Napa Valley Day Trips October 2011

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Fall/Winter 2011

NINEWINE TASTING

TRIpS

from Coombsville to Calistoga

FIFTY-ONETASTING ROOM REVIEWS51

DAY TRIPS

Napa Valley Preferred Wine Country

A ubliation of 9


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COOMBSVILLE 6-10

MT. VEEDER/LOS CARNEROS 11-15

NAPA 16-22

OAK KNOLL/STAGS LEAP 23-30

RUTHERFORD/SAGE CANYON 31-35

RUTHERFORD/OAKVILLE 36-40

ST. HELENA 41-51

ON & AROUND HOWELL MOUNTAIN 52-58

CALISTOGA 59-65

1313 Main Fine Wine, Retail, Tasting Bar 20

Andersons Conn Valley Vineyards 53

Andretti Winery 25

Arger-Martucci Vineyards 45

B Cellars 65

Ballentine Vineyards 49

Beringer Vineyards 47

Black Stallion Winery 26

Bravante Vineyards 56

Burgess Cellars 54

Ca M omi Winery & Enoteca 19

Calistoga Wine Stop 63

Castello di Amorosa 61

Chappellet Winery 32

Ehlers Estate 50

Etude Wines 13

Farella Vineyard 8

Frank Family Vineyards 60

Hagafen Cellars 28

The Hess Collection 12

Jarvis Estate Winery 24

Kuleto Estate 33

Michael Mondavi Family Estate 14

Napa Valley Wine Train 22

Nichelini Family Winery 34

Nicholson Ranch 15

Patz & Hall 18

Pope Valley Winery 57

Porter Family Winery 7

Raymond Vineyards 43

Reata Winery 17

Reynolds Family Winery 27

Rombauer Vineyards 51

RustRidge Ranch & Winery 35

Rutherford Hill Winery 40

Rutherford Ranch Winery 39

Saddleback Cellars 38

St. Clement Vineyard 48

Savour St. Helena 46

Silverado Vineyards 30

Sodaro Estate Winery 9

Stags Leap Winery 29

Summit Lake Winery 58

Tulocay Winery

Turnbull Wine Cellars 37

Twomey Cellars 63

Up Valley Vintners 64

V. Sattui Winery 44

Viader Vineyards 55

Vinoce/Twenty Rows 21Whitehall Lane Winery 42

Destiny Wine Tours 5

Wineries by Varietals 66-69

Napa Valley Wineries map 70-71

DAY TRIPSPreferred Napa Valley 51 preferred Naa ValleyTasting Room Reviews

9 Wine Tasting Tris

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476

P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike GiangrecoDirect (707) [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Chandra GrantPhone 707-938-1783 Fax [email protected]

ADVERTISING RoseAnn TrzesniewskiREPRESENTATIVE Phone 707-334-1930 Fax 707-938-3674

[email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER CathyGorePhone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]

EDITORIAL Introductions by Abigail ZimmermanCONTRIBUTORS Brendan Conroy, Ronda Giangreco,Charles Neave, Nan Reiley,Josh Stein and Sue Straight

LOOK FOR US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER!

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

ON THE COVER: Courtesy of Up Valley Vintners, Calistoga

A Publication of


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Its a good idea to plan to visit several wineries as everywine-tasting experience offered is different. With so manydistinctive viticultural areas within The Napa Valley, onecan easily taste many of the worlds best varietials andwinemaking style without learning the region. Listed

below are five basic types of tasting experiences. The ex-perience will vary in style from winery to winery!

Wine Bar TastingThe most common tasting experience is a Wine Bar

Tasting. You step up to the bar where typically a list ofwines being poured is displayed. Expect to pay a tastingfee between $10-$40. Some tasting bars will offer you theoption to taste a library or reserve wine. Exercising thisoption increases the fee, but will allow you to taste very

unique, old or rare wines.

Sit Down TastingA 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 winesby your winery host. Expect your host to describe theunique characteristics of each wine and how it was made.

Table Servie Tasting

A Table Service Tasting, popular at sparkling wine fa-cilities, is a tasting experience where you are seated at atable and the tastings are brought to you.

Walk Around TastingA Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and

a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine onyour tour, and may take you to a garden area of the win-

ery to pour the first round. Then you move to anotherplace within the winery to sample the next wine. This ex-perience continues until all the wines are tasted.

Barrel TastingAnother popular tasting experience that can be part

of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guidetakes a wine thief, a special siphon placed into a hole inthe top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a matur-ing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wineis like in the middle of developing its full potential.

Why make an aointment?Some wineries are so small that they need to know

when you are coming so someone will be there to greetyou. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limitthe number of guests that can visit each day. Others havesit-down tastings that start and end at specific times. Itsalways a good idea to schedule your appointments well inadvance of your visit because some of the more popular

wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance.WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM

Notes onWine Tasting in The Napa Valley


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Ill tell you the owner, Ray Hanson, is a real character

and hes passionate about what he does. He loves talking with

all kinds of people young people, older people, people

from all around the world, etc. One could say that Ray is a

real people person. He told me, I meet my passengers as

clients, and they leave as friends. I want to adopt them and

take them home with me. Next thing you know, Ray will

own a bed & breakfast to accommodate all of his adoptees!Ray is also a firefighter, so if some sort of unfortunate

incident happened to occur during your adventure, he would

know exactly how to handle it. If by chance Ray isnt your

driver, his other drivers have all been through rigorous

training to provide exemplary (and safe) service.

Along with the wine tours, Destiny safely chauffeurs

clients to the airport, concerts, shopping sprees, weddings,

bachelorette parties, sporting events, proms, anniversaries

and just about any kind of special event imaginable.The limo (which comfortably seats eight passengers) is a

spotless black 2006 Lincoln Tiffany Town Car, and it comes

fully stocked with Champagne and other adult beverages,

water, sodas and more. It features a state-of-the-art sound

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 SeStraight, The WineWenh

LITTLE KNOWN FAcTDestiny Wine Tours was founded in 2009 and Rays wifeis credited with choosing the name for the company(great name, by the way!).

FuN FAcTOwner/Driver Ray Hanson saysafter driving a big firetruck for all those years, driving my limo is like driving asports car!Not to worry, though, Ray is a true profes-

sional and pilots his limo with great care.

pLAN AHEADAt this point, Destiny Wine Tours has only one limo intheir fleet (but theyll be adding more soon), so make sureto book your trip well in advance!

KuDOS FOR DESTINY WINE TOuRSFive Star Rating on www.yelp.com!It doesnt get any better than that!

Destiny Wine TorsTours are available seven days a week

3295Vichy Avenue, Napa

707-254-0442www.destinywinetours.com

facebook:www.facebook.com/pages/Destiny-Wine-Tours

twitter: @destinywinetours

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


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Coombsville

FOODModel Bakery644 1st Street #B, Napa

(707) 259-1128, www.themodelbakery.com

A fixture in downtown St. Helena for over 80years, Model bakery specializes in artisan breads,organic stone ground flours, and a completerange of pastry products and fine coffee or teas.

Kara's cakes610 1st Street, Napa, (707) 258-2253

www.karascupcakes.com

Batch after batch of handmade,organic cupcakes to dream about long afteryou leave!! Dont think about the calories all ingredients are sourced from local vendorsand are organic.

pia pia Maize Kithen610 1st Street, #5, Napa, (707) 251-3757

Explore the undiscovered cuisine of Venezuela and

pair these fine dishes with the best Napa Valleywines! Try the house signature dish: the Arepa.Hog Island Oysters Oyster Bar641 1st Street, Napa

(707) 251-8113, www.hogislandoysters.com

Hog Island is a local and tourist favorite. Withits simple menu, great wine list and perfectoyster bar, Hog Island is always a sure thing.Gott's Roadside cafe644 1st Street, Napa

(707) 224-6900, www.gottsroadside.com

One of the best burgers in all of Napa Valley!This 50s style eatery may look like a roadsidediner but that burger or fried green tomato BLT ismade with only the finest ingredients. Fabulous,every bite!

LODGINGMilliken creek Inn & Sa1815 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 255-1197, www.millikencreekinn.com

One of the most coveted luxury hotel & spas inNapa! Relax on three green acres overlooking the

Napa River and unwind with that special glass ofwine in hand.The Westin Verasa1314 McKinstry Street, Napa

(707) 257-1800, www.strawoodhotels.com

Built snugly on the banks of the Napa River, theWestin is a calm, naturally beautiful haven ofluxury accommodations, stylish suites richlyappointed, fine wines and cuisine.

THINGS TO DO

Tillerman Tea610 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 DavidCampbell brings a global knowledge of cultiva-tion, craftsmanship and culture to every cup.Obow pbli Market2180 Jefferson Street, Napa

(707) 257-7878, www.oxbowpublicmarket.com

Find everything you are looking for under oneroof. Situated in the heart of Downtown NapasOxbow District, the Public Market is a great col-lection of fine wines, foods & crafts purveyors.

