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Chilly Chic & Cabernet Ready: Your Ultimate Napa Winter Packing List (Mustard Season Edition!)
Think Napa is only for sundresses and rosé? Think again! Winter in the Valley—or 'Cabernet Season'—is a hidden gem of misty vineyard mornings, cozy fireside tastings, and the vibrant yellow Mustard Bloom. As a native Californian who’s explored Napa in every season, I’m sharing my tried-and-true packing secrets to help you stay effortlessly chic (even in 40-degree weather). From the secret to wearing skirts in the cold to the $18 rain boots that saved my trip, here is exactly how to master the 'Wine Country Chic' look this winter.
Wine Country Winter: The Ultimate Packing List for a Luxury Napa Getaway
Napa Winter Outfit Idea: Sweater. Skirt, Tights, and Booties
Forget everything you thought you knew about what to wear in Napa Valley. While everyone else is picturing sundresses and rosé, you, my smart traveler, are about to discover the absolute magic of Napa in winter! Think cozy firesides, fewer crowds, rich Cabernet Sauvignons, and vineyards painted vibrant yellow by wild mustard flowers. It’s gorgeous!
But here’s the thing: "winter in California" isn't quite what most travelers might imagine, spoken from a native Californian. It’s mild, yes, but it can also be misty, muddy, and surprisingly chilly. So, if you're dreaming of a sophisticated winter escape to wine country, the biggest question isn't which Cabernet to sip, but what in the world to pack?!
Don’t fret, sweet escapist! They say fourth time is a charm, so I’m practically a local! After visiting Napa multiple times, I've bundled up all my secrets, tried-and-tested tips, and "oops, wish I'd brought that" moments into your ultimate Napa Winter Packing List. Get ready to be effortlessly chic, perfectly comfortable, and totally prepared for everything from a misty morning vineyard stroll to a cozy Michelin-starred dinner.
Related Post: If you’re heading to Napa, check out our ULTIMATE NAPA TRAVEL GUIDE with hotel, winery, and restaurant recommendations!
Christmas outfit for Wine Tasting in Winter in Napa
The Golden Rules of Napa Winter Packing (Before We Dive In!):
Layers, Layers, Layers: This isn't just a suggestion; it's the law in Napa winter. Morning fog can give way to afternoon sun, only to drop sharply as dusk settles.
The Winter Reality: Temps in St. Helena/Yountville usually hover around 55°F during the day but drop to the high 30s at night. * Pro Tip: wine caves and barrel rooms are naturally chilled (around 55-60°F year-round), so layers are non-negotiable even if it feels sunny outside.
The Vibe: It’s not "red carpet" and it’s not "farmhand." It’s Wine Country Chic.
Comfortable Chic is Key: You'll be walking, standing, and potentially even getting a little muddy. No sacrificing comfort for style here!
Weather App is Your BFF: Always check the forecast a few days before you go, but remember rule #1 – layers will save you from any surprises.
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What’s in my suitcase Napa Winter edition
Your Essential Napa Winter Wardrobe: Look Fab, Feel Warm! Outerwear that Works (and Wows!):
The "Statement Coat": Since it’s Christmas, a classic wool wrap coat or a tailored trench is the hero of your photos.
My coat has a hood and is waterproof (hello, mist!), effortlessly chic, and perfect for layering over everything. It instantly elevates any outfit.
A Cozy Wool or Cashmere Wrap/Pashmina:
Why it's a must: Essential for those chilly wine cave tours (they’re usually around 55 degrees all year, but feel colder in winter!) and for adding an extra layer of warmth over dinner. Plus, it’s super stylish!
Planning your route? Check out Where to Stay, Sip, and Snack: A Curated 3-Day Winter Guide to Yountville & St. Helena!
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Tops & Bottoms: Smart & Stylish Layers
Long-Sleeve Blouses/Tops (1):
Why it's a must: Think silk blouses, fine-gauge knit tops, or elegant merino wool. They layer beautifully under sweaters or jackets.
