Location: Napa
Top Things to do in Napa
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10 Things to do in Napa That You Shouldn't Miss
Gold and silver may have been behind the hordes that flocked in the 1800s, but liquid gold - Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons and Pinot Noirs - is behind the modern migration. This dream destination for wine lovers has an abundance of fine restaurants and inns. Horse posts have been replaced by bike racks, and pedal power is a great way to explore.
Restaurants in Napa
1. Jarvis Estate
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 319 reviews
Jarvis Estate is a family owned winery dedicated to crafting a limited quantity of preeminent wines from our sustainably farmed, estate vineyards in the rugged hillside, four miles east of downtown Napa Valley. The Jarvis Estate winemaking facility is entirely contained within 45,000 square feet of cave tunneled into the scenic Vaca Mountains,and is not only a visual masterpiece, but a technical masterpiece as well. Wines are produced only from estate grown grapes and are cave-aged to perfection prior to release. Varietals include: Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, Tempranillo and a two proprietary Bordeaux blends.
Reviewed By randybH2055JS - Kalamazoo, United States
This is such a cool place to visit. The entire winery is located within the massive network of man-made caves. Once the grapes go in, they never see the light of day until they emerge as bottled wine. You will tour the caves, see where the grapes are crushed, wine fermented, huge oak bariques, barrels, bottling area, tasting rooms, banquet rooms (huge), etc. Even an underground river which provides the proper natural humidity in the caves. Great winery story. You will hear about the "Science Project"...fantastic. Don't miss this one.
2. O'Brien Estate Winery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 672 reviews
We are by appointment only. Please go to our website to inquire about our experiences. We do not take phone reservations. The cost is $55.00 per person. We regretfully are not permitted to have anyone under 21 years of age nor allow any pets on the premises. Our award winning wines come from our 40 acres in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley. From grape growing to bottling, the entire winemaking process is managed at the estate. The vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Our wines are sought after by collectors and have received many awards, including a recent 98 point score for our 2013 Unrestrained Reserve Bordeaux Blend.
Reviewed By mrg0137
O’Brien Estate was the first Napa Valley winery that really got my wife and I hooked on Napa wine when we visited the area for the first time a few years ago, and we became members at O’Brien after that trip. Since then, we’ve continued to enjoy their wines, and we try to stop in for a free member tasting every time we make a trip to Napa. This visit was our third visit to O’Brien Estate, and we had a very good experience. As compared to most wineries in the Napa Valley, O’Brien Estate is a very small producer. The winery is family owned, with a beautiful 40-acre property in the Oak Knoll District. The O’Brien family lives right in the house on the property, and when you come here for a tasting, you’re doing it right in their backyard and getting right to the heart of the operation. Because it’s so small, O’Brien doesn’t distribute their wines, selling them only at the winery itself and to wine club members. This exclusivity makes us feel that being wine club members is really worth it, since we know it’s the only way to have their wines at home on a regular basis. This was our third time doing the tasting experience at O’Brien, and it wasn’t our favorite experience in Napa either of the previous two times we came (although we loved the wine). On our first trip to Napa, we admittedly weren’t overly educated about the area or its wines, and the guy who did our tasting was quite rude and epitomized the standoffish reputation that Napa can sometimes have. The second time, after we had become members and knew a lot more about Napa wines, the tasting was much better, but still not great. The guy who did our tasting that time was absent for most of it and just gave off an attitude of not wanting to be bothered with us. He spent most of his time giving his attention to walk-in guests who had shown up without reservations, even though O’Brien doesn’t take walk-ins and is normally focused on making the experience very intimate. Those experiences were in the past, and we’ve still stayed loyal to O’Brien since we love their wine. I’m glad to report that the third time was a charm for having a great in-person tasting experience, this time with Marilyn. Marilyn hosted us and we had the entire winery to ourselves, and she really took the time to make it fun and informative. She was a great host and we’re glad to have had such a nice experience this time. Tastings at O’Brien are held outside for most of the year, in picturesque seating areas right by the edge of the vineyard, much closer than you get to the vines at almost any other winery we’ve been to in the area. In this case, since it was chilly in January, our tasting was held inside the barn, but Marilyn still invited us to have a glass of chardonnay while taking a quick walking tour through the vineyard, which we enjoyed (walking in the vineyard was not offered to us on previous visits). It was a beautiful