Before your next visit to Napa Valley, it\’s important to decide which wineries you\’ll hit up. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to determine where to start. The following are our top picks for wineries to visit in Napa Valley:

The first winery we recommend is Stag\’s Leap Wine Cellars. Founded in 1970, this winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, including its famous S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is noted for its unique flavor notes of blackberries and cassis. Visitors to the winery can take advantage of tastings or tour the vineyards to see what makes Stag\’s Leap stand out. Additionally, the winery\’s modern architecture and gorgeous views make Stag\’s Leap a popular spot to visit in Napa Valley.

Next up is Beringer Vineyards. Founded in 1876, this winery has been producing wine for over a century. Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, Beringer offers a variety of tastings and tours for visitors. You can choose to take a private tour or sign up for one of the daily group tours that are available. Not only can you taste some of Beringer\’s most famous wines, but you can also learn about the history of the winery and how the wine is produced.

Robert Mondavi Winery is another must-visit in Napa Valley. The winery was founded in 1966 by Robert Mondavi, and its wines have become well-known around the world. Visitors to the winery can take a tour of the vineyards and production facilities, which are stunning. Additionally, they can taste some of the winery\’s most popular wines, including the Fumé Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. If you\’re interested in taking a tour of the winery, make sure to book in advance, as it can get crowded during peak season.

Continuing with our list of top picks is Cakebread Cellars. Known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Cakebread Cellars offers a variety of experiences for visitors. From food and wine pairings to Seminars in the Vineyard, there\’s something for everyone to enjoy at this winery. We recommend stopping by during the harvest season to see the production process and experience the winery\’s many harvest-related activities.

Clos Du Val is our next recommendation. This winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. Established in 1972, Clos Du Val has been producing award-winning wines for over four decades. In addition to tastings, visitors to the winery can enjoy picnic lunches or take a tour of the production facilities. One unique offering is the winery\’s \”Walk in the Vineyard\” experience, which allows visitors to explore the vineyards and take in the scenery.

Another winery to consider is Opus One. Founded in 1979 by Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, this winery is known for its premium Bordeaux-style blends. While tastings are not available at Opus One, visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and winery to learn about the wine-making process. Additionally, the winery\’s architecture is impressive, making it a popular location for photo opportunities.

Our last recommendation is Hess Collection Winery. This winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Malbec. Hess Collection offers a variety of tasting experiences, including food and wine pairings, as well as tastings where visitors can sample rare wines. The winery also has an impressive art collection on display for visitors to enjoy.

Exploring Napa Valley\’s history

While visiting Napa Valley, take some time to learn about the region\’s history. One place to start is at the Charles Krug Winery, which was the first winery established in Napa Valley in 1861. Additionally, the Napa Valley Historical Society provides a wealth of information about the area\’s history, including exhibits on the wine industry and the Indigenous people who first inhabited the area.

A focus on sustainable wineries

Many wineries in Napa Valley have taken steps to become more environmentally sustainable. Sterling Vineyards, for example, has implemented a solar power system to reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, Robert Sinskey Vineyards is known for its biodynamic farming practices that prioritize sustainability.

Hidden gem wineries in Napa Valley

While the above wineries are must-visits, there are also some hidden gems in Napa Valley that are worth exploring. Honig Vineyard and Winery, for example, is a small family-owned winery that focuses on sustainable farming practices. Additionally, Azur Wines, which was founded in 2004, produces premium French-style wines that are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts.

Winery tours in Napa Valley

If you\’re interested in visiting multiple wineries in Napa Valley, a winery tour might be the best option for you. From private tours to group tours, there are many options available. One popular choice is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which takes visitors on a scenic tour of some of the region\’s top wineries while serving gourmet meals along the way. Another option is Platypus Tours, which offers a more laid-back experience with smaller group sizes and highly knowledgeable guides.

In conclusion, Napa Valley is home to many incredible wineries that offer unique experiences for visitors. Whether you\’re interested in history, sustainability, or uncovering hidden gems, there\’s something for everyone. Consider adding some of these wineries to your itinerary on your next visit to Napa Valley.