Yountville, the crown jewel of Napa Valley’s culinary scene, may regularly draw Michelin Star seekers, but its exceptional hotels are equally enticing. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape or a lavish retreat, these Yountville hotels promise to immerse you in luxury and tranquility.

Oh, and did we mention they’re just steps away from world-class tasting rooms, captivating art galleries, and the region’s most coveted culinary delights? You can’t go wrong with a stay at any of these beautiful Yountville hotels, where signature amenities and plush accommodations will help you effortlessly drift into a state of vacation bliss.

Lavender, a Four Sisters Inn

For a touch of Provence in Napa, look no further than Lavender Inn, a historic farmhouse turned B&B. Originally built in the 1850s, the renovated house and cottages have since been transformed into inviting, well-appointed guest rooms, where fireplaces, king-sized beds, and deep soaking tubs await. As with all Four Sisters properties, Lavender’s thoughtful details make a stay feel extra special, from the gourmet breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese to the freshly baked cookies and complimentary bikes available for guest use.

2020 Webber Avenue, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 341-7732

Maison Fleurie, a Four Sisters Inn

Maison Fleurie is the oldest hotel in Napa Valley—the original building was built in 1873. This intimate Four Sisters Inn property is comprised of three buildings on a half acre of beautifully landscaped gardens reminiscent of southern France. Offering 13 rooms with comfortable furnishings, a serene pool, complimentary bikes, a wine hour, and daily breakfast for two, this quaint yet luxurious bed and breakfast is a delightful place to stay in Wine Country.

6529 Yount Street, Yountville, CA, 94599, (707) 944-2056

Napa Valley Lodge

The Tuscan-inspired Napa Valley Lodge is set in the middle of lush vineyards at the north end of Yountville. This relaxing retreat may feel far from town but is within easy walking or biking distance of Yountville’s best restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops. More intimate than a resort, but with plenty of amenities to keep you entertained, the Lodge charms with elegant guest rooms and tranquil grounds, accented by fountains, bocce ball courts, fire pits, and a pool.

6757 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-8080

North Block Hotel

Situated on the northern end of Yountville, North Block Hotel is a contemporary, Mediterranean-inspired hotel offering stylish sophistication and comforting amenities. Each of the 20 luxurious guest rooms features a large soaking tub, pillow-top bed, espresso machine, and a terrace or patio, while the hotel’s on-site restaurant, spa, and pool further add to the experience.

6757 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-8080

Vintage House

Located at The Estate at Yountville, the Vintage House is a chic and romantic inn offering 80 guest rooms, lofts, and bungalows designed with plush comforts in mind. Besides the array of room types, added touches, like a glass of wine at check-in, European-style breakfasts, and bikes available for cruising around town, make the Vintage House stand out.

6481 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (877) 351-1133

Hotel Villagio

As the sister hotel to Vintage House, Hotel Villagio is another beautiful Wine Country-inspired hotel and spa. The Italian villa-style decor and luxurious amenities are wonderful, but the Inn’s location on the 22-acre Estate Yountville, filled with lush Mediterranean-style gardens, is really what sets this stay apart.

6481 Washington Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (877) 351-1133

Bardessono

Bardessono is a sleek, modern beauty of a hotel with LEED certification and a focus on sustainability in every detail. The attentive staff keeps luxury humming throughout the property, from the in-house spa to the rooftop pool to the chic rooms featuring organic linens and outdoor showers. Be sure to dine at the on-site Lucy Restaurant and Bar, a great place for farm-to-table fare and cocktails.

6526 Yount Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 204-6099

Just 60 miles north of San Francisco sits the gorgeous town of St. Helena—one of Napa Valley Wine Country’s most sophisticated stopping points. Given its central location in the Napa Valley and many options for luxury resorts, historic hotels, and cozy inns, St. Helena is a perfect home base after a long day of wining and dining at the surrounding vineyards.

With stellar amenities like award-winning spas, yoga studios, restaurants, and more, here’s our roundup of some of our favorite places to stay when in or around St. Helena. Get to packing!

Meadowood Napa Valley

900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-1200

Luxury and seclusion make Meadowood Napa Valley a romantic lodging option for your next Wine Country escape. Located a few minutes off the Silverado Trail, Meadowood offers a true getaway for visitors, where stunning grounds, woods, and lush vineyards are all within eyeshot. Resort amenities—such as tennis courts, a fitness center, three pools, and a spa—will help you while away the hours, while their on-site restaurant will have you dining on delicious fare any time of day.

Insider Tip: The hotel’s property offers several hiking opportunities nearby; in fact, a three-mile trail with stunning views of the valley begins at Meadowood. Bring the hiking boots, though, as the path can get mossy.

