Ah, Napa Valley in harvest season—it’s like the world’s most delightful conveyor belt from grape to glass! Between August and October, there’s something in the air as Napa transforms with the buzz of vineyard workers, the scent of fresh grapes, and, oh, those grapes? They’re on a one-way journey to becoming some fantastic wine.

But there’s more to Napa’s harvest than just winemaking. Want to dine with a winemaker? Or perhaps you’ve always wanted a behind-the-scenes peek at the winemaking process? Well, this is your season! From unique festivities to vibrant vineyard views, Napa Valley during harvest is an experience you won’t forget. Here’s your guide to visiting during harvest season.

Wine Tasting During Harvest Season

Before you lock in tasting reservations, do a quick check to see if the winery offers any special tours of their property, vineyards, or wine making facilities during harvest, because it’s always a treat to see winemakers and winery teams working their magic.

You can never go wrong with a picnic amidst the vines at Merryvale (it’s the quintessential Napa activity, right?), but if you happen to be traveling with a larger group, don’t miss Merrryvale’s Blending Experience. This special experience will find you and your friends crafting your own unique blend from four different barrel samples. The kicker? You get to bottle up your own one-of-a-kind blend and take it home with you.

Up for a stroll through vibrant gardens and picturesque vineyards? Then head to Burgess Cellars for their Through the Decades Experience. You’ll visit the winery’s pollinator gardens and vineyards before sitting down for a curated selection of Burgess’ library vintages, charcuterie, caviar, and cheese in their secret speakeasy. And for those of you with an eye for dramatic scenery, Somerston Estate is your stage. Opt for their estate tour and tasting, or plan ahead to attend one of their Private Estate Lunches or Dinners.

Of course, if you’d rather kick back and let someone else take the wheel, book a tour with Beau Wine Tours. They offer several Napa Valley wine tours to choose from, whether you’re a Napa newbie, a Howell Mountain wine fanatic, or simply fancy an afternoon exploring Spring Mountain’s gems.

One last thing before we move on: don’t overlook the curated WineCountry Experiences offered in Napa Valley. You can’t go wrong with any of them (they’ve been vetted by a picky crowd—ahem, we mean us), but we are seriously loving the Cabernet Pairing Experience at Sequoia Grove (a Cabernet and gourmet  delight), the Bread and Butter Experience at Handwritten Wines (never turn down an opportunity to try Bouchon bread), the Merlot Mastery Experience at Sullivan Rutherford (Right Bank fans, rejoice), and the Napa Past and Future: Library Wines and Barrel Tasting at Markham Vineyards (tasting library vintages in a 150-year-old wine cellar? Yes and yes).

Dining During Harvest Season

Napa Valley cuisine is like a treasure trove of culinary excellence, and believe us when we say that most restaurants in Napa have mastered the art of seasonal cooking.

As the name implies, FARM Restaurant + Bar at the serene Carneros Resort and Spa features an elevated menu emphasizing locally sourced produce, including from the restaurant’s own organic gardens. Every dish here is like a love letter to Napa Valley’s seasonal ingredients. Another fabulous spot is The Charter Oak, showcasing food by acclaimed chef, Christopher Kostow. Their dishes are usually composed of just a few ingredients and celebrate the bounty of the region, but don’t mistake simplicity for boring, as everything here is a feast for the senses. Speaking of a feast for the senses, we’re seriously loving the Italian-French-inspired fare and elegant atmosphere at Violetto, Alila Napa’s new dining destination.

If you’re looking to meet the newest culinary talent of Napa Valley’s Wine Country, we recommend grabbing a table at the Culinary Institute at Greystone’s Gatehouse Restaurant. As the capstone experience for aspiring chefs, guests can expect an innovative menu highlighting creative cooking. Or, venture to the CIA’s downtown Napa location, CIA at Copia, a treasure trove of food, wine, and culinary events.

A quick tip: There’s a lot of excitement during harvest, but there are also a lot of travelers, so that coveted table at that picture-perfect restaurant? It’s in high demand. We suggest making reservations in advance at your favorite Napa Valley restaurants to ensure you have a seat saved at the table.

Events During Harvest Season

Many wineries have special harvest events going on during the season. We’ve spotlighted a few of the season’s happenings below, but you can visit our Events Listing page to view more harvest events this time of year.

Get an inside look at exactly what it takes to make great wines at Groth Vineyards’ Fruit to Wine: The Magic of Harvest event. You’ll sift through the grapevines alongside Groth’s Director of Winegrowing, Ted Henry, determining when the best time to harvest will be and getting an inside look at every step of the winemaking process. End the experience by sampling the fresh squeezed juice and the more refined finished product, of course.

For a fully immersive harvest experience, check out the Behind the Cellar Door event at Cuvaison. You’ll start the day in the vineyard, learning about the fascinating world of grape harvesting techniques, before venturing to the crush pad to contribute to this year’s vintage. Of course, all that work should be rewarded, so it’s only natural that a fantastic dinner and wine pairings would close out the experience.

Always dreamt of dining among the vines? PEJU Winery is hosting their Winery Harvest Celebration this September, which pairs each course with library vintages, reserves, and current cellar selections. If you miss this event and still want to visit, book the Reserve Experience to dig into PEJU’s finest.

Of course, the harvest fun isn’t limited to just Napa Valley. If you’re heading to Sonoma County, check out our guide to Harvest in Sonoma, featuring tips on where to stay, what to do, and where to taste the best of the best.

Where to Stay

Oh, trust us, we know that a day of culinary adventures and wine escapades in Napa needs to end in absolute comfort. So, get ready to hit the sack in style, because the hospitality in Napa Valley is as top-notch as the Cabernets. Here are a few spots to consider:

Need more hotel inspiration? Be sure to check out all of our Lodging Perks for exclusive deals on hotel stays, from special discounts and spa credits to complimentary bottles of wine upon check-in.

Wine is one of the oldest beverages known to man, and continues to be celebrated globally. Yet, the intricacies of grapes, winemaking, and tasting might seem a bit daunting to newcomers.

Fear not: we’re here to help! We’ve compiled 50 wine facts and tips designed to inform and empower you the next time you reach for a bottle. So, whether you’re popping a delightful Champagne or a Napa Cabernet, use this guide to take your wine knowledge and experience up a notch. Because when it comes to the world of wine, it’s a big wide world worth exploring.

The Grapes

Regions

Serving

What’s in the Glass

How to Taste

Pairings

Napa Valley Wine Facts

Although Napa Valley only accounts for four percent of total wine production in the United States, its reputation for producing fine wine is known the world over. The all-encompassing term “Napa Valley” is often used when talking about the wines, but a deep dive into the nuances of various AVAs within Napa—from St. Helena, Calistoga, Rutherford, and beyond—reveal how complex the region and its terroir actually is.

While Cabernet Sauvignon may be the marquee grape, Napa’s warm and sunny Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal place to grow a wide range of varieties. Here are some of the top grapes and wines to look for in a tasting room or to enjoy at home.

