Napa Valley may be small in size, at 30 miles long and only five miles wide, but it packs a punch with over 400 wineries and tasting rooms to explore, unique towns to discover, and stunning scenery to soak in (not to mention natural hot springs you can actually soak in). As if that wasn’t enough, Napa Valley boasts an impressive collection of Michelin-starred culinary hotspots sure to tantalize even the most discerning foodies’ taste buds.

With so many incredible things to see and do in Napa Valley, you might have a tough time narrowing down which activities to fill your days with. That’s where we come in. We’re sharing the seven best things to do in Napa Valley, so all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready for some world-class Wine Country fun.

Go Wine Tasting

The Terrace at Round Pond Estate, Courtesy of Round Pond Estate

Napa Valley is California’s most famous wine region, and for good reason. This iconic destination has built a reputation for producing refined, age-worthy wines — most notably Cabernet Sauvignon — from throughout its 16 distinct AVAs, so it’s only natural that you’ll want to prioritize wine tasting while visiting. To make the most of your experience, it’s best to stick to one or two regions per day, such as Oak Knoll and Stags Leap, or St. Helena and Calistoga, so you aren’t spending all your time in the car.

Check out the multigenerational family-owned Groth Vineyards & Winery, home to the first 100-point U.S. wine from critic Robert Parker. At their Oakville estate, you’ll taste Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon while surrounded by vines and centuries-old oak trees. Nearby, Round Pond Estate draws visitors for its Bordeaux-style wines and estate olive oil, which can be enjoyed from the winery’s serene terrace overlooking its sustainably-farmed vineyards.

Conn Creek offers Cabernet Sauvignon from nearly all of Napa’s sub-appellations that can be sampled from the garden setting of this Silverado Trail estate.

Cabernet fans will also want to make a point to visit Larkmead Vineyards. Originally founded in 1895, Larkmead remains one of the oldest, family-owned grape growing estates in Napa Valley, known for its organic and sustainably farmed wines and personalized service.

Of course, Cabernet Sauvignon isn’t the only Napa wine to seek out. Some producers, such as Domaine Carneros, Mumm Napa, and Frank Family Vineyards, are known for both their still and sparkling wines, including acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir-basedwines from the cool Carneros region.

While fancy wineries overlooking vineyards are hard to beat, definitely don’t discount a visit to an urban tasting room or two, like Cami Art + Wine and Tank Garage & Winery in Calistoga, Jessup Cellars in Yountville, and New Frontier Wine Co. and Outland in downtown Napa, which each offer a different slice of Napa Valley.

Experience a Thriving Downtown Scene

JaM Cellars Wine & Music Studio, Courtesy of JaM Cellars

While each of Napa Valley’s main towns have their own unique appeal, downtown Napa is certainly the place to be for a thriving wine, arts, and nightlife scene. Situated along the Napa River, this burgeoning area is home to boutique hotels, urban tasting rooms, hip wine bars, top restaurants, theaters, art, and beautiful river walks. The best part? It’s all within walking or biking distance.

Head to First Street Napa, where you’ll find a wide variety of shops and boutiques, as well as wine bars and tasting lounges, such as Cadet Wine + Beer Bar, Acumen Winery Gallery, Mayacamas Vineyards, and JaM Cellars, the latter of which is a unique wine and music venue that hosts regular live music shows.

Peruse the urban exhibition of public artworks, known as the Napa Art Walk, before checking out the historic Uptown Theatre, a renovated art-deco theater from 1937. If venturing out on two wheels is more your speed, rent bikes for a scenic riverside ride along the paved Napa Valley Vine Trail, which runs 12.5 miles from Napa to Yountville.

When hunger strikes, you’re in the right place. Don’t miss checking out the Oxbow Public Market, where over 20 merchants offer gourmet grub, wine, and picnic provisions under one roof. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, head to the romantic Angèle, a renowned spot for upscale French country cuisine, or dine al fresco at The Grove at CIA, located at the food and beverage hub that is the CIA at Copia.