Wydown Hotel

1424 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-5100

Wydown Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel located in downtown St. Helena and boasts a chic, modern vibe. The hotel’s 12 rooms have a fresh, sophisticated look, yet remain comfortable and inviting. The “Living Room” lobby also encourages relaxation with its leather couches, TV, board games, and books, where guests like to lounge while sharing the stories from their days. Make new friends, and then walk to a nearby restaurant for dinner or a nightcap.

Insider Tip: The hotel is a five-minute walk from the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum at the St. Helena Public Library Center. For a nice change of pace, wander over to learn about the life of the famed writer of Treasure Island.

Alila Napa Valley

1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7000

Part historic Georgian farmhouse and part sprawling Wine Country resort, Alila is one of the newest luxury accommodations in St. Helena. A dozen different room and suite options are available and are outfitted with streamlined Italian furnishings, in-room soaking tubs, and private outdoor areas with fire pits. Wake up and call it a day next to the picturesque, neighboring Beringer Vineyards, take a dip in the shimmering pool, and be sure to enjoy a meal at their beautiful on-site restaurant, Violetto, where Italy meets the best of Napa Valley.

Insider Tip: Don’t drop your personal wellness goals during your stay. The hotel offers not only fitness classes, but also a world-class spa to soothe and combat stress. Spa Alila has a robust massage menu that includes Eastern and Western options, along with aroma blending, facials, and even full weekend retreats.

Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley

1152 Lodi Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7077

St. Helena’s Wine Country Inn & Cottages may be nestled into a working vineyard and a world away from the everyday, but it’s just moments from the bustling town’s action and the neighboring city of Calistoga. Romantic and relaxing, the Inn offers beautiful rooms and cottages with a laundry list of fantastic complimentary amenities, like half bottle of wine, on-site parking, and Wine Country Breakfast that includes artisanal bread, fresh fruit, and quiche. Partner these perks with cozy bedding, modern design, and their full-size heated swimming pool and hot tub, and you’ve got yourself quite the memorable Napa Valley escape.

Insider Tip: No need to leave Fido at home—Wine Country Inn is pet-friendly and offers a fantastic getaway for your furry friends.

Harvest Inn

1 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-9463

With its fantastical natural setting under towering Redwood trees and among gorgeous grapevines, it’s easy to see why St. Helena’s Harvest Inn earned a top spot in the Travel + Leisure Readers’ 15 Favorite Resorts in California, 2023. While there’s no on-site spa, Harvest Inn has teamed up with Health Spa Napa Valley, located just one mile north of the resort, to offer massages, treatments, and more. Got a gear head on your hands? Guests can even pick a Porsche or other luxury vehicle from the lot to cruise through Wine Country in style.

Insider Tip: For the cigar enthusiast, the Harvest Inn hosts a monthly Cigar Dinner Series on Thursdays, complete with live music, wine and cigar tasting, and farm-to-table cuisine.

GIVEAWAY CLOSED: Thanks to everyone who participated. We will be selecting the Grand Prize Winner soon so be sure to check your email!

Hold onto your glasses, because we’re bringing back the crowd-favorite giveaway: The Ultimate Wine Country Getaway! Imagine savoring Napa’s finest as a VIP, complete with a two-night stay for two in a luxury hotel, a lavish spa credit, and a trio of unforgettable wine and food escapades.

While only one person will win this dreamy Grand Prize, we’ve got plenty of love to share. Five runner-up winners will also land a splendid winery experience. Ready for your chance to win? Official rules, eligibility, and prize details are outlined below.

Enter Giveaway

Grand Prizes

Giveaway Eligibility, Rules & Privacy Policy

Must be 21 years or older to enter, no purchase necessary to win. This giveaway starts September 7, 2023 and ends at 11:59 PM PST on October 6, 2023. An email address is required for entry, which may be shared with businesses that participate in the Giveaway. By entering the Giveaway promotion, you are providing your consent to WineCountry Media to be subscribed to our email newsletter. A winner will be selected at random on September 30, 2023 and will be notified via email after October 7th. Once notified, the winner will have 48 hours to claim.

Giveaway includes: A two-night stay for two at Alila Napa Valley, including a $100 spa service credit and a $80 ($40 pp) food & beverage credit to use for breakfast (alcohol, tax and gratuity not included / holidays and blackout days apply ) and unique wine and culinary experiences for two at PEJU, Sequoia Grove Winery, and Nickel & Nickel (holidays and blackout dates apply; some dietary restrictions may not be accommodated). Giveaway Experiences must be booked and redeemed by December 31, 2023 unless noted. Experiences are for those 21 and over; no children, babies, or pets allowed. Giveaway Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash value and airfare is not included.

