Contact Wally

Use the form on the right to contact me.

I am happy to help you plan your trip to Napa.  If you need a free winery trip planning agenda please give me as much time as you can due to the large number of requests.  I can typically turn around a custom agenda in 3 days.

Happy also to help you with restaurant and hotel recommendations, all honest and unbiased and based on my own experiences.

Cheers,

Local Wally

         

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Local Wally's Blog to Napa | NapaTouristGuide.com

Read Local Wally's Blog to Napa for up to date news, features, and stories from Napa Valley. Guest Posts Welcome!

Filtering by Category: Napa Valley

Day Tripping from San Francisco to Napa Valley Made Easy!

Local Wally

Planning a Corporate Event Team Builder?  Vacationing in SF and Want to Go Wine Tasting?  Live in the Bay Area but Don't Know What to Do?  Everything You Need to Know to Visit Napa Valley for a Day!

Charles Krug Winery

DID YOU SOMEHOW GET ROPED INTO PLANNING A CORPORATE EVENT IN NAPA FROM SAN FRANCISCO?  EASY, PEASY!

If your group is 8 or less you have a lot of options.  Most wineries are cool with smaller groups and won't require reservations though it's always a good idea to make them as there's nothing worse than showing up to a winery only to find huge crowds and no place to go. 

If you are coming with 10 or more you need to plan this out.  There are some big name wineries like Chandon, V Sattui, Castello di Amorosa, who appear to be open to groups without reservations but do a bit of research and you'll find that some, like V Sattui, have restrictions on party size and times they allow groups.  Others, like Castello di Amorosa, actually close the doors to groups once they hit their admission limit for the day, sometimes as early as 2:00.  And even if you find wineries who tell you to just pop in, this means long lines and no personal servce. 

So what to do?  Just email me.  If you have a corporate group of 10 or more I can hook you up with some wineries who will take very good care of your group - at rates lower than if you called yourself and tried to book it through their group sales department.  Need transportation?  I can get you discounts on party buses and shuttles, too. 

PLAN AHEAD!  Remember, Napa books up fast and shuttle buses are scarce so the more time the better. Planning out 4 months in advance is a good idea but if you have to punt and get it done just contact me and I'll get you all the info to pull it off.


ON VACATION IN SAN FRANCISCO AND WANT TO DO A DAY TRIP TO NAPA? 

This is super easy.  First, figure out your transportation.  You can drive over, you can Uber, you can take the Ferry to Vallejo, whatever you decide just get here.  Plan to be in Napa around 10:00 to start tasting.  Figure you can hit four to five wineries, do dinner, then hightail it back to San Francisco.  Give yourself a full day and if you are short on time do Sonoma instead - it's a bit closer.

Where to taste, where to eat, what to do?  Just email me.  I'll help you get a Wine Pass to save you money and then show you the wineries I recommend for a fast trip to Napa.


Elizabeth Spencer's Tasting Room - Great Patio out Back, a hidden gem!

BAY AREA LOCAL AND WANT TO VISIT NAPA - ON A BUDGET?

Bay Area locals are so lucky to live so close.  Don't be embarrassed if you live so close but not sure what to do.  I help people find the best wineries and deals all the time, from newbies to somm's.  Step 1 is always the same - Get a Wine Pass!  Tasting in Napa is now $25 per person at most places, more at some.  The two for one pass pays for itself fast and since you live nearby you can use it again and again since it's good for 12 months.  Get the pass - one per couple - and then email me and I'll help you pick your wineries for free.  Soon you too will be a Napa expert!


Platypus Tours for Napa and Sonoma

OVERWHELMED?  JUST BOOK A PLATYPUS TOUR OF NAPA OR SONOMA FROM SAN FRANCISCO!

If you want to make it real easy whether you are a corporate event or vacationer, just book the Platypus Tour and let them do all the hard work.  They have a tour where you take the Ferry to Vallejo and they pick you up.  You spend a day on their small shuttles, they serve lunch, you taste wine, they get you back in time, no brainer!  To get more info just email my contact there, Jenny Toomer, and tell her Local Wally sent you and she will take good care of you!

2019 - EVERY NAPA VALLEY, SONOMA, RUSSIAN RIVER WINE TASTING DEAL RIGHT HERE!