afternoon to be outside, and we learned a lot about the process of preparing for each growing season and even how the process of replanting works when a portion of the vineyard has outlived its useful life. The O’Briens’ adorable dog, Heidi, was also there and ran around the vineyards with us while we took our walk. Hanging out with Heidi is always a highlight of a visit to O’Brien Estate. After touring the vineyards with Marilyn, we settled down inside for a tasting of all of O’Brien’s current releases – merlot, two Bordeaux-style blends (Romance and Seduction), and the cabernet sauvignon. We’ve had all of these before, and especially love Seduction and the cabernet sauvignon, but it’s always fun to do another tasting and have a chance to relax and talk about the wine. They also provide a nice cheese plate to accompany the wine as well. They’ve just set up new seating areas for tastings in the barn, so it was a nice change of pace to do a tasting there for the first time, although in warmer weather, it is still preferable to be outside overlooking the vineyard. Our time with Marilyn was very enjoyable, and we spent close to 90 minutes with her, just talking about all kinds of things, from dogs, to the happenings at O’Brien, to Napa in general. It was informal and laid-back. We really enjoy the wines at O’Brien Estate and think a stop here is worth it (reservations are required and can be made online). The blends are priced in the $70-$80 range per bottle, and the cabernet sauvignon is now just under $100 a bottle, which I think are good prices for the quality of wine produced. We enjoy our membership at O’Brien, and even if you don’t become a member, a tasting there is a wonderful way to spend a portion of a day, in the world of a laid-back, small producer. I am very glad that we had a great tasting experience this time with Marilyn, and we now look forward to similar positive experiences in the future!
3. Stags' Leap Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 254 reviews
Stags' Leap Winery is truly a hidden gem in the highly acclaimed Stags Leap District. Located off a long, private road, our nineteenth-century stone winery and Victorian era Manor House are nestled against the Stags Leap Palisades east of the Silverado Trail. We invite you to make a reservation and visit this magical place with its beautiful gardens and stylish wines including the award-winning field blend, Ne Cede Malis, and opulent "The Leap" and "Audentia" Cabernet Sauvignon. We are open by appointment only and are unable to accommodate drop in guests due to traffic restrictions on our private road.
Reviewed By KCHouseman
This is a must stop for Napa Valley wine lovers. Amazing Cabernets and so much more. Make an appointment for the tour and learn a true understanding of how Napa Valley became one of the true premier Cabernet Sauvignon capitals of the world.
4. Pine Ridge Vineyards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 375 reviews
Located in the heart of the iconic Stags Leap District, Pine Ridge Vineyards offers intimate cave tastings and stunning views. Join us for an unforgettable experience, and discover the elegance and diversity of our highly acclaimed estate wines, sourced from 160 acres of vineyards in Napa Valley’s most renowned growing regions.
Reviewed By GGWD - Tampa, United States
This winery is excellent. The facility and grounds are beautiful, the wines were absolutely amazing (loved all of them) and they take care of our military with free tastings. Really really good wine and a great experience. Highly Recommended!!
5. Trefethen Family Vineyards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 295 reviews
One of Napa Valley’s pioneering wineries, we have long championed estate-grown wines that express the unique spirit of our land, vines, and people. Now in our third generation, the dedication of our family is manifest in every aspect of our operation, from the soil to the table, including sustainable farming, thoughtful winemaking, and gracious hospitality. Our winery is currently open for curbside pick-up and retail sales. We will resume in-person outdoor experiences, and we are now accepting reservations beginning February 1st, 2021. In the meantime, please enjoy our new virtual experiences and continue to enjoy our wines in the comfort of your own home.
Reviewed By Blissful_BB - San Jose, United States
Our visit to Trefethen was an absolute treat! My friend and I visited the property during Napa's COVID-19 "re-open phase" in early June. The staff at Trefethen adapted to the many, and necessary, precautions due to COVID-19 very well. Their protocols were very clear and much appreciated. I booked the Reserve Tasting in the garden, as opposed to the Estate Tasting in the patio near the main entrance, a modest upgrade for a major treat! Patty helped me book my reservation and described the Estate Tasting as a great experience not to be rushed, therefore, we booked this as our first visit of the day. We sure did enjoy the tasting, we stayed for a little over 1.5 hours and enjoyed the experience tremendously. Our host, Salana, was very kind, cheerful, and knowledgable. She took great care of us and educated a lot about our flight. Salana was also kind enough to bring the chef that prepared our charcuterie board out to tell us about the included items. The food was so savory, incredible flavor, highly recommend trying a charcuterie board for any new visitors. We loved this property, we will be back again. Cheers!