Soar Above Vineyards

Courtesy of Bob McClenahan Photography

When you’re ready for a once-in-a-lifetime Napa experience, don’t miss booking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise with Napa Valley Aloft or Napa Valley Balloons. As you soar 3,000 feet above the valley, taking in the stunning vistas from all directions, you’ll be reminded just how special this region truly is. Just don’t forget to bring your camera and warm clothes, as the light during this early morning adventure is epic, but the weather can be quite chilly.

Picnic at a Winery

Estate Picnic Lunch at Profile Estate, Courtesy of Merryvale

When envisioning a visit to Wine Country, an idyllic picnic at a winery may come to mind, and we don’t blame you. Given the area’s picture-perfect weather and pristine surroundings, who wouldn’t want to enjoy an al fresco lunch while surrounded by Napa’s famous vineyards? Head to Pine Ridge Vineyards, located in the heart of the iconic Stags Leap District, to picnic in the garden while enjoying bottle service, or visit Ashes & Diamonds, where members and guests can enjoy picnic provisions and family-style spreads among the mid-century modern surroundings.

Also worth mentioning are the unique picnic and tasting experiences offered through WineCountry Media Experiences. Try the Estate Picnic Style Lunch at Merryvale’s exclusive Profile Estate, which takes place on a picturesque ridge 800 feet above the valley floor, or the Wine Tasting & Picnic at Tamber Bey, which includes a tour and tasting at this Calistoga horse ranch and winery, plus a picnic lunch.

Eat Well in Yountville

Courtesy of Facebook: Ad Hoc & Addendum

Known as the culinary capital of Napa Valley, Yountville is a must if you want to experience the best of the region’s dining scene. Start your day with a tasty brunch of garden-inspired fare at Lucy, at the LEED Platinum-certified Bardessono hotel, which is also noteworthy for dinner. Or, plan to grab a mouthwatering pastry at Bouchon Bakery, the popular French-style boulangerie from Chef Thomas Keller, who also owns Michelin-starred The French Laundry down the street. Widely known as a foodie’s bucket-list destination, The French Laundry draws visitors from all over the world for its meticulously crafted food and top-notch service. If you’d like to continue your tour of Thomas Keller eateries, be sure to check out Ad Hoc, his casual, family-style restaurant featuring a menu of American comfort food that changes daily.

Also worthwhile in Yountville is Bistro Jeanty, a classic French bistro with tasty fare and a cozy ambiance, as well as Bottega, the Italian restaurant from celebrity Chef Michael Chiarello, which lures with housemade pastas and hearty yet elevated poultry and beef dishes.

Visit a Spa & Soak in Healing Hot Springs

Spa at Dr. Wilkinson’s, Courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

To indulge in some pampering in Napa Valley, look no further than the quaint town of Calistoga, where relaxing spas and soothing mineral pools have what you need to feel rested and rejuvenated. At Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs, there are eight new mineral baths and three mineral-rich pools to enjoy before or after a spa treatment, or you can stay at the luxurious Solage Calistoga to experience mud treatments, a geothermal pool, and mineral bath rituals at their 20,000-square-foot spa.

Calistoga is also home to one of the largest mineral pools in California, located at Indian Springs Resort and Spa. The Olympic-sized pool, fed by on-site geysers, is reserved for hotel guests, but a limited number of day passes are available to spa guests, as well.

Experience a Wine & Food Pairing

Pan-Asian Food & Wine Experience, Courtesy of RD Winery

Wine and food go hand-in-hand, which is why it’s not surprising that Napa Valley is home to some of the best wine and food experiences in Northern California. Enjoy a wine and culinary experience at Trefethen Family Vineyards, where guests can nibble on expertly-crafted bites (made by the winery’s own chef), each pairing designed to highlight the special nuances of the wine. At Louis M. Martini, you can taste their acclaimed wines alongside Italian-inspired bites through a Cabana tasting, but be on the lookout for their new four-course wine pairing experience in the underground cellar.

For something a little different, book the Pan-Asian Food & Wine Experience at RD Winery, featuring a lineup of Asian dishes served alongside a flight of the winery’s Fifth Moon wines. Or, book the uber-popular Five-Course Farm-to-Table Experience at Brian Arden Winery, a guided culinary journey of wine with seasonal food pairings, cooked in front of you by their estate chef.