It’s always a good time to go to Wine Country with your loved one, but there’s something extra romantic about the changing of the seasons, particularly as the cooler months draw near. Fall brings the excitement of harvest, not to mention an epic visual display of gold and red in the vineyards, while winter ushers in quieter times with fewer crowds. So whether you’re looking for a chic, downtown boutique hotel, a sprawling vineyard estate, or sumptuous spa treatments on property, we’ve rounded up the top Napa Valley hotels for your next romantic Wine Country getaway.

Carneros Resort and Spa

Ever wanted to feel what it might be like living in the beautiful Napa Valley? Carneros Resort offers individual private cottages, perfect for you and your partner to have a truly romantic getaway. Each cottage features a private front porch and a backyard garden with a sundeck, table and chairs, fire pit, and chaise lounge. Get lost in each other’s company in front of the fire, or shower under the sun or stars in a privately enclosed outdoor shower. When venturing out of your room, you’ll find two luxurious pools, a spa, several restaurants, and a market — everything needed for a romantic stay in Wine Country.

4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 299-4900

Alila Napa Valley

Alila Napa Valley takes seclusion to a whole new level with their expansive property, hidden away just outside the quaint but happening town of St. Helena. Book one of their ultra-private rooms, like the Vineyard View Suite or the Historic Farmhouse Room, both featuring sprawling vineyard vistas and mountain scenery. Each room is a romantic sanctuary complete with private outdoor soaking tubs, dreamy fire pits, and wraparound terraces. Explore the historic Beringer Vineyards, located just next door, or indulge in a seasonally inspired dinner for two at the on-site Acacia House. To take your sultry weekend up a notch, sign up for an Alila Journey, a specially crafted and immersive experience such as a Sound Bath Healing, for a truly memorable getaway.

915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 531-7062

Meadowood Napa Valley

As a guest staying at Meadowood Napa Valley, you’ll be surrounded by nature on this pristine, 250-acre Wine Country estate; rooms, suites, and lodges are tucked away along the hillside just outside of St. Helena, lending to the feeling of romantic isolation. Here, you can enjoy resort amenities such as golf, tennis, and croquet, venture out on a scenic hike on the property and end it with a romantic picnic, or simply take a day to enjoy everything their restorative spa has to offer. Book a luxurious treatment in the private Treehouse Retreat, which includes a fireplace and a hand-hammered copper tub for custom baths, and is partly open to the elements — a testament to the resort’s focus on both indoor and outdoor living. Feeling like some sustenance in between all that relaxation? You and your loved-one can opt to enjoy a glass of sparkling and dine-in from the Spa’s culinary menu without ever leaving this zen, intimate sanctum, or head to Forum, Meadowood’s on-site restaurant focused on local ingredients and exquisite wine, for a memorable dinner for two.

900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 531-7647

Wine Country Inn & Cottages

The charming Wine Country Inn & Cottages offers quaint cottages and spacious suites with beautiful, Napa Valley vineyard views. Amenities include a daily complimentary breakfast with local fruits and freshly-baked artisanal breads and pastries from St. Helena’s Model Bakery. To up the ante on the romance vibes, Wine Country Inn & Cottages also offers a Romance Package that includes chilled sparkling wine, rose petals, and gourmet chocolates from the local Woodhouse chocolatier.

1152 Lodi Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7077

The Setting Inn Napa Valley

This boutique, historic landmark offers a stay in understated luxury with all the trappings of Napa Valley hospitality. The rooms and suites at The Setting Inn are modern but warm and inviting, and don’t skimp on luxurious touches, such as hand-delivered Bouchon Bakery pastries, private vineyard views, fireplaces, and heated bathroom floors with soaking tubs. Spark up some friendly competition with your partner by playing lawn games as the sun sets over the vineyards, or take the complimentary electric bikes out for a couple’s ride through town and a picnic. You’ll also receive exclusive tastings of The Setting Wines during a stay here. Whatever you decide to do, your romantic getaway is sure to be unforgettable.

1205 Hillview Lane, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 927-3909

Archer Hotel

Can’t decide between a wine-driven Napa Valley escape or a bustling metropolitan vacation? Archer Hotel Napa is one of the newer boutique hotels at the heart of downtown Napa, and offers the best of both. Located right on Napa’s First Street, you’ll be able to explore the myriad of options available downtown, from world-class dining to live music venues. And it goes without saying that the 20+ tasting rooms all within walking Canadian Windham Pharmacy distance represent some of the best that Wine Country has to offer. Add in sleek rooms with modern amenities (that are also dog-friendly), a rooftop bar, and Charlie Palmer Steak, and we can guarantee you’ll be plenty occupied on and off-site.

1230 First Street, Napa CA 94559, (707) 690-9800

World-class wine and delectable cuisine aside, there’s much to love about a getaway to Napa Valley — especially during summer and early fall when warm weather and sunshine are aplenty. When you need to cool off between wine tastings, luckily the valley is home to some of the most luxurious hotel pools around. Here are seven Napa Valley hotel pools that we love, whether you’re looking to lounge poolside in a cabana or float in healing thermal waters right outside your room.