Local Wally

LOOKING FOR THE UPDATED LIST OF NAPA, SONOMA, AND RUSSIAN RIVER WINE TASTING COUPON OR DEALS?  HERE IT IS, UPDATED JAN 2019.

Buy One Wine Pass for tons of 2 for 1 Deals in Napa and Sonoma

Buy One Wine Pass for tons of 2 for 1 Deals in Napa and Sonoma

To get these Napa and Sonoma wine tasting deals just purchase the Priority Wine Pass for $39.99.  You only need ONE pass per couple and the savings add up fast!


Blue Note Music Venue & Restaurant (Downtown Napa): Complimentary glass of wine and complimentary dessert *show tickets are required, see Blue Note Napa website for artists, pricing and availability. ($25 value)

Tarla (Downtown Napa next to the Andaz Hotel): Complimentary Appetizer with Priority Wine Pass ($12 Value)

Gustavo Wines (Downtown Napa next to the Oxbow Market):- 2 for 1 tasting flight and 20% off shipping ($18+ SAVINGS) Known for: Red Blends, Cab, Chardonnay, Merlot

Krupp Brothers Tasting Room (Downtown Napa):-Complimentary upgrade from our Signature flight to our Reserve Flight for two ($40 Savings) Known for: Red blends, Cab

Feast It Forward (Downtown Napa next to the Oxbow Market):- 2 for 1 Tasting ($35 Value) Known for: A bit of everything (outside food welcome to bring in to enjoy with your tasting or a bottle purchase)

Learn How To Taste Wine with Victor Orozco (Downtown Napa next to the Oxbow Market): Victor is a level 3 Somm who hosts private morning lessons where you can learn about the ways of tasting and then can go out and use those skills at the wineries during the day. Normally $90pp wine pass members and guests receive the class for $65pp w/reservation: 707-812-9292

Twenty Rows: (Downtown napa) 2 for 1 tasting AND 20% off wine purchaswith reservation ($25 SAVINGS) Cab, Red Blends, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Zin

Outland Wines (Downtown Napa):-2 complimentary tastings with 4 bottle purchase ($50 SAVINGS) Known for: An array of wines ranging from Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, to Trousseau and Riesling

JaM Cellars (Downtown Napa):- 2 for 1 tasting flight ($20+ SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Sparkling, Red blends…open LATE!

Winetasting on First: (Downtown Napa):- Happy Hour Glasses of Wine All the time & Two Complimentary tasting tastings with the purchase of One Bottle ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Red Blends, White Blends,Chardonnay, Cab, Pinot, Petite Sirah

Cornerstone Cellars (Village at Vista Collina Resort in Napa):-  One Complimentary Tasting per wine pass($30 SAVINGS) Known for:Sauv Blanc, Riesling, Cab, Pinot, Zin, Syrah

Cornerstone Cellars (Downtown Napa):- One Complimentary Tasting per wine pass($30 SAVINGS) Known for:Sauv Blanc, Riesling, Cab, Pinot, Zin, Syrah

Wine Train Gourmet Lunch or Dinner: (Downtown Napa) $25 off tickets pass members and up to 3 guests ($80 Savings) Reservations required please call (707) 253-2111 and mention you are a wine pass member during booking. At check-in please bring ID and wine pass to obtain special pricing. 

Castello Di Amorosa Wine Train Tour: (Downtown Napa) $25 off tickets for pass members and up to 3 guests ($80 Savings) Reservations required please call (707) 253-2111 and mention you are a wine pass member during booking. At check-in please bring ID and wine pass to obtain special pricing. 

Collective/Estate/Legacy/Famiglia Wine Train Tours: (Downtown Napa) Receive $35 off tickets for pass members and up to 3 guests based on availability ($140 Savings) Reservations required please call (707) 253-2111 and mention you are a wine pass member during booking. At check-in please bring ID and wine pass to obtain special pricing. 


Caves at Long Meadow Ranch

Caves at Long Meadow Ranch

Main Napa Area Tasting Deals

Bouchaine (Napa) One Complimentary 1030am Vineyard Tour and Tasting with prior reservation per wine pass (Save $50) Known for: Pinot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Rose

Ceja Vineyards (near Carneros Brewery in Sonoma) 15% off in-person wine purchases ($20SAVINGS) Known for our Pinot, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Rose, Red Blend, Merlot, Syrah, Cab, and Late Harvest/Dessert Wine.