HAGEN ROAD

SILVERADO

COOMBSVILLEROAD

3RDAVENUE

1ST

AVENUE

NORTH AVENUE

SOSCOLAVENUE

BLUE

OAK

GREEN

VLY

TR

AIL

FARELLA

TULOCAY

SODAROESTATE

PORTER FAMILY

Driving Time:17 minutesFrom Farellato Sodaro Estate > 1 mileto Porter Family > 4 milesto Tulocay 2 miles

Total 6 miles

Enjoy Celadons award-winning

Global Comfort Foodin ourbeautiful dining room

or on the lovely courtyard.

The seasonally influenced menu features flavorsfrom the Mediterranean, Asia and the Americas.

500 Main St, Ste G, Napa - In the Historic Napa Mill707-254-9690 www.celadonnapa.com

Coombsville has been a hidden treasure east of downtown Napas Oxbow district for years. Known mostly to

locals and wine buffs, this region is experiencing a renaissance, and rightly so. The proper boundaries and

name for this to-be-AVA may be pending, but one thing is for certain the grapes from this plateau under

mount St. George is one of the reasons Napa Valley is world renown for big, bold reds and elegant whites.

Map Not to Scale


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GOOD TO KNOW Five million years ago, a small sandpiper wandered alongthe shore, leaving tiny tracks in the sand. Soon they werecovered with sedimentand fossilized. In digging out theircave, the Porter family foundthe large fossil that comesfrom either the Eioceneor Miocene period.A large photo of this amazing piece of ancient history isdisplayed at the entrance to their tasting room.

The Porter Familys magnificent cave is five hundredand fifty feet long, fifty feet undergroundand encom-passes 17,000 square feet. It houses their blending tanks,barrels and wine library.

Thewinerys technical systemis oneof the mostmodern in existence, with control systems that monitorand adjust environmental conditions, control fermenta-tion temperatures and provide immediate access towinery operations data.

Be sure to give the winery dogs Alexander, Madison andCharlee an ear scratch when you visit!

porter Family VineyardsOpen daily by appointment 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1189 GreenValleyRoad, Napa

1-888-656-7696www.porterfamilyvineyards.com

For tours& tastings: Tim Porter (707) 927-0765

BringinDayTripsforatwo-for-onetastinga$25value!

At first glance, this unassuming winery looks like just

another charming little family winery. But dont be fooled. The

homey reception area picnic table is just the tip of the iceberg.

The real grandeur of this winery lies in a 17,000-square-foot,

state-of-the art cave that will leave you awestruck.

The Dome Tasting Room, carved out of massive rock, is

breathtaking to say the least. Nearly thirty feet high, the cave

room required special sound buffers to reduce the echoingproduced by the unique acoustics. Sound, however, is still

amplified in the room center, creating a magical sensation that

is difficult to explain. As you enter this astounding place and

take your seat at the grand table, set with gleaming wine

glasses for your private tasting, you know that something very

special is about to happen. When the wine is poured, the

enchantment is complete. The Porter family prides itself on

making small lots of handcrafted wines that reflect the

marvelous growing conditions available in the Coombsvillearea.

Before a visit to the magnificent Dome Tasting Room, your

hosts (always a family member) will take you for a gentle stroll

through the vineyards and up a hill overlooking nearly the

entire Napa Valley. From this lofty perch, you can see all of

those cars weaving their way up the valley as they search for

wines and wine tasting experiences that will never come close

to the one youre about to enjoy. By Ronda Giangreo


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GOOD TO KNOW

Farella Vineyard andFarella-Park wines is located in the

Coombsville area, which is namedafter Nathan Coombs,

the founder of the city of Napa.

Tom Farellas favorite wine is their red blend, Alta.

As he describes,I love Alta because it is where all

thecolors come together. To compose the perfect

wine takes very careful attention to detail.

100% estatebottled Farella wines have been made

exclusively by Farella family members since 1985.

Barrel tasting is oneof Toms favorite ways to give visitors

a true picture of how his wines develop andmature.

Look for Toms upcoming blog about winemaking on their

Facebook page, and read firsthand about the intricaciesand nuances of winemaking in theNapa Valley.

Farella VineyardOpen by appointment only.

2222 North 3rd Avenue, Napa(707) 254-9489 www.farella.com

FollowFarellaVineyard on Facebook.

Rarely are you allowed access to one of the premiere wine-makers of the Napa Valley. Most tasting rooms have youjockeying for position for a sample from someone hired to sim-ply pour wine. A visit to Farella Vineyard allows for a muchmore intimate and unforgettable wine tasting experience. Veryoften it is winemaker Tom Farella himself who will take you ona tour of their vineyard and winery. Walking with him down the

rows of vines, tasting ripe fruit as you go, or barrel tasting in thecellar, you will hear his philosophy of winemaking firsthand.There are many passionate visionaries who have made the NapaValley what it is today. Tom Farella, however, is one of the mostfascinating. A true renaissance man, this poet/winemaker hasmanaged to produce some of the most intriguing wines on themarket today while maintaining the essence of a man whose jobit is to work with the earth. While he considers himself more asteward of the land rather than a winemaker, that stance under-states his immense talent. The vineyard is the boss, says Tom

and his wines agree.Toms father, Frank Farella, planted the vineyard in 1979 and

created Farella-Park Vineyards in 1985. Tom Farella is a manwho does not take for granted what life has handed him. It re-ally is a fascinating thing to take a plant, stick it in the ground,grow some luscious fruit, ferment it naturally, age it in an oakbarrel, draw off the clear wine and put it in a bottle. This magicis what we offer from our little slice of a very unique spot on theplanet. By Ronda Giangreo

MentionDay Trips for two complimentary wine tastings.


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GOOD TO KNOW Dons grandfather, Giuseppe, with his family of eight,

immigrated after a terrible drought in 1894 on a ship

headed for Ellis Island. Dons home on the estate is styled

after the villas of his grandfathers birthplace in Sicily.

Their newly built cave is styled after Don and Felicitys

personal winecellar in their home. It features archeddoorways and a stately iron gate.

Sodaro Estates romantic vineyards have proven to

be a very popular spot for marriageproposals, with

over a dozen having taken place in just the last couple

of years!

VARIETALSRed Bordeaux varietals andblends

Sodaro Estate WineryOpen by appointment only, closed Sundays

24 BlueOak Lane, Napawww.SodaroWines.com

For tours& tastings, contactKariDiFabio (707) 251-8216

Become a Fan of Sodaro on Facebookand followthemonTwitter.

Mention Day Trips to receive an exclusive barrel tasting along with your tour!

If youve ever visited Sicily, youd be forgiven for thinking you

had been transported there when sitting at a table overlooking the

magnificent vineyards of Sodaro Estate Winery. From the quintes-

sential villa rising above the vineyards, to the rolling hills lined with

vines, this is exactly why one travels to Italy. But you dont need a

passport to experience the sweeping vineyard views and fabulous

wines of Sodaro Estates. A leisurely drive up a picturesque back

road will deliver you to one of the most intimate and scenic winer-

ies in Northern California.The Sodaro family is exceedingly proud of their Sicilian her-

itage. Their lineage of winemaking started with Giuseppe Sodaro, a

craftsman who made his name as a wine barrel maker in Italy. Three

generations later his grandson, Don Sodaro and his wife

Felicity would take that love of the vine to its fruition and become

the owners of Sodaro Estate Winery.

A visit to Sodaro Estates is not like your typical wine country

experience. Here youll be treated to a personal tour of the vine-

yards and escorted along the rows of vines to learn about the

passionate art of growing wine grapes. Next youll be seated at atable under a towering oak to enjoy some of their splendid wines.

Then youre in the caves of Sodaro and their new tasting room.

This magnificently appointed room is the perfect place in which to

sample the craftsmanship from the winemaking team of Bill and

Dawnine Dyer, the only husband and wife winemakers in the Napa

Valley. In the hands of this talented duo, the grapes of the

estate have produced some of the finest Cabernets and Cabernet

blends in the area. A pairing with local cheeses will enhance your

enjoyment of this romantic winery.


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VARIETALSPinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,Syrah, Zinfandel and Chardonnay

GOOD TO KNOW TulocayWinery is one of the oldest andsmallestwinery operations in the NapaValley, providing themost informal and unique tasting experience in the

area. At his unassuming Tulocay Winery, Buddy, a little,yappy dog, will loudly announce your arrival. Youllthen be escorted to the deck of Bills home or to hiskitchen table, as the weather dictates, for one of themost low-key and friendly wine tasting experiencesyou will ever enjoy.

Bill collects art and his home is filled with some veryinteresting pieces. With just a little encouragement,hell show them to youand tell you thestories behindthem.

Check out his website, www.tulocay.com for his latestofferings of great savings on his wines!

Tloay WineryOpen by appointment only

1426 Coombsville Road, Napa

For tours& tastings, callBillCadman, (707) 255-4064

20%offpurchasesandafreeentryintoadrawingtowinasmall,barkingmutt!

Bill Cadman, the owner of Tulocay Winery is a treasure ofinformation about wine. He is also a witty, humorous and thor-oughly entertaining gentleman. Well, the gentleman partmight be a bit of a stretch. Bill is old-time Napa, with not anounce of pretentiousness about him. His irreverent, light-hearted take on the business of winemaking, however, belies hissuperior skills. This is seriously good wine.

Nowhere else could you sit down with someone as knowl-

edgeable or as approachable as Bill Cadman. He simply does nothave a snobbish bone in his body. But generosity is somethingthat he has in abundance. In this day of $30 tasting fees, Bill stillcharges nothing to sample his fine wines. He does not maintaina pour list. Hell just ask what you like and open bottles accord-ingly.

