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Go to Sonoma instead of Napa. Sonoma is a bit smaller but less tourists, easier to get into testing rooms/restaurants, and just as good wine etc
French laundry... nothing else comes close
Vincent Arroyo - free tasting and as many pours as they have bottles
DD1 correct. I love Napa, but Sonoma is more relaxed.
Try Ravenswood. They have a fun attitude about wine making.
If you have multiple days you may want to start in Napa just to get a big winery tour - I suggest Mondavi. And then try the Oakville Grocery for picnic lunch.
Then run back to Sonoma.
Love the Roche and Walt tasting rooms in Sonoma
Sandwiches at Oakville Grocery
I have been to Napa and Sonoma about a dozen times and love the area. Overall, I stay away from the larger wineries because they are so heavily trafficked that it’s difficult to have a conversation and enjoy your time there. If you want to go to a popular one I recommend Stags Leap or Silver Oak. I always have great experiences there. My favorite place to stop though is Elizabeth Spencer. The wine is amazing and it’s in the Old Post Office right across from Rutherford Grill (amazing food and great lunch spot). Some other favorites are Lava Vine, Chimney Rock, Bennessere, Corison, Orin Swift, and Gundlach Bundschu. Definitely stop at Oakville or Dean & Delucca to grab a sandwich/lunch to bring with you to one of the wineries. Most have outdoor patios where they will pour you a healthy taste and you can take in the scenery
~Opus One~
Healdsburg
Thoughts on rams gate in Sonoma?
Very helpful feedback and suggestions. Thanks, all. Any recommendations on hotels, airbnb, etc.? I would like to use points, if an option.
I blew a ton of points on a vineyard facing room at Las Alcobas and it was exceptional
CellarPass.com is a great site to set up private tastings at the higher end wineries. Those can be a great way to enjoy a tasting and not be rushed. Most will pour 5-7 wines (and often sample more on request if they sense you are a serious buyer) and can often also hook you up with comps at other spots. There’s something delightful about enjoying a relaxed unrushed seated tasting (often with cheese or other nibbles) instead of elbowing for room and attention at a bar counter.
Artessa
Check out Round Pond winery with their wine tasting and olive oil/food tasting. We had an amazing lunch reservation and everyone loved it!