Cashmere or Fine Knit Sweaters (2-3):
Why it's a must: For that ultimate cozy-chic vibe. Perfect for tasting rooms or a relaxed dinner.
Dark Wash Jeans (1-2 pairs):
Why it's a must: A well-fitting pair of dark jeans can absolutely be dressed up for wine tasting. Stick to slim or straight-leg styles.
Stylish Trousers (1 pair):
Why it's a must: Think wool blend, tailored wide-leg, or even a chic black ponte knit. Great for a nicer dinner or when you want a break from denim.
Midi Skirt or Dress (1):
Why it's a must: For a more feminine look. Pair with fleece-lined tights (your secret weapon!) and knee-high boots.
Fleece-Lined Leggings/Tights (1 pair):
Why it's a must: Trust me on this one! Wear them under skirts, dresses, or even under trousers on super cold (40 degrees) days. You'll thank me.
Shoes: Where Function Meets Fashion (Crucial for Winter!)
Waterproof Fashion Booties: Why it's a must: THIS IS YOUR MOST IMPORTANT SHOE. Vineyard paths can get muddy after winter rains, and you don’t want to ruin your favorite suede. Choose a comfortable pair with a block heel or flat.
Brands to look for: Blondo, Aquatalia, Sorel, or even a chic pair of Dr. Martens. Don’t judge my $18 rain boots from Target!
Comfortable Flats or Loafers:
Why it's a must: For indoor tastings, gallery browsing, or just giving your feet a break from boots.
Dressier Heels (Optional, 1 pair):
Why it's a must: If you’re planning a fancy dinner (like The French Laundry or Auberge du Soleil), bring one pair of comfortable block heels or wedges. I brought block booties. Leave the stilettos at home—Napa sidewalks are not kind!
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Winter Napa Outfit Idea: Gold Crossbody Kate Spade Bag, White sequin Sweater, pink Trousers, and black rain boots
| Location | The Vibe | Suggested Outfit |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Yountville | Elevated & Chic | Trench coat, silk blouse, dark denim, and waterproof booties. |
| St. Helena Vineyard | Cozy & Rustic | Fine knit sweater, pashmina wrap, and those $18 rain boots! |
| Michelin Dinner | Pure Luxury | Midi skirt, fleece-lined tights, and block-heel booties. |
| Wine Cave Tour | Subterranean Chill | A heavy wrap or statement coat—it's 55°F in there! |
Accessories: The Finishing Touches
Warm Scarf & Gloves:
Why it's a must: For those crisp morning walks or when sipping wine outdoors on a chilly patio.
Crossbody Bag:
Why it's a must: Hands-free is the way to be for carrying your essentials, tasting notes, and phone.
Sunglasses:
Why it's a must: Even in winter, the California sun can be bright!
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Cozy quarter Zip on Arrival Travel DAy - Napa Winter Outfit Idea
Beyond the Clothes: Napa Winter Essentials
Portable Power Bank: You’ll be taking so many photos of the mustard fields!
Lip Balm & Moisturizer: The dry indoor heat and crisp outdoor air can be tough on skin.
Electrolyte Packets: For staying hydrated (and recovering from all that delicious wine!).
Travel Umbrella: Just in case! Better safe than soggy.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated between tastings!
Wine Stain Remover Wipes (Optional, but Smart!): Shout Wipes or Wine Away are lifesavers for unexpected spills.
Airtags/Tile: If you're checking a bag or plan to ship wine home, these are brilliant for peace of mind.
What to LEAVE at Home (Especially in Winter!):
Open-Toe Shoes/Sandals: Unless you're strictly staying indoors, your toes will freeze and get dirty.
Light-Colored Suede Shoes: Mud and wine are not their friends.
Anything "Too Casual": Think gym clothes (unless you're actually going to a gym!), ripped tees, or overly worn sneakers for tasting rooms.
Stilettos: Save them for Vegas. Napa's charm is its relaxed elegance.