In 1972, Bill brazenly bought an old chicken farm andbegan pestering the local wineries for a job. He started his careerby operating the crushers at Charles Krug. From there he wenton to enjoy a long history in the industry, working for the likesof Robert Mondavi, Joe Heitz and other giants of the winemak-ing world. In 1975, after consuming copious amounts of wineone evening, he made the presumptuous decision to open awinery himself. My friends looked at the old chicken coopsand declared them perfect for a winery. In my altered state, Iagreed! What ensued was the creation of a refreshingly relaxedwine country experience and a Pinot Noir that would launch hiscareer. He has been enjoying the heck out of life ever since.

By Ronda Giangreo


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Mt. Veeder/Los CarnerosMt. Veeder has been producing rich, Napa Valley wines since the 1860s. Distinct mountain fruit 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 PinotNoirs and Chardonnays.

LODGINGcandlelight Inn Bed & Breakfast1045 Easum Drive, Napa

(707) 257-3717, www.candlelightinn.com

This lovely B&B is located near the bustle of down-townNapa but far enough away to provide eachguest with a serene, tranquil environment. Built in

1929, this Tudor mansion sits rimmed by strongredwood trees, manicured gardens and a secluded

swimmingpool. Decadent three course gourmetbreakfasts start your day out right!carneros Inn4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa

(707) 299-4900, www.thecarnerosinn.com

The Carneros Inn, a Plumpjack Resort, is a uniquecreation of architecture and culinary wonders. Fine

foods and luxurious rooms share emphasis evenlywithin a long, modern compound reminiscent of thearea's silos, barns and rancher's cottages.

FOOD

Fremont Diner2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma

(707) 938-7370

Old-fashioned style roadside hamburger jointwithupdated menu. Fresh, local ingredients.Try the pulled-pork sandwich or grilledcheese withsage andbe sure to splurge on the milkshakes!Boon Fly cafe4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa

(707) 299-4870, www.theboonflycafe.com

The Boon Fly Cafe offers tastybeverages,

breakfasts, lunch and dinner on premises or packedto go. Part of the Carneros Inn, the BoonFly Cafeis centrally located to all of Carneros and a spot foreasy, delicious, fresh foods. Try the Boon Fly Donutsat breakfast withhot coffee to start or the wine barandappetizers after a long day.Farm at carneros Inn4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa

(707) 299-4880, www.thecarnerosinn.com

Dinner at the Farm is a relaxedyet elegant affair.Enjoy the outdoor living room, cathedral ceilings,

fireplaces andalfresco dining all summer long withwines from around the world and dishes made fromNapa Valley bounty.

Browns Valley Market3262 Browns Valley Road, Napa

(707) 253-1873

This is the best kind of locals market. Hand-writtennotes explain fine cheese, local breads anddeliciousitems available for purchase. Freshproduce and local

wines are sure to delight anyvisitor.THINGS TO DOWestwood Hills park

3107 BrownsValley Road (1 mile west of Hwy29)Napa (707) 257-9529

Enjoy three miles of trails through beautiful oaktrees and grassy meadows. The CarolynParr NatureMuseum (near the parking lot) offers a children'snature libraryand exhibits on indigenous flora and

fauna to Napa Valley.

di Rosa5200 Sonoma Highway, Napa

(707) 226-5991, www.dirosaart.com

A lyrical art and sculpture gallery. Join guidedtours or hike the propertysolo and enjoy the uniquemetalworks juxtaposedwith one of America's mostlovelywine appellations.Stanly Lane Marketlae3100 Golden Gate Drive, Napa

(707) 480-4479, www.ds-produce.comA fresh-produce market revered by foodies and localtastemakers local vegetables, fruits, flowers, cheesesand olive oils. Everything is organic. Savor an icedcoffee drink and browse this great local wines andgift items inside. A local favorite pumpkin patch inOctober.

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12 NICHOLSONRANCH

ETUDE

FremontDiner

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121NAPA

THEHESS COLLECTION

VALLEYRD

SONO

MARD

O

LD

SONOMA

Stanly LaneMarketplace

diRosa

EASUM

Candlelight Inn

BROWNS

PARTRICK

BROWN

SV

ALLEY

RED

WOODRD

BUHMAN

AVEDEALY

LANE

MICHAEL MONDAVIFAMILYESTATE

Carneros InnFarm at Carneros Inn

Boony Cafe

CUTTIN

GSWH

ARFRD

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Map Not to Scale

Driving Time:34 minutesFrom The Hess Collectionto Etude Wines 10 milesto Michael Mondavi Family 3 milesto Nicholson Ranch 4+ miles

Total 17+ miles


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VARIETALSSauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, clas-sic Bordeaux blends, Petite Sirah, Late Harvest Chardonnayand small-production wines soldonly at the winery.Hess Small Block Serieswines generate donations to 1%For The Planet,an environmental stewardshipgroup.

TOuRS

Special tours are offered: Call (707) 255-1144 or go to theirwebsite to schedule an educational, wineproduction tourfollowed by a current release wine presentation pairedwith local artisan cheeses.

FOR THE SENSESSchedule a guided tour of the Hess Collection Contempo-rary Art Museum, anda taste of three wines with foodpairings. Call first, reservations are required.

OuTDOORS & GREEN

Experience the newest pairing of Mount Veeder wineswith artisanal cheeses in the comfort of reclaimed teakwood tables and chairs, weather permitting.

The Hess colletionOpen daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

4411 Redwood Road, Napa(707) 255-1144 www.hesscollection.com

Look forThe Hess Collectionon Facebook andTwitter.

BringDayTripsalongandreceiveonecomplimentarycurrentreleasetastingwiththepurchaseofonetasting.

A visit to The Hess Collection on Mount Veeder is a uniqueexperience on many levels. Theres the historic building, onceoccupied by the Christian Brothers and built in 1903; hillsidevineyards, beautifully tended grounds and an art collection thatis in a league of its own. Then there are the wines available inthe tasting room near one of the barrel cellars. The museum, be-ginning a floor above, holds part of Swiss businessman Donald

Hesss extraordinary collection of contemporary art.When it comes to the wines, The Hess Collection portfolio iscomprised of Hess Collection Mount Veeder, Hess Napa Valleyand Hess Select.

Hess Collection wines come from the steep Mount Veeder es-tate vineyards and are an expression of this unique climate.They show structure, complexity and elegance. Hess Napa Val-ley wines come from vineyard sites handpicked for theirsuperior climate and location. Single vineyard wines come fromNapa Valley sites handpicked for their superior climate and lo-

cation. Another notable achievement is that the estate vineyardsare sustainably farmed in accordance with founder DonaldHesss philosophy to nurture the land and return what youtake. The Hess Select wines are benchmark wines from their re-spective regions and made for immediate enjoyment.

The winery offers a wide variety of tasting options and foodpairings. The art is a special treat. There are also complimentarywinery and vineyard tours offered almost daily. Call for the cur-rent schedule. By charles Neave


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pASSION!What began 25 years ago as a philosophical state ofmind is now a state-of-the-art winemaking facility wheretheancient art of winemaking is pursued with a singularpassion.

GREEN ALL THE WAYEtudeWinery is a Napa Certified GREEN Winery.Certified Fish Friendly Farming, too!

DONT MISS THE WINE OF THE MONTHEtudes 2006 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-structured and balanced Cabernet with solid tannicintegrity and fruit ripeness. $100 per bottle

VARIETALSPinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc,Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Ros (Wines are subjectto availability and release.)

MuST TRY: WINE & FOOD pAIRINGEnjoy a private tasting experience for $35 per person.Each guest will enjoy a flight of six Etude wines pairedwith three savory bites. Pairings are availableFridaythrough Sunday at 10 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.*Maximum of eight people and reservations required.($25 for Wine Club Members.)

Etde WinesOpen daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

1250 Cuttings Wharf Road, Napa(707) 257-5300 etudewines.com

MentionDayTripsandreceiveaTwo-for-OneTasting! *Termsandconditionsapplyseewineryfordetails.

Etude Winery was founded to be a winegrowing house, not awinemaking house. Since its inception 25 years ago, Etude hasbeen on a quest for oenological perfection.

Founder and Winemaker Jon Priest believed that great wines aregrown, not made, and that inspired grape growing diminishes theneed for intervention by the winemaker.

Priest sums it up best: Etude was founded on the philosophy thatwinemaking begins in the vineyard long before the harvest and thatsuperior grape growing diminishes the need for intervention by the

winemaker, resulting in wine that is grown, not made. This remainsour approach today as we continue to build the Etude legacy.

Working with viticulturalist Franci Ashton, Priest has developedEtude Winery from this bold philosophical cornerstone into apremier producer of coveted wines.

Already known for Carneros Pinot Noir and Napa Valley CabernetSauvignon, Etude has now introduced brilliant Pinot Blanc, PinotGris and Merlot to huge reviews.

Two delightful tastings are available at Etude. The Walk-InTasting features five wines. These wines include the 2010 EtudeChardonnay Carneros (1,200 cases produced, $38 per bottle), the2008 Etude Pinot Noir Carneros (17,000 cases produced/$42 perbottle) and the 2007 Etude GBR Estate (1,200 cases produced/$60per bottle).