Bourassa (Napa):-2 for 1 Tastings and Complimentary Wine Educational Experience, and 10% off wine purchases ($40+SAVINGS) Known for: Riesling, Syrah, Cab, Zin, Port, Red Blends

Leaf & Vine Winery (Napa): 50% off tasting and meet the winemaker ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Zinfandel, Sauv Blanc, CAB, Petite Sirah

Avinodos (Napa):-2 for 1 Tasting and Barrel Tasting and a meet and greet with the winemaker  BY APPOINTMENT ONLY($20 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc and Malbec

LE (Carneros): 10% off wine purchases  Known for: Rose, White blends, Pinot, etc

Ancien (Coombsville): Recieve a tour and tasting for $25pp (for up to 4) with reservations Known for: Pinot and Chardonnay

Judds Hill (Silverado Trail Napa):-  2 for 1 Tasting BY APPOINTMENT ONLY($25 SAVINGS) or Cardholders will enjoy a special rate of $100 per couple (normally $135) for the Judd’s Hill Wine and Food in Balance Seminar. (RESERVATION required) Known for: Pinot, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabs, Meritage, Blends

Black Stallion (Silverado Trail Napa):- 2 for 1 tastings ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Cab, Merlot, Syrah, Zin, Pinot, Chardonnay, Viognier, Red blends, Dessert wine

Hagafan (Silverado Trail Napa):- 2 for 1 tastingsBY APPOINTMENT ONLY(except Holidays & Saturdays)($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Riesling, Late Harvest, CAB, Merlot, Tempranillo, Red blends, Sparkling, Sweet wines, pinot

Andretti (Napa): 2 for 1 Tasting and 10% off wine purchases. ($35+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Late Harvest, Sangiovese, Pinot

Relic Wine Cellars (Off of Silverado Trail Napa): Complimentary Private Tasting for Two with a $300 purchase or $40 tasting fee per person (this winery is allocation only, so members receive access to this winery to purchase their wine when otherwise you would not be able to do so. Known for: Pinot, Petite Sirah, Cab Franc

Patland Cave Experience (Off of Silverado Trail Napa): Receive $50 off a Tour and Tasting for 2 (normally $75pp)…reservations is required email:mpatland@patlandvineyards.com (Save $50) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Rose, Syrah, Zin, Malbec, Cab, Prop Red Blend, and Port

Pine Ridge (Silverado Trail Napa): Reservation Required 50% off tasting for up to 2 people M-Thursday and 10% off wine purchases Fri-Sun (except Saturdays)BY APPOINTMENT ONLY(  ($45 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Late Harvest, Sangiovese, Pinot

Silverado Vineyards (Silverado Trail Napa): 2 for 1 Premier Tasting ($45 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc, Cab, Sangiovese, Merlot

Miner (Silverado Trail Napa): 2-for-1 tasting for the walk-in Bar Tastings OR 2 for 1 Group Cave Tasting & Tour Experience with Reservation Monday-Friday email customerservice@minerwines.com Or SATURDAY & SUNDAY: COMPLIMENTARY TASTING with 2 bottle purchase($50 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Merlot,  Sangiovese, Pinot, Cab, Viogner, Rose, and many others


Yountville and Oakville Tasting Deals

Hill Winery (Yountville): 50% off tasting for up to Two People ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauv Blanc, White Blends, Rose, Cabs, Red blends

V Cellarplace (Yountville): 2 for 1 tasting experience and 15% off wine purchases ($25+ SAVINGS) Known for: A bit of everything!

Travel Food & Wines (Yountville): Complimentary tasting experience per wine pass and with reservation ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: The unique and hard to find wines of Napa Valley (By Appt Only: email: laura@travelfood.com)

Jessup Cellars (Yountville): One Complimentary Tasting per pass  ($40 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab, Pinot, Zin, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cab Franc, Port

Girard (Yountville):  Save $125 on our Cabernet Experience. Reservations Required. Experience five of our most exclusive appellation Cabernet Sauvignon selections presented side by side and paired with small bites of chocolate,cheese, and charcuterie. Includes three bottles of our Cabernet Sauvignon in a wooden gift box.Please let us know at the time of booking that you are a Priority Wine Pass member. Your experience can be reserved by calling us at 707.921.2795 or emailing us at hospitality@girardwinery.com

