Napa, Somona, and Covid FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting During Covid 19, Fall 2020

Sterling Vineyards: Yes, I still give away my exclusive $10 off code - More info below!

Is Napa Open? How about Sonoma?

Yes, wineries in both Napa and Sonoma are open! The two areas have different restrictions so don’t make any assumptions and call every winery you want to visit before you arrive. Some have more limited hours and some who don’t have outside tasting areas are still closed, especially in Sonoma.

OCT 21 UPDATE: Napa wineries are back to allowing some indoor tastings! Obviously not exactly back to normal but getting there. Call the wineries to make sure as we approach cooler weather.

Didn’t Napa Burn Down? Is it Even Worth it To Visit?

Not going to lie, Napa has been hit hard by fires. But as I write this update in October the fires are out, the skies are clear, the air quality perfect. But yes, some of our favorite wineries have been destroyed or damaged, notably Sterling (still not open as of Oct 21 but will reopen soon), Burgess (sadly gone), Dutch Henry (damaged but will reopen shortly), and the castle, Castello di Amorosa (partially damaged but open). The bulk of Napa’s wineries are open for business and Napa on the whole needs tourist dollars to stay afloat so a trip to Napa is not only good for you, it’s good for everyone. When the damaged wineries reopen make sure you visit as 2020 has been a tough year for everyone and the damaged wineries especially - And Buy Wine! I know you’re thinking “wine tasting” but buying wine is what keeps the wineries in business.

Do I Need Reservations for Wineries?

Absolutely - every winery requires reservations. Some will say the are “reservations preferred” but what they are really saying is that those walking in will only get in if the winery has space - which may not be very often since the wineries now have more limited space to do actual tastings. So plan ahead, make reservations.

I’m Coming During CRUSH 2020 and Want to Stomp Grapes! Where Can I Go?

Well Lucy, some bad news. From what I’ve been told by the wineries all events like grape stomps or harvest dinners or whatever are cancelled or on hold. You can check Grgich Hills’ website in case things change as they are the most popular so if anyone does it it will be them.

What About Cave Tours in Napa?

As of right now most of the traditional group tours are on hold, though you might find wineries who have found a way to do it safely. Things are changing all the time so call and ask, don’t assume.

Do I Really Have to Wear a Mask?

Yes. Once seated you can remove your mask but for the health and respect of those around you and serving you, follow the mask mandates which right now say you must wear masks.

Is it SAFE to Go Wine Tasting in Napa?

Yes, wineries are being very careful. Masks going in, servers with masks, drivers with masks, tons of social distancing. So yes, pretty darn safe. And yeah, I know, it’s not quite the same as it was way back in January but it’s still Napa, you’re still drinking Napa wine, it’s still more fun than sitting at home watching Netflix.

Is Uber Still Running in Napa?

Yes - But I don’t recommend any ride share service since you now must be ON TIME to your winery appointment. Many wineries require your credit card to save your spot and if you don’t show, guess what? Don’t waste your time, hire a driver. I have a small number of drivers who I can recommend who have a long track record of driving my readers and doing a great job. Some can legally drive your rental (do your own due diligence to make sure), others have vehicles that can seat up to 14 and beyond. EMAIL ME for names of drivers I trust. And don’t think you can sip responsibly and still drive. Trust me on this - when someone puts a delicious $100 bottle of wine in front of you and asks if you would like a sip it is nearly impossible to say NO, especially if you’ve already have had wine. Does your dog ever turn down treats? No, and no one ever has enough will power to turn down Napa wine.

I Have a Big Group and Can’t Find any Wineries!!

That’s one of the big problems these days in both Napa and Sonoma - regulations suggest that the wineries limit groups to 6 or less. In fact, I believe the regulations also suggest that those in each party be from the same family or pod or whatever. Basically, 6 is the limit and most wineries are holding true to this.

But…. How About if We Break Up into Smaller Groups??

Some wineries will allow you to form smaller groups but once you sit down at your table you cannot get up and mingle. But don’t worry, I can help you. I have a small handful of wineries that I can refer you to who can safely take larger groups. Just email me and I’ll help you out - but be flexible! Forget about your bachelorette party invading Castello di Amorosa, the castle, or stomping grapes at Grgich Hills. Many of these wineries are a bit off the beaten path - which is actually good if you are looking for a place your group can forget about Covid for a few hours and safely taste wine and enjoy your time together.

And yes, I can arrange transportation for you as well, even if you want a pick up in the Bay Area.

Are Restaurants Open?

Yes! Though seating is more limited so make sure you make reservations. I mean, make them as soon as you know your dates as the popular restaurants book up far in advance.

Should I Tip at Wineries?

Yes, especially during these Covid times. These people working the wineries need all the support they can get. They have families, they have rent due, and they’re risking their health to serve you. So yes, the standard 20% tip for good service should be adhered to.

Additionally, if you are visiting a smaller winery not owned by a giant corporation you should always buy wine. Just go to each winery with the idea that you will take home at least a couple of bottles. Many small boutique wineries used to make their money selling wine to restaurants and with that industry in turmoil it’s up to the winery to close the gap. So while in the past it was fine to taste and move on, today you should buy wine whenever possible.

Does the Priority Wine Pass Still Work?

Yes - the popular “two for one” pass still works at dozens of wineries in both Napa and Sonoma so I still recommend it. Figure the pass is $39.99 for two people but you can get $45 off at Grgich Hills, $45 off at Charles Krug, $30 off at Beringer, etc - I mean, you don’t even need to do the math to see how it pays for itself and saves most people on average a hundred bucks a day. And yes, if you get the pass I still offer FREE advice and will help you pick the best wineries for your wine tasting experience. To buy the wine pass go to this link so you get my discount and remember, only get one pass per couple. You will find all of the deals here.

OK, How About that FREE Sterling $10 Off Code?

YES, I still give away the free $10 off code. All you have to do is email me and I’ll send it to you within 24 hours. No catches, no gimmicks, totally free for my readers. You do know my email by now, right? wally@napatouristguide.com