Beanies, gloves, etc. most wine tours and tastings are inside. We would walk from the car to the winery or restaurant and back. I wouldn’t waste the packing space for those unless you really want to hang outside for long periods of time.
Suitcase: Winter outfit packing essentials for wine tasting in Napa
Ready to Rock Napa's Winter Wonderland?
Packing for Napa in winter doesn't have to be a puzzle. With this list, you'll be prepared for any weather, looking effortlessly stylish, and ready to dive into the unique charm of Cabernet Season and the vibrant Mustard Bloom.
So, grab your trench, pack those booties, and get ready for an unforgettable, cozy, and delicious escape. Napa’s winter magic is calling!
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What are your favorite winter packing tips? Share them in the comments below!
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Hotel Review: Andaz Napa - Our favorite hotel in Downtown Napa!
We found our new favorite place to stay in Napa! We fell in love with the Andaz Napa, charming us with their boutique-style hotel and large guest rooms! Located in Downtown Napa, it was close to plenty of shops and restaurants. See our ratings and why we loved it so much!
Andaz Napa is our favorite hotel to stay, located in the heart of Downtown Napa!
We typically head to Napa for my birthday and when we last went with my family, we stayed at the Andaz located in downtown Napa, the perfect location for shopping, dining, and WINE.
Evaluation (out of 5)*:
Hotel: Andaz Napa (Hyatt Family)
Address: 1450 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
Location: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: $$$$ (always check Booking.com first!)
Average Room Size: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(HUGE)
Cleanliness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Staff: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dining Options: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quietness in Room: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bed Comfort Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(soft pillowtop but firm enough)
*It’s always hard to judge other people’s opinions when you don’t know them, right? I like nice, clean hotels that are close to public transpo or an area close to main restaurants and attractions. I’m a fairly light sleeper and like softer beds. We typically like to use points for one or two nights and pay for more if we need to.
Looking for something more budget-friendly? We also liked this Bed and Breakfast: The Cabernet House
Lobby and Staff at the Andaz Napa
Andaz Napa Lobby
The lobby was really cute and had great living room setups. We spent some time here since there were 6 of us. As we were checking-in, we were offered a complimentary glass of wine from a local winery! What a way to welcome! The staff was very accommodating and the valet took our luggage to our rooms. As it rains often in Northern California, there were large umbrellas by the door to borrow for the day. That was one less thing to pack… or forget to pack!
Right off the lobby, there was a lovely bar, Mercantile Social, which we would visit nightly. They also offer farm-fresh seasonal foods, from salads and smoothies to grass-fed beef burgers. Yum.
Napa Andaz Lobby Bar - Mercantile Social
Check out our favorite wineries to visit: 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries
Inside the Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa
I fell in love with the room! We didn’t have an upgrade but we felt like we did! Our boutique type room was large and had a living room/seating area with a fireplace diving the room with the bedroom on the other side. The fireplace could be seen from both sides. The furniture was modern and I felt like I was in a West Elm catalog. Also, notice the wood floors!? I worried we’d hear people above us, but it was pretty quiet!
The beds were very comfortable and cosy by the fireplace. I guarantee a great sleep after a day of drinking. ;-) I thought it was a little strange for the bath tub to be next to the bed, but it was nice that you could see the fireplace or even watch TV while enjoying a warm bath. Other rooms have the tub near the window.
Guest Rooms at the Andaz Napa have large tubs
Or the bathtub is located by the window
Guest Room Bathrooms
My fave, the Bathroom Selfie
The bathroom was an ideal size for 2 people! 2 sinks with long counters gave me plenty of space to do my hair and make-up while Josh brushed his teeth. I liked the marble rain shower and the wood bench/seat to dry off on. I found it odd to put wood in a shower but the aesthetic was pretty!
