYSTAL FORK N.

N St. Helena

Long Meadow Ranch Meadow Long O

FRIESEN DR T Hall L Milat

O’Shaughnessy CHARTER OAK CHARTER WHITEHALL LANE WHITEHALL U

Cellars Cala#a F Grgich Hills Estate

Salvestrin INGLEWOOD Orin Corison Swift Del Dotto

Failla

G Cook

Hunnicutt LEWELLING Boeschen PRATT David

Fulton Varozza L

Materra

L Boswell

Chateau

Tayson Pierce I A Flora Springs

Duckhorn

N V O

Sutter Home K

Witt WHITEHALL LANE

D SULPHUR SPRINGS SULPHUR

A Helena St. DEER PARK DEER Tres Sabores &

Prager

Krug M O

Charles Covenant Pedemonte Cellars Tamber Bey

Casa

Clif Family Clif G (Wermuth)

Savour St Helena

Nuestra

Rombauer LODI

P Napa Valley Farms S Revana Rancho de Las Flores ARGER MARTUCCI Trespass A Dozen Vintners Markham Tristant 29 Murphy BALLENTINE BERINGER

Newton EHLERS

Allora

BALE LANE BALE Chase Family Chase Spottswoode Tudal Bennessere OAKVILLE Dutch Henry Saviez

Ruston Family Juslyn LARKMEAD William Cole Spring Mountain

Madrigal SPRING MTN Freemark Abbey Vineyard 29 Peacock Family FRANK FAMILY Trinchero Napa Valley V Madrone ST. CLEMENT ST. Barlow EHLERS ESTATE Eeden Marston Family

CUVAISON Paoletti

Keenan Kelly Fleming Wines Stony Hill Vineyards Larkmead

Spring Mtn.

Pavitt Phifer PETERSON PETERSON Sterling

Terra Valentine

School House Venge Smith- RD LANGTRY Madrone TWOMEY

B Cellars Clos LN DUNAWEAL J Davies Cain Zahtila Vineyard Pegase Schramsberg Guiliam’s 7 & 8 Barnett Vineyards RUTHERFORD Cali 351 Vineyard

Brehrens & Hitchcock CASTELLO DI AMOROSA 29 Lava Vine 29 Charbay

Teachworth

GRANT V Paloma

DIAMOND MTN DIAMOND

N L Rios Wine Co

Tofanelli

O WINE STOP CALISTOGA

RD C

TOLL Ritchie Creek

N PINE

LAWLEY

Sherwin Family

OLD

GREENWOOD GREENWOOD ST. HELENA Tedeschi Family Schweiger Vineyards Reverie 12 Arroyo Vincent Von Strasser Jericho Canyon Kene#ck Ranch TO Up Valley Vintners/

MYRTLEDALE W.H. Smith & Wine Garage Constant CLEAR LAKE OnThEdge Chateau Diamond Terrace Calistoga Montelena

AUGUST BRIGGS AUGUST TUBBS LANE TUBBS

128

Envy Wines

CALISTOGA

T E

Geyser

N E TO

Old Faithful Old Faithful B Jax Summers SANTA ROSA SANTA Hans-Fahden Bennett Lane Pride Mountain TO

Diamond Mtn. TO Johnston Helena View Forest SANTA ROSA

ST. HELENA RD Petri#ed

SANTA ROSA TO GEYSERVILLE TO Tom Eddy

Storybook ALEXANDER VALLEY ALEXANDER Estate Kenzo FAMILY Caldwell PORTER 12

Jarvis GREEN VALLEY Black Cat Vineyards

KREUSER CANYON RD

TO TO

Sciandri

D R

4TH AVE.

L I

Palmaz

V .

Vineyards

S SACRAMENTO E

FARELLA!PARK FARELLA!PARK

B Tournesol V Whetstone TO TO

M A VALLEY /SUISUN

O D

O R

C 3

HWY. 128 HWY.

. E Moss Creek Winery,

Ancien

SODARO & Suisun Valley Wineries AVE. 3RD Bialla Vineyards Altamura Vineyards & Winery VinRoc

REATA Coombsville RD HAGEN Elkhorn Peak Cellars KELLY

Del Dotto MONTICELLO ROAD MONTICELLO Frazier Verismo Antica ATLAS PEAK RD Delectus Winery

/Juicebox

TULOCAY Patz & Hall Atlas Peak

CORPORATE DR CORPORATE Modus Operandi VALLEY NAPA Bourassa William Hill Vineyards 121

KAISER BORDEAUX

Uncorked

TO VALLEJO TO BASALT Estate

SOSCOL Falcor Krupp Brothers

Beaucanon

ENOTECA

Waterstone FERRY SOSCOL

Taste at Oxbow CA’ MOMI CA’ Trinitas

SODA CANYON ROAD CANYON SODA BLVD AIRPORT Stagecoach Vineyard Ardente Winery KAISER KAISER