— Must-Visit Calistoga Wineries —

— Best Wine Country Hotels to Visit —

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The Best Choice for Flight Options and Flexibility: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

The Best Choice for Staying on Budget: Oakland International Airport (OAK)

The Best Choice for Beating the Rush: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

The Best Choice for Convenience – With a Dash of Whimsy: Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS)

The Best Choice for Tech Nerds to Geek Out: Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)

– Best Wine Country Hotels to Visit –

– Where to Stay in Sonoma County –

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History

Courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

George Yount first planted grapes in 1839 and was soon followed by other settlers who brought Vitis Vinifera to the region. In 1861, Charles Krug established what is considered the first commercial winery and led the charge for future companies, many of which still operate today, such as Beringer, Inglenook, and Schramsberg.

The wine boom soon imploded: a surplus of grapes, the invasion of phylloxera — a pest that decimates vines — in the vineyards, and Prohibition nearly destroyed almost a century’s worth of work. Luckily, resilient winemakers began rebuilding Napa Valley once Prohibition was repealed.

While Napa Valley was gaining recognition domestically, it was largely dismissed by the rest of the world. The famous Judgment of Paris — where Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars‘ Cabernet Sauvignon and Chateau Montelena’s Chardonnay beat out French Bordeaux and Burgundies in a blind tasting — quickly changed that, and Napa Valley cabernets and chardonnarys were thrust into the spotlight. These signature grapes still dominate the landscape, but the next generation of intrepid winemakers are experimenting with a range of varieties and giving new energy to this popular region.

Lay of the Land

Courtesy of Napa Valley Vintners

Napa Valley was established as California’s first AVA in 1981. Now 16 sub AVAs, each with its own unique characteristics, comprise the larger region. Surprisingly, Napa Valley, with its outsized personality, is only 30 miles long and a few miles wide, and has only one-sixth the vineyard acreage as Bordeaux.

Follow the Silverado Trail, constructed in 1852, which links the towns of Napa and Calistoga; wineries glimmer along the vineyard-laden route, and you could get whiplash by reading all the famous names you pass along the way. West of the Silverado Trail runs the St. Helena Highway, another major thoroughfare laden with prestigious wineries such as Grgich Hills, Louis M. Martini, and Opus One. In total, there are over 400 wineries and about 700 grape growers in Napa Valley.

As one of the most tourist-friendly wine destinations in the world, many wineries create multi-sensory experiences in their beautiful tasting rooms, appealing to a wide range of taste preferences and budgets. Whether you set a strict itinerary, or just follow your instincts, you’re sure to discover something new and surprising, but keep in mind that most wineries now request advanced reservations.

What to Drink

Courtesy of Bob McClenahan for Napa Valley Vintners

Cabernet Sauvignon

As the saying goes, Cabernet is King in Napa; 50% of vineyards are planted with this popular international variety. It’s often produced in a rich and lush style, with flavors of deep brooding fruit, cocoa, and leather. Tannins are usually prominent, but soften and become well-integrated as the wine ages. Cooler sites, such as Spring Mountain, may produce leaner styles of this Napa Valley favorite. The past ten plus years, save for 2011 with its rainy harvest, have produced phenomenal vintages of cabernet sauvignon.

Chardonnay

The term “California Chardonnay” denotes a certain style of chardonnay; malolactic fermentation and oak use give this wine distinct and popular buttery and creamy flavors. In more recent years, producers have been pulling back on the oak and malo to allow the terroir and fruit to shine through. Today, Napa Valley chardonnay runs the gamut in style; the fun is in tasting through the options from different wineries to find your favorite.

Merlot

This grape took a hit after it was disparaged in the movie Sideways (which took place in Santa Barbara County, not Napa Valley) but it’s seeing a resurgence in popularity. Known for its dense fruit and velvety tannins, drinkers are rediscovering how pleasurable this red grape can be.

Sauvignon Blanc

Napa’s “other” white (“other” meaning 6% of total plantings compared to chardonnay’s 15%), this wine takes it cues from major sauvignon blanc regions, such as the Loire Valley and New Zealand, but the fruit is pure Napa. Highly aromatic with good minerality, wineries find their own unique expressions, from lean and flinty to round and broad.