6. The Hess Collection Winery & Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 999 reviews
Donald Hess established his first Mount Veeder vineyard in 1978, from the beginning recognizing that on these ridges and benchlands, the potential for great winegrowing was clear. Deep, rocky, volcanic soils provide a home for vineyard blocks producing small, concentrated fruit that reflects the challenges of growing grapes at higher altitudes in the coolest mountain growing region in Napa. The Hess Collection winery is part of a historic site where wine was first produced in the 1860’s, in a native stone build hewn by masons in 1903. The original stone structure is now joined by The Hess Art Collection, a world-class showcase of contemporary art that captures “two passions under one roof.” The Hess Collection uses sustainable, environmentally-sound practices with the axiom, “Nurture the land, and return what you take.” That philosophy brings with it a dedication to delivering wines that speak to their natural origins. Wine tasting & tours daily. Culinary experiences include pairings with small plates, artisan cheese and chocolates.
Reviewed By CharlesA - Key Biscayne, United States
We completely enjoyed visiting the Napa art collection of David Hess (he has others in Argentina and South Africa, and is planning a fourth for Australia). Works by Francis Bacon, Stella, Gertsch (emulating Vermeer projecting and painting), Magdalena Abakanowicz, Morris Lewis, and many more. I especially enjoyed "Surface Tension" by Andy Goldsworthy. Worth a couple of hours!!
7. Domaine Carneros
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,476 reviews
We welcome you to join us! We are seating for tastings outdoors on our expansive terrace, with limited seating indoors. Reservations are required, and all visitors must be at least 21 years of age. For your health and for ours, masks and social distancing are required. Groups are currently restricted to 6 or fewer. We welcome service animals only, please no pets. Contactless curbside pickup is still available. We look forward to raising a glass with you!
Reviewed By DickT939 - Tucson, United States
Had a few minutes in our schedule, and couldn't pass up another visit to this place. Always enjoy our visits...the service was great, the wine super (as usual), the caviar top notch, the cheese plate very tasty. Our server was attentive and friendly (tall guy, maybe John??? Made the visit super pleasant.
8. Del Dotto Vineyards & Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 486 reviews
Our original historic location with our hand dug cave dating back to 1885. We offer our cave experience and barrel tasting daily featuring world reowned wines.
Reviewed By badrax - Fort Lauderdale, United States
Another amazing barrel tour with entertainment and education with small bite to follow High marks for this place
9. Sequoia Grove Winery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
For forty years, Sequoia Grove Winery has been obsessed with the details that go into crafting our Napa Valley wines and single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons. Our commitment to quality starts in the vineyard; we grow the very best grapes in the finest terroir to form the foundation of our wines. Quality is intrinsic to everything we do, from winemaking to our gracious hospitality; it’s engrained in our culture and the vanguard of our philosophy. The next step in our compelling evolution begins in 2018 with the introduction of our new state-of-the-art winemaking and hospitality facilities. At Sequoia Grove, we’ve been carving our own path for decades while never losing sight of who we are: rooted in history, guided by integrity, resolute in our values, and committed to the future.
Reviewed By mjonespt - Gainesville, United States
Loved the fantastic food and wine pairing experience! Definitely worth the money and time. Book ahead and it will not disappoint! I even joined the wine club that day because their wines are fantastic! Can’t wait to do it again!
10. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 389 reviews
We are excited to announce we will be re-opening our beautiful FAY Outlook & Visitor Center on June 11. This year marks our 50th Anniversary and we invite you to come experience our Estate Collection Tasting Flight. Our hours have been adjusted and reservations are now required for wine tasting and orders via curbside pick-up. We are eager to welcome you once again to take in our stunning panoramic views of the FAY Vineyard and Stags Leap Palisades. Experience top-notch hospitality while we deliver a superb tasting experience featuring our world-class Cabernet Sauvignons.