A Countryside Retreat

Carneros Resort and Spa

When you check into the picturesque Carneros Resort and Spa, you’ll have not one but two pools to lounge beside during your stay. Enjoy panoramic views of farmland and grapevines at the serene adults-only pool, where private cabanas come complete with personalized service and extras like sparkling wine and appetizers. Or, make a day of it at the palm tree-lined pool near the fitness center, a family-friendly outdoor swimming pool fit for an afternoon of fun.

4048 Sonoma Highway, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 299-4900

An Adult Sanctuary

Alila Napa Valley

Hidden away within the grapevines of St. Helena, Alila Napa Valley offers guests a quiet pool from which to enjoy some pre- and post-wine tasting R&R. Sip world-class wine in a private cabana or simply lounge the days away poolside at this adults-only retreat. Not staying overnight? Alila Spa guests are also welcome to indulge in a dip after treatments, which is always a nice way to end a blissful spa day.

1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 531-7062

Vineyard Views

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Soak up the sun from The Meritage Resort’s heated pool, an adults-only pool with a hot tub and seasonal poolside service. Set against a backdrop of the resort’s hillside vineyard and underground spa cave, the pool makes it easy to embrace those vacation vibes year-round. Heading to the spa without a stay? The Meritage sometimes allows pool access for spa guests, based on availability.

875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 251-1900

Geothermal R&R

Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

In case the name doesn’t give it away, the main draw of this Calistoga getaway is its accessibility to hot springs. The hotel features four open-air geothermal mineral pools, including a soaking pool, lap pool, whirlpool, and kid-friendly wading pool, with water temperatures that range between 80 degrees and 104 degrees. Say hello to utter relaxation.

1006 Washington Street, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 942-6269

Sprawling Sophistication

Solage, An Auberge Resort & Spa

Flanked by palm trees and chaise lounges, the sprawling 130-foot pool at Solage epitomizes Wine Country chic. It’s a great place to soak up the California sun, but when you want to take advantage of the area’s geothermal waters, head to The Bathhouse, where mineral-rich waters are sure to soothe your troubles away.

755 Silverado Trail, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 266-7534

Contemporary Cool

Bardessono

A sun-drenched rooftop pool is the perfect place to savor the calming atmosphere of Bardessono, a LEED Platinum-certified hotel known for its sleek contemporary architecture and commitment to green initiatives. Take in views of Yountville as you sink into your lounge chair, cocktail in hand, and let all your worries fade away.

6526 Yount Street, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 204-6099

A Hillside Oasis

Poetry Inn

Nestled in the hills above Napa’s Silverado Trail, Poetry Inn is an intimate oasis offering spectacular views of the Napa Valley — and yes, even the outdoor pool showcases incredible vistas. Heated April through November, the pool is a peaceful place to spend a day in Wine Country, whether reading a book on a chaise lounge, catnapping in the poolside hammock, or sipping wine as the sun goes down. We have a feeling you’ll be embracing the slower pace of Napa Valley in no time.

6380 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 944-0646

There’s already enough to think about during the holidays, like who is hosting Christmas dinner? What stories are going to emerge from the office holiday party? Will it be ham, turkey, or tofurky this year? And just how “ugly” do they really mean when they say “ugly sweater party”?

With that in mind, we have removed the stress from what some feel is the biggest, scariest to-do this season: holiday gift shopping. We’ve searched high and low to compile the perfect round up of gift ideas for everyone on your list. And to make your holiday shopping even easier, our gift guide only features items that can be purchased online, so pour yourself a glass and get clicking.

Are you the kind of person who breaks into a cold sweat when someone mentions how many days there are until Christmas? Panics at the mere mention of “holiday shopping”? Fear not! We have created the most comprehensive holiday gift guide yet, packed with dozens of wine-themed gift ideas for the wine lover, the foodie, mom and dad, and even the pickiest, fussiest, most difficult-to-buy-for people on your list. And the best part? All of these items are available for purchase online. So, refill that wine glass and get shopping.

Your mother taught you to never show up empty-handed to someone else’s house. But instead of that dusty, off-vintage wine that’s probably on round five of the regifting circuit, why not bring one of those holiday gifts that you’d really like to keep for yourself?