Cosentino (Yountville): 2 for 1 Tasting (Maximum of 8 guests) ($40 Savings): Known for: Zin, Cab, blends

Napa Wine Cellars (Oakville):-2 for 1 Reserve Tasting for up to 4 guests ($60 Savings): Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab, Zin, Merlot, Pinot, & Syrah


Rutherford and St Helena Tasting Deals

Elizabeth Spencer (Rutherford): Complimentary Upgraded tasting for 2 with purchase of charter tasting (reservations are recommended) ($25 SAVINGS ) Known for: Chardonnay,Riesling, Rose, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cab,Grenache

Rutherford Hill Winery (Rutherford): Complimentary upgrade to a Signature Tasting for 2. Plus, enjoy 10% savings on wine purchases.($30+ SAVINGS ) Known for: Red blends, Cabs, Merlot

Rutherford Ranch Winery (Silverado Trail St. Helena): One Complimentary Tasting per wine pass (BY APPT ONLY) : Enjoy a selection of four to five wines from our portfolio, both red and white wines, rotated seasonally ($40 SAVINGS) Known for: Cab (several only available at the winery), Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zin and Rhiannon, a proprietary red blend.

Conn Creek Winery (Silverado Trail St. Helena): Complimentary Anthology Saloon Tasting with reservation OR 2 for 1 Walk-in Bar tasting  OR $25 off of one Barrel Blending Experience®, up to 4 guests w/reservations  ($100 Savings)

Grgich (St. Helena): One Complimentary Tasting per wine pass ($25SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Cab, Zin, and red blends

White Hall Lane (St. Helena): 50% off tasting for 2 people walk-in OR 2 for 1 Reserve Tasting in their Members Lounge with reservation ($50 SAVINGS)  Known for: Rose, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab, Merlot, Pinot, Red blends, Dessert Wine

Delectus (St. Helena): 2 for 1 VIP Tasting Experience with reservation ($55 SAVINGS) Known for: Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Sauv Blanc

Prager Port (St. Helena): 10% discount on a purchase of 6 bottles. 20% discount on a purchase of one case. ($20+SAVINGS) Known for: PORT

V.Sattui (St. Helena): Two for One Tastings ($20 SAVINGS): Known for: CABS but they have over 60 varietals and several sweet wines!

Long Meadow Ranch (St.Helena): Receive 2 Complimentary Mayacamas Estate Tours with the purchase of a Chefs Table Dinner ($150 Savings) Email: scarter@longmeadowranch.com to make reservations and to learn more

Davies Vineyard (St.Helena): Purchase a Sparkling or Pinot Flight and receive a complimentary upgrade to a combination flight by appointment ONLY ($50 savings) OR Bubbles and Caviar brunch…$50off per person (normally $130pp)  Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 10 am. OR the basics of wine pairings with cheese $35off per person (normally $95pp) Monday through Saturday at 11  and reservations are required

Known for their Schramsberg Sparking wine and Davies Pinots and Cabs

Beringer Winery (St. Helena): 50% off of the Beringer Old Winery Tasting for up to TWO people ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Reds, Whites, and Blends

Schweiger Vineyards (St. Helena/Spring Mountain): Complimentary Tasting for Two and Free Shipping with a Case Purchase ($150 Savings) Known for: Chardonnay, Cabs, Port

Trinchero Winery (St. Helena): 2 for 1 Tasting, ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Merlot, Cab, Petite Verdot, Cab Franc, Meritage

Boeschen Vineyards (St. Helena):Complimentary Tastings and tour of the underground winery, Victorian gardens, and classic car collection for TWO people with 2 Red bottle purchases by appt only. Please phone the winery (707 963-3674) or send an email info@boeschenvineyards.com ($150 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Rose, Petite Verdot, Estate Blends, Cab

Benessere (St. Helena): Complimentary Tour and Extra Pour of their Reserve Wine with reservation: email ryan@benesserevineyards.com  , ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, and other Italian style wines

Maxville Estate Winery (St.Helena near Pope Valley): 2 for 1 Historic Winery Cave Tour and Tasting or 2 for 1 Cave Tour and Cheese and Wine Pairing w/reservations  ($85 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Cab Franc, Cab Sauv, & Petit Sirah

