Few places in the world offer a better travel experience for wine lovers than a visit through California’s Napa Valley.   The Napa Valley has become a global destination to experience some of the worlds finest wines, beautiful winery properties and gourmet fine dining restaurants.  The Napa Valley (from South to North) comprises not only the town of Napa, but includes Yountsville, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Calistoga. Each town could represent an entire weeks exploration to experience the numerous wineries and restaurants of the area.  However, since most travelers will only have a few days to explore the valley we’ve assembled a collection of recommended stops in the sub-appellations in greater detail.

First on our travel plans is a visit through beautiful St. Helena and Spring Mountain.

Duckhorn Winery
1000 Lodi Lane – St. Helena, California 94574
Phone:  (888) 354-888

One of Napa’s most iconic estates, Duckhorn Vineyards have been among the finest and most influential producers in Napa history. The Duckhorn name has become associated with quality wines crafted from Bordeaux varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  The estate is tucked away on the valley floor, in a tranquil and almost isolated setting.  The line up of incredible wines, surrounding vineyards and amazing tasting experience make Duckhorn a must visit.  The premium tour and tasting includes a collection of their single vineyard wines along with artisan cheese pairings for each of the wines.

St. Clement Vineyards

St. Clement Winery
2867 St. Helena Highway North
St. Helena, CA 94574
Phone: (866) 877-5939

The charming Victorian setting of St. Clement Vineyards make it a great stop on your tour around St. Helena. The winery produces a Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and their signature Orropas Blend. The wines of award-winning female winemaker Danielle Cyrot, demonstrate restrained power with the depth and strength that have made Napa Valley wines so popular, but with soft polished edges that also make the wines elegant and not over powering.  Enjoy a tasting from the stone terrace or buy a glass of wine as you relax on the front porch of the winery.

Salvestrin Winery
397 Main Street – St. Helena, CA 94574
Phone: (707) 963-5105

In order to properly experience St. Helena and Spring Mountain, it is important to make time to stop at a few smaller family owned wineries that produce outstanding wines. One of our favorites is Salvestrin Vineyard & Winery. A small farm-house style winery with a tasting bar and casually comfortable outdoor patio at the base of their vineyards provide a cozy setting to enjoy a collection of delicious wines.  We recommend their single vineyard estate Sauvignon Blanc and Retaggio – blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.  This is the perfect stop if you’re looking for a place sit back, kick your feet up and enjoy a few glasses of great wine without pretense.

Schweiger Vineyards
4015 Spring Mtn. Rd.
St. Helena, CA 94574
Phone: (877) 963-4882

Schweiger Family Vineyards – Spring Mountain

Perched high a top Spring Mountain, Schweiger Family Vineyards provides a picturesque setting with sweeping views of St. Helena.  To get to the winery you will have to navigate miles of winding roads as you climb your way up Spring Mountain Rd. Along the journey you will pass several famous Spring Mountain neighbors such as Pride, Terra Valentine and Barnett Vineyards.   As you arrive at the winery a line up of handcrafted Chardonnay,  Merlot,  Cabernet Sauvignon and their Dedication (proprietary blend) reward you for your visit.  Incredible wines served with an unforgettable view and family hospitality make Schweiger Vineyards one of our recommended stops in the area.

Please share your experience and recommendations with us.  We want to hear your stories and your suggestions in discovering new favorite wineries to visit for future adventures in the valley. Cheers!