1. Domaine Carneros Merry Cocktail – Domaine Carneros, $170 | This set not only features a bottle of Estate Brut Cuvée, it also includes gorgeous sparkling vintage coupes, a gold-brushed 4-piece bar set and shaker, gold rimming sugar, and a jar of French brandied Cherry Griottines. Sparkling wine cocktails, anyone?
2. Medlock Ames 2021 Garden Collection Gift Set – Medlock Ames, $150 | This gift set offers all the good things in life – a bottle of 2018 Kate’s & B’s Cabernet Sauvignon, their zippy estate-grown olive oil, and a jar of mixed berry jam all bundled up in a gorgeous Medlock Ames gift box.
3. Vera Wang PARTY Prosecco – VeraWangParty.com, $24.95 | Set the right tone for any holiday gathering when you show up with a bottle of this bright, fun, and fashion-forward bubbly.

If you’ve got someone on your list with a bad case of wanderlust, keep them grounded, while still indulging their jet-setting tendencies, with these wine-travel-themed gifts.

1. Napa Valley Framed Map – WineCountry Shop, $75 | A stylish addition to any wine lover’s wall, this detailed map of the famous Napa Valley wine region lays out over 400 wineries and 16 AVAs all printed on premium paper, matted, and framed with a choice of black, white, or natural frame.
2. Russian River Road Trip Gift Package – Papapietro Perry, $220 | Sip your way through the Russian River Valley and explore what makes this region so celebrated for its pinot noir without ever leaving home. This gift set includes three unique expressions of pinot noir, a wine opener, and some handmade Volo Chocolates.
3. WineCountry Experiences Gift Card – WineCountry Experiences, any amount | From activities like vineyard horseback rides to walking food tours, and more, this versatile gift lets the recipient choose their own Wine Country adventure.

These folks don’t just have wine bottles sitting in a rack on the counter. They are the ones with temperature- and humidity-controlled home cellars, library wine selections from all over the world, and a wine decanter for every varietal. Treat them to one of these gifts for the true connoisseur.

1. Classic Champagne Saber – WineCountry Shop, $129.99 | Add a little 19th century French showmanship to your wine service with this stainless steel Champagne saber with a polished wood handle.
2. Jordan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical Gift Set – Jordan Winery, $486 | Explore how great wines can develop in bottle with this six-wine gift set of Jordan’s iconic cabernet sauvignon. Includes one bottle each from the 2010 – 2015 vintages packaged in a gorgeous wood box.
3. Pio Cesare 2017 “Barolo Pio” – Wine.com, $85 | Not only is this elegant and age-worthy Barolo an Italian wine drinker’s dream, it is also a commemorative bottling in celebration of this iconic wine family’s 140-year anniversary.

Foodies are some of the best people to have in your life, and not just around Christmas or Hanukkah. Their movie nights include stovetop popped corn with hand-ground mixed spices and browned butter. They make a cheese board look better than an Instagram food stylist. And they’ve spent far too much money trying all the gourmet goodies from Goldbelly. This year, dazzle them with one of these culinary-themed holiday gifts (and hope they share).

1. Martini & Caviar Gift Set – Hanson of Sonoma Distillery, $200 | Not only does this kit include every foodie’s favorite indulgence – caviar (30 grams of Thomas Keller’s Regiis Ova Caviar, to be precise) – it also includes a bottle of Hanson’s small-batch organic vodka, two engraved stemmed glasses, one jar of Castelvetrano Olives (for those dirty martinis), a mother-of-pearl caviar spoon, a caviar key, and a recipe card.
2. Infused Oil Trio – Round Pond Estate, $109 | These gourmet olive oils – infused with garlic, rosemary, and lemon pepper – are perfect for drizzling as a final culinary touch, or for dipping a hunk of crusty bread along with your favorite bottle of Round Pond Estate wine.
3. Churro Fiesta in a Box – San Diablo Artisan Churros, $59.99 | The kid in all of us will love this DIY kit, which comes with nine churro nozzles, San Diablo’s award-winning dry churro mix, cinnamon sugar topper, Dulce de Leche in a reusable filling bottle, and other fun extras.

Whether it’s hiking, camping, picnicking, or just plain adventuring, outdoorsy people love a good excuse to get some fresh air. Now they can do so while also enjoying a tipple or two in style with these great gifts for the outdoor enthusiast in your life.

1. Landmark Vineyards Picnic Kit – Landmark Vineyards, $125 | A day outdoors doesn’t have to mean a day without wine! This thermoregulated canvas and willow tote holds a bottle of 2019 Overlook Chardonnay and Overlook Pinot Noir, a wine opener, a cheese knife, and a hardwood cutting board for the perfect picnic adventure.
2. Copper Still Distillery Chocolate Flavored Whisky – Great American Craft Spirits, $39.99 | We can’t think of a better way to warm up after a day of hiking or camping than sitting around the fire sipping some of this decadent whisky infused with pure chocolate nibs from the Dominican Republic. Delicious on its own, or mixed in with a cup of hot cocoa for a double treat.
3. Boxxle Premium Wine Preserver and Dispenser – Amazon, $98.99 | Liven up your campsite or backyard party with this stylish 3-liter wine dispenser, designed to hold your favorite bag-in-box wine selections for better preservation and proper countertop wine dispensing.

Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your dad, or – gasp! – the in-laws, finding the perfect gift for parents can be stressful. We’ve got you covered with these unique gift ideas for the parents who need a break from the kids, the mom who loves a killer martini, the future father-in-law you are desperate to impress, and all the grown-ups – kids or no kids – in between.

1. The Perfect Night In – Abbot’s Passage, $120 | Invite your loved one to relax for some good old-fashioned fun with this cozy gift set, featuring handmade Wolfum wooden dominos, an engraved corkscrew, and a bottle of the 2018 Makeshift Red Field Blend.
2. MotoDoffo 2017 Art Series Four Pack– Doffo Winery, $209 | Impress the wine and moto-enthusiast in your life with this collection of unique wines from Southern California’s Temecula Valley. Each label on this four-pack of wine features a vintage motorcycle hand-painted on a Post-It note by artist Doug Breuninger.
3. Kastra Elion Greek Martini Gift Basket – Pompei Gift Baskets, $150 | This gift set includes a bottle of the first premium sipping vodka distilled from Greek olives, as well as Dolin Vermouth, Krinos olives, a shaker, stirrer, two martini glasses, and an elegant wooden tray for serving the perfect dirty martini.

Obviously the toughest to shop for, these people force us to really get our creative juices flowing. Lucky for you, we’ve done the juicing for you with these totally unique gift ideas for those impossible recipients.

1. Covet Pass – Covet Pass, $150 | Turn your gift recipient into the ultimate Wine Country VIP with this first-of-its-kind pass that offers complimentary tastings at select California and Baja wineries, not to mention a ton of other hotel, travel, shopping, and experience perks.
2. “Rarest of Them All” HāLo Collector Gift Set – Trefethen, $240 | Trefethen’s rarest and most beloved cabernet sauvignon, named after Hailey and Lorenzo Trefethen, elegantly packaged in a branded wooden box is sure to impress even the pickiest gift recipient.
3. At-Home Wine Blending Kit – Rutherford Hill, $225 | Unleash someone’s inner winemaker with this hands-on wine blending kit, featuring a selection of small-format bottles of Rutherford Hill wines and all the tools to create, bottle, and label a totally custom wine blend.

Keep your friends close and your coworkers closer. This year, skip the paperweights and store-bought chocolates and win over your colleagues with these thoughtfully-curated drinks-themed gifts. Who knows – your boss may even reward you with a holiday bonus… for all your hard work, of course.

1. Cocktail Smoker Top Smoke Stack Kit – The Crafty Cocktail, $84.99 | Give the gift of creative mixology with this kit that includes everything one needs to add the mysterious smoke topper to a craft cocktail, like any good bartender these days should do.
2. VIADER 2018 “Black Label” – VIADER, $150 | If looking for a wine gift for your wine lover boss, this bottle delivers. You will win over anyone on or off the job with this opulent Napa Valley blend of estate-grown cabernet sauvignon, syrah, cabernet franc, and malbec.
3. Vinyl Lovers Gift Set – Tank Garage Winery, $65 | Your hippest coworker will love this throwback gift set, featuring a bottle of Forever Baby Rosé, a vinyl album curated by the Tank Garage team and “inspired by youthful optimism,” and a vinyl record coaster set.

We’ve all got one of these in our lives: The type that loves to lounge, regularly practices self-care rituals, and would much rather spend the night in with a luxurious bottle of wine and a great book than head out on the town. Treat them with these extra cozy gifts this holiday season.

1. Uma Stewart “go to cocktail” 11-oz Soy Wax Blend Candle – Uma Stewart, $65 | With 90 hours of burn time, this hand-poured candle offers heavy aromas of lime, ginger, and mint, calling to mind the drink that should be sipped alongside it.
2. Gratsi Bàcaro Wine Glasses & Playing Cards – Gratsi, $25 | A Bàcaro is a casual Italian wine bar where people sip wine and snack, which is exactly what the homebody will want to do with this adorable set… especially if you gift them a box of Gratsi’s Old Country Red for their new house red as well.
3. Sokol Blosser “Four a Big Celebration” Magnum Gift Set – Sokol Blosser, $250 | No one will have to leave the house with this four-pack of Magnums on-hand, including three vintages of the elegant Dundee Hills Pinot Noir and one of the Rosé (you know, for brunch the next day).

We’ve all found ourselves stuffing stockings with the usual wine stoppers, toys, and other pocket-sized gifts, only to realize we’ve got a long way to go before the stockings are filled. Top them up with these last-minute stocking stuffers and say “That’s a Wrap” to your holiday shopping.

