Scenic Wine Tour of the Napa Valley

There are so many wineries in the Napa Valley that it can be difficult to know where to start. Since most visitors to the valley enter from the south and from the San Francisco Bay Area, this route starts from that direction.

This tour is specifically designed as a scenic tour. There is no question the entire valley is very beautiful. The emphasis here is views from the wineries that visitors can enjoy while touring and tasting.

The first stop is Artesa Vineyards & Winery 1345 Henry Road, Napa, CA 94559 Telephone 707-224-1668.

It is closest to the bay area. It is a little out of the way but well worth the effort because of the spectacular views. The winery is inside the “hill” with a patio above and around.

The architecture of the winery is fascinating in its own right and the wine is quite good too. My advise is to get a glass or bottle of wine, some light snack and sit at a table on the patio outside. There is water fountains and sculpture on the winery grounds visitors can also enjoy.

Next is Domaine Carneros at 1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559 Telephone 707-257-0101. You can’t miss this one from the main road because it sits high on the hill and is an imposing view itself but the real fun begins after you park your car.

The walk up the front steps is a joy and quite a change from the modern sleek look of Artesa. Domaine Carneros as its name implies has a definite elegant French look about it. Famous for its Sparkling Wines and Pinot Noir, get a table on the large wrap around patio outside under an umbrella. Then order yourself something off the menu, all designed to accompany their wines. The dramatic view is to the north east and only makes the entire experience better.

Don’t stop yet because a short drive will take you to Darioush Winery 4240 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 Telephone 707-257-2345.

This one is also on the southern side of the valley (which runs north and south)and looks back towards the mountains. As you go up the drive you know you are in for a treat because it is an impressive place. Darioush has sculptures to enjoy besides the view and lots of wonderful French style wines to sample. Stick around, it is worth the visit with plenty of exploring and learning on hand.

That is plenty of wine for one day. If you are hungry still there are plenty of restaurants in the area catering to the wine tasting visitors. My experience is three wineries in one day is enough. Each winery has a way of bringing you in with its own charm and I get the feeling I don’t want to leave. Interestingly, when I do leave and get to the next place it starts all over again. Try it yourself and see if you agree.

Cheers!