The Etude Seated Reserve Tasting may be enjoyed with anappointment made in advance and features five select, top-tier winesthat include the 2010 Etude Ros Pinot Noir Carneros (2400 casesproduced / $20 per bottle), 2007 Etude Deer Camp Pinot Noir (960cases produced / $60 per bottle) and the one-of-a-kind 2006 EtudeCabernet Sauvignon Oakville (296 cases produced / $100 per bottle).

By Abigail p. Zimmerman


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14 Mt. Veeder/Los Carneros www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Wine is our life.We look forward to sharing it with you.

Weather permitting and it usually does in California you can enjoy sipping your wine on a large back porch,roofed but open to thegentle breezes and lush greeneryof the Carneros hills and vineyards, with views all theway to impressive Mt. Diablo to the east. Comfy sofas

andchairs invite lingering in this fortunate place.Bring a picnic! Guests are welcome to dine al-frescofrom their picnic baskets in designated picnic spotsthroughout the property.

Follow Rob Mondavi Jr. onTOUT as he works throughthis years harvest! Also check out Michael MondaviFamily Estate wines and staff on both Facebook andTwitter.

FuN FAcTMichael Mondavi created his first barrel of

Cabernet Sauvignon for his father in 1966.Visit Michael Mondavi Family Estate the familyspersonal and loving continuation of the family legacy!

Mihael Mondavi Family EstateOpen daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1285 DealyLane, Napa

www.michaelmondavifamilyestate.com

(707) 256-2757

Mention this story to receive 15% offall winepurchases whilevisiting Michael Mondavi FamilyEstate!

This family legacy is what makes tasting wine great atMichael Mondavi Family Estate. Four generations of Mondaviwinemaking methodology and fruit distinctly elevate this winehouse and this family to a level of oenological heritage, prestigeand consistency like no other.

If pigeonholed, winery staff would explain that CabernetSauvignon is the legendary trademark varietal attributed to theMichael Mondavi Family Estate name today. Michaels signatureCabernet Sauvignon, M by Michael Mondavi, specifically offersa distinct fruit-forward flavor profile with bold tannins and thebeautiful intensity from this growing region in Napa Valley.

Michael Mondavi Family Estate seeks to produce wines fromthe Napa Valley that would stand in the company of the worldsfinest. Mission accomplished.

Taste legendary wines in the Michael Mondavi Family EstateTaste Gallery located in the heart of the Carneros region, just astones throw away from the Mondavi winemaking facility. Enjoy

this tranquil spot overlooking lush estate vineyards and rollinghills. Enjoy the view while savoring world-class family wines!

Dont miss the new releases just being introduced in theTaste Gallery. Specifically, Isabel Mondavis 2010 Chardonnayand 2010 Ros are exquisite and a delight for all wine lovers.

Also, be sure to experience Rob Mondavi, Jr.s Petite SirahReserve: the ultimate expression of terroir and the lushcomplex quality of Napa Valley grown fruit. Enjoy!

By Abigail p. Zimmerman


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VARIETALSChardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Merlot

FuN FAcTPinot Noir is often called theHeartache Grape.

There is even a book by that title.The reason for its

difficulty is that there are fewareas where it grows

well and if it is over manipulated, it can lose a lot of itscharacteristic beauty. It is for this reason that Nicholson

Ranch is built as a five-level gravity flow winery, which

allows thewine to flow naturally between winemaking

stages.

TOuRSCave tours are availableby appointment.

HuNGRY?In the tasting room is a selection of cheese, crackers

and the like, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a

pleasant picnic lunch... withNicholson wines of course.

Niholson Ranh WineryOpen daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

4200 Napa Road, Sonoma(707) 938-8822 www.nicholsonranch.com

Follow Nicholson Ranch Wineryon Facebook.

Buyone,getonefreetastingwhenyoubringinthisguidebook!

Nicholson Ranch is on a commanding hill above one ofNapa and Sonomas most important intersections, with thefoothills behind giving it a regal, almost serene bearing.

The 160 acres (30 of it planted with vines) enjoys acombination of soils, hills and climate that is ideal forproducing premium grapes.

One thing you cannot see from the road below are thechairs and the tables with colorful market umbrellas set on

trimmed grass backed by a free-form lake that is home tolargemouth bass and the occasional river otter. Blue herons,white egrets and an assortment of ducks often visit, whileoverhead red tail hawks soar.

The high-ceilinged tasting room has granite-topped bars,tile floors and doors on three sides that open to the outdoorsand the lake. Plantings throughout are subtle and mature. Besure to ask the tasting room staff about the small chapel up onthe hill directly behind the winery. They will also explain theorigin of the enormous lion sculpture you can spot from theroad.

Between the assembly of well-designed buildings arecourtyards, and indoors is a commercial kitchen adjacent to anelegant room often used for weddings and special events. Thescale of it all works. Whether you sit on the Redwood Terrace,gather by the Fountain Courtyard, head to the picnic area orsettle into the tasting room, it is all part of a memorable winecountry experience, where an extensive list of elegant,hand-crafted wines waits for you. By charles Neave


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16 Napa 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 whats going on in

Downtown Napa, visit the website at.

www.napadowntown.com

FOODcole's cho Hose1122 Main Street, Napa

(707) 224-6328, www.coleschophouse.com

Make your reservations for this classic Americanchop house in the heart of old townNapa. The menu

features 21 dry-aged prime steaks, Certified AngusBeef, New Zealand lamb andfresh seafood.

celadon500 Main Street, Napa

(707) 254-9690, www.celadonnapa.com

A quasi-casual dining experience, Celadon takesthe best of Napa Valleyproduce, wines and foodsand serves them up as Global Comfort Foods

with a casual, stylish flair. No pretensions here just delicious lunch and dinner!

Siena Restaurant at the Meritage Hotel & Sa875 Bordeaux Way, Napa

(707) 251-1900 or 1-866-370-6272

www.themeritageresort.com

California-raised with Tuscan flare! Enjoy thesavory foods of Italy with the killer wine list foundonly in Napa. Ingredients sourced locally fromorganic farms and artisanal cheese mongers.

LODGINGAvia1450 1st Street, Napa

(707) 224-3900, www.aviahotels.comA spunky hotel in downtown Napa, Aviabringsfresh creative decor and modern style to this historicneighborhood. Enjoy the feel- good vibes with in-room

BananaBoat Products, a $25diningandchef-sur-prise cocktail credits in the lounge, and more.

The Meritage Hotel & Sa875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, (707) 251-1900

1-866-370-6272, www.themeritageresort.com

Lavish guest rooms and Napas only under-

ground full-service Spa is sure to soothe yourweary soul. Dine at the award-winning Sienarestaurant.

THINGS TO DOObow pbli Market644 1st Street, Napa, (707) 226-6529

www.oxbowpublicmarket.com

One-of-a-kind foods, picnics, wines anduniqueshopping all under one roof. Fridaynight musicand Saturday morning Farmers Markets are a treat.

Naa Valley Oera Hose1030 Main Street, Napa

(707) 226-5392, www.nvoh.org

Celebrating130 years of artistic excellence!Checkout Ziggy Marley, Court Yard Hounds,

PaulaPoundstone, Jim Messina and numerousopera performances for this summer!

IMOLA

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SEE AD ON PAGE 46

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SEE AD ON PAGE 67

CA MOMIWINERY&ENOTECA

PATZ& HALL

Driving Time:18 minutesFrom Reata Wineryto Patz & Hall 4 milesto CaMomiWinery 4 milesto 1313 Main > .5 miletoVinoce/Twenty Rows > .5 mileto NapaValley Wine Train > .5 mile

Total4 miles

Map Not to Scale


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17Napawww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

GOOD TO KNOW Reata now offers unique andprivate barrel tastings forup to 12 guests. Tour their expansive barrel room andsamplewines that are currently being crafted and learnabout how their wines are made. Two unfinished winesin various stages of aging will be selected for each barreltasting. After sampling the wines, taste the finishedbottled wines and compare their scents and flavors.

Barrel tastings are held on Fridays, Saturdays andSundays at 11:30 a.m. Barrel tastings can also bescheduledfor privateparties. Whichever tasting youchoose, Reata Winery will provide you witha memorablewine tasting experience during your stay in Napa Valley.The cost of a barrel tasting is $30 and$15 will becredited to the purchase of a bottle of wine.

Reata is also available for events, up to 200 people.

Reata Winery

Open daily, by appointent, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.For appointments, call (707) 254-8673 x119

1 Kirkland Ranch Road, Napa

(707) 254-8673 www.reatawines.com

Facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Reata-Wines/251016731604437

Follow themonTwitter:twitter.com/reatawines

Bring in Day Trips to receive two-for-one Tasting

On a hilltop overlooking the southern edge of Napa Valley,Reata is surrounded by more than 300 acres of rolling hillsidesand immaculate vineyards. The winery invites guests fromaround the world to enjoy its warm hospitality and wine tastingexperiences that enliven the senses.