Mercantile Terrace
I thoroughly enjoyed our drinks on the second-floor terrace. We sat outside under some lovely warm heat lamps (it was December after all) and enjoyed some specially crafted cocktails. There are also cozy fire-pits or cabanas to sit and enjoy selections from a farm-to-table menu of locally sourced light bites. Even the cocktails had locally sourced ingredients!
Mercantile Terrace
Final Evaluation
Overall, this 4-star hotel checks all the boxes. I appreciated their use of locally sourced ingredients at their bars and restaurants. Although it is a little pricey, the downtown location and room size make it worth it! We’d definitely come back!
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
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Wine Tasting in Napa and Sonoma Weekend Itinerary with map!
After multiple trips to Napa, we’ve come up with the perfect weekend itinerary! See where to go wine tasting in the Napa Valley and Sonoma County region. We also have suggestions where to stay and our favorite restaurants for some grub! #napa #wine #winetasting
Where to go Wine Tasting in Napa and Sonoma - map included
For my 31st birthday, I couldn't decide what I wanted to do. Gathering all my friends at a loud bar doesn't have the same ring as it did when I was 21. People told me I would slow down at some point, but I think I've just figured out better use of my time. ;-) So Josh and I decided to explore wine country! Now we go back every year for my birthday!
Related Post: Planning a trip to Napa? Start with our Napa Valley Travel Guide for hotel, restaurant, winery recommendations and more!
Here’s my map that I made to see which vineyards/wineries (Instagrammable for sure) I wanted to go to:
Getting to NorCal Wine Country from Los Angeles
We just did a weekend getaway leaving Los Angeles late Friday night and coming back late Sunday afternoon. Since it was a such a quick trip, we decided to stay in Santa Rosa and Napa instead of San Francisco because the commute to San Francisco is about an hour each way.
Oakland had cheaper and more desirable flights times on Southwest, so of course we used points and our companion pass that we earned with points. We got a decent rate on a rental car from Alamo and by 9:30p on Friday night, we were on a crazy rainy road to Santa Rosa.
There was a toll bridge for $5 which was well worth not driving the extra hour or so that google maps suggested to avoid toll roads. It took us about an hour to get to Santa Rosa from Oakland (not bad)!
RESTAURANT & BREWERY: Third Street Ale Works
Address: 610 3rd St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
We drove straight to the Third Street Aleworks before it closed for a bite to eat (and maybe a beer or two). It reminded me of a grungier BJ's Brewery, with a bigger selection of their own brews made in-house. For a little over $20 they brought out their taster collection of 18 beers in 4-ounce glasses. I, of course, liked the IPA's and made Josh drink everything else, especially the sours.
Where to Stay in Santa Rosa, Sonoma County
HOTEL: Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country
Address: 170 Railroad Street, Santa Rosa, California, USA, 95401
We checked into our hotel for the night, the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country which had been renovated recently. The lobby had a lodge feel with a beautiful Christmas tree in the center of the room. They even had warm apple cider for guests! The hotel rooms were very modern and beds were pretty comfortable. Had a perfect night sleep for a full day of drinking.
See our full review here: HOTEL REVIEW: Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country
RESTAURANT & BREWERY: Russian River Brewery
Address: 725 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
The next day, we were contemplating on going to breakfast or getting in line for the Russian River Brewery. We went RRB! Business opens at 11a and there was already a line for people to run in and get their Pliny the Elder supply for the weekend. We couldn't decide what beers to get so we decided to taste them all (it was cheapest that way, at least that's how we looked at it). It's 5 o'clock somewhere.
We consumed Pliny the Elder, Belgian Sours, IPAs, all before noon! After some tasters, some pizza bites (they were so good), and a purchase of 12 bottles or so, we left satisfied and happy.
PRO TIP: we brought bubble wrap and a wine travel case to bring back on the flight, which meant we had to check our carry-on but it was worth it!
Best Wine Tasting at Santa Rosa Wineries
See our full post of our favorite Sonoma County Wineries here: Best Wineries to Visit in Sonoma
WINERY: Korbel Champagne Cellars
Address: 13250 River Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446
Reservations Required?: Nope, but click here for their free tour hours!
