The Best Wineries to Visit in Napa Valley

One of the most common questions that are asked is “Which Napa winery is the best?†At last count, there are over 430 wineries in Napa Valley. Many of these wineries do not offer tastings for the public. Therefore it is a difficult question to answer. In the end, it is all a matter of opinion.

We are going to share with you some of our favorite Napa wineries. We are also going to share with you why we like them so much. If anybody has a winery they would like to add to this list please contact us.

Honestly, this is going to be difficult. There are so many wineries that deserve our recommendation that we have visited! Please check to see if any winery you want to visit requires an appointment

Many times you can schedule a wine tasting appointment by calling that day. Don’t count on that though, it is always best to book beforehand. Here are some of the best Napa wineries to visit.

You might feel a little overwhelmed, though, there are so many to choose from, and they all offer something unique. From breathtaking views, award-winning wines, and rich history, you are in for an unforgettable experience no matter where you choose to go for a wine tasting.

We have gathered up the best wineries in Napa Valley that we think are worth checking out

Napa Wineries Map

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

1. Beringer Vineyards

The Rhine house is historic and one of the first wineries in Napa Valley. You can enjoy your beautiful surroundings while tasting some of the finest wines Beringer Vineyards has to offer. There is something for everyone here, with prices ranging from affordable to high-end. You can even partake in a bocce ball game on the court located conveniently in their backyard.

2. Quintessa

You will start your visit off at this award-winning winery with a walking tour to take in the breathtaking views of Rutherford. You will learn about the history of the vineyard and the philosophy and farming practices found at the Quintessa after you can relax and enjoy a luscious glass of organic wine while enjoying the views of the vineyards.

3. Alpha Omega Winery

A newer winery on the scene in Napa, but impressive, nonetheless. This winery appeals to seasoned wine drinkers as well as new wine drinkers. They use old-world techniques combined with new-world technology to create fantastic wine. Their Cabernet Sauvignon has been rated as one of the best in the state of California by Wine Spectator magazine.

4. CakeBread Cellars

Going on a wine tasting experience at CakeBread Cellars is a must when visiting Napa. They have been making wine since 1973 and have a reputation for quality and consistency with their wines. You can also take a tour around their beautiful property and take in the beauty of the winery.

5. Nickel and Nickel

You can book a visit with one of Napa’s most popular wineries and see what the fuss is all about yourself. This winery is a must with fantastic wines to indulge in and tours of the beautiful vineyards to show where your wine has come from.

6. Caymus Vineyards

If you are looking for the best wine and the best experience in Napa, this winery is a must. You will taste their award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon outside their tranquil tasting room and even receive a free wine glass included in your tasting fee.

7. Silver Oaks Cellars

A consistent winner of the winery of the year from the Wine Spectator, you are in for a treat when visiting Silver Oaks Cellars. They have been making wine for 40 years and have one of the best Cabernet Sauvignon you will find in Napa Valley.

8. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

You can enjoy wine tastings indoors or outdoors on this stunning property. You will find the Judgement of Paris winning Cabernet on the menu. This winery was established in 1970 and has been pleasing wine lovers ever since.

9. Robert Mondovi Winery

 

This is a pioneer winery, and it was one of the first, if not the first, wineries in Napa Valley. Established in 1966, you can enjoy a wine tasting inside or outside while taking in the stunning landscape of Napa Valley.

10. Peju Winery

A smaller winery that is family-owned and operated. You can enjoy a wine tasting of their impressive white and red wine selection and take in the grounds. You will find beautiful gardens and a stunning 50-foot tower.

11. Black Stallion Winery

Checking out a smaller winery has its charms. The Black Stallion Winery is located in the heart of Napa Valley and is everything you want in a small-scale winery. There is something for every budget on the wine menu and beautiful outdoor seating in a garden terrace to enjoy the popular Cabernet they serve.

12. Rombauer Vineyards

If visiting a vineyard and winery is on your list of places to go while in Napa Valley, then Rombauer should be top of the list. This is an affordable winery that produces premium wines. You can enjoy a glass, or two, of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignons, or Zinfandels in the outdoor tasting area while taking in the breathtaking views of Napa Valley.

13. Clos Du Val

A French country experience awaits its guests at Clos Du Val, with its outdoor seating area surrounded by gardens and ponds. You will feel transported to France while enjoying a glass of their vintage Cabernet Sauvignon.

14. Mayacamas Vineyard

This is one of the first wineries in Napa Valley and sits atop Mount Veeder, where you can view the San Francisco Bay from the tasting room. If you are looking for the best high-end red wines in Napa Valley, then Mayacamas Vineyard is a must-stop for you.

15. Joseph Phelps Winery

Located in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley and established in 1973 by Joseph Phelps, this winery offers a variety of wines to taste. You will indulge in the wine grown and made on the estate with beautiful views of the property.

Best Wineries in Oak Knoll Appellation

1. Reynolds Family Winery

Reynolds Family Winery is one of our favorite places and a frequent stop on our tours. We love their wines! They have a cozy tasting room. The grounds are nice as well. Appointment required.