Reatas spacious tasting room features a panorama of the win-erys picturesque vineyards and the sun-drenched hills of NapaValley. The ambiance here is a kick-off-your-boots-and-stay-

awhile approach with programs and activities to support thelaid back philosophy of the winery. Guests are invited to relaxon the charming veranda with sweeping views of the WineCountry, unwind at the gorgeous tasting bar or relax on comfycowhide chairs or by the fireplace. Reatas specially tailored winetastings showcase the winerys latest releases for a tasting fee of$15. The wines featured during the tastings can include EstatePinot Grigio, Estate Viognier, Estate and Napa Valley Chardon-nay, Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Estate Pinot Noir, EstateSyrah and Estate Pinot Noir.

In addition to wine tasting, Reata has carefully selectedvarious cheeses to pair with their wines. All cheese platesinclude locally grown and harvested accompaniments to beserved with the cheese.

The wide range of Reata wines captures the unique characterand style of the winerys surroundings. Long, cool days on theranch produce grapes that have great intensity of flavor,complexity, elegance and balance. These are wines that gobeyond simple pleasure and capture the true character of theland.


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crafting the Benhmark in Single Vineyardchardonnays and pinot Noirs

Patz & Hall was founded in 1988 by four friends whoshared the vision to create single-vineyard Chardonnays andPinot Noirs. Today, Patz & Hall has blossomed into one of themost acclaimed artisan wineries in North America.

Though Patz & Hall was not the first California winery tomake vineyard-designate Chardonnays and Pinots, they wereone of the first to focus on introducing these wines to a broaderaudience.

Uniquely, winemaking at Patz & Hall focuses on only twovarietals (Pinot and Chardonnay) and places the spotlight ontheir growers. People like Charlie Chenoweth, Larry Hyde andthe Pisoni family.

We have always been proud of our collaborativerelationships, says Anne Moses, one of the founding four.Showcasing the growers to our customers is very important for

us. At a time when there are so many vineyard-designate wineson the shelves, people want to know what they are buying isspecial that it represents more than just the name of avineyard. We have been talking about our growers and our loveaffairs with their vineyards for years. Those are the narrativesthat weave through every vintage of our wines.

Working consistently for years with a core group ofacclaimed vineyards has given an elegant legacy to many of thereleases in the Patz & Hall portfolio. By Abigail p. Zimmerman

GOOD TO KNOWPatz & Hall just released their new fall wines including the2009 HydeVineyardCarneros Chardonnay, 2010 SonomaCoast Pinot Noir and 2009 Chenoweth Ranch RussianRiverValley Pinot Noir. For a limited time, the Patz & HallSalon will offer an exclusive wine on this fall tastingline-up. Come be surprised!

VISIT THE SALONPatz & Hall offers seated, private tastings by priorappointment,Wednesday through Sunday. Three seatingtimes are available each day: 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.For a more casual Salon experience, Patz & Hall offers aseated tasting at the Salon Bar, Wednesday throughSunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., without prior reservation.Advanced notice for groups of eight or more isappreciated; phone the Salon at (707) 265-7700 aheadof your arrival.

patz & HallOpenWednesday through Sunday

10a.m.to4p.m.

851 NapaValleyCorporateWay, Suite A in Napa

(707) 265-7700 [email protected]

www.patzhall.com

Follow Patz & Hallon Facebook andTwitter!

Mention Day Trips and receive complimentary Salon Bar tastings.


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GOOD TO KNOW While they do not offer a winery tasting room,

you canvisit the Ca Momi Enoteca in the

Oxbow Public Market to taste and purchase their

fine wines, gourmet pizzas and sweets.

Ca Momi makes seriously good wine made at a

reasonable price so you canenjoy daily!

Ca Momi offers full service breakfast, lunch and dinner

and reservations are accepted online through

OpenTable or by calling in advance.

ca Momi Winery & EnoteaOpen daily at the Oxbow Public Market

from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

610 First Street, Napa(707) 257-4992 www.camomi.com

Makea reservation at Ca Momi with OpenTable:www.opentable.com/ca-momi-enoteca

Facebookfanpage:www.facebook.com/camomiwinesnapavalley

ReadReviews onYelp:www.yelp.com/biz/ca-momi-napa

BringinDayTripsforacomplimentarywinetasting,upto4peopleand15%OffCa'MomiCases

From the beginning, Ca Momi chose to make their greatwines from the finest grapes in Napa Valley. They wantedpeople to be able to drink their wines every night for dinnerand decided that in order to do that, they would not buildan extravagant tasting room, but rather showcase all of theirdelicacies in a perfect downtown Napa setting in the OxbowPublic Market. Their focus has always been ObsessivelyAuthentic Italian and this view is realized at their Enoteca.

Owners Dario De Conti, Valentina Guolo-Migotto andStefano Migotto want guests to experience a little slice of Italy.Ca Momi Enoteca is proud to offer authentic Italian food,including Neapolitan-style pizzas from their wood-fired brickoven made with organic, local and Italian ingredients. InItaly, food and wine are a part of life, and one needs theother. An Enoteca is a place to taste and buy wines and graba quick bite. We want this Enoteca to bring the real Italystraight to Napa, says winemaker and certified trainedPizzaiolo Dario De Conti. They were recently voted Napa

Valleys Best Wood Oven Pizza at the Silver Oak PizzaCompetition so this is one place that should be on your listto visit!

If you like sweets, their pastry case is sure to tempt you.They offer authentic Italian sweets that can be enjoyed therewith a glass of wine or a cappuccino. To complement theirmenu, they feature a unique wine list of Ca Momi wines anda selection of artisanal Italian producers. Their knowledgeablestaff will help you choose the right wine for either a sweet orsavory pairing to complete your meal. By Alexandra charsley


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WINES BY THE TASTE, GLASS, FLIGHT OR BOTTLEGuests can sample a daily offering of 13 white and redwines by the taste, glass, flight or bottle.

cRAFTED BEERSDaily offerings of 13 brews.

ARTISANAL SMALL pLATESSmall plates featuring local and artisanal cheeses,charcuterie, breads and olives are paired with the daily

white and red wine lists. Plus, daily house-madesweets.HAppY HOuRSunday through Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m.Two-for-onemenu, including wines by the glass,bottled beers and artisan plates.

INDuSTRY/HOSpITALITY pOLIcYMonday andTuesday, industry and hospitality memberscan enjoy wines by thebottle onsite at retail shelf prices.

WEEKEND BuBBLES & BEATSEvery Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. to midnight13 selections of Champagne/sparkling wines from

around theworld; plus DJTriphop and lounge music.WINEMAKER WEDNESDAYEveryWednesday, 4 to 7 p.m. Meet the winemaker, tastethewines andreceive a discount on bottle purchases.

1313 Mainfine wine | retail | tasting bar

Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to MidnightSunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

1313 Main Street, Napawww.1313main.com (707) 258-1313

Check for Weekly Spontaneous Specials offered through Facebook and Twitter.

A Bold, New Kind of Wine Destination in Downtown Naa!

Beautiful, intimate and sophisticated, but not the least bitstuffy, 1313 Main wine bar and lounge, located in downtownNapa, is a place where friends can meet to relax and enjoy finewine, craft beers and tasty, artisanal plates in a chic, urbanambiance amidst supremely comfortable furnishings. Featuringmore than 1,300 rotating wine labels on a daily basis, guests

can sample 13 reds and 13 whites by the taste, glass, flight orbottle.Owner Al Jabarin and his top notch team of wine experts are

on hand to offer suggestions and to encourage guests to stepoutside the box and discover new varietals and producers. Jointhem on Facebook and Twitter and receive invitations tospontaneous tastings of often difficult, sometimes impossible toprocure cult wines from Als secret stash of old and uniquevintages.

In addition to the established producers and well-known

winemakers that are featured in tastings and dinners, 1313 Mainalso showcases garage wines made by young and talented newwinemakers that offer fresh ideas and products.

Although theres plenty of wine knowledge/talk swirlingaround, the emphasis at 1313 Main is on the pleasuressurrounding wine includingevery Friday and Saturday,Bubbles & Beats offers a selection of 13 Champagnes andsparkling wines from around the world, plus local DJ Triphopand Lounge music.


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VARIETALSVinoce: Cabernet Franc blend, Cabernet Sauvignonand Sauvignon BlancTwenty Rows: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and aZinfandel blend

FAMILYAny day of the week you can run into one or

all four of the Nuss family generations working,tasting and of course playing at the winery.

WHAT THEYRE SAYINGTwenty Rows has a posh tasting room and top-notchwines but without the hoity-toity vibe.

Ian White, 7x7 Magazine

SpEcIALSBe sure to check their website for offers and forupcoming special events held at the winery.

Vinoe and Twenty RowsTuesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

also by appointment on Monday

880Vallejo Street, Napa

www.twentyrows.com

For tours and tasting, callTim Nuss (707)287-1063

Follow them on Facebook.

Two-for-one Barrel Tasting ($30 value) with this story.

This place is unique, thats for sure, said Tim Nuss, part of

the family that owns Vinoce and Twenty Rows in Napa. Twenty

Rows is not just in the Napa Valley but within city limits. The

place he is talking about is the tasting room and winery on

Vallejo Street, a five-minute walk from the center of the city.

Weve been here for about eight years, Tim said. And we re-

ally are the only family owned and operated winery in the city.