Cost?: $ FREE! That's right, free tastings! No purchase required!
Food?: There is a little cafe that has snacks and sandwiches.
Champagne is my favorite type of wine and you can always find a bottle of Korbel in my fridge! For over 135 years, Korbel has mastered making the perfect bottle of champagne. Free tours are offered throughout the day and FREE wine tasting are provided in their tasting room.
Afterwards, we went to my favorite place in the land of a trillion bubbles, Korbel Champagne Cellars. Apparently, their Natural champagne has been served at the celebratory presidential inaugurations since 1981 and the actual winery has been in existence for over 132 years.
Korbel offers 4 complimentary champagne tastings. Beware of their red Rouge champagne. It's different. They even have an organic champagne!
They also offer tours but we didn't really care to walk around the grounds for hours (it was cold), we had other places to explore and it was getting dark fast.
WINERY: Kendall-Jackson Winery
Address: 5007 Fulton Road, Fulton, CA 95439
TASTING COUPON: Click here to print a Two for One Tasting Coupon for our Estate Tasting. Offer available for up to 4 guests.
Reservations Required?: Nope
Cost?: $$ Wine flights range from $15-25 - try their Stature!
Food?: Wine and Food pairing available by Appt or there is always a chocolate or cheese pairing available.
Our next stop was the Kendall-Jackson Winery. We almost skipped it but it's one of my Dad's favorite wines, so we had to get him a bottle or something for Christmas. We stepped up to start tasting and looked at all their different options. We explained to our host how we'd like to get a special bottle and he recommended the Stature Chardonnay which was $100 a bottle and probably the best Chardonnay I've ever had. Compared to their everyday Chardonnay, the Stature was smooth, fruity and had a rich taste. We ended up buying a bottle for my Dad and signed him up for their wine club for the year!
KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY
Josh and I are a bigger fan of red wine, especially Cabernet Sauvignon, so we asked what was the best of the 8 or so that they offered. Of course their Stature version was the best, but we were looking for a more affordable price point. We ended up loving the Hawkeye Cabernet which had a deep cherry taste with some Earth taste to give it full body. We ended up liking it so much and because we signed up for the wine club, we bought 6 bottles and 2 of the Stature!
It was getting dark and late, so we drove to our hotel in Napa to take a nap-a. Haha ;-)
NIGHT APPROACHING KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY
Where to Stay in Downtown Napa Valley
BED AND BREAKFAST: Cabernet House - Old World Inn $$
Cabernet House, Old World Inn is the best place to stay in Napa, California. Not only is it affordable, but their prime location gives you access to everything - restaurants, shops, and of course wine tasting rooms! Their rooms have different themes, my favorite was the Starlight Room which had a skylight above the bed!
See our full review on the Cabernet House here: HOTEL REVIEW: CABERNET HOUSE
HOTEL: River Terrace Inn - A Noble House Hotel $$
Address: 1600 Soscol Ave Napa, California, 94559
The location of the River Terrace Inn was perfect. Located in downtown Napa Valley, walking distance from restaurants and shopping, and also along the river. The only problem was the walls of the room were a little thin, but if you have enough wine, you won't notice. They had a great outdoor area with wine and fire pits!
Andaz Napa Hotel
HOTEL: Andaz Napa - Hyatt $$$$
Address: 1450 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
The Andaz Napa is designed like a boutique hotel and doesn’t look like your typical Hyatt property. Located in the heart of Downtown Napa, this gorgeous hotel is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. The rooms are large with a cozy fireplace separating the living room and bedroom.
See our full review on the Andaz Napa here: HOTEL REVIEW: ANDAZ NAPA
Restaurants in Napa, California
RESTAURANT: TORC
Address: 140 Main St, Napa, CA 94559
Their wine selection was full of great choices including many from the local wineries and their food was very farm to table from local farmers prepared in an open kitchen that is part of the restaurant. We sat at the bar and enjoyed some cocktails, jamon (cured ham) and cheese. For dinner, we enjoyed an amazing steak, mac n cheese, pork, and some excellent ice cream for dessert (of course).