Cabernet Sauvignon

The reigning grape in the region, Cabernet Sauvignon often shows dark red and black fruits, tobacco, mocha, and hints of spice. With its medium to full body and great structure, it’s no wonder the grape has become a signature for Napa Valley.

Wine to try: Ink Grade, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Merlot

As either a partner to Cabernet in a Bordeaux-style blend or as a varietal wine, Merlot’s fruit-forward profile and plush texture show an added finesse in Napa’s terroir. Plummy and juicy but still savory, Merlot is a popular choice during a wine tasting experience.

Wine to try: Markham Vineyards, Merlot, Napa Valley

Zinfandel

Although Cabernet Sauvignon may be the most planted varietal in Napa, Zinfandel may be the most historic. Often called America’s heritage grape, some of the best wines come from old vines that were planted pre-Prohibition. Usually a full-bodied, fruit-forward wine, Zinfandel holds special meaning for many winemakers due to its legacy.

Wine to try: Canard Vineyard, Estate Zinfandel, Napa Valley

Chardonnay

As Napa’s leading white varietal, it’s common to find Chardonnay sitting alongside Cabernet in a tasting room. Winemaking techniques vary widely in Napa, allowing for different expressions of this malleable grape, from lean and crisp to voluptuous and full-bodied. Napa Valley Chardonnay is probably best-known for its award-winning turn during the 1976 Judgement of Paris, when Chateau Montelena’s

Wine to try: Stony Hill, Chardonnay, Napa Valley

Sauvignon Blanc

A highly aromatic varietal, Sauvignon Blanc from Napa is distinctly different from Sauvignon Blancs from France or New Zealand. Here, it shows bright tropical fruits and an irresistible zestiness which make it a very food-friendly wine. While often fermented in stainless steel, it can also be aged in neutral oak barrels to add texture, as is the case with Grgich Hills’ Fumé Blanc.

Wine to try: Cliff Lede, Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc plays a vital role for a winery focused on blends, but an increase in vineyards of this lighter-bodied and spicy red grape shows a growing passion for varietal bottlings—even single-vineyard focused wines.

Wine to try: La Jota Vineyards, Cabernet Franc, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley

Sparkling Wine

Given all the bold reds that Napa is famous for, it may surprise some to learn that high-end, traditional method sparkling wines are also a mainstay of the region. Book a tasting experience at estates like Domaine Carneros and you wouldn’t be faulted for thinking you’re in Champagne.

Wine to try: Domaine Carneros by Taittinger, Estate Brut Cuvée, Napa Valley

Petite Sirah

Although not a widely known varietal, Petite Sirah is often used as a blending grape. However, some intrepid winemakers produce stunning single-vineyard wines, often from old vines. As a young grape it can be inky in color and dense in texture, but over time it mellows and exudes a beautiful bouquet.

Wine to try: Turley Wine Cellars, Hayne Vineyard Petite Sirah, Napa Valley

Pinot Noir

Although Pinot Noir is most closely associated with the neighboring region of Sonoma, the thin-skinned grape thrives in cooler pockets of Napa. Its fruit character is more prominent when grown in Napa soils, but it still retains those lithe and savory qualities that are distinct to the varietal.

Wine to try: Charles Krug, Carneros Pinot Noir, Napa Valley

Greco + Pinot Bianco

While it’s long been accepted that French grapes thrive in Napa Valley, some estates look to other countries for inspiration. Italian grapes, in particular, are capturing the attention of winemakers. Dan Petroski, winemaker of Massican, cultivates white varietals like Pinot Bianco and Greco in Napa and Sonoma. Both offer fresh fruit notes and bright acidity, making for unexpected Napa Valley showstoppers.

Wine to try: Massican, Gemina, Napa Valley

Petit Verdot

Almost always a supporting character in Napa blends, Petit Verdot still makes its presence known. A thick-skinned grape that does best in warm climates, it provides tannin and structure to many wines.

Wine to try: Duckhorn, The Discussion, Napa Valley

A favorite amongst wine lovers, Bottle Shock follows the story of Chateau Montelena’s triumphant victory at the Paris Wine Tasting of 1976. Also known as the Judgment of Paris, this monumental moment was a first for U.S. wine producers and changed the landscape of the winemaking industry in California forever. It also introduced Northern California as one of the premier wine-growing regions in the world.

The film follows wine expert Steven Spurrier (played by Alan Rickman) stumbling upon Chateau Montelena and its owner Jim Barrett (played by Bill Pullman), and Barrett’s son, Bo (played by Chris Pine). Spurrier is shocked to discover the now award-winning Chardonnay and is determined to get the wine back to Paris for the blind taste testing. As with any movie based on a true story, you might be wondering what was fact and what was fiction, so we’re here to share.

FACT: Playfully portrayed by Chris Pine, Bo Barrett, the son of Chateau Montelena’s winemaker Jim Barrett, is an unruly California surfer dude who frustrated his father due to his low ambition. Bo was indeed a surfer and a rebel in the early 1970s, but he has since lived up to the elder Barrett’s hopes: Bo is currently the CEO of Chateau Montelena and has been involved in every vintage at the winery since 1972.

FICTION: The father-and-son duo were a bit less physically violent than the film leads viewers to believe. There is no boxing ring on the Barrett property or in the vineyards, nor did Jim and Bo ever box each other.

FICTION: Though he ended up owning the historic Chateau Montelena Winery, Jim Barrett did not craft the wine that went on to win big in France. Mike Grgich, a Croatian-American winemaker in Napa Valley, was actually the winemaker of the 1973 Chardonnay that won the Paris Tasting of 1976, known as the Judgment of Paris. While originally written into the script, Mike was cut from the movie because he did not want to be a part of the film.

FICTION: In the film, the Chardonnay turns brown for 24 hours after bottling, a twist that devastates Jim, who believes his new release is doomed. Though the wine did turn off-color for a short time after it was bottled, this is actually a somewhat common occurrence, and real-life winemaker Mike Grgich totally knew how to handle the situation.

FICTION: Jim and Bo are shown living at the Napa Valley winery during the summer of 1976, but they actually lived much further south, near Los Angeles, and took long trips up the coast in order to operate Chateau Montelena. Jim was actually a certified pilot, and he often flew into the nearby Santa Rosa airport when he had to spend time at the winery.

FACT: Bo and Gustavo Brambila, played by Freddy Rodriguez, are portrayed as close friends, with Bo as the prankster and Gustavo as the serious one. The two struck up a friendship in the 1970s, although Gustavo was not actually involved at all with Chateau Montelena’s win at the Paris Wine Tasting. Gustavo, one of the first Latinos to earn a degree in fermentation science from the University of California, Davis, was hired by winemaker Mike Grgich to do quality control in 1976, although it was after the famed tasting. Bo and Gustavo remain close friends to this day.

FICTION: In the film, Gustavo is fired by Jim for producing wine under his own label. However, Gustavo was never fired, but instead left the winery on good terms. He actually left in 1977 to work for Mike when the former Chateau Montelena winemaker created his own brand, Grgich Hills. In 1996, Gustavo did go on to create his own label, Gustavo Wine, which continues to operate to this day.