McKinstry Mason HdV Wines Spelletich Hill

HARDMAN LANE HARDMAN SOSCOL Judd’s

Volta Wine Thrace Gustavo Razi Robert Craig Dominari Bounty Hunter 1313 MAIN Celani Family Vintners Biale Reynolds Family Collective Robert

HAGAFEN CELLARS HAGAFEN

Page Wine Cellars Wine Page X Winery X Boyd LINCOLN

Ceja PUEBLO

121 Darioush CENTRAL

Signorello Vineyards MAIN

3rd ST James Cole Clos du Val

Andretti VALLEJO

Chimney Rock BIG RANCH RD Quixote Regusci Elements

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars JEFFERSON Robinson Family Luna Vineyards Lindstrom American Canyon STAGS’ LEAP WINERY LEAP STAGS’

Tallulah Shafer Olabisi/Trahan Stonehedge PINE John Anthony Van Der Heyden

WEST IMOLA AVE Robert Sinskey

Black Stallion Winery

Stags Leap Silverado Trail Wine Studio /Crushpad/Big Horn Cellars

1st ST. 29 VINOCE AND TWENTYVINOCE AND ROWS Pine Ridge 121 TRANCAS AVENUE Silverado

Vineyards OAK KNOLL AVE KNOLL OAK Cli! Lede VINEYARDS MONTICELLO

BALDACCI Taylor Family Hartwell Vineyards CORLEY FAMILY’S CORLEY Oak Knoll

STATE LN. Bell Wine Cellars

Trefethen

Hopper Creek V Wine Cellars CROSSROAD YOUNTVILLE Somerston

Hill Family Estate

Hope and Grace

S O

L .

ANO YOUNT ST. V A Jessup E

A D

R WASHINGTON T

S I A

Kapcsandy M

MADISON A O

IN N

L O Cellars

ETUDE

Laird D

Goosecross

L CUTTINGS WHARF RD

D O R

REDWOOD ROAD REDWOOD

DARMS Y

Elyse

CALIFORNIA

Girard E Ma(i)sonry

ORCHARD AVE ORCHARD L NAPA

A SAINTSBURY

HOFFMAN V

VINEYARD VIEW private VIEW VINEYARD LAS AMIGAS Truchard Keever S Ridge Estate Young N LOS CARNEROS RD Page Wine Cellars W

Silenus Vintners O E

Cornerstone Cellars Oakville O’Brien Estate

V R

A STATION

B N

BUCHLI

29 S

M Mueller O Domaine Chandon

TH McKenzie

Blankiet Estate Phoenix Vineyards Gu!y Family

Madonna Estate

Adastra

WINES

ESTATE

Acacia

Bouchaine

BROWNS VALLEY RD RD VALLEY BROWNS

A DEALY RD CUVAISON

Cosentino

DUHIG RD

BROWNS VALLEY RD VALLEY BROWNS O Cardinale + Lokoya R

PARTRICK RD

Hendry

BORRETTE

HENRY RD.

Yates Family

Black Cordon

Carneros Domaine

Artesa

SONOMA

Folie à Deux

Family Winery & Napa Cellars Sixteen by Twenty Wines

Yountville Michael Mondavi

Paradigm

J.Kirkwood

Far Niente

HESS

Fontanella

Mt.Veeder

Los

COLLECTION REDWOOD ROAD RANCH

YOUNTVILLE

NICHOLSON

Region

DRY CREEK RD

Carneros

BURNDALE

Winery

Homewood

Yates Family

G Godspeed

Family Larson Mount Veeder E BROADWAY Mayacamas

L L

Sky

CARNEROS RD CARNEROS

E Sonoma E

. T

Wing Canyon

Meadowcroft Wines Meadowcroft

Keating Winery Keating 121

at CornerStone Gardens CornerStone at

LEVERONI RD

Jacuzzi

ARNOLD DR.

Viansa Bonneau

Ram’s Gate Anaba

Cline

Estate Schug Gloria Ferrer Carneros ARNOLD DR

Caves & Vineyards

Y T I

TO TO

R T

AND HWY. 101 AND HWY.

SAN FRANCISCO SAN

Not To Scale Not

Preferred

116

Check the listings in back for

or email [email protected] hours, address and phone number. address hours,

TO TO AND

Wine Country This Week This Country Wine Open the public to only appointment Open by Wineries not open to the public are not represented. the public are not open to Wineries HWY. 101 HWY.

PETALUMA

For corrections, deletions, additions, fax (707) 938-3674 additions, deletions, corrections, For

´ ´ ∑ ∑ www.WineCountryThisWeek.com