The subtle cream and rust red colored front with flower

boxes, a heavy metal Bordeaux-red door, black awning withgold letters and a caf table with two chairs, belie the fact that

inside is a handsome tasting room with wood table and chairs

and polished tile floor. But this a working winery with oak bar-

rels, tall stainless steel tanks, stacked cases and a loading dock.

Off to one side is a compact laboratory.

The facility is owned by Brian and Lori Nuss who, for about

three decades, have developed an intimate knowledge of grow-

ing Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes on Mount

Veeder. Today theyre dedicated to creating wines that reflect the

true expression of that appellation. Total annual output is a veryrespectable 10,000 cases a year, all in a building that was once a

brewery.

The name Vinoce, is a play on the Nuss Family name and

Brians German-Italian heritage. Nuss means nut in German

and noce is nut in Italian. When intermingled with vin for

wine, Vinoce means Wine Nut. Which, for anyone involved in

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-

ence. By charles Neave


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VARIETALSYou name it, they might very well have it from a carefullyconsidered list.

pLAN AHEADTheNapa Valley WineTrain runs year round with lunchtrains boarding at 10:50 a.m. Dinner trains open one to fivenights a week boarding at 5:50 p.m. Be sure to check the

website.FuN FAcTTheWineTrain is thefirst andonly locomotive in theUnited States to convert to compressed natural gas.

HOW HEAVY?Each of the 1915-1917 Pullman-made rail cars weighapproximately 80 tons..

SpIcESChef Kelly Macdonald is one of the masters when

it comes to theuseof spices not to necessarily provideheat but a depth of flavor.

SpEcIAL OFFERSBe sure to check their informative website.

Naa Valley Wine Train1275 McKinstry Street, Napa

(707) 253-2111 winetrain.com

Look fortheWineTrain on Facebook andTwitter.

Check out Napa Valleys only Evening Winery Tour. The first of its kind!

Only one wine tasting bar in Napa County is literally onrails and located in a historic Pullman car almost a century old.The Wine Trains wine bar reflects a time of luxurious passengertravel served with the exciting addition of todays sophisticatedpastimes sipping wine, learning about wine and enjoying thegraciousness of life.

Vineyards roll past and, depending upon the time of year,you can watch the vineyards as they move slowly through their

life cycle.At any given time, the wine bar will sport 40 to 50 bottles of

wine available to taste. Flights can be suggested and selected bythe wine educator staffing the bar, or you can pick and choosewhatever flight you might fancy.

A stroll through this amazing vintage train with a wonderfullunch or dinner and a stop at the wine bar, is a chance to revisitAmerican history and renew your own personal connectionswith friends, family and life.

Dedicated to preserving a luxurious way of life, the NapaValley Wine Train is instrumental in maintaining and using his-toric rail cars that are very rare on the American landscape. InNapa, they also preserve an important transportation corridorthat would have been abandoned decades ago. They layer thiswith a unique and award-wining restaurant, and an opportu-nity to explore the wine country in a relaxed and pamperedmanner that takes place outside your windows as you roll alongthese historic rail tracks, removed from both traffic and care.

By charles Neave


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23OakKnoll/Stags Leapwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Oak Knoll/Stags Leap

FOOD

Soda canyon Store

4006 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com

The perfect place to begin or end your day in NapaValley. Known year round for its delicatessen,espresso bar, boxed lunches, fine wine and gourmetcheese selection, this is a fun, insiders' favorite.

Fm Bistro4050 Byway East, Napa

(707) 257-1999, www.fumebistro.com

Always seasonally correct, great service and comfort-able seating. AnAmerican bistro with fare spiced

with Italian, Mediteranean and French influences,Fum Bistro's dishes are simple, honest andstraight-

forwardly delicious.

Bistro Don Giovanni

4110 Howard Lane, Napa

(707) 224-3300, www.bistrodongiovanni.comFrom the outdoor terrace to the candlelight to crack-ling, wood-burningfireplace, Bistro Don Giovanniinvites you to savor all things delicious from NapaValley.

LODGING

Oak Knoll Inn

2200 E. Oak Knoll Avenue, Napa

(707) 255-2200, www.oakknollinn.com

Wine Spectator Magazine reviewed the Oak Knoll

Inn as "One of the most luxurious B&Bs in all ofNapaValley." It is easy to see why. Set within 600acres of Chardonnay vineyards, the Inn's old stonebuilding, graceful sweep of Cyprus trees and exqui-site service make OakKnoll Inn a perfect retreat.

The cottages of Naa 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 atany time of the day. The basket of fresh pastriesfrom Bouchon everymorning doesn't hurt either!

THINGS TO DOpini at Soda canyon Store4006 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558

(707) 252-0825, www.sodacanyonstore.com

Purchase your picnic or boxed lunch inside and thenenjoy it out ina creekside vineyard setting. Bothshadedand sunnypicnic options are available.Open daily, year-round.

Naa Valley Bike Tors6795 Washington Street, Yountville

(707) 944-2953

www.napavalleybiketours.com

Rent safe, clean bikes for a fewhours, a whole dayoreven join in for a four-night bicyclingvacation!Guided and self-guided tours also available.What agreat find!

NAPA

SODA

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ONRD

REYNOLDSFAMILY

Fum Bistro

Soda CanyonStore

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ANDRETTIWINERY

HAGAFENCELLARS

JARVIS ESTATEWINERY

SILVERADOVINEYARDS

STAGS LEAPWINERY

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Bistro Don Giovanni

Oak KnollInn

The Cottages ofNapa Valley

Michelin Guide Recommended

cocktailsfine foodwine

Open Daily at 5:00pm

1122 Main Street, Napa | 707224MEAT www.coleschophouse.com

Map Not to Scale

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

visitors, but in no way is it less mighty than its neighboring AVAs! Filled with manicured vineyards and many new 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 pro-

duces world renowned Cabernet Sauvignon as well as other Bordeaux varietals.

Driving Time:23 minutes

From JarvisWineryto AndrettiWinery 7 milesto Black StallionWinery 2+ milesto Reynolds FamilyWinery -1 mileto StagsLeapWinery 4.5 milesto SilveradoVineyards -.5 mile

Total 16 miles


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24 OakKnoll/Stags Leap www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

VARIETALSChardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc,

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and a variety of

fascinating special blends.

TOuRSTheVintageTasting offers a tour of theunique under-

ground winery facility followed by a sit-down tasting.On theVintageTastingTour youll enjoy six wines,

including a Reserve bottling. Cheese and crackers accom-

pany the tasting.Tours are often offered at 10, 10:30, and

11 a.m., 1:15, 2, 2:30, 3:30 and 4 p.m. Plan approximately

1.25 hours to enjoy thecompleteexperience.

SpEcIAL OFFERSMembers of the Jarvis wine club have access to wines

not often available to thegeneral public and receive an in-

vitation to either the Grand Ball or the Harvest Tasting in

alternate years.

Jarvis Estate WineryOpen daily by reservation only

2970 MonticelloRoad, Napa1-800-255-5280

www.jarviswines.com

FollowJarvis on Facebook.

Askabouttheeffecttheparabolashapehasonthedesignofthewinery.

A visit to Jarvis Estate Winery is indeed an undergroundexperience. And, what an experience it is.

For years its been a given that many of the finest winescome from caves. Due to the high humidity level and constanttemperature, wineries have used caves for the barrel aging ofwines. However, Jarvis was the first winery in the United Statesto tunnel a cave so large that it could hold an entire winemak-ing operation. Even large fermentation tanks are underground

and out of sight, preserving the beauty of the property.The facility is completely contained within 45,000 square

feet of caves tunneled into the Vacas Mountains above thetown of Napa. They accurately refer to it as not only a visualmasterpiece, but also a technical masterpiece. Theyve capital-ized on the natural underground stream and waterfall runningthrough the center of the cave to maintain the humidity at anideal level for barrel aging wine in 100-percent new oak bar-rels, an integral part of what goes into making their fabledwines.

This cascading water also provides a beautifully calming fea-ture that visitors to this unique facility will discover as soon asthey pass through the iron gates and enter the subterraneanwinery.

Throughout, artisans have crafted cast bronze doors, brasswall sconces, arched alcoves and fiber optic chandeliers to addto the mystique and beauty. There are large amethyst crystals, aminstrel gallery in the Crystal Chamber all in all, a trulymagical setting to sample those exceptional wines.

By charles Neave


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As the world famous race car driver Mario Andrettihas often said, I want people that visit my winery to feelat home. Its probably my Italian nature to want tomake people feel welcome, to be a good host, to treatpeople like family. And what better place to do that thanat a winery in the heart of the Napa Valley?

The year was 1996 when Mario saw his dream be-come reality. Thats when he opened the doors to theAndretti Winery in the fabled Oak Knoll district of Napa.

Today, this stylish Tuscan-style villa receives visitorsfrom around the world. They are drawn by both thename and the wines produced by Bob Pepi himself, fa-mous as another generation of renowned winemakers.His philosophy is that great wines are made in the vine-yards. Bobs wines are well recognized by their descriptivefruity character, complexity and balance.

Well over a decade since the winery was founded,with Marios friend and partner, Joe Antonini, formerchairman and CEO of K-Mart Corporation, the varietals

that Andretti Winery uses include Sauvignon Blanc (aperennial favorite), Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese,a Pinot Noir, Merlot, their classic Cabernet Sauvignonand Zinfandel, among others.