One could visit Napa Valley and never leave the town of St. Helena. Known for world-class wineries, an exciting culinary scene, independent shops and galleries, intimate hotels, and gorgeous vistas, St. Helena is at once modern and charming, offering a small-town vibe with big city hospitality and amenities.

In addition to its rich history and reputation as “Napa Valley’s Main Street,” St. Helena is home to some of California’s best wineries. From boutique, small-production facilities to state-of-the-art, iconic properties, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite must-visit spots when wine tasting in St. Helena.

Markham Vineyards

2812 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-5292

Venture to the stately, renovated 19th-century stone cellar and tasting room at the heart of Markham Vineyards, an historic architectural landmark in the greater Napa Valley. Here you’ll sample world-class Bordeaux varietals either indoors, in a classic seated tasting environment with midcentury furnishings, or outdoors, near the Koi ponds and under the olive trees on Markham’s garden patio. Markham Vineyards has been sustainably producing an impressive portfolio of wines for more than 45 years now, but they’re perhaps best known for their single-vineyard Merlot. Notice the cannoneer illustration on every bottle? Legend has it that namesake and US Navy veteran, Bruce Markham, would mark the start of each harvest by firing his cannon in the vineyards.

Merryvale Winery

1000 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-2225

As the first winery built in Napa Valley after the repeal of Prohibition, Merryvale Vineyards produces exceptional wines from Bordeaux varieties uniquely expressed through classic Napa Valley terroir. Select from several unique wine experiences at Merryvale: the Profile Estate Picnic that kicks off 800 feet above the valley floor, the Burger Butler that includes hand-delivery of your pre-ordered burger from the beloved Gott’s Roadside, and the hands-on blending lab that can accommodate groups from 12 to more than 100.

Conn Creek Winery

8711 Silverado Trail, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-9100

Sustainability is at the core of Conn Creek’s identity. Founded in 1973, this Napa Green-certified winery specializing in Bordeaux-varietal-based red wines was the first “green,” energy-efficient winery building in Napa Valley. Today, the Mediterranean-style winery offers classic and interactive wine experiences, including the “Barrel Blending Experience®,” in which guests become winemaker for a day. After tasting through barrel samples of Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals from select Napa Valley sub-appellations, they create a custom wine blend of their own to take home.

Heitz Cellar

436 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-2047

The gorgeous Heitz Cellar Estate has been an institution in eastern St. Helena since the 1800s. This very winery produced the first vineyard-designated Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa and specializes in Napa Cab to this day with its acclaimed Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Guests can get a glimpse of the original Heitz Cellar Estate on their Vineyard to Bottle Experience. You’ll be collected from your Napa hotel in a brand new Lexus before taking a tour of their organically farmed vineyards, biodynamic winemaking process, and the iconic Stone Cellar. The experience also includes a stop at The Salon, featuring library and current selection vintages paired with cheese and charcuterie from their very own larder.

Charles Krug Winery

2800 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-2229

A visit to St. Helena wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the iconic Charles Krug Winery, home to California’s first tasting room. But don’t let the winery’s long history fool you. Today, Charles Krug Winery is a beautifully designed, world-class center for hospitality and wine tourism. Every detail, from carefully crafted tasting experiences to the feel and functionality of the property, are timeless yet modern, setting the standard for Wine Country travel today. Guests will fall in love with the winery’s endless stories at every turn, not to mention the rich portfolio of wines that express all that Napa Valley’s diverse terroir has to offer.

HALL Napa Valley

401 St. Helena Highway South, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-2626

HALL Napa Valley produces Cabernet Sauvignon with fruit from nine estate vineyards, of which five are California Certified Organic Farming (CCOF). Both tasting room locations (St. Helena and Rutherford) boast a collection of modern art with pieces from some of the world’s most renowned contemporary artists. At their St. Helena tasting room, enjoy carefully curated experiences like the signature HALLmark Tour and Tasting, which takes guests on a stroll around the grounds, and concludes with a tasting in one the winery’s private salons, or the Cabernet Collector’s Experience, in which the winery’s most experienced wine educators guide guests through the terroir and techniques that go into crafting HALL’s rare and highly allocated Cabernet Sauvignons.

Fantesca Estate Winery

2920 Spring Mountain Road, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 968-9229

Originally the dowry of Caroline Bale for her marriage to Charles Krug in the mid-1800s, Fantesca is now owned by college sweethearts Susan and Duane Hoff, who have created a place for seasoned wine connoisseurs in search of luxury wine experiences. Tasting experiences here are intimate and personalized, and include samples of Fantesca’s premium, small-production, award-winning wines in a stunning setting that includes a 300-foot Spring Mountain cave and sprawling vineyard views.

Other Noteworthy Spots

While you could easily spend days wining (and dining!) your way through St. Helena and still not hit every great spot, do splurge on Louis M. Martini’s Underground Cellar Experience, which takes place in the 85-year-old barrel cellar and includes a tasting of small-lot and library wines with expertly curated pairings from Chef Aaron Meneghelli. Head over to William Cole Vineyards and kill two birds with one stone: the historic winery not only hosts tastings of William Cole’s flagship Cuvée Claire Cabernet Sauvignon, but also of sister property Predecessor Estate’s ultra-small-lot, single-varietal wines from Howell Mountain.

Spend an afternoon at the 42-acre Ehlers Estate, exploring the winery’s rich history that dates back to the late 1800s and learn about the Leducq Foundation, dedicated to research in cardiovascular disease and stroke, which was established by the winery’s second owners, Jean and Sylviane Leducq.

Lastly, be sure to check out Faust Haus, the dramatic former farmhouse and Prohibition Era cellar, where you will enjoy age-worthy and terroir-driven wines in a gothic fairy tale setting.

Trinchero Napa Valley

3070 North St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-1160

With a family history that goes back to the late 1940s, this flagship Napa Valley in St. Helena winery offers small-lot, estate-grown wines at a state-of-the-art, yet warmly inviting property that features an intimate tasting room, bocce court, wine caves, and a gourmet culinary center. Wine experiences place an emphasis on education, showcasing the exciting nuances that terroir can impart on a wine’s flavor. Explore wines from Trinchero’s mountain vineyards in the Mountain Flight, and compare and contrast them with the wines from the valley floor during your next visit. Or, indulge in the Signature Experience where you will sip through a vertical tasting of Trinchero’s Signature Cabernet Sauvignon with a selection of cheeses while you cozy up around the outdoor firepit.

In Napa Valley, “cult” associations aren’t necessarily a negative thing—in regards to wines and wineries that is. The label of cult wineries is often thrown around in the Valley as an elite title reflecting a winery with limited production of high quality wines and a dedicated following. Many of these cult wineries sell out of their vintages in days and have years-long waiting lists for memberships. Oh, and because of these traits, high price points are a standard of cult wines.