Pinot Noir

Although pinot noir is more closely associated with Sonoma County, vineyards in certain microclimates in Napa Valley have success with this delicate grape. Denser, riper berry notes and a fuller body make Napa pinots distinct from what you’d find in cooler climates, but they showcase a personality all their own.

Zinfandel

The third most planted variety in California, zinfandel comprises only 3% of Napa’s plantings. It’s big, it’s outgoing, but some of the best examples come from Napa vineyards and are worth seeking out.

Along with these six key varieties, a cornucopia of other grapes make their way into the vineyard landscape, such as gewürztraminer, cabernet franc, and chenin blanc, just to name a few.

With expansive vineyard views, high-quality wines, and an overwhelming sense of hospitality, it’s easy to understand why Napa Valley is top of mind for so many wine drinkers.

— BEST WINERY TOURS IN NAPA VALLEY —

— THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NAPA VALLEY —

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Now that your COVID-19 pandemic puppy is a full-fledged family member, it only makes sense to bring the four-legged companion to Napa Wine Country. While they may not sip on cabernet or chardonnay, plenty of Napa Valley hotels offer amenities to make their vacation just as enjoyable as yours. Here are the top 8 pet-friendly hotels to discover in Napa Valley.

Courtesy of Solage

Every dog gets a warm welcome at Solage in Napa Valley’s Calistoga. Personalized welcome cards, plus dog bowls and dog treats will make your canine companion feel as pampered as you will at this luxury resort. This pet-friendly hotel sits on 22 acres of land, so there’s plenty of space for your pup to roam and explore. Even better, rent a bike for yourself and take on the terrain together. Newly-built cottage-style suites with outdoor patios are an additional pet-friendly amenity.

Courtesy of SENZA Hotel

Owned by Kathryn Hall of Hall Wines, SENZA Hotel’s winery roots show in this pet-friendly resort that’s surrounded by vines. Go for long walks in the nearby parks or trails, then while your dog naps in the luxurious suites, pamper yourself at the on-site spa, or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool.

Courtesy of Carneros Resort and Spa

Book a stay at one of Carneros Resort and Spa’s cottage dwellings, where the outdoor spaces are as carefully appointed as the interior. Gardens, patios, fire pits—even an outdoor rain shower—beckon both you and your four-legged friend. While you sip on wine, your dog can snack on locally made dog treats. A dog toy, leash, waste bags, and paw wipes ensure all your pet’s essential needs are met as well. If you plan to venture out on your own, the friendly staff can assist with setting up dog walking or dog sitting appointments.

Courtesy of Andaz Napa

City dwellers and their dogs will feel right at home at the Andaz, located in downtown Napa. Eat your way through nearby Oxbow Public Market, catch live music at Blue Note Napa, and of course, taste wine at nearby urban tasting rooms. Your pooch will appreciate the modern and plush amenities in the rooms and suites at this dog-friendly hotel.

Courtesy of Bardessono

Pets have always been welcome at Bardessono, but recently the hotel showed its commitment to more animal friends through a partnership with Connolly Ranch. A portion of proceeds from its pet menu and pet fees will go towards food and veterinary care for the sheep at the Ranch. Like the wooly farm beneficiaries, well-behaved dogs are allowed to roam the gardens and property or join you at the pool. Your pet can even indulge in their own ‘Bone Appetite’ menu. To pair with dog-friendly dishes such as ‘Mindful Meats Beef & Carrots’ or ‘Mary’s Chicken and Rice’? Animal-friendly beer or wine such as Beefy Brown Ale or ZinfanTail.

Courtesy of Archer Hotel

While many Wine Country visits are all about the soils and vines at your feet, Archer looks to the skies for a different perspective on a wine vacation—there’s a lot of action happening on this downtown Napa rooftop. Cool off on the Water Deck while you sip wine and nibble on bites from the Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar. Or, relax with a spa treatment on the rooftop spa. Don’t worry, Fido won’t even notice you’re gone; they will be too busy relaxing on their premium doggy bed or playing with toys, all provided for their comfort.