I made our reservation about a month in advance through Opentable.
RESTAURANT: COLE'S CHOP HOUSE
Address: 1122 Main St, Napa, CA 94559
We love a good steakhouse, Cole's Chop House, was our kinda place! I made the reservation about 2 weeks in advance through Opentable. Ribeye steaks topped with sides of a delicious Red Wine Veal Reduction sauce and the Peppercorn Sauce along with a side of Yukon Gold Mashed potatoes, were the ticket here.
Not to mention a very sweet Birthday dessert - brownie sundae with caramel gelato. Mmmmm.
RESTAURANT: JAX DINER
Address: 1122 1st St, Napa, CA 94559
For brunch, we went somewhere to get a big breakfast and we were successful. Jax had amazing beignets covered with powdered sugar as well as free tater tots if you showed the coupon on Yelp. So we got both of course on top of their special of the day on the chalkboard: Bacon Eggs Benedict (which you would think you couldn't have enough bacon, this was a little over the top, delicious but filling).
We also got the French toast bites but they were more of a crouton consistency instead of bread like.
You're probably thinking, how many people came to breakfast? Oh, just the two of us. Smart thing we did was take some of the food to go to eat after wineries. ;-)
Favorite Wineries for Wine Tasting in Napa
I recommend picking 3 wineries to stop at on your last day. This way you can spend some quality time at each one and enjoy your tastings!
BEAUTIFUL FALL IN NAPA
ME: WHAT IS THAT? JOSH: A BUNNY WITH A LIGHTSABER. DUH!
Bunny Foo Foo with a Star Wars Lightsaber at Hall Winery in Napa Valley
WINERY: Hall Wines - Wine Tasting Room
Address: 401 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574 (St Helena Location)
Reservations Required?: Not required but recommended
Cost?: $$$ Tastings: $40, Tours starting at $40
Food?: Not really
I was excited for Hall since they specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon, winning many awards for their 100 point cabs! Also, not going to lie, I love bunny foo foo, especially when he is holding a light saber (Star Wars was released in theaters that weekend). Speaking of, they had amazing art throughout the winery, in the gardens, in the tasting room, everywhere!
This vineyard had more of a modern flair with an artistic eye, making it more unique. Their tasting bar was setup on the second floor near floor to ceiling windows with spectacular vineyard views.
WINERY: Mumm Napa
Address: 8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558
Reservations Required?: Reservations are recommended but not required for fewer than six guests. Call 866.783.5826 to make a reservation. Limited walk-in seating is available on a first-come first-served basis.
Cost?: $$ Tastings are $25 to $35 on the patio/salon; Tours are $40
Food?: Cheese/Crackers and snacks
Mumm Champagne is one of my favorites and couldn't wait to visit. I loved my visit and tasting so much, I even joined their wine club. The grounds are beautiful and the staff is very friendly. I can't wait to come back again and again!
We walked up around 11a without a reservation and were seated immediately. Since it was December and on the cooler side, we opted to sit in the salon for our tasting.
WINERY: Castello di Amorosa
Address: 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515
Reservations Required?: Not required but recommended - 707-967-6272
Cost?: $$$ Starts at $30 just to get into the castle and comes with a tasting. Designated Drivers also need to pay an entrance fee, even if they aren't drinking! There are guided tours and food pairings as well.
Food?: Yes, see the Royal Pairings Menu
This 13th Century Tuscan inspired castle is picture perfect! You can visit the knight’s hall and their flagship cabernet sauvignon is a must try. Animals from goats to chickens surround the castle, including some gorgeous peacocks! Not something you see everyday in Napa.
