Napa with Taste Five Best Winery Tours
By Paul Franson
Bayinsider Contributor
Some wineries require appointments because they're so small or their wine is in such demand that they don’t need to encourage visitors. Others specify appointments because Napa County requires all new wineries to offer tasting by appointment only.
The wineries may try to get around that requirement by having you fill out an "appointment" card, but it’s best to call in advance to be on the safe side.
Even if you don’t have to make an appointment, you’ll almost always get better treatment if you call in advance. And not surprisingly, it’s far better to visit during the week than on weekends if you’re serious about the wines.
Name
Address
Phone
Comments
Domaine Chandon
1 California Dr., Yountville
944-2280
Superb, fairly long (45 minute) tour. Tasting and wines by the glass on the patio.
Robert Mondavi Winery
7801 St. Helena Hwy., Oakville
226-1335
The best tour by the winery most dedicated to education. Long, informative, then tasting.
Mumm Napa Valley
8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford
942-3434
Excellent tour, tasting on the patio and Ansel Adams photographs.
St. Supéry
8440 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford
953-4507
Very informative tour about growing and wine making. Unique "smell-o-vision."
Sterling Vineyards
1111 Dunaweal Dr., Calistoga
942-3344
Self-conducted tour with informative exhibits and views. Short but exciting $6 gondola ride.