Courtesy of Harvest Inn

With a name like Harvest Inn, it only makes sense that fine dining takes center stage at this top-rated Napa Valley hotel. Feast on the seasonal menu and tour the five culinary gardens on site. Those herbs you smell on your walk may end up on your plate later as these plots of vegetables and fruit orchards are a source of ingredients for the Inn’s restaurant. Dogs are welcome to join you on the alfresco patio as you dine.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort

At the newly-opened Four Seasons Napa Valley, the numerous amenities on offer mean you may never leave the property. Two outdoor swimming pools, fire pits, two restaurants, a salon, and even an on-site winery—Elusa—mean the best of a Napa wine vacation are at your doorstep. Furry friends under 25 pounds are welcome, too, so your four-legged best friend can also be your best travel buddy.

– The Best Things to do in Napa Valley –

– Must-Visit Calistoga Wineries –

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When the hustle and bustle of city life gets overwhelming, a getaway to Napa Valley sounds like just what the doctor ordered. But then the reality of Bay Area traffic starts to set in, and a weekend of Netflix and chill on the couch sounds more likely.

Don’t let your dreams of vineyard tours and heavenly wine tastings fade! There are plenty of great Napa Valley wine tours originating from San Francisco, making it easier than ever to visit your favorite wineries without ever having to take your car keys out of the junk drawer. From classic group tours to fully-customized private experiences to journeys from the sky, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite Napa Valley wine tours from San Francisco.

California Wine Tours & Transportation

Courtesy of Facebook: California Wine Tours

For those looking for a completely hands-off experience, leave it to the professionals at California Wine Tours. Offering pick-up in Napa, Sonoma, and many Bay Area cities, including San Francisco, this full-service tour company can plan your wine tasting adventure from start to finish. California Wine Tours’ fleet includes breezy convertibles, stretch limousines, luxury touring vans, and classic party buses, all kitted out for your private, chauffeured tour of Napa Valley. You will sip complimentary sparkling wine while you take in gorgeous vineyard views and cruise from winery to winery. Prefer to take a little more control over your experience? California Wine Tours also offers a simple, transportation-only option – you do the planning, they do the driving.

Edge of the World Tours

Courtesy of Facebook: Edge of the World Tours

This well-established tour company specializes not only in classic tours of Napa and Sonoma, but also beer tasting tours, hiking and adventure tours, and excursions to other historic regions and landmarks throughout Northern California, like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods, and Sausalito. Take advantage of their Bespoke Tour option and customize your experience aboard their 13-passenger van with pick-ups offered in San Francisco, as well as San Mateo, Marin, Sonoma, and Napa Counties. As a fully-licensed tour operator, passengers are of course invited to hop on board with a picnic lunch or other tasty provisions for the drive to Wine Country, and encouraged to pop a bottle of wine purchased throughout their wine tasting journey on the ride home.

Exclusive Napa Wine Tours

Courtesy of Facebook: Exclusive Napa Wine Tours

Offering “door to door luxury,” Exclusive Napa Wine Tours provides white-glove single- and multiple-day wine tours in either Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans or luxurious Cadillac Escalades. Wine lovers can opt to create their own itineraries, or leverage Exclusive Napa Wine Tours’ dedicated concierge service to put together the perfect winery excursion based on their needs and preferences. For the ultimate in VIP treatment, book one of their Wine Collector’s Tours, which offer access to private destinations, “cult” wineries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and limited-production, highly allocated wines.

North Bay Wine Tours

Courtesy of North Bay Wine Tours

TEMPORARILY CLOSED – The husband and wife team behind North Bay Wine Tours is deeply committed to promoting local producers and other family-owned businesses, as well as providing a sustainable way to explore Napa and Sonoma in their pristine Tesla Model Y. Designed primarily for couples or small groups, North Bay Wine Tours offers several different options throughout Napa and Sonoma, from the Signature Wine Tour Package, which includes visits at up to four wineries, beautifully-curated charcuterie boxes for each passenger, and a can of premium MAKER wine to sip en route, to the All-Inclusive Wine Tour, which includes a hands-on trip-planning service, a welcome toast, personalized charcuterie lunch, complimentary pick-up, and up to eight hours of wine tasting.

