Napa Valley: The Dream Destination for Wine Lovers

Napa Valley offers a world of amazing experiences for wine lovers. Wine lessons, tasting sessions and vineyard tours promise an unforgettable trip.

Each year nearly three million wine lovers visit Napa Valley California to taste wines, tour vineyards and learn about their favorite grapes. The unforgettable experience offered by this lush, enticing valley keeps both connoisseurs and the novice coming back for more.

A Valley Rich In Wine History

In 1839 settler George Calvert Yount took note of the wild grapes growing in abundance around the area of Napa Valley and decided to plant his own grapes. It did take long for other pioneers like John Patchett and Hamilton Walker Crabb to follow Yount’s lead by introducing vits vinifera grapes to the area. The first commercial winery was established in 1861 by Charles Krug and sparked a new wave of growth in the Valley. By 1889 more than 140 wineries were operating in the area.

The turn of the 20^th century, however, brought many challenges to the Valley’s vintners. More than 80% of the valley’s acreage suffered a blow from the arrival of the destructive root louse, a pest of vines, which caused industry prices to plummet. In 1920 the Prohibition was enacted, and vineyards and wineries were abandoned for the next 14 years.

When the Prohibition ended in 1933, Napa Valley began a slow recovery – a period which developed many great figures and mentors in the history of wine in the valley. The 1940s marked another monumental point in Napa Valley history as early vintners agreed to work together and signed the Agreement of Association that formed that Napa Valley Vintners trade association. This association now has over 525 wineries.

Where to Wine, Dine, Doze and Discover

On your trip to Napa Valley, these wineries, hotels and activities are sure to be a highlight in your unforgettable adventure.

1. Beaulieu Vineyards

Founded in 1900, Beaulieu is one of the oldest wineries in the valley. Taste the famous fine reserve wines like the George de Latour Cabernet Sauvignon, or, for $25, spend time in the George de Latour Private Reserve Room and taste five very special wines.

1. Napa Valley Wine Trolley

This six-hour tour visits four wineries across the valley, allowing you to enjoy the scenery, smells and tastes of world-class vineyards like never before. The tour includes water, sodas and lunch from a popular chef.

1. Solage Calistoga

This five-star resort in Napa Valley allows guests to rediscover fun in the middle of the breathtaking mountain ranges. Relax in private studio accommodations, get pampered in the world famous Spa Solage, and sip creative beverages at the Michelin Star-rated Solbar.

1. Beringer Vineyards

Built on more than 130 years of winemaking tradition, Beringer Vineyards is the region’s oldest continuously operating winery. Tour the expansive grounds, taste the Reserve and Single Vineyard wines in a stained-glass oasis and visit the Old Winery to taste fruit-driven, medium-bodied wines. Take a 30- or 60-minute tour and explore caves, family history and the winemaking process.

1. NapaStyle Cooking Classes

Hosted by Napa Valley chefs and vintners, they teach guests how to cook NapaStyle with some of the best tastemakers in the business. Celebrate extraordinary meals, entertaining tips and personal recipe secrets.

1. Meadowood Napa Valley

Settled on a private estate in St. Helena, Meadowood Luxury Resort is a center of social, cultural and viticultural life in Napa Valley. It’s an oasis for guests who enjoy the beauty and hospitality of wine country and reflects the bygone era and timeless aura of the valley. With croquet lawns, tennis courts, a golf course, hiking trails, swimming pools, a health spa, wine education program and eight-five cottages, suites and lodges nestled on this fifty-acre property, Meadowood is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Napa Valley experience. 

What are you waiting for? Book your trip to Napa Valley today and experience wine country like never before.