Reviewed By mrg0137
Since we know a bit about Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars’ lofty reputation dating back to their victory in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a visit to Stag’s Leap has been on our list for a while, and my wife and I recently had our first chance to stop by and try their wines. We signed up for the Estate Wine Tasting & Cave Tour, which is offered at 11:00 am each day. It was easy enough to book the tasting via email, and the staff was very responsive, but I like the online booking systems that quite a lot of wineries in the area have moved toward. It was a little cumbersome to have to send multiple emails and then call in separately with my credit card information to get it confirmed. When we pulled up the property, I was immediately impressed by the sleek, earthy feel of the visitor center. The whole thing is very picturesque, with the visitor center right on the edge of Stag’s Leap’s famous FAY and SLV vineyards at the foot of the Vaca Mountains. I feel like it was really well designed to have an upscale, modern vibe, while unobtrusively fitting into the landscape around it. Our tour group was small, including just us and one other couple, and Stephanie was our guide for the experience. She was really fun and upbeat, and we felt really at ease with her throughout the experience. She taught us a lot about the winery and its famous wines, but without any of the undertone of superiority that you might expect at a winery of this stature. We started the tour with a glass of sauvignon blanc, which was surprisingly crisp and tasty. We then went outside to look at the vineyards and learn the basic history of the property. It was really interesting to see how the FAY and SLV vineyards, which are right next to each other, have completely different soils that create the different tasting wines that we’d sample later. The tour then proceeded with a visit into the winery’s caves. Although caves for aging wines are common in other parts of the world, they’re not common in California, so it was unique to have a chance to tour a Napa wine cave and see rows upon rows of barrels in the aging process. The caves are actually quite extensive, and the various corridors were built to be in the shape of the main roads of the Napa Valley. One of the most interesting parts of the cave tour was to see the unique Foucault pendulum in the middle of the caves, which moves with the rotation of the Earth. We also got to try another wine that was poured for us in the cave, a chardonnay. After the cave tour, which was just long enough to really experience the caves and understand the winery and its philosophy, we went back to the visitor center and into a lovely private room for a seated tasting. The room had gorgeous views of the vineyards out the floor-to-ceiling window. The rest of the tasting consisted of a chance to try three of the best Stag’s Leap reds: FAY vineyard cabernet sauvignon, SLV vineyard cabernet sauvignon, and Cask 23 cabernet sauvignon. All three were excellent in their own way, and it was hard to pick out a favorite among them, although we concluded that the Cask 23 would slightly edge out the other two if we had to pick. Stephanie also offered us an extra pour of the FAY Hillside cabernet sauvignon, made from a small section the FAY vineyard that starts to go higher up the side of the mountain. We also really enjoyed that wine, and decided to take home a bottle of the FAY Hillside since it’s only sold at the winery or to wine club members. My wife and I really enjoyed the tour experience here, since it was laid back, but still packed a powerful punch in terms of having a lot of useful education, a beautiful setting, and excellent wines. Our experience with Stephanie and the others in our group was comfortable and fun, and we left feeling very happy with the experience. We did have one small issue with billing after the fact. We had been billed for the tour on our credit card that morning prior to our tour, but because we spent enough on wine, we were able to have half of one tour fee refunded. They ended up recharging me for the discounted tour when I purchased the wine, but said they would reverse the charge for the full priced tour that went through earlier that morning. Reversing the original charge never went through. However, I called the winery about a week later to inquire about this, and the person I spoke to was very professional and apologetic about the whole thing, and had the mistake fixed with the proper refund back to my credit card that day. This was a very small mistake, and would in no way make me hesitate to go back to Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars or recommend it to others. Also, it’s important to note that there are two wineries with very similar names in the area. This is one is Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, and the other is Stags’ Leap Winery. The apostrophe in each name is in a different spot, and one is “Wine Cellars,” while the other is “Winery.” We were confused about which is which for years, but we finally now understand that this one (Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars) is the more famous of the two, known from the Judgment of Paris. I’m sure the other has great wine too, but it’s good to know that when most people talk about Stag’s Leap, they’re probably thinking of this one, which is a winery I would very much recommend checking out.
