Napa is known as the home of American wines. With the numerous wineries and vineyards in the area, it can be overwhelming to plan your vacation. We've complied a list of the best wineries that Napa has to offer so be sure to add these stops to your tour schedule.
- Schramsberg
2.7 million is the total number of bottles of sparkling wine circulating through the Schramsberg vineyard caves at any given time. Each bottle of Schramsberg ages between two and ten years. This winery has been an historic establishment since 1957, with roots dating all the way back to 1862. Schramsberg sparkling wines are said to be the first American wine producers to use French champagne making methods to make sparkling wine that tastes nearly exactly like French Champagne. Like other popular tourist destinations in the United States and abroad, Schramsberg can be crowded at peak time during high season. Regardless, this vineyard will give you a sense of the authentic history of Napa Valley.
- Inglenook
Inglenook is one of Napa Valley’s most notorious vineyards due to its shuffling of ownership throughout the property’s turbulent history. The striking chateau that graciously adorns the grounds took six years to complete, with construction finally ending in 1887. Five years before construction was complete however, the first grape harvest at Inglenook took place. After years of success selling their wine, Prohibition ceased production between 1919 and 1933. Since 1975 though, Francis Ford Coppola has transformed Inglenook into the successful vineyard that it is today. Don’t miss out on the bistro at Inglenook where you can rent mini wooden sailboats to float and push around in the nearby fountain.
- Far Niente
This vineyard considers itself The Napa Valley Wine Estate due to the finding in 1998 of a vintage 1886 muscato labeled Far Niente, which means “without a care” in Italian. This historical winery also has 13 acres of gardens, whose notorious hot pink azaleas can be seen from the famous Highway 29. A large number, 2,500 to be exact, French Oak barrels are located inside of their caves, which are specially designed to support the best environment for aging wine. Take a look inside of the carriage house and take pictures of the several vintage vehicles that are in sparkling, mint condition. Tours and tastings are by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead.
- Domaine Chandon
One of the larger vineyards most visited by tourists each year is the Domaine Chandon, one of the world’s best known wine brands. With convenient tasting times offered daily until 4:30 p.m. and a terrace to bring your family for a picnic, this vineyard is top rated for its customer service and relaxed, yet social atmosphere for all ages. Groups of 10 or more are also permitted as long as you call at least some time in advance so they can prepare for your visit. Proclaimed experts in sparkling varietals, Domaine Chandon offers light champagne-style wines and has been doing so for three generations. Don’t let the amount of possible tourists and visitors deter you from visiting this beautiful vineyard. Domaine Chandon should not be missed, especially if it’s your first time to Napa Valley.
- Beringer
In 1875, there were few wineries to compete with in the Napa Valley grape growing region and the Beringer brothers from Germany decided to take part in their part of the winemaking business by buying a few hundred acres of vineyards. By the mid-twentieth century, famous Hollywood actors like Carole Lombard and Clark Gable were visiting Beringer to see all of its beauty and taste the fruits of the brothers’ labor. By 1967, the Beringer estate was named an historical landmark. An interesting fact is that, unlike other wineries during the Prohibition, Beringer stayed in business by selling sacramental wines to religions establishments.
