Wineries

With so many wineries in the area, and you can find just the style of win you like. We prefer local and family-owned wineries rather that those owned by a large International conglomerate. Wines are more authentic and you’re supporting the local growers. Some of our recent favorites for full bodied reds are Hall Vineyards in Rutherford for its spectacular Cabernets and red blends. Begun by Katherine Hall, ambassador to Austria in the Clinton administration, the tasting includes an extensive tour of the huge wine caves and the Hall’s extensive art collection.

Quintessa, also located in Rutherford, is one of the most beautiful wineries with its gravity-fed cellars and numerous vineyards along and above its own a lake. It’s unique in their practice of biodynamic farming. They’re known for their Bordeaux-like Meritage blend that’s truly spectacular.

Kelham, a small family-owned winery in nearby St. Helena, has a number of varietals, including Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Savignon Blanc that are delicious. The tasting is conducted in the family’s home, where there’s an exhibit of unique art made from the foil of wine bottles.

Miner Family Winery is in Oakville, the town just north of Yountville. It has a wide variety of wines that offer some of the best values at affordable prices. I’m always surprised to see how many different red and white varietals they produce from this family run business.

All wineries except Miner require reservations and charge a tasting fee that’s often waived with a purchase. These tastings are generally 1 ½ to 2 hours and well worth the charge.

Napa or Sonoma? Tell Phil and Peter your favorite wine country spots.

To read more about California wine country, check out:

• Suzy Gershman’s adventures in Napa in The Bottle Blogs
• Suzy Gershman’s Postcard of the Kitchen’s and Chefs of California Wine Country
• Wine Boot Camp Chronicles
• Napa and Sonoma too expensive…consider Wine Tasting in Mendocino, California