As we said, cult isn’t necessarily a negative term here in the Valley, but there are some winemakers and vintners who shy away from it because of what the expression has come to encompass. On the other end of the spectrum, consumers revel in the term, especially if they’re able to access some of these cult wines. Regardless of your opinion, however, cult wineries exist and are very much a symbol of Napa Valley (though there are cult wineries around the world, too). Below are 10 cult wineries in Napa Valley you should know about, including a few rising stars quickly joining the cult ranks.

Lithology

Lithology pays tribute to the study of Napa Valley’s unique geographic history lending itself to the region’s unmistakeable terroir. Most famed for their Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from their 13-acre vineyard under the Alejandro Bulgheroni Estate in St. Helena, Lithology also produces single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc sourced from the highly sought after plots of Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, Beckstoffer Las Piedras, and Beckstoffer To Kalon. The Estate recently added a tiny block of Sauvignon Blanc that is sure to be a cult hit of its own in seasons to come.

500 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-6015

Screaming Eagle

No list of cult wines would be complete without pointing to Screaming Eagle, a label that’s considered to pioneer the category in the late 90s. Though cult status wasn’t the intention of Jean Phillips, who founded the brand in 1986, the wine’s notoriety has only compounded since its first 100 points by Robert Parker in 1997 (rating their very first vintage from 1992). The flagship Cabernet Sauvignon is traditionally blended with tiny amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. You may find a stray bottle on the market selling in the range of thousands of dollars (their 2019 vintage starts at $3,899), however, the winery openly discourages resale from its exclusive members’ list.

Oakville, (707) 944-0749

Scarecrow

A minimalist label showcasing a household icon, Scarecrow pays homage to the original owner’s ranch where its ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are grown—JJ Cohn was Chief of Production at MGM during Hollywood’s ‘golden era’ and played an essential role in the production of The Wizard of Oz. While Scarecrow recognizes the eponymous, loveable character it’s also a symbol of prideful, American agriculture. The single-vineyard release sees no more than 2,000 cases bottled per vintage and is only available to mailing list members on a first-come, first-serve basis with no allocations.

Rutherford, (707) 963-3361

Stony Hill

Established in 1952, this storied Spring Mountain estate is more known for its white wines than its reds—quite unusual for wineries in Napa Valley. In fact, it’s been referred to as America’s greatest white wine estate. In 2009, the secluded winery started adding estate-grown Cabernet Sauvigonon and Merlot to its portfolio, but continued only selling its limited-production, cult-status wines through a mailing list. It wasn’t until recent years that Stony Hill started welcoming people to its exclusive property, where the revamped ‘Residence at Stony Hill’ greets guests with an inviting, mid-century modern setting. Since the winery still only produces small amounts of wine, guests are limited in how many bottles they can purchase to take home.

3331 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-2636

Harlan Estate

In 1984, Bill Harlan founded Harlan Estate with the goal to create First Growth California wines—reminiscent of the best Grand Crus from Bordeaux. Now recognized as one of the original cult wineries in the Valley, the estate is known for its two top-tier labels, The Maiden, and its proprietary Red Blend, produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grown on Harlan’s 240 acres that rises in elevation from 225 to 1,225 feet above sea level. The varying elevation of the vineyards provide distinct terroir for these first growth wines which has undoubtedly contributed to the estate’s global reputation.

Oakville, (707) 944-1441

Promontory

One of three wineries under Domain H. William Harlan (the others include the aforementioned Harlan Estate as well as BOND), Promontory made a name for itself as a relative newcomer to the Valley. The Harlan family acquired the 860-acre property in 2008, and have maintained its ruggedness–a facet that makes both the wine so special and limited as less than 10% of the land is under vine. The first Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend to hit the market was in 2009 (though Promontory produced a 2008 vintage, the owners were not happy with the result and will not sell it). Promontory differs from many other cult wineries as it offers a tasting room (by appointment only) and allocation of wines.

1601 Oakville Grade, Oakville, CA 94562, (707) 944-0125

Component Wine Company

This boutique label was founded by Michael Kennedy, former sommelier and wine director for chef Eric Ripert’s Blue at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, with a mission to isolate specific parcels of vineyards from top sites throughout the Valley to hone in on the beauty of each single “component”—grapes that’re typically thrown into a blend. Component’s first wine from Napa was a 2013 Petit Verdot (only two barrels were produced). In 2014, they added Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to their portfolio. Today, Component produces around 750 cases under the guidance of winemaker Marc Gagnon, the former assistant winemaker at Screaming Eagle and head winemaker at Bryant Family Vineyard, who joined the team in 2019.

270 Kreuzer Lane, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 332-2499

Bella Oaks

In 2019 — Bella Oaks’ latest release—only 430 cases were produced of their proprietary, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard sits in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, in what’s known as the Rutherford Bench, and dates back to the mid-19th century. When Suzanne Deal Booth purchased the property in 2010, she enlisted some of the best in the industry to revitalize this historic plot and simultaneously emphasize biodynamic practices, including vineyard manager David Abreu, winemaker Nigel Kinsman, and master blender Michael Rolland. The estate achieved certified organic status in 2019, of which the same year’s vintage received 100 points by Antonio Galloni of Vinous Media.

1350 Bella Oaks Lane, Rutherford, CA 94573

Roy Estate

This 47-acre estate was purchased in 2017 by Stephan Crétier and his wife Stéphany Maillery specifically for its world-class vineyard blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, which comprise their portfolio of wines today: Roy Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Roy Estate Mr. Evans Proprietary Red, and only released in exceptional vintages, Roy Estate La Rêveuse. Since then, Robert Parker, Jr. has described this Napa property as “a hidden gem and top under-the-radar wine estate” producing wines of elegance and length. Each vintage never exceeds 1,500 cases, but La Rêveuse typically caps out at 50 cases or fewer.

1220 Soda Canyon Road, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 968-1710

Vice Versa Wine

Founded in 2003 by Montreal-native Patrice Breton, Vice Versa Wines are predominantly sold as futures directly to consumers per their mailing list. That means many of these wines are sold before they’re even bottled, which is a nod to the label’s success in the Valley. For the 2019 vintage, Vice Versa released 13 wines—primarily Cabernet Sauvignon but two outliers included Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Platt Vineyard—totaling 3,020 cases. Aside from Platt and their own estate vineyard, Vice Versa sources grapes across vineyards recognized for their exclusivity and excellence, including; Beckstoffer To Kalon (the 2019 single vineyard expression recently received a second 100 points from The Wine Advocate), Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, Beckstoffer Las Piedras, Beckstoffer George III, and Steltzner.

1461 Railroad Avenue STE 100, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 412-8423

If learning more abut wine was on your resolution list for 2023, or you just want to take advantage of winter’s cooler weather and curl up with an interesting wine-related book, then this is the post for you. From the history of wine, to geeky info on wine grapes, to page-turning memoirs from wine writers, here are our top 36 wine books to add to your library this year.