Verve Napa Valley

Courtesy of Verve

This woman-owned-and-operated company draws on over 30 years of Napa Valley and tour operator experience to craft custom Napa and Sonoma County experiences that are expertly tailored to each individual’s unique interests. From tasting at some of Napa Valley’s most exclusive wineries, to hanging out with a winemaker at a local hot spot, to learning how to saber your first bottle of bubbly, you will work with Verve’s wine-savvy team to build the perfect day in Wine Country. Enjoy a comfortable and stylish ride aboard one of Verve’s luxury transportation options, while your knowledgeable host unlocks a wine tasting adventure filled with surprise and delight at each turn.

Bin 415 Private Tours

Courtesy of Bin 415

As the preferred tour company of many of San Francisco’s top hotels, Bin 415 is a great choice for those looking to explore Napa Valley or Sonoma (or elsewhere) from the City. Each bespoke wine tour kicks off in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz SUV, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at Wine Country, offering unique access to winemakers and other industry insiders who create experiences that “inspire and educate” guests. Tours are given by certified sommeliers who are also locals, offering an insider perspective about the region and its best hidden gems, opening doors to allocated and exclusive wines not widely available to the general public.

San Francisco Helicopters

Courtesy of San Francisco Helicopters

In business since 1976, San Francisco Helicopters offers a Napa Valley Wine Country tour like no other. This memorable experience includes more than just your Wine Country adventure; it also features a breathtaking aerial tour of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Once on land, guests enjoy a guided tour and tasting at a top Napa Valley winery, followed by a food pairing, and, of course, a much-shorter commute back to the City as you skip all Bay Area traffic in your privately chartered helicopter. Each group is limited to six people to ensure a highly personalized, VIP experience.

– Best Things to do in Napa Valley –

– Insider’s Guide to Paso Robles –

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Flora Springs Winery

Courtesy of Flora Springs Winery

Sixteen Spirits Historical Ghost Winery Tour & Tasting

October 13, 2019, 10 AM – 12 PM
Cost: $75 per person, $60 for wine club members

No winery in Napa Valley gets in the Halloween spirit like Flora Springs. Each year, epic decorations lure tourists off of Hwy 29 – you can’t miss the trio of giant, dancing skeletons on the exterior of “The Room,” their St. Helena tasting room – and as a tribute to the winery’s history as one of the last remaining Napa Valley Ghost Wineries, Flora Springs releases limited-production, Halloween-only wine. In case you’re wondering, a Ghost Winery is defined as a winery built between 1860 and 1900, which then fell into disrepair in the early 1900s due to any number of reasons, like phylloxera disease, Prohibition, and the Great Depression. This October, Flora Springs ups the fear factor by offering a fascinating paranormal tour of their historic, and haunted, estate. Partnering with a team of paranormal investigators from Napa City Ghosts & Legends, this tour also includes a tasting of wine so you can sip while you walk (if not shaking in your boots).

Flora Springs Estate: 1978 West Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-5711
Flora Springs Tasting Room, “The Room”: 677 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-8032

Castello di Amorosa

Courtesy of Facebook: Castello di Amorosa

Pagan Ball

October 25, 2019, 8 PM – 12 AM
Cost: $180 per person, $150 for wine club members

Napa Valley’s biggest Halloween costume party is back for its 10th year. Equal parts freaky and fun, it all goes down at California Wine Country’s notorious castle, Castello di Amorosa. The Halloween-inspired festivities will include a haunted, underground cave maze (because corn mazes are so last year), a DJ and dancing, fortune tellers, bottomless wine, tasty treats, cigar bar, photo booth, and games. For $30 extra, you get to arrive early for a wine tasting, tour of the haunted cellars, and fortune telling.

4045 St. Helena Highway, Calistoga, CA 94515, (707) 967-6272

Buena Vista Winery

Courtesy of Facebook: Buena Vista Winery

Harvest Masquerade Ball

October 26, 2019, 7 – 10 PM
Cost: $95 per person, $75 for wine club members, VIP $150

California’s first premium winery founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery puts a modern twist on the classic masquerade ball. This not-so-spooky event is a tribute to a masked tradition that was supposedly started more than 150 years ago by the original founder, the Count of Buena Vista. The 1860’s, aristocratic-style evening takes place on the third floor of the winery’s Historic Champagne Cellar, featuring music, hors-d’oeuvres, and wine. This isn’t your typical Halloween costume party either – read: don’t show up as Wonder Woman or the Dragon Queen, Daenerys Targaryen – and instead requires vintage formal wear and a mask. Dress to impress, as costume contest winners will be announced at 9pm.