1. Napa Valley Wine Train Gift Card – Napa Valley Wine Train, any amount | Lifelong memories come in small packages. Passengers journey through vineyards while enjoying gourmet California cuisine and private label wines aboard this restored train made up of early 20th century Pullman cars.
2. Library Box of Four Assorted Dark Chocolate Bars – Vine to Bar, $34.50 | These chocolate bars are the world’s first dark chocolate made from Chardonnay Marc – freshly-crushed grapes dried and milled – making them the perfect stocking-stuffer for the wine and chocolate-lover in your life.
3. Purifyou Glass Water Bottle – Purifyou, from $17.97 | Water (and wine) just taste better in glass. You can carry both in these sleek, eco-friendly glass bottles with protective silicone sleeves. A portion of sales also goes toward promoting sustainable living across the planet so you can feel even better about your gift-giving.

After a challenging 2020 that included not only a pandemic, but several devastating wildfires, Napa Valley should be at the top of your list for 2021 travel. In spite of the hardships, plenty of exciting new businesses — from restaurants and hotels to wineries and boutique shops — opened their doors recently to further diversify Napa’s world-class offerings in all things wine, food, and R&R.

While this Wine Country destination is unfortunately kicking off the new year under lockdown due to Covid-19, Napa Valley is expected to safely reopen to visitors by mid-to-late January and the time to start planning is now.

Please note: Napa County is currently under a stay-at-home order. Non-essential travel is prohibited, but hotels are accepting reservations for future stays. Please visit our Covid news page for more information and updates.

Stay

There are three new hotels for you to consider when booking your Napa Valley accommodations. Bann at Oak Knoll Napa is a sweet little bed and breakfast that looks nothing like any other hotel in the area. Formerly the Oak Knoll Inn, Bann is decorated to reflect the traditional design of homes found in three different regions in Thailand. Each room and suite is unique with bright colors and an array of fun textures, materials, and patterns. The property has decks and pergolas for lounging, a pool and spa, and offers complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea service.

Napa Valley’s northernmost and arguably-sleepiest town of Calistoga is in the middle of a renaissance, thanks in part to new, luxury hotels. One of Calistoga’s oldest resorts, Dr. Wilkinson’s, has just wrapped up a head-to-toe renovation and will be open for reservations starting mid-January. The resort dates back to 1952 and was allegedly the town’s original wellness resort that tourists sought out for relaxation in the spring-fed mineral pools and mud baths. Post-makeover, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs stays true to its roots — and the iconic neon sign remains — but now it’s all shiny, contemporary, and new with a totally-chic, reimagined spa and a restaurant, House of Better.

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley on the edge of downtown Calistoga (Take the Silverado Trail north from Napa until it ends) was set to open in 2020, but like many new businesses, they were delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The resort is now set to open in early 2021 and features a pool, spa, multiple dining options, and even a winery, run by top Napa Valley winemaker Thomas River Brown, who’s been awarded 23 100-point scores from wine critic Robert Parker throughout his career. When making your reservation, snag one of the vineyard view rooms — relaxing, light-filled accommodations complete with vaulted ceilings, in-room fireplaces, and stunning views of vineyards and the Palisades Mountains.

Sip

New Spots for Wine

There are a handful of new Napa Valley wineries to visit and taste at. Please note: these are all appointment-only. One of the most exciting new winery openings is Faust Haus, a four-year restoration project in an 1800s Victorian that sits on a hilltop overlooking Hwy 29. It’s the first-ever home for longtime Napa cabernet brand Faust Wines, which specializes in wines from Napa Valley’s up-and-coming Coombsville AVA. The views of the valley and vineyards below are unmatched, while the sophisticated, simple, and at times eclectic interior is a design lover’s dream. Make sure you check out the Prohibition-era cellar before you leave.

For a low key wine tasting of high-end vino, swing by the Oasis by Hoopes, which has stripped away all pomp and circumstance in favor of a more casual atmosphere featuring a regenerative farm, garden, airstreams, farm stand, and animal sanctuary (they’ve got a donkey, turkey, chickens, goats, and more).

BRION is unique in that the owner has recruited not one, but three rockstar Napa winemakers, each focused on crafting a single-vineyard cabernet sauvignon from a region of Napa Valley that they’re most familiar with. The winery and tasting room, which opened to visitors at the end of 2020, have been built into a carefully restored bank barn (one of just two remaining in California), offering a one-of-a-kind tasting experience that takes place far off the main road with a view of the estate vineyards.

In St. Helena, longtime family-owned wine brand Lang & Reed recently opened a new, cozy tasting salon just a block off the town’s Main Street. Lang & Reed does things differently, focusing on the production of cabernet franc and chenin blanc, two grape varieties you won’t find bottled by themselves too often in Napa Valley. Sit out on the quiet front porch of the tasting room and sip away the afternoon in the bucolic St. Helena, where you can also do some shopping and dining when you’re done.

