People come from near and far to experience the most tart, tangy, or crisp wine in an exquisite setting. In the U.S., more wineries than ever are open and eager for everyone to drop by. Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Sonoma County are where you’ll discover the hidden gems of California’s wine country. If you’re a wine collector or a wine novice, learning about wine is a fascinating experience, full of new flavors, new places, and new friends. Whether you’re interested in recreational tasting or a professional buyer, it’s nice to know the best spots in the Napa and Sonoma Valley.
Pride Mountain Vineyard (www.pridewines.com/)
Previously named “Summit Ranch,” Pride Mountain Vineyard rewards visitors with a stunning view of rugged Mount St. Helena and vineyards rising skyward in all directions. Pride Mountain Vineyards is a 235-acre estate with a wooden-beamed, modest-sized winery that blends smoothly into its mountainous surroundings and California heritage. The Pride family owns and actively manages the winery and vineyards. Their aim is to make big red wines on the black-fruit side of the ripeness spectrum that nonetheless maintains balance, nuance, and complexity. To schedule an appointment at contactus@pridewines.com or give them a call at (707) 963-4949
Jarvis Estate (www.jarviswines.com/)
A visit to Jarvis Estate is a visit to the country’s first winery built entirely underground and offers an intimate glimpse into the meticulous steps that go into producing their lush Chardonnays, rich Cabernet Sauvignons and velvety Merlots, among others. Jarvis built its entire winery—including the press, barrel room, aging cellar and tasting room— in a huge, doughnut- shaped cave, complete with underground stream and waterfall. Don’t miss out one what was named “One of Napa Valley’s Best Winery Tours” by Food & Wine Magazine. Schedule your winery tour at info@jarviswines.com or by calling 1-800-255-5280.
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery (www.sebastiani.com/)
Located in Sonoma County, one of the most diverse wine growing regions in the world, Sebastiani offers a historic winery with a hospitality center, barrel room with antique redwood tanks, grand event space and daily tours and tastings. Sebastiani offers several tours and tasting options along with a wine shop and club. Experience not only Sebastiani’s wines but also foods from some of Sonoma’s most celebrated chefs, cheese makers and chocolatiers. For reservations and more information visit http://www.sebastiani.com/.
Schramsberg Vineyards (www.schramsberg.com/)
Schramsberg is the grande dame of America’s sparkling wine estatesis and home to the oldest hillside vineyards in Napa. It totals 218 acres with 43 acres planted to vines. Schramsberg has also played a role in world history. The Blanc de Blancs was used for President Nixon’s 1972 “Toast to Peace” with China’s Premier Zhou Enlai. Schramsberg’s sparkling wines have been served at official State functions by every U.S. Presidential administration since.
Quintessa (www.quintessa.com/)
With 280 acres, it was the last great undeveloped property in Napa Valley and had all the characteristics of a great wine estate: rolling hills, many different microclimates and a vast diversity of soil types. Their privately hosted experience provides guests with a comprehensive look at our vineyard, winemaking facility and underground caves. If you want to be shown through the Quintessa winery and caves to learn more about their winemaking process call (707) 286-2730 to request an appointment (https://www.quintessa.com/).
Sources:
“Napa and Sonoma’s Best Winery Tours.” Food & Wine. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Oct. 2015.”Drink.” NapaValleycom. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Oct. 2015.