Start Here

Wine for Dummies – This great, unpretentious wine guide by the former head of the International Wine Center has been helping budding connoisseurs for two decades, and has sold more than a million copies.

Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide – This visual reference guide to wine uses infographics and illustrations to help newbies and enthusiasts better grasp varietal profiles, how to taste wine, and food pairings.

The New Wine Rules: A Genuinely Helpful Guide to Everything You Need to Know – From acclaimed wine writer Jon Bonné, this simple guide book takes the stress out of tasting and choosing wine by throwing out the “old rules” in order to help one better enjoy what’s in the glass.

Wine Simple: A Totally Approachable Guide from a World-Class Sommelier – Written by world-renowned sommelier Aldo Sohm, this user-friendly book provides helpful everyday tips through easy-to-absorb visuals and text.

Wine For Normal People: A Guide for Real People Who Like Wine, but Not the Snobbery That Goes with It – This unpretentious guide to wine is the perfect comprehensive, yet approachable book for anyone looking to learn more about wine, from wine regions to etiquette to buying.

Natural Wine for the People: What It Is, Where to Find It, How to Love It – James Beard Award-winner Alice Feiring sets the record straight on the growing category of natural wine through this illustrated intro to natural, organic, and minimally-invasive wine.

What to Drink With What You Eat – A definitive guide to pairing wine with food and food with wine, this book should be kept in the kitchen for easy access.

Wine: An Introduction – Easy to understand and unstuffy, Joanna Simon’s guide is filled with comprehensive information and is one of the best places to start a lifetime of loving wine.

Secrets of the Sommeliers – Acclaimed sommelier Rajat Parr and writer Jordan Mackay break down how to think and drink like a true wine professional, from tips on serving and ordering to buying secrets and more.

Comprehensive Guides

The Wine Bible – Roughly the same size as the actual Bible, this giant tome is one of most obsessively researched guides on the subject, and provides far more information than one wine-soaked brain could ever handle.

World Atlas of Wine – An enormous resource for any wine lover that highlights the different wine-growing regions across the planet.

The Oxford Companion to Wine – Coming in at more than 800 pages, British wine lover Jancis Robinson’s guide is essentially a giant encyclopedia that covers wine varieties, regions, and technical data from across the globe.

The Sommelier’s Atlas of Taste: A Field Guide to the Great Wines of Europe – The second book from Rajat Parr and Jordan Mackay, The Sommelier’s Atlas of Taste provides an in-depth reference guide to the great wines of Europe and how they should taste.

Wine Grapes – This well-researched guide features an extensive look at some 300 grape varieties used in winemaking, as well as buying recommendations.

4000 Champagnes – This guide to the Champagne region of France is the ultimate resource for information about the history, culture, and winemaking practices that go into the most well-known sparkling wine, Champagne.

How-Tos

Kevin Zraly’s Complete Wine Course – An expansive volume from wine expert Kevin Zraly, this book highlights his favorite wine regions and answers questions like, “How do I serve a Bordeaux?”

How to Taste – Another classic by Britain’s Jancis Robinson, this book dives into the art of identifying, tasting, and profiling wine.

Swallow This: The Progressive Guide to Wine – An irreverent and funny guide that answers hard-to-ask questions (Is it ok to add ice cubes to a glass of wine?), Mark Phillips’ book is pages of fun.

A Year of Wine – An engaging read by sommelier Tyler Coleman that looks at different wines to serve in different seasons of the year.

Histories

Billionaire’s Vinegar – This book tells the true story of one of the biggest scams in the history of wine, where a billionaire drops $100,000 on a bottle supposedly owned by Thomas Jefferson.

The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It – This fascinating look at the woman behind the famed Veuve Clicquot reveals her journey to becoming one of the world’s first great businesswomen.

Wine and War: The French, the Nazis and the Battle for France’s Greatest Treasure – The true story of how French winemakers banded together against the Nazis during World War II.

Judgement of Paris – The inspiration for the film Bottle Shock, this tome takes a look at the 1976 blind tasting competition, where Californian wines were ranked higher than their French counterparts for the first time ever, and the industry-changing controversy that ensued.

The Story of Wine – Written by historian Hugh Johnson, this brilliant book is a delightful recounting of wine’s storied history from the ancient world to today.

Ancient Wine – Patrick McGovern’s exploration of wine’s early history some 8,000 years ago shines an intriguing light on one of the world’s most beloved drinks.

Memoirs

Adventures on the Wine Route – Wine importer Kermit Lynch waxes philosophically on his years of trying to understand the wine and people of France.

Cork Dork: A Wine-Fueled Adventure Among the Obsessive Sommeliers, Big Bottle Hunters, and Rogue Scientists Who Taught Me to Live for Taste – Follow along as amateur drinker Bianca Bosker dives headfirst into the world of elite sommeliers who dedicate their lives to all things wine.

Reading Between the Wines – Sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, this book by wine guru Terry Theise is a testament to his years of expertise and his unabashed love of wine.

Wine Girl: The Trials and Triumphs of America’s Youngest Sommelier – Written by Victoria James, who became the country’s youngest sommelier at age 21, this book follows her path from traumatic childhood to the high-octane world of the restaurant industry.

Blood From A Stone: A Memoir of How Wine Brought Me Back from the Dead – Writer Adam McHugh details his unconvential journey into wine, from ending a career as a hospice chaplain to finding a new life in wine in the Santa Ynez Valley.

To Fall in Love, Drink This: A Wine Writer’s Memoir – Veteran wine writer Alice Feiring’s book of candid personal essays offers an entertaining look at wine, love, and heartbreak.

Fiction

The Drops of God – A graphic novel that follows the quest to find 13 lost bottles of wine owned by a renowned Japanese wine critic.

Sideways – Perhaps the most famous novel about wine (and the inspiration for the film of the same name), this funny book chronicles the misadventures of two aging friends as they drink their way across Santa Barbara Wine Country.

Science

The Taste of Wine: The Art and Science of Wine Appreciation – Written by Emile Peynaud, one of the world’s foremost wine scientists, this book is a deep dive into the science behind winemaking and tasting for true wine geeks.

Natural Wine – An Introduction to Organic and Biodynamic Wines Made Naturally – Organic and environmentally sustainable wines are trending hard right now, and this clearly written book explains why, to beginners and experts alike.

Understanding Wine Technology: The Science of Wine Explained – How that grape gets in your glass can seem like magic, but this accessible book thoughtfully explains the winemaker’s process.

When we think of Napa Valley wine, the first grape, without fail, that comes to mind is… you guessed it: cabernet sauvignon. Napa Valley has indeed earned a reputation for producing some of the world’s finest cabernet sauvignon. However, the region is home to a whole world of other wine grapes that make equally interesting and delicious red wines, on their own or in a blend.

We’ve compiled a list of some great Napa Valley wines that aren’t cabernet sauvignon to consider, but don’t feel limited by the selections here. There are plenty of other non-cabernet reds worth exploring, so get sipping.