The tour seemed worth it if we had more time: Reserve a tour with a guide through the Castello, including the lower levels which feature our Torture Chamber, Armory, and Grand Barrel Room, followed by a tasting flight. Of course the torture chamber and armory semi appealed to us, we will definitely come back to this one.
WINERY: Del Dotto Venetian Estate Winery
Address: 1445 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574
Reservations Required?: Yes, call: (707) 963-2134
Cost?: $$$ Bar Tasting – $45 or Cave Experience & Barrel Tasting (90 min) $60 per person Mon-Thu, $75 per person Fri-Sun
Food?: From house-cured salumi and slow braised meats to vegetables from their garden and Grandma Dee’s handmade ravioli, Chef Joshua and the entire culinary team collaborate on a unique menu that embodies the season and pairs perfectly with the wines.
Had to make a reservation for this one, but since it was December and not too crowded I called a coupe of hours before and was able to get a reservation. The tasting was more expensive than other vineyards, it was $45 per person, at least it included cheese, bread and olive oil! I highly recommend venturing into their gorgeous Venetian caves the tour with barrel tasting is $75. Check out that chandelier! The wines were good, but I think they were overpriced. The tasting room is beautiful decked out with venetian paintings, tiling, marble pillars and expensive wines.
Currently, our family produces cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, sangiovese and sauvignon blanc from our Napa Valley vineyards, as well as pinot noir, chardonnay and limited amounts of syrah, sauvignon blanc, sparkling grenache and mourvedre from our Cinghiale (wild boar) Vineyard in the King Ridge region of the Sonoma Coast.
WINERY: Domaine Chandon
Address: 1 California Dr, Yountville, CA 94599
Reservations Required?: Not required but recommended - call 1-888-242-6366, Opt. 2
Cost?: $$ Tastings $20 and up
Food?: Snacks are available
The grounds here looked like a giant beautiful park. Upon entering the winery there is a wall of upside down wine bottles artistically designed and lit. The tasting room gets pretty busy but just elbow your way up to the bar and you'll get served. The servers also make specialty cocktails if you ask nicely!
This was our last stop of the day and I love my bubbles! I felt like I had tasted most of the champagnes Chandon had to offer, but our bartender had a special drink he makes that tastes like apple cider.
ME IN MY HAPPY PLACE!
The specialty drink, called Spiced Apple Punch, had the following in it:
· 2 oz Spiced Simple Syrup (1 cup water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 small piece nutmeg)
· 2 1/2 cups apple cider (unsweetened)
· 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
· 2 oz honey
· 750ml (1 bottle) Chandon Brut Classic
After our 3rd winery, the trip was over and it was time to head to Oakland airport for our 7p flight. I was sad that it was over but had a wonderful birthday weekend! Thanks, Josh! :)
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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HOTEL REVIEW: Cabernet House, an Old World Inn - Napa, California
Cabernet House, Old World Inn is the best hotel to stay in Napa, California. Not only is it affordable, but their prime downtown Napa location gives you access to everything - restaurants, shops, and of course, wine tasting rooms! Where to Stay in Napa CA | Napa Valley bed and breakfast | Hotel close to #Napa #wineries #hotel
Cabernet House Old World Inn Bed and Breakfast in Napa Valley
Napa has quite a few options of places to stay and I loved our stay at the Cabernet Inn. This bed and breakfast had a different theme for every room. It wasn’t quite like the Madonna inn, but still a nice place to stay!
Related Post: Planning a trip to Napa? Start here with our Napa Valley Travel Guide! AND don’t miss Sonoma County Wineries
Located near the heart of downtown, nothing was too far! Restaurants, shops, wine tasting rooms all found within walking distance!
Also, the room rate was under $200 a night and came with breakfast! What a steal! We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
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Related Post: Napa and Santa Rosa Weekend Itinerary
Best Room at Cabernet House - Starry Night Room
We chose the room, Starry Night, which had a skylight above our bed! At night we saw the stars and even the moon orbit from window to window!
There was also a patio that had a jacuzzi tub. Not a whirlpool jacuzzi, a bath tub. Weird, right?