When you drive into the winery, the plantings of treesand flowers, the carefully aged look of the villa itself, thefountain in the courtyard that you pass by as you walk to-ward the tasting room, the wrought iron of the balconies,all lend a certain and well-executed Old World feel to theexperience that a visit brings.

The fountains, the artwork, the thoughtful and skilled

landscaping, they all create an environment far removedfrom the hectic pace that many visitors inhabit. It is, ifonly for an hour or so, a vacation in itself. A short trip toItaly and to the hillsides there that are so rich in viticul-tural history and tradition, pageantry and heritage.

From a tasting of selected Andretti Wines to a customexperience that includes wine and a tour of the estate andvineyard, you can tailor your visit to your schedule anddesires. Vineyard tours are offered seasonally.

The winerys friendly and knowledgeable staff, and thevilla itself, make for a welcome stop for all visitors. Theproperty is also available for corporate and family events.

So, there really is no reason not to stop at AndrettiWinery.

When you do, remember the words of Mario: Graziemolto! By charles Neave

VARIETALSRiesling, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Ros, Chardonnay,

Dolcetto, Pinot Noir, Barbera, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah,Cabernet Sauvignon, Moscato, Port

FuN FAcTModeled after a rambling Italian village, the winery conjures upthe boyhood homeof its namesake, MarioAndretti, one of thefinest race car drivers of all time.

Andretti WineryOpen daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4162 BigRanch Road, Napa

1-877-386-5070 www.andrettiwinery.com

Bring in Day Trips and receive two tastings for the price of one.


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VARIETALSChardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc,Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Ros,Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,Zinfandel, Syrah, Bucephalus(NapaValley red blend) andMuscat.

FuN FAcTS The original outdoor arena

was featured in a movie scenefrom Francis Ford CoppolasApocalypseNow.

In the summer months, thewinery opens its outdoor terracefor group tours, tastings andspecial events.

Blak Stallion WineryOpen daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.No appointment necessary.

4089 SilveradoTrail, Napa

707-227-3250www.blackstallionwinery.cominfo@blackstallionwinery.com

Look for them on Facebook andTwitter.

Tastingfeewaivedwith$30winepurchase.

Black Stallion Winery is located in the Oak Knoll District, agrape-growing region in the southern half of the Napa Valley. Thename Black Stallion pays homage to the rich history of the 32-acre estate which was once home to the Silverado HorsemansCenter. The equestrian center featured an indoor riding track, nu-merous training rings, breeding facilities and an outdoor arenathat seated 3,000 spectators. After more than two years of con-struction, Black Stallion Winery opened its doors in 2007. The

indoor track now houses winemaking production but remnantsof the original 36 horse stalls are still visible today. In 2010, BlackStallion Winery was purchased by the Indelicato Family, one ofthe leading family-owned wine producers in the country with thethird generation active in continuing the tradition of producingfine wines.

The interior of the winery is breathtaking with high ceilings,stone fireplace, wine club suite and private rooms for events. Thewarm and welcoming visitor center is spacious with ample roomfor wine tasting at the expansive circular tasting bar or a private,seated tasting may be arranged in advance. Black Stallion Winery

has a casual atmosphere and prides itself on providing guests withfriendly and gracious hospitality.

Black Stallion Winery offers a perfect balance of white winesand red wines as well as Ros and Muscat. Most of the wines atBlack Stallion Winery are crafted in very small case lots and areavailable only at the Winery. Black Stallion also produces aChardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon that are available primarilyin wine shops and fine restaurants across the country. In additionto a balanced selection of wines in the tasting room, Black Stal-lion offers unique displays of gift items as well.


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VARIETALSPinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay

and Sauvignon Blanc

THE VINESSteve Reynolds works with 20 different vineyards and

growers. In their own vineyard they are close to being

certified organic, and theyre also working on being as greenas possible.

FuN FAcTThe winery is Tuscan style and surrounded by 10 acres of

Cabernet Sauvignon, planted in 1996. A lifelong love of wine,

shared with his father, has led to truly well-crafted wines.

GET A LITTLE NAuGHTY AT REYNOLDSThe Reynolds Family recently introduced Naughty wines.

These wines were created with the idea that we do not

want to take ourselves too seriouslyit is just wine afterall, and we like to have fun with it.

Reynolds Family WineryOpendaily10 a.m.to4:30 p.m.

by appointment only

3266 SilveradoTrail, Napa(707) 258-2558

www.reynoldsfamilywinery.com

MentionDayTrips for a two-for-one regular tasting.

Steve Reynolds hospitality philosophy is simple: Wealways try to do the right thing when people visit ... to giveour guests what wed like if we were visiting. Hes thefounder and winemaker of Reynolds Family Winery, a trueSilverado Trail gem.

My father and I dreamt of building a winery together, andour vision became a reality in 1994. It took some time, but asyoull see when you visit, it was certainly worth it, from the

pristine rows of vines and the winding drive to theTuscan-style winery and tasting room. Very much a hands-onperson, Steve lives with his wife Suzie and their children onthe property.

In the very friendly tasting room French doors open ontoa terrace facing the pond. Inside theres dark wood, ironchandeliers, a long tasting bar and vineyard views. For privatetastings theres also an intimate, sun-filled room.

When youre at the winery, ask about a limited editionblend made from grapes grown in each Valley appellation.

Then sample, among other offerings, their exceptionalCarneros Chardonnay, Carneros Pinot Noir, Estate Cabernet,Persistence (a special red blend) and the Stags Leap Cab. Allare first rate and will delight any winelovers palate.

Some winery owners revel in the agricultural side of thebusiness, the technology, or maybe the hospitality side of thebusiness. But Reynolds loves all of it, and it shows. Hes happyto talk about every bit of the process and art with anenthusiasm that is both refreshing and infectious.

By charles Neave


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VARIETALSCabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot,Pinot Noir, SparklingWine, Syrah, Roussanne, Riesling,Zinfandel and a luscious Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc fordessert or any time with fruit and cheese.

FuN FAcTTheir wines have been served at the White House two

dozen times. As proof of this, on two walls of thecomfortable tasting room there are impressive framedletters and menus from theWhite House.

WELcOMEPets and children are both welcome at the winery.

TOuRSTours are available every day except Saturday by appointment,and begin at 11 a.m.

GREENAt the far end of the al fresco tasting room is an organic

vegetable garden. All vineyards are organically and FishFriendly certified. Solar electricity produced onsite fromrooftop photovoltaic panels.

Hagafen cellarsOpen daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4160 SilveradoTrail, Napa1-888-424-2336 www.hagafen.com

Follow Hagafen Cellarson FacebookandTwitter

15% offpurchase of wine in tasting roomwith Day Trips.

In the words of Hagafen Cellars founder and winemakerErnie Weir about wine: Passion, soul and enjoyment withoutall three, you dont have a fine wine. This Napa Valley winery atthe southern end of the Silverado Trail has carved out an envi-ous niche for itself. Their wines have been served at the WhiteHouse since Ronald Reagans first term, proving that wine isapolitical. In fact, the wines of this acclaimed winery have beenon the menu card at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue more than two

dozen times.The wines this family-owned winery makes are exceptional,including the Bordeaux-style blend, the Prix Mlange. Foundedmore than thirty years ago by Ernie and Iris Weir, its situatedbetween two of the valleys most respected appellations StagsLeap and Oak Knoll. As you drive up the gravel drive many ofthe vines that produce their wines are on either side.

An impressive list of bottlings include the gold-winningSauvignon Blanc, a Chardonnay plus Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc,Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Don ErnestoVin Gris Ros, surprising Rieslings, a Roussanne and Brut Cuvee

Sparkling Wine.In the intimate tasting room, surrounded by vines and

backed up to the winery, is a small bar with a stave-like front.On many days Lola, the winery cat, will watch lazily as peoplebecome acquainted with one of the treasures of the Valley. Be-tween the winery and the tasting room is a comfortable picnicarea.

As the founder said, I never seek to change what nature hasprovided. My goal is to showcase the best that our land has pro-duced. And so he does. By charles Neave


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FuN FAcT:By the 1920s, StagsLeap Manor, as it came to beknown, was a fashionable destination spot for vacationingHollywood elite and bootleggers, regardless of that peskyfederal law called Prohibition. The property played host tolegends of rum-runners, painted ladies, gangsters, gypsies,and even today, rumored ghosts.

DONT MISS:Be sure to see the pool one of the first swimming poolsin all of California!

VARIETALS:Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Viognierand Ros

HOW TO VISIT:Make an appointment well in advance!TheHistorical Tour andTasting takes youthrough thehis-tory, property, and a tasting of five wines (red andwhite).

$45 per person. Tours are daily at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.Porch Tasting (no tour) book your seat on theManorHouse Porch every day on thehalf hour between 11 a.m.and 3 p.m. and taste through four wines. $20 per person.(Seasonal)

StagsLea WineryBy advance appointment only

6150 SilveradoTrail, Napa

1-800-395-2441 www.stagsleap.com

Mention Day Trips and receive$5 offyour tasting.

Drive into the historic and world famous Stags Leap Wineryand be transported back in time.

