Wine Country, the new Netflix comedy, sees Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch, Ana Gasteyer and Paula Pell going on a wine tasting tour in California's Napa Valley.
Napa is an incredible experience for both novice wine drinkers and serious connoisseurs. The trick is to know where to go and what your group wants. Here are six tips to make your trip smooth and ten wineries that will make it memorable:
The basic rules for visiting Napa Valley
1. Gauge your group: Are you planning on a party bus and day drinking with friends? A small group looking to stock up your cellars? Know the expectations of your party and everything will be much more smooth.
2. Many wineries are appointment-only, so be sure to call or email ahead—like, way ahead. It may seem like a lot of extra work, but an appointment can include incredible experiences like walking the vineyards or sitting down to lunch with a winemaker. And if you are traveling via limo or bus, make sure confirm whether the tasting room can accommodate bus parking.
3. And on that note: Always book transportation or designate a responsible sober driver. This is non-negotiable and, frankly, common sense.
4. Start your day with a good breakfast. Even if you're spitting throughout the day, it is important to have a base in your stomach. Pack a protein-rich dry snack like nuts to stay sated.
5. Don't be afraid to spit. You're going to taste a LOT of wine, and your palate will be more fresh if you spit throughout the day. Save the actual imbibing for apero hour and beyond.
6. Don't stick your glass in your host's face as a way of asking for another pour.
Top Ten Wineries and Tasting Rooms in Napa Valley
Kenzo Estate
The vineyards at Kenzo are inside 3,800 acres of a natural preserve located at 1,550 feet up Mt. George. It can feel like you're the only person in the world, but the remote setting just adds to the romance. Pro tip: order the Bouchon lunch box to enjoy while tasting Bordeaux varietals.
3200 Monticello Rd, Napa, CA
707-254-7572
Matthiasson
For a thoughtfully paced and intimate experience, make an appointment at Matthiasson in the heart of Napa Valley. The wines are high acid and food friendly—ideal for building out your cellar with bottles of nouveau California.
3175 Dry Creek Rd, Napa, CA 94558
707-637-4877
Ashes & Diamonds
This brand-new tasting room is a beautiful addition to Napa: Choose from a variety of tasting experiences—go for the lunch option, and make sure you try their whites.
4130 Howard Lane, Napa, CA
707- 666-4777
Crocker & Starr
Touch the vines and taste the wines with winemaker Pam Starr, a Napa Valley fixture, at this charming boutique winery.
700 Dowdell Ln, St Helena, CA
707-967-9111
CADE
On top of Howell Mountain, CADE boasts an exquisite tasting room and vast views of the surrounding range. Make this your first appointment of the day if you can—the twists and turns up and down Howell Mountain require a strong stomach!
360 Howell Mountain Rd S, Angwin, CA
707-965-2746
Smith-Madrone Vineyards and Winery
Experience old-school Napa Valley and a killer view where brothers Charles (the winemaker) and Stuart (the viticulturalist) have been making wine since 1971.
4022 Spring Mountain Rd, St Helena, CA
707-963-2283
Larkmead
Settled in the northern side of the Valley just between St. Helena and Calistoga, Larksmead has long been known for its powerful and classic Cabernets. Their tasting room is nestled among a wildflower garden—perfect for a spring or summer visit for up to eight people.
1100 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga, CA
707-942-0167
Round Pond
Right in the heart of Napa Valley, Round Pond offers sweeping views of the valley and a variety of tasting experiences in a classic California setting. Great for a medium-sized group.
875 Rutherford Road, Rutherford, CA
707-302-2575
Mumm Napa
This winery and tasting room on the Silverado Trail can accommodate large groups and buses. The terrace overlooking picture-perfect vineyards is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy California bubblies.
8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA
707-967-7700
Beringer
A classic institution in Napa Valley that claims to be the longest continually operating winery in Napa Valley, Beringer has a beautiful tasting facility right next to the CIA.
2000 Main St, St Helena, CA
707-257-5771
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