We probably would have used it if it wasn't 40 degrees outside. Speaking of bathtubs, the bathroom had a footed tub with an old fashioned toilet where you pulled a lever to flush!
I loved this room, I would definitely stay in here again!
Bella Tuscany Room
The house had multiple bedrooms upstairs, but there were only 3 bedrooms downstairs. It was perfect, our friends picked the Bella Tuscany Room and it happened to be right across from us.
Decorated with an Italian flair including some fine Tuscan accents, this room was a fairly good size! But it also had a bathtub in the middle of the room. Again, weird, right?
But these hedges and doors were adorable! This room had very little natural light, but was fine for a quick night stay!
Check out more themed rooms here: Cabernet House Rooms
Find the BEST rate for a room at the Cabernet House here: Booking.com
Common Areas
Since this is a bed and breakfast that used to house a family (see the history toward the bottom of this page), it is basically a large house with the works including a family room, dining room and kitchen. Since we went in December, it was decorated for Christmas and felt like home!
There was fresh coffee in the morning and hot water for french presses, hot cocoa, or tea available 24/7.
Breakfast Served at Cabernet House
Served from 8:30-10am
For breakfast, we waltzed out in our sweats and socks and sat at the dining room table. There were a couple of ladies who had prepared the food and were serving the dishes. It was almost like a restaurant except everyone gets the same thing. I grabbed a coffee and when I came back to my seat a place setting was setup for me. Minutes later, one of the ladies brought me a plate that had an egg souffle, a cranberry muffin, and fresh fruit. DELICIOUS!
Happy Hour
The inn hosted a wine and cheese party at happy hour in their wine cellar from 5:30-6:30pm at their main location, Hotel Napa Valley, featuring local Napa wines. As we were finishing up, the power went out. Not creepy at all when you’re alone with your friends in a dark basement. Emergency lights lead us to the first floor and we discovered the whole block was out!
Extras!
For a small fee, the Cabernet House can provide massages in your room, wine, flowers, and even offer breakfast in bed!
Room service hours are from 8:45-10:00am and from 3:00-11:00pm.
At 7:30pm, small handmade chocolate nibbles (made from Ghirardelli and Callebaut dark chocolates) are provided until they run out!
Parking in Napa
There was a parking lot in the back but there weren't any spots available. Luckily, there was a ton of street parking and we parked right in front.
History of the Cabernet House
This hotel is rich in Napa history! Per the Cabernet House website, it was built in 1906 by E. W. Doughty, a master craftsman responsible for building many of Napa’s landmark homes and churches, including the Noyes Mansion, current home of Wine Spectator Magazine. Doughty also built Napa’s library and train stations. Many of his buildings still stand more than 110 years later, a testament to Doughty’s skill and expertise.
Doughty built it to house his family and as such, it is a classic contractor’s home, full of rich architectural detailing he could show to potential clients.
In the 1970's, a spa tub builder added a few spas in the shape of grapes and years later her actually purchased the house! He began the extensive restoration and renovation to convert the home into one of Napa Valley’s very first bed and breakfast inns.
One of the inn’s first guests back in 1980 was Paul Newman, who stayed here when he raced his cars at Sears Point.
Read more here: Cabernet House History
Convinced yet?! Find the BEST rate for your stay at Cabernet House just like we did by clicking here: Booking.com
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Best Bed and Breakfast in Napa Valley
Need another sip? Try these on for size:
Think Napa is only for sundresses and rosé? Think again! Winter in the Valley—or 'Cabernet Season'—is a hidden gem of misty vineyard mornings, cozy fireside tastings, and the vibrant yellow Mustard Bloom. As a native Californian who’s explored Napa in every season, I’m sharing my tried-and-true packing secrets to help you stay effortlessly chic (even in 40-degree weather). From the secret to wearing skirts in the cold to the $18 rain boots that saved my trip, here is exactly how to master the 'Wine Country Chic' look this winter.