Zinfandel

Zinfandel made a name for itself in the early 1970s during a stuck fermentation at Sutter Home Winery, resulting in the sweet style we all know as “white zinfandel.” However, the grape actually has a long history. Known as “America’s Heritage Grape,” with a genetic link to Croatia’s tribidrag and Italy’s primitivo, it is capable of producing a range of wines from pink and sweet, to rich and jammy, to earthy and structured, and everything in between. According to UC Davis, while cabernet sauvignon has claimed its synonymity with Napa Valley winemaking, zinfandel is in fact the only important vitis vinifera grape variety identified closely with the state of California.

Wines to try 

Brown Estate Howell Mountain Zinfandel, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, $60

Cabernet Franc

Cabernet sauvignon wouldn’t even exist without one half of its parentage – cabernet franc, who canoodled with sauvignon blanc to produce the king of Napa grapes. Much like the parent of a famous child actor, cabernet franc is deserving of recognition in its own right. Cabernet franc is most associated with adding structure and aroma to Bordeaux, and producing light-bodied, “crushable” red wines from France’s Loire Valley. However, in Napa Valley, its wines can be as robust and heady as its offspring, so be sure to give it a second look as an often more reasonably priced alternative to cabernet sauvignon.

Wines to try 

Foundry Stagecoach Vineyards Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, $110

Peju Winery Persephone Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, $85

Merlot

Being in the Sideways “I am NOT drinking any [expletive] merlot!” crowd is so 2004. It’s time to give this grape another serious look because it’s capable of producing some of the most lush, softly textured red wines out there. If you tend to shy away from the grippy tannins of a cabernet sauvignon, you will delight in the velvety palate of a beautiful merlot, which provides a superb backdrop for a wide range of dishes, from rich winter stews, to burgers and veggies on the grill on a hot summer afternoon.

Wines to try 

Charles Krug Winery Napa Valley Merlot, Napa Valley, $25

Theorem Vineyards Diamond Mountain Estate Merlot, Diamond Mountain, Napa Valley, $90

The Petits

These grapes may have the French word for “small” in their names, but they are by no means diminutive in flavor or body. Petit verdot has long played a supporting role in traditional Bordeaux bottlings, contributing color, spice, and tannin to the blend. However, California winemakers are realizing that it is capable of producing brooding, inky red wines with notes of plum, black fruits, violet, and spice all on its own. Ditto for the small, thick-skinned petite sirah – not to be confused with syrah; it’s actually a totally different variety also known as durif – that yields richly flavored, chocolatey red wines with high acid and high tannin.

Wines to try 

2017 Ehlers Estate Petit Verdot, St. Helena, Napa Valley, $65

Goosecross Cellars Petit Petite, Napa Valley, $95

Pinot Noir

Ah, the fickle, fussy, frustrating pinot noir grape most famous for being the wine grape, along with chardonnay, of France’s celebrated region of Burgundy… and for its starring role as the anti-merlot wine in the movie Sideways. Being a thin-skinned, early-ripening grape, pinot noir tends to thrive in cooler climates, which makes it ideal for the coastal AVA of Carneros (a region that, like Burgundy, is also known for chardonnay), which spans both Sonoma and Napa counties. These wines are elegant and intoxicatingly perfumed, making them wonderfully food-friendly or captivating enough to sip on their own.

Wines to try 

Sean W. McBride Winery Kim Giles Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros, Napa Valley, $50

Tulocay Winery Coombsville Pinot Noir, Coombsville, Napa Valley, $35

Syrah

Like many of the grapes listed here, syrah is widely associated with another French wine region – France’s Northern Rhône Valley, where it is characterized by its signature peppery note. However, syrah (or shiraz as it’s known in Australia, where it is also famous), is a remarkably diverse variety that, like most grapes, takes on distinct characteristics depending on where it’s grown and how it’s produced. Napa Valley syrah can range from earthy and peppery, like its French counterpart, to more fruit-forward, with notes of blackberry, black licorice, and anise, like an Aussie shiraz.

Wines to try 

Bennett Lane Winery Syrah, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley, $62

Keenan Winery Syrah, Coombsville, Napa Valley, $42

Malbec

Another component in the classic Bordeaux blend, as well as Argentina’s hallmark grape variety, malbec has seen a steady increase in plantings in California over the past few years, and many California winemakers use it to make their Meritage (a wine blend made up of Bordeaux’s “noble” varieties, like cabernet sauvignon and merlot). Malbec is a sun-loving grape, so California is the perfect home for it. In Napa, it produces intensely hued, full-bodied wines with moderate acidity and tannins, and lots of plum, blackberry, and spice.

Wines to try 

Mt. Brave Malbec, Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley, $80

James Cole Estate Winery Oak Knoll District Malbec, Oak Knoll, Napa Valley, $75

The Underdogs

Feeling adventurous? There are dozens of different grape varieties that thrive in Napa Valley, so don’t be afraid to explore the ones you don’t see very often, or can’t easily pronounce. Some of our favorites include Italian superstars like sangiovese, barbera, and nebbiolo, as well as other Spanish and Rhône varieties like tempranillo, grenache, and carignan. There’s also an entire world of offbeat and traditional red blends out there – some featuring a small percentage of cabernet sauvignon, if you need a little bit of familiarity with your obscure varieties. There are endless permutations and combinations of different ways grapes can work together to create exciting and unique wines, so don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone to experience the creativity of Napa’s most talented mad scientist winemakers.

Wines to try 

Longmeadow Ranch Winery Peter’s Vineyard, Mayacamas Estate Sangiovese, Napa Valley, $80

Mi Sueño Winery Tempranillo, Napa Valley, $60

If you find yourself constantly reaching for Napa Valley wines with dinner, or just want to elevate your at-home wine drinking experience, you may want to consider investing in glassware designed to enhance your overall enjoyment of Napa wines.

While it’s not necessary to spend a fortune on the “proper” glassware for each wine varietal — and if we’re being honest, you can drink wine from whatever vessel you’d prefer, even if said vessel is a coffee mug or Solo cup — there is truth in that the shape of a glass can make a difference in the wine’s overall appeal. So, if you’re ready to take your wine glass game up a notch, here are tips for choosing the right wine glasses for your favorite Napa wines.

Why Does Shape Matter?

Certain wine glasses are specifically designed to improve the taste and character of a wine by directing aromatic compounds and taste profiles to hit different areas of the nose and tongue. Essentially what happens is, when you swirl and taste, the shape of a glass will affect the position of those flavor compounds as they reach your nose or mouth, making the wine come more alive, or not, depending on the vessel design. And no, we’re not just saying that, it’s actually been scientifically proven!

Now that you know that vessel shape matters, you may be wondering if stemless or stemmed wine glasses are preferable. While some argue that wine, especially white, should never be served in a stemless glass (your hand can warm up the wine too quickly), the stem versus stemless debate doesn’t matter as much as the shape and size of the bowl. So whether you opt for fancy stemmed wine glasses or modern, everyday stemless ones, the most important thing in choosing the best glassware is that your glass bowl has enough space above the wine to swirl and collect aromas in the glass.

