Travel Week... the Wineries of Napa Valley

The Napa Valley is made up of more that 400 wineries. Many family owned, many quite small, there is something for everyone here.  Here are a few of my most favorite.   

Elizabeth Spencer

1165 Rutherford Road, Rutherford

Housed in the old town Post Office, Elizabeth Spencer is a charming winery, with a friendly staff and welcoming outdoor patio.
Wine recommendation:  2011 Elizabeth Spencer Rosé of Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast


Duckhorn Vineyards
1000 Lodi Lane, St. Helena

Founded in the late 70s, Duckhorn, is one of the leading producers of Bordeaux and varietal blends in the area.  What makes Duckhorn stand out, in my book, is that they offer a Food & Wine pairing.  Not only do they teach you about why certain wines work with certain foods, they also give you recipes.  
Wine recommendation: 2005 Duckhorn Vineyards Howell Mountain Red Wine

Pride Mountain Vineyards
4026 Spring Mountain Road, St. Helena

Pride is a beautiful wooden-beamed estate at the top of a, some might say, treacherous twisty road uphill from St. Helena.  Once you arrive you are overwhelmed with pure beauty - rolling hills, nature, and perfect rows of grapes that seem to go on forever.  A highlight of any visit to Pride is visiting the caves.  The caves are situated right on the Napa/Sonoma boarder, there is a line drawn on the floor, separating the two counties.  Once inside the caves, visitors can 'barrel taste', using a wine thief, you draw wine directly from the barrel.  

Wine recommendation:  2009 Pride Mountain Vineyards Viognier

Ma(i)sonry

6711 Washington Street, Yountville

Literally meaning 'a setting in which people come to be inspired by all things aesthetic', Ma(i)sonry blends art and home decor with limited edition boutique wines, namely from the Blackbird Vineyards portfolio.  The stone facade was built as a private residence in 1904, it is now listed on the National Registrar of Historical Places.    

There is also a large outdoor space with a fire-pit and throw blankets for tastings (or private events) outside.  

Wine recommendation: 2010 Blackbird Vineyards Arise

Ram's Gate Winery

28700 Arnold Drive, Sonoma

Ram's Gate is the epitome of a welcoming hostess in Sonoma, it is the first winery upon entering Sonoma from the Bay Area.  Set atop a small hill, the house is composed of floor to ceiling windows, slate floors, numerous fire places and a center courtyard.  The thoughtful staff has tote bags with blankets prepared for guests to walk the property with their wine.  

Wine recommendation:  2010 Ram's Gate Pinot Noir, Carneros

images courtesy of each vineyard