18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476, (800) 926-1266

Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Courtesy of Facebook: Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Annual Harvest & Halloween Carnival

October 27, 2019, 11 AM – 2 PM
Cost: $12 per child, 14 and under

Bring the whole family to Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s 14th annual Halloween Carnival, for this fun, fall festival is the only winery event on this list that’s not just kid-friendly, but actually created for them. Break out their costumes a few days early; the day will include Halloween candy, carnival games, a DJ, and a Halloween-themed magic show. The pool café will be open serving food and drinks, for an extra cost. Proceeds from this event go to the Luther Burbank Music for Schools.

300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441, (707) 857-1471

Cover image courtesy of Joanna Salazar/Flora Springs

— DISCOVER SONOMA COUNTY’S DISTINCT REGIONS & LOCAL FLAVOR —

— NAPA TO SONOMA: TWO EPIC WINE COUNTRY ITINERARIEs —

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Prestigious Collection With an Irreverent Twist

Image Source: Yelp

The Living Gallery

Image Source: Yelp

The Arena of Contemporary Art

Image Source: Facebook

A Touch of Whimsy

Image Source: Yelp

Art Rocks!

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Pretty Art in a Pleasant Place

Image Source: Yelp

Local Home of International Art Installations

Image Source: Gordon Huether Studio

Urban Edge in a Bucolic Setting

Image Source: The Christopher Hill Gallery

That Wine Country Look

Image Source: Yelp

Museum-Quality Art Collection

Image Source: Yelp

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 in wine-infused goodies from Sift Dessert Bar expertly paired with a selection of Markham wines. This is more than just your basic chocolate and wine pairing. Sample a chocolate cupcake infused with Markham Merlot, filled with blackberry jam and frosted with Markham Cabernet Sauvignon buttercream. Want something salty and sweet? Try a slice of bacon that’s been soaked in Petite Sirah, dusted with Cayenne pepper, baked, and then dipped in dark chocolate with white chocolate drizzle. With custom made desserts like these, it’s no wonder Markham Vineyards Event Coordinator said, “I have worked with Sift in the past and love their products. Once I sampled the desserts made with Markham wines, I was sold!”

There are three different wine and dessert pairing experiences to choose from; all decadent and divine. 

Frost Shots Package
Taste how our wines transform when paired with just a bit of sugar! Enjoy our Cabernet Sauvignon frosting in a mini Sift shot glass and mini spoon, paired with a selection of four Markham wines.
Frost Shots Package $40 per person + tax

Cupcake & Wine Pairing Package
Experience chocolate cake infused with our Markham Merlot, filled with blackberry jam, and frosted with Markham Cabernet Sauvignon buttercream – paired with a selection of four Markham wines.
Mini Cupcake Package $45 per person + tax
Full Sized Cupcake Package $49 per person + tax



Ultimate Indulgence Dessert & Wine Pairing Package
Give in to temptation! Enjoy three desserts crafted with Markham wines plus a selection of four Markham wines to sample with the following special treats.
$55 per person + tax


Macaroon
Sample a macaroon made with white peach sangria, white peach ganache, and Sauvignon Blanc-infused strawberry sangria.

Mini Cupcake
Next, enjoy a mini cupcake made of Merlot-infused chocolate cake, filled with blackberry jam, and frosted with Cabernet Sauvignon buttercream.

Bacon! 
Finally, devour a slice of bacon that’s been soaked in Petite Sirah, dusted with Cayenne pepper, baked, and then dipped in dark chocolate with white chocolate drizzle.

Having trouble selecting what dessert and wine package to choose? The staff favorite at Markham is the Ultimate Indulgence Experience. According to Christine, “They are all delicious! I personally love the Ultimate Indulgence Experience. This package allows guests to sample three different desserts to really awaken the taste buds. Guests are amazed at how a perfectly-paired wine can change the flavor of each bite! We want guests to remember this when choosing wines for their meals when they are back home.”

Tastings are held at Markham Vineyards in their historic stone stone cellar and include a seated tasting of four wines and are 30 to 45 minutes in length. Afterwards, guests are f

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