Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate it than perfect a California wine country getaway. The sun kissed wine covered hills, elegant chateaus, exquisite cuisine, wine drenched afternoons and dream hotels – Napa Valley is all you need right now.
When you start researching where to go during your visit to wine country, it’s really easy to get overwhelmed with options. Napa Valley has more than 400 wineries tucked in the valley, and that doesn’t even include all the restaurants and scenic stops along the way.
So here is a list of my recommendations – which is the perfect mix popular locations and some hidden gems I’ve discovered. All these vineyards are adorned with scenic estates, fine wine experiences and abundant Instagrammable photo opportunities.
1. V Sattui Winery
A family owned winery producing 60+ different wines. This sprawling estate includes many picnic tables, nestled beneath Valley Oak trees and tri-level terraces that overlook beautifully manicured gardens and vineyards. It is great spot for a picnic with an excellent Deli option which is directed by Chef Gerardo Sainato.
📍 St Helena, CA 🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel 🧺 Picnic grounds and Artisan Deli
2. Beringer Vineyards
Oldest vineyard in the valley featuring the iconic Rhine House mansion. It was one of the first valley to offer wine tasting it the valley and remains at the top of the savvy Napa visitor’s list of places to tour and taste. PS I loved their Petit Sirah.
📍St Helena, CA. 🍷 Red Wine and Petite Sirah 🏯 Rhine House mansion
3. Domaine Caneros
Looking for an exquisite setting savor wine? This is just the spot! Domaine Carneros winery château is a regional landmark with incomparable views of vineyard-covered hills. Pulling up to the property you are greeted with the most beautiful gardens and a grand chateau with a fountain. It is absolutely a dream, but the highlight is their delicious wine. Totally loved it!
📍 Napa, CA. 🍷 Sparkling wine and Pinot Noir. 🌿 Chateau gardens
4. Inglenook
Inglenook was our favorite stop during our Napa trip. From the enchanting drive down a tree lined entrance to a private tasting with cheese pairing, the estate is beautiful with a great history. A spacious, tree lined courtyard is appropriate for social distancing tastings.
📍 Rutherford, CA 🍷 Cabernet Franc and Zinfandel. 🏯 Inglenook Chateau
5. Robert Mondavi Winery
A sprawling California Mission-style structure with graceful arches and an expansive courtyard in Oakville , Robert Mondavi Winery is a great spot to enjoy some wine while watching the sun set behind the mountains.
📍Oakville,CA. 🍷 Sauvignon Blanc 🌅 Best sunset vineyard tour
6. Darioush Winery
A glimpse of Persia in Napa. The Darioush Winery embraces and reflects its Persian heritage, and at the same time, embodies the Napa’s tradition of outstanding wine making. Be prepared to be charmed as you enter the property adorned with stately columns and reflecting pools. We were there during sunset and it was such a treat to enjoy their fine wine admiring the exquisite estate.
📍 Napa, CA. 🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 🏛 Persian architecture and heritage
7. Whitehall Lane Winery
Local family owned and operated winery with a mesmerizing tree lined entrance. We enjoyed strolling through their beautiful estates overlooking the hills. estate.
📍 St Helena, CA. 🍷 Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
8. Far Niente Winery
Far Niente is recognized for beautiful views, impeccably landscaped gardens and some of the valley’s finest wine.
Acacia Drive, the road leading to the winery gates, sets the scene with a gently curved allée, bordered on either side with more than 100 Autumn Gold ginkgo trees. A historic stone winery bestowed with a vibrant garden is unveiled at the end of the driveway. During spring time you can find red and pink southern azaleas blooming through the greenery along the garden path. Is truly a dream , if you visit the spring/summer months.
📍Oakville, CA 🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. 🌸 Enchanting sprint-time gardens
Covid Guidelines
Most of the vineyards are open and are welcoming patrons to roam the estates and enjoy outdoor wine tastings on their terrace/courtyard with appropriate safety measures. All the winery/vineyards are also offering curb-side pick-up for wines as well as merchandise from gift shops.
Those are my picks for the most Instagrammable Vineyards in Napa Valley! Hope this Instagram guide helps you take some great photos in Napa. Got questions? Comment or DM me on Instagram @preksharaj and I’ll be happy to help.
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