Best Wine Glasses for Cabernet Sauvignon

Chances are, if you like Napa wine, then you are probably a fan of cabernet, widely known as the King of Napa grapes. When it comes to wine glasses, a good fit for cabernet sauvignon and other bold red wines is the traditional “Bordeaux Glass,” which consists of a large, less rounded bowl with height, or the “Cabernet Glass,” which is broad but slightly smaller than the Bordeaux. Since Napa cabernets tend to be high in alcohol and tannin, that extra distance between you and the wine allows some of the typical ‘burn’ of the ethanol to dissolve before it reaches your nose, while a wider opening lets in more oxygen and directs the wine to the back of the mouth, softening the harshness of the tannins as you sip.

Try:

Riedel Extreme Cabernet Glass
Zalto Denk’Art Bordeaux Crystal Glass
Riedel O Wine Tumbler

Best Wine Glasses for Chardonnay

Though some white wines are served in smaller bowled glasses, which preserve delicate aromas and acidity, full-bodied and oaked whites like chardonnay are better suited to larger glasses. A “White Burgundy Glass,” which is similar in shape to a pinot noir glass, features a wide bowl and narrow rim, thereby concentrating the aromatics of the creamier, oaked whites in order to offset some of the richness of the fruit. Unoaked or younger chardonnays, on the other hand, tend to be served in traditional white wine glasses, known as the “Chardonnay Glass.” Its slightly narrower rim concentrates aromas more precisely, while allowing some of the more apparent acidity from stainless steel fermentation to shine through.

Try:

Riedel VINUM Chardonnay Glass
Eisch Superior Chardonnay Glass
Lenox Tuscany Classics Chardonnay Glass

Best Wine Glasses for Sauvignon Blanc

Unlike chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and other light-bodied, acidic white wines fare better in smaller bowled glasses. A narrow rim preserves aromas while a less broad bowl allows the wine to maintain a cooler temperature. Its shape also directs the wine to the center of your palate to avoid the unfavorable mouth puckering sensation that can be caused by high levels of acidity reaching the sides of your tongue.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art White Wine Glass
Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal White Wine Glass
Spiegelau Grande White Wine Glasses

Best Wine Glasses for Zinfandel

Zinfandel from Napa Valley tends to be bold with ripe fruit notes and peppery, allspice characters. Medium-sized red wine glasses with a slightly larger rim work well for zinfandel by supporting the bouquet while softening some of the strong flavors and alcohol as it hits your tongue.

Try:

Riedel Wine Series Zinfandel Glass
Waterford Marquis Red Wine Glass
Gunmetal Black Stemless Wine Glass

Best Wine Glasses for Sparkling Wine

While coups are a stylish nod to a bygone era, they really aren’t the best vessels for sparkling wine as they allow in too much oxygen, thereby diminishing the wine’s effervescence — and sparkling wine just isn’t the same without those bubbles. While a Champagne flute is also synonymous with bubbly, its narrow opening (and standard high pour) make it hard to appreciate the wine’s aromas. For optimal drinking pleasure, kiss the flute and coupe goodbye and instead opt for a tulip glass or tapering wine glass, which both allow bubbles to form and aromas to unfold.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art Champagne Glass
Riedel Vintage Champagne Glass
Schott Zwiesel Tritan Finesse Champagne Glass

A few things to consider:

Budget & Space

While we recommend investing in one to two styles that match your wine preferences, you can’t go wrong with one set of glassware that is considered “universal,” meaning it’s suitable to most varieties. Many stemware producers, including Zalto and Gabriel-Glas (our go-tos), are making universal glasses which are high in quality and generally work well with any type of wine. All-purpose glassware is not only space-saving (more room on the shelf!) and good for your budget (you’ll save on multiple sets of varietal-specific drinkware), they’re also a great option for those wine enthusiasts who simply don’t want to fuss over matching glass style with varietal.

Try:

Zalto Denk’Art Universal Glass
Gabriel-Glas StandArt Edition
Libbey All Purpose Wine Glass

Glass vs. Crystal

Crystal glasses offer an elegant, thin design, but they are usually much more expensive than glass. Hand washing is also strongly encouraged, so if you prefer barware that can go in the dishwasher then glass or dishwasher-safe crystal may be for you. Glass wine glasses are usually cost-effective and durable, but they are often not as well designed as their crystal counterparts when it comes to enhancing the flavors in wine. Simply put, choosing glass or crystal wine glasses really comes down to lifestyle. Super serious about your wine tasting? Then invest in better performing glassware. Too worried about breaking your precious Zalto glasses that it takes the fun out of drinking from them? Go cheaper. You can’t go wrong finding something that is right for you.

The Napa Valley is, indisputably, one of the world’s most recognized wine regions. The region received its American Viticultural Area (AVA) designation in 1981, making it California’s first AVA, and the country’s second overall.

In the decades since, the growers and winemakers in the region have worked to gain a greater understanding of the climate and soil types within the AVA and, in doing so, have learned that the region is actually home to many different, distinct meso- and microclimates, each suited to specific grape varieties and winemaking styles. This has resulted in the designation of 16 separate sub-appellations within the Napa Valley that recognize and celebrate the viticultural diversity of the region. Here is a rundown of all 16.

Atlas Peak AVA

Established in the early 1990s, this cool, high elevation AVA on the western slopes of the Vaca Mountain Range is the most prominent peak in Napa. Its high elevation keeps it about 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley floor, which results in bright, expressive wines with higher acidity than other Napa Valley appellations. Atlas Peak growers supply premium fruit to dozens of wineries in Napa and Sonoma, and local winemakers produce some of the world’s finest wines made from cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot, and merlot, as well as other classic varieties like sangiovese, syrah, and chardonnay.

Wineries to try: Dos Lagos Vineyards, Antica Napa Valley, VinRoc

Calistoga AVA

This AVA not only has one of the warmest climates of the region, it is also the most geologically uniform in all of Napa Valley. While summer temperatures can top 100 degrees, they can also drop into the 40s at night due to cool breezes from the Pacific drawn in through the Chalk Hill mountain gap. This diurnal shift is a grape grower’s dream, as it results in fully ripe grapes balanced by fresh acidity. Principal varieties here include cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, syrah, and petite sirah.

Wineries to try: Fairwinds Estate Winery, Chateau Montelena, Sterling Vineyards, Kenefick Ranch Vineyards

Chiles Valley District AVA

Established in 1999 and located in the Eastern hills of Napa Valley, Chiles Valley is among the smallest AVAs. At about 1,000 ft. elevation, the fog-heavy breezes which cool the Valley floor don’t reach this area, so it can get quite warm. However, nights in the Chiles Valley are cool at this altitude, creating a diurnal shift that greatly benefits the grapes, which include classic Bordeaux varieties. Interestingly, because of the Chiles Valley’s relative isolation, many of the earliest vineyards were spared from phylloxera. As such, the AVA is home to some very old zinfandel vines as well.