Finally, BRAND Napa Valley isn’t technically new, but it does have new ownership, which unveiled a stunning winery and tasting room redesign in 2020. Located high up on Napa’s esteemed Pritchard Hill, this is definitely one of those off-the-beaten-path gems for fine wine lovers and collectors.

A Perfect Pairing

Salt and acid are scientifically proven to be a great culinary match and this concept has inspired a trio of Napa Valley wineries to experiment with a different kind of food and wine pairing experience. Shaking things up from the standard wine and cheese experiences in Wine Country, Shadowbox Cellars, Silver Trident Winery, and Markham Vineyards have all launched unique and super-casual wine and potato chip pairings. Each wine is carefully paired with a different flavored chip, like Dry Aged Ribeye or Hawaiian Red Sea Salt at Shadowbox.

New Wine Bars

There are two new wine bars in Napa and each is specifically catered to a certain type of wine lover. Bar Lucia in the Oxbow Public Market pours all things pink. Patrons can rosé all day year-round with more than a dozen of local, small production rosés produced several ways: still, sparkling, frozen, and sometimes in a can. There are a handful of whites and reds for those who are feeling more traditional and as for food, Bar Lucia has small plates like dips and charcuterie boards, salads, and sandwiches.

True to its name, Be Bubbly in downtown Napa proves that sparkling wine isn’t just for special occasions. The menu features bubbles from all over the globe — Champagnes, Proseccos, Cavas, and more — in a wide range of price points with small bites (caviar, charcuterie, cheesy sticks, etc.) to pair.

Something Different

If you need a palate cleanser during a Napa Valley visit, head to the new California Brandy House, which opened downtown at First Street Napa at the end of 2020. Sip through a flight of California’s luxury brandies made from California wine grapes — including single-barrel samples that you can’t get anywhere else — from producers Argonaut and Germain-Robin. You can even take home a custom-engraved bottle to enjoy throughout the rest of the year (or give as a gift).

Eat

EmpressM, a new, fine-dining dim sum and Chinese restaurant, offers traditional dishes that celebrate the “eight regional cuisines,” including Peking Duck, Sichuan Spicy Fish, and Mongolian Lamb Chops. Dim sum plates include vegetarian options like spinach, snow pea, and mushroom dumplings, seafood, and more adventurous bites, like chicken feet.

EmpressM is just down the way from La Cheve, a Mexican bakery, brewery, and restaurant that opened this past summer inside Napa’s oldest building, an adobe that dates back to 1845. The beer is brewed in-house by owner Cinthya Cisneros, and her mother, Mama Juana, makes all of the pastries, including ones with booze in them.

For a quick, yet fulfilling bite between tastings, grab some authentic, Argentine empanadas from El Porteño in flavors like Carne, La Maradona (tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella), and Esparragos (asparagus, roasted red peppers, Gouda). El Porteño built up a loyal following at the Ferry Building in San Francisco and is now the newest vendor at the Oxbow Public Market with its second brick and mortar.

While Napa Valley is known to be sleepy and limited on nightlife, a new card room and restaurant is opening to kick-off 2021 with a little more action. Operating outside (for now), Ace & Vine will stay open until 2 a.m. and feature Blackjack, Texas Holdem, and Baccarat tables. Food and drinks can be ordered from The Deck, serving up Asian and comfort food fusion dishes like lobster fish and chips, a dim sum-style steamed salmon basket, and the Nam Tok Burger with spicy pork belly and papaya slaw.

In the spring, the Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa will open its new restaurant called Fleetwood, specializing in original craft cocktails and farm-to-table, wood-fired pizzas — which hotel guests can even order poolside — like Potato Leek with taleggio, bacon, chili flake, and parmesan or the Roasted Chicken with garlic cream, asparagus, pepperoncini, lemon, and herbs. For dessert, there’s even a 9-inch wood fire cookie.

Shop

First Street Napa, a high-end, outdoor shopping area full of boutique local retailers, continues to grow and evolve in downtown Napa. There’s a slew of new shops — 13 to be exact — that opened in 2020, making this destination worthy of an afternoon visit (there are plenty of restaurants and tasting rooms there, plus hotels, too). Notable newcomers include Honey Whiskey, I-Elle, and Tay & Grace clothing boutiques, Riza Plants, and Paint Nail Bar. There are some nationally-known brands to shop as well, and First Street Napa just announced that Anthropologie will be opening in mid-2021.

With so many new and beautiful wineries, restaurants, shops, and hotels to explore in Napa Valley Wine Country, this is the perfect destination for dipping your toes back in the travel game after a long year away.