2. Van Der Heyden Vineyards

They produce the only Late Harvest Cabernet in the world. This is not a fancy place. They do however produce some exceptional wines. Andre the owner and winemaker is very entertaining. He often personally does the tasting. He is a wealth of knowledge. Their Late Harvest Cab Chocolates are not to be missed.

3. Darioush Winery

Outstanding wines and fascinating architecture. Worth a visit! no appointment is needed.

4. Judd’s Hill Winery and Micro Crush

Would you like to produce your own wine? maybe for an anniversary or special occasion. Judd’s Hill will work with you to create your own unique wine. They also have some very good wines of their own. As well as Barbeque Sauce. Appointment required.

Best Wineries in Carneros

1. McKenzie-Mueler Vineyard and Winery

Highly recommended. The philosophy is simple. Produce outstanding wines at an affordable price. They source their grapes from some very famous and elite winemakers in Napa Valley. They produce some wines that are also uncommon for the area such as Malbec and Cab Franc. Appointment required.

2. Acacia Vineyard

Acacia Vineyard produces some excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that is only available at the winery. The staff is great. The wines are also very good! Appointment required.

3. Domaine Carneros

Domaine Carneros specializes in sparkling wine -aka Champaign. They have provided wine for presidential inaugurations. They have a lovely deck and offer a cheese plate. No appointment is required.

Best Wineries in Up Valley-Calistoga And St Helena

1. Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena won the international wine competition in 1976. Winning this competition gave international credibility to the quality of Napa Valley wines. This historic winery was established in 1882. The winery is gorgeous with a lovely picnic area. No appointment is needed.

2. Castello Di Amorosa

Castello Di Amorosa hosts some of our favorite parties in Napa Valley. This 13th-century-style Tuscan castle is a sight to see. It is also one of the most kid-friendly wineries. The gift shop has wonderful items for children and adults alike. They offer a wide selection of wines. There is something here for everybody. Self-guided and guided tours are available. No appointment is needed.

3. Charles Krug

Charles Krug is the oldest remaining winery in the valley established in 1861. They also opened the first tasting room in California in 1862. This is a wonderful place to visit. Not only is it historic but they also produce some wonderful wines. They also can host special events such as weddings. Call to make an appointment.

Best Wineries in Rutherford And Oakville Napa

1. Elizabeth Spencer Wines

Elizabeth Spencer Wines is a darling little place in an old post office located across the street from Rutherford Grill. they have great wines and a nice ambiance. . Call to make an appointment. Rutherford Grill by the way is one of the few restaurants that does not charge a corkage fee

2. Honig Wines

We are not huge fans of dessert wine but we love their Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc! They also have crisp whites and wonderful single vineyard reds. call to make an appointment.

3. Far Niente

Far Niente Has an awesome tour. This includes a collection of classic automobiles. Their wine is fantastic too. Appointment needed.

4. Peju Province Winery

Peju Province Winery has some excellent wines at a variety of price points. One of the things we appreciate here is the wide variety of wines available. Also, the staff is very knowledgeable. We highly recommend the tour here as well. No appointment is necessary but recommends the tour which does require an appointment.

Best Wineries in Yountville

1. Hill Family Estate

 

Hill Family Estate has great wines and great people! Conveniently located in downtown Yountville.-Appointment required.

2. Hopper Creek Vineyard

This place is truly fun!!! We like their Zinfandel a lot. We like the people even more! We brought some people here today and they loved it!!! Often you will get a chance to talk to the winemaker. At the right time of year, they will even let you push down the grapes. Think of “I Love Lucy.†This place is not fancy. It is a down-to-earth small production winery! Appointment needed.

Book Your Napa River Food and Wine Tour With Us

Your experienced Napa tour guide will welcome you at the first of four stops on this unique Napa Food and Wine Tour. Each restaurant experience is approximately 30 minutes with short walks in between to explore the Napa River and learn about Napa’s rich history and its importance dating back to the gold rush

• Gourmet food paired with luxury wine at notable restaurants
• Half-a glass poured at each stop
• Walking Tour in a fun downtown environment along the river
• Family-owned and operated
• Tours run rain or shine
• All-inclusive, except for the tipping guide

We will visit and incorporate any of the 5 or more locations from the following list:

• Fox & Ox
• Compline
• Annett’s Chocolate
• Tarla
• Be Bubbly
• Oenotri
• Zuzu
• La Taberna
• Oxbow Market
• Morimoto

We reserve the right to switch restaurants or pull in new stops based on our partner’s availability

 

Napa Valley is home to some of the best wines in the world. With over 430 wineries, it can be difficult to choose which one to visit. We have shared with you some of our favorite Napa wineries and why we like them so much.

If you have a favorite wine country destination that you think we should add to this list, please let us know. We would love to check it out!

Thank you for reading Enjoy Napa Valley’s-Best Napa Wineries to Visit!

For groups of six or more, it is recommended that you call and see if an appointment is required even at wineries where no appointment is usually needed.