The old stone Manor House was built more than 110 yearsago from local rock and granite quarried nearby, and the wineryitself gave rise to the very legends that are the Napa Valley redwines.

Located seven miles north of downtown Napa, Stags Leap isa fabled 240-acre estate and one of Californias first wineries.

Grapes have been farmed here continuously since the 1880s.Stags Leap Winery is the namesake for Stags Leap AVA andthe idealized Napa Valley.

Unique terroir and succinct microclimate support StagsLeaps classic approach to winemaking, vineyard management,and viticulture practices. As a result, the wines produced arerich and show remarkable finesse and intensity. Its no wonderStags Leap continues to enjoy a reputation as one of the nationsmost critically acclaimed wineries. Indeed, Stags Leap winesembody the very expression of Napas finest grapes, soil and cli-mate.

Winemaker Christophe Paubert likes to say that We didntinvent winemaking, we just work hard at it. And the labelscurrent releases certainly benefit from this ethic.

Be sure to try the 2006 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignoncalled The Leap ($75). This is Stags Leap most distinctiveCabernet, made year after year from the block of vines located atthe doorstep to the Manor House in exceptionally well-drainedvolcanic soil. The Leap was created to showcase this intimatevineyard block and to offer wine lovers and collectors a long-lived Cabernet. By Abigail p. Zimmerman


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GOOD DO KNOW The winerys name, Silverado, comes from the abandonedmining town at the top of the Napa Valley, where RobertLewis Stevenson lived during the 1880s and wrote aboutin his book The Silverado Squatters.

Silverados Stags Leap vineyard helped establish thereputation of the Stags Leap District. In this vineyard aspecial field selection of Cabernet, which UC Davis laterdesignated as aHeritageClone, was identified andpropagated.

Silverado Winery has done considerable work along thebanks of the Hopper Creek to ensure that the water isclean and cold as it makes its way between the town ofYountville and the salmon spawning grounds in theNapa River, earning them recognition from both theCalifornia State Assembly and the United States Houseof Representatives for Land Stewardship.

VARIETALS

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese,Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay

Silverado VineyardsOpen daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

6121SilveradoTrail, Napa(707) 257-1770 www.silveradovineyards.com

LookforthelatestnewsaboutSilveradoVineyards offerings and

events on their Facebook Page!

Silverado Vineyards is located on one of the most central

peaks in the Napa Valley, a virtual island in a sea of vineyards.

Diane and Ron Miller purchased their piece of paradise in

the 1970s. In 1981 they established Silverado Vineyards.

Today, three generations of the Miller family are involved with

the winery and continue a tradition of excellence for which the

wines of Silverado Vineyards are known.

A visit to their mountaintop aerie involves a winding roadoff the Silverado Trail that leads to the majestic villa and its

commanding vistas. The tasting room offers a number of

options for enjoying your visit. The Estate Tasting requires no

advance reservations and offers a lovely selection of current

release wines at a cost of fifteen dollars. For ten dollars more,

you can sample their limited-production wines.

During the months of May through October you can enjoy

the Single Vineyard Tasting. This is the ultimate in affordable

luxury. You will be escorted to your table on a secluded privateterrace and be presented with a sampling of four single

vineyard wines, each paired with artisan cheeses. This unfor-

gettable experience is well worth the price of $35 per person.

For a day in the vineyards, try the Saddle Block Vineyard

Tour. This tour allows you to stroll amongst the vines and then

relax in the shade of a magnificent oak tree while sampling

wine, along with wonderful seasonal appetizers. At $75 per

person, this is a wine tasting adventure that you will be talking

about for years to come. By Ronda Giangreo


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31Rutherford/SageCanyonwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Rutherford/Sage Canyon

FOODRtherford Grill1180 Rutherford Road, Rutherford

(707) 963-1792, www.hillstone.com

Located at the crossroads of Hwy 29 and RutherfordRoad, the Rutherford Grill has been serving fabulous

food to locals and tourists of Napa Valley for

decades. Don't miss the fantastic selection of appe-tizers and entrees!

LODGINGRanho cayms Inn1140 Rutherford Road, Rutherford

1-800-845-1777, www.ranchocaymus.com

Rustic elegance at its most charming. Surroundedby the all-consuming fragrance andvisual splendorof NapaValley, the Rancho Caymus Inn is a tran-quil, petite 26-roomInn that is designed and

decorated to capture the simpler times of early Cali-fornia.

Aberge d Soleil180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford

(707) 963-1211, www.aubergedusoleil.com

The discreet entrance off the Silverado Trail is yourfirst clue of the refined, uber chic elegance awaiting(guests only) at this exclusive creme-de-la-cremehotel inpremier NapaValley. Entrance to Auberge is

very restricted to guests only though the discerningpublic is welcome to dine at the Micheline star restau-rant or sip that $130 per glass of vintageChampagne on the Terrace.

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!

RUTHERFO

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RUSTRIDGE

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Driving Time:5 minutesFrom Kuleto Estateto Chppelletto Rutherford Ranchto Rutherford Hil l > 1 mileto Conn CreekWinery > 1 mile

Total 2 miles

Not to Scale


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32 Rutherford/Sage Canyon www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

VARIETALSCabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chenin

Blanc, Malbec, Zinfandel, Bordeaux Blend, Chardonnay

THE SETTINGThe experience at Chappellet is one of breathtaking

scenery, educational and interactive walks through

the vineyards and of course, extraordinary wines.

FAMILYSustainability is taken seriously at Chappellet,

where farming has been a way of life for the

family-owned winery for more than forty years.

Today, Pritchard Hill is home to many members of

the Chappellet family.

SuSTAINABILITYChappellets vineyards are organically certified.

Thewinery employs sustainablepractices in allfacets of its operation.

chaellet WineryTours & tastings daily at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Tasting only appointments availableat 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

1581 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena(707) 286-4219 www.chappellet.com/visit

Follow Chappellet Wineryon Facebook andTwitter.

A visit to enchanted Chappellet Winery is a list-topping ne-

cessity for the true wine country adventurer, for this is a place

of unparalleled vineyard beauty; the ultimate discovery of soli-

tary splendor at the pinnacle of an intriguing detour above and

beyond the valley floor.

Intrepid tasting room guests arriving at Chappellet might

find themselves a tad disorientated at the understated exterior

of the winery atop Pritchard Hill. A narrow, fern-lined footpath

from the parking area is the only indication that you are enter-ing the secluded winery.

Once inside, there is no mistaking the understated level

of sophistication in the production and cellaring facilities.

In place of a formal tasting room, visitors are treated to the

authentic experience of sampling extraordinary Cabs, cool

climate Chardonnay and Mountain Cuvee inside the barrel-

storage facility, complete with a banquet table, mood lighting,

ambient heating and stylish down jackets for inclement weather.

The 90-minute tasting tours are all about the making of

exceptional mountain wines, as visitors are guided through theproduction process and a delightfully entertaining and informa-

tive stroll with vineyard vistas.

Standing some 1,200 scenic feet above Lake Hennessy, across

from Mount St. Helena, visitors are kept company on their tour

by the sounds of bluebirds, owls, kestrels and red tail hawks

drawn by the winerys outstanding organic vineyards.

Visitors cant help but be captivated by the rustic charm of

this remote, hilltop locale where one could quite happily set up

camp and stay awhile among the vines and the sound of nature

in a gloriously protected spot.


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33Rutherford/SageCanyonwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

GOOD TO KNOW An accompanying cheese plate comes with thepurchaseof a tour and tasting.

Thewinery is 1250 feet above thevalley floor with sweep-ing views of Lake Hennessey andthe vineyardsof the NapaValley.

Their most unique wine is theMoscato which isfermented dry (i.e. almost no residual sugar), making

it one of the fewMoscatos that is not a dessert wine. Thiswine is the ideal pairing for oysters!

TheAmalfi Coast is a magnificent picnic area thatoverlooks Lake Brunello aPat-madelake andthe per-fect backdrop for events, picnics or private dinners.

There are nine wood-burning ovens for making pizzas onthe estate.

Make an appointment for aWinemakers Whimtastingthat is conducted by their winemaker (when available)and often includes barrel tasting, a blending seminar orany other task that keeps a winemaker busy from day to

day. At a cost of only $75 this is one of the best ways toreally discover the passion and art behind winemaking.

Kleto EstateDaily tours & tasting, by appointment

at 10:30, 11:45 a.m., 1 & 2:30 p.m.

2470 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena

(707) 302-2209 www.kuletoestate.com

FollowKuletoEstate on Facebook.

10%offwinepurchaseswhenyoubringinyourcopyofDayTrips!

Winding through the eastern hills of the Napa Valley onewould be forgiven for believing it impossible for a winery to bein such a remote setting. While snaking through the back roads,a sense of anticipation builds. Something wonderful must bearound the next turn. Indeed it is. Pat Kuleto has made certainthat you will be amply rewarded for undertaking the drive to hismagnificent Kuleto Estate.

Upon arrival, you will feel transported back in time. Every-

where there is the look and feel of real California, complete witha rustic blend of Hispanic influences and the Old West. Onceinside, visitors are greeted with a feast for the eyes in every cor-ner. Massive one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures

Documents

Napa Valley Day Trips October 2011