Wineries to try: Volker Eisele, Nichelini Family Winery, Brown Estate Vineyards

Coombsville AVA

Napa Valley’s newest AVA, Coombsville received appellation status in 2011. This area, in the Southeastern corner of the Napa Valley, is only ten minutes outside of downtown Napa. The weather is cooled significantly by the AVA’s proximity to the San Pablo Bay, yielding elegant examples of cabernet sauvignon, syrah, pinot noir and chardonnay.

Wineries to try: Ackerman Family Vineyards, Shadybrook Estate, Covert Estate

Diamond Mountain AVA

While you may not find those sparkling gemstones here, you will find wines made primarily from cabernet sauvignon that are just as stunning. Located in the warmer Northwestern part of the Napa Valley, this region, which gained its AVA status in 2001, was actually named for the shards of reflective volcanic glass found in the soils. First planted in 1868 by Jacob Schram of Schramsberg Vineyards, the region has come to be associated with wines that are structured and plush with unmistakable mountain fruit intensity and great aging potential.

Winery to try: Reverie Winery

Howell Mountain AVA

Located on the Northeastern side of the Vaca Mountains just above St. Helena, this is Napa Valley’s first established sub-AVA, and one of the most prestigious. Many celebrate the concentration and signature “wildness” of Howell Mountain wines – predominantly cabernet sauvignon, as well as merlot, zinfandel, and petite sirah. This distinctive character is a result of the region’s warm, dry climate and rocky, porous soils, thanks to its positioning well above the valley floor.

Wineries to try: ADAMVS, Clif Family Winery, W.H. Smith Wines, Howell Mountain Vineyards

Los Carneros AVA

The Los Carneros AVA, established in 1983, actually straddles land in both Napa and Sonoma Valleys, making it the first California wine region to be defined by its unique climate as opposed to political boundaries. This is a cool climate appellation heavily influenced by prevailing winds from the San Pablo Bay, with daytime temperatures rarely exceeding 80 degrees. Stunning examples of chardonnay, pinot noir, and sparkling wines, as well as some merlot are produced in Carneros thanks to this distinctly cool climate.

Wineries to try: Domaine Carneros, Etude, Cuvaison, Artesa

Mount Veeder AVA

Formed from an ancient seabed, the Mount Veeder appellation boasts one of the longest growing seasons and the lowest yields in the Napa Valley. It is also the only hillside appellation that adjoins the cool, bayside Carneros. These factors, combined with the steep, rugged conditions that severely limit mechanization, have allowed the region to develop a reputation for intensely concentrated, hand-crafted, and age-worthy wines made from cabernet sauvignon, merlot, zinfandel, and chardonnay.

Wineries to try: Fontanella, Mount Veeder Winery, O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery

Oak Knoll District AVA

This district achieved its AVA status in 2004 as a result of local winemakers’ concerted efforts to have the region’s cool climate and relatively long growing season recognized. The region boasts Napa Valley’s largest alluvial fan – triangular-shaped deposits that form from water as it descends from the mountains – which is one of Oak Knoll’s defining characteristics. The emerging granular soil forces vines to dig deep in search of water, resulting in small, highly concentrated grapes and elegant, intensely perfumed wines made from the most diverse lineup of grape varieties in the Napa Valley.

Wineries to try: Trefethen, Robert Biale, Materra | Cunat

Oakville AVA

Named for the groves of native oak trees that covered the area in the 1800s, Oakville was actually once just a steam train stop in the Napa Valley. Today, wines from Oakville are among some of the most recognized and sought in the world. Marquis names like Opus One, Screaming Eagle, and Harlan have helped create the concept of “Cult Cabernet” so synonymous with the Oakville appellation, while other smaller, family-run producers in the area continue to maintain its stellar reputation for world-class wines and hospitality.

Wineries to try: Opus One, Cardinale

Rutherford AVA

Located just North of Oakville as the geographic and historic center of the Napa Valley, and boasting a warm climate moderated by cooling Bay Area fog, Rutherford is a classic Valley floor appellation with vineyards reaching from the base of the Mayacamas to the Silverado Trail. Some of the region’s wineries date back to the late 1800s, when wheat was Napa Valley’s main crop. Thomas Rutherford, for whom the AVA was named, settled and began planting grapes instead. Today, visitors will find rich, ripe wines made from cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, and zinfandel, with some sauvignon blanc as well.

Wineries to try: Peju, Beaulieu Vineyard, Round Pond Estate

Spring Mountain District AVA

Located above St. Helena on the Eastern side of the Mayacamas and connecting with the border of Sonoma County to the North, the region gets its name for the many natural springs that mark the area. Spring Mountain District is rich with history – it is said that the region’s first vineyard, planted in 1874, withstood Prohibition because it was so remote. Today, the challenging mountain terroir yields complex, “intellectual” wines made from Bordeaux varieties as well as other unique grapes like riesling, sémillon, gewürztraminer, and even traditional Portuguese grapes.

Wineries to try: Fantesca Estate, Robert Keenan Winery, Smith-Madrone

St. Helena AVA

Thought of as the birthplace of Napa Valley’s commercial wine industry, Napa’s oldest wine estate, Charles Krug, was established here in 1861. St. Helena is home to 6,800 planted acres of grapes and 400+ vineyards, more than any other AVA in the Napa Valley. With a warmer climate than other AVAs, the region produces ripe yet structured cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, zinfandel, and sauvignon blanc. The region also organizes an annual wine tasting and food pairing competition called BASH.

Wineries to try: Ehlers Estate, Titus Vineyards, Raymond Vineyards, Charles Krug

Stags Leap AVA

The potential of this region was cemented when Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars’ 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the infamous Judgment of Paris tasting over more famous wines from Bordeaux. Thought of as a “valley within a valley,” the appellation is only one mile wide and three miles long and planted with mostly Bordeaux varieties. It’s a warm region moderated by cool bay winds at night, with diverse soils that allowed the region to be the first AVA to be approved based on the distinctiveness of its soils.

Wineries to try: Cliff Lede Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Clos du Val

Wild Horse Valley AVA

While one of the earliest AVAs to be established, the Wild Horse Valley appellation remains one of Napa Valley’s most obscure. In fact, unlike most other Napa Valley AVAs, this region serves as more of an area for growers who supply winemakers with fruit of unique terroir, usually from pinot noir, chardonnay, and syrah, thanks to the cool climate and shallow, volcanic soils.

Winery to try: Heron Lake Winery

Yountville AVA

Not to be confused with the downtown area of Yountville, home to the famous French Laundry, the Yountville AVA has a rich history in Napa. Geourge Yount, for whom the town is named, planted the first vineyards in the region in 1836 in the area that would ultimately become Dominus Estate. Established in 1999, the AVA stretches from the Mayacamas in the West to the Vaca Mountains in the East, and exhibits a diverse range of microclimates and soil types that allow for many different grape varieties to be grown – a distinctive characteristic of the region.

Wineries to try: Goosecross Cellars, JCB Tasting Salon, Stewart Cellars