Auburn James (Silverado Trail in St. Helena): 50% off Tasting/Tour for up to 2 people with Reservation, ($40 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Cab, Pinot, Red Blends

Ladera Vineyards (St. Helena):Receive the private tasting experience ($60 a person) at the price of our outdoor experience ($35 a person). Member and up to 3 guests may take advantage of this offer.Reservation is required ($100 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Cab, Red Blends, Pinot, Malbec, Sauv Blanc, Rose

AXR Napa Valley at V Madrone Vineyard (St.Helena/Calistoga): 2 Complimentary Tastings with 2 bottle purchase Reservation Required ($100 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Red blends, Cab

Charles Krug (St. Helena): Complimentary Tasting OR An estate tour and tasting for the price of a reserve tasting with reservation ($65 Savings) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Malbec, Red blends, Cab, Chard


Calistoga/Deer Park/Angwin Tasting Deals

Burgess Cellars (Howell Mountain): One Complimentary Tasting in the cellar experience per wine pass and reservations are required ($30 Savings) Known for: Estate Cabs, Red blends, Merlot, Grenache, Chardonnay, Syrah, Petit Sirah

Teachworth Estate Winery (Calistoga): 2 for 1 Tasting with the owner or winemaker and access to purchase some private reserve cabs from 2011-14. Reservations are required ($50 SAVINGS) Known for: Cab

Pope Valley (Pope Valley): One Complimentary Tasting per wine pass ($30 SAVINGS) Known for: Sparkling, Chenin Blanc, Rose, Sangiovese, Merlot, Malbec, Cab, Port

Madrigal Family Winery (Calistoga): Complimentary Private Tasting for 2 with two bottle purchase….By Appointment Only & Vineyard Lunch with tasting for $85 (normally $100pp)($70 SAVINGS) Known for: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Gewurztraminer, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc and small lots of single vineyard and estate wines.

Amici Cellars (Calistoga): 15% off on a CASE purchase ($40+ SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Red blends, Cab

Envy Wines(Calistoga): 2 for 1 Tasting before Noon ($20 SAVINGS) Known for: Syrah, Cab, Petite Sirah, Red blends, Rose, Sauv blanc, and Late harvest!

Summers Estate(Calistoga): 2 for 1 Tasting with PRIOR APPOINTMENT ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: CAB, Chardonnay, Charbono, Merlot, Malbec, Red blends, Muscat

Dutch Henry (Silverado Trail Calistoga):  2 FOR 1 WALK-IN Current Release Tasting OR 2 for 1 Collectors Tasting with barrel Sample ($35 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Rose, Pinot, Red blends, Cab, Cab Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Zin, Petite Sirah

Picayune Cellars (Calistoga): 2 for 1 Tasting or Complimentary upgrade to the Music and Wine Pairing with the purchase of a standard tasting ($25 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc, Pinot, and Red Blends

Clos Pegase (Calistoga): 2 for 1 tasting and 20% off wine purchased that day ($25+SAVINGS) Known for: Pinot, Cab, Merlot, Syrah, Red blends, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Port, Rose

Sterling (Calistoga): 2 for 1 tasting please see special code in welcome email to make online reservations or call and mention you’re a priority wine pass member  ($35 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Cab, Red blends

Brian Arden (Silverado Trail Calistoga): 50% off of the wine flight tastings for up to 2 people 10% off select wines Sorry, no shared tastings.  One pass per two people($30 SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Rose, Chardonnay, Cab, Red blends

Bennette Lane Winery (Calistoga): Complimentary Upgrade to a Private Seated Tasting for Priority Wine Pass Holders (valued at $70 per couple) for our Signature Tasting Price of $40! Limited to groups size of 6 or less and by appointment only.


Sonoma Valley and Russian River Tasting Deals

Landmark Vineyards in Sonoma

Landmark Vineyards in Sonoma

Winery Offers:

McEvoy Ranch (Petaluma): 2 for 1 bar tasting with reservation ($20 SAVINGS) Known for: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Montepulciano, Grenache, Viognier, and Olive Oil.

Adobe Winery (in Petaluma) 2 for 1 Tasting ($15+ SAVINGS) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Semillon, Viognier, Rose, Pinot, Grenache, Zin, Syrah, CAB

GREEDY Wines (Sebastopol): Complimentary tasting and meet the winemaker ($20+SAVINGS) Known for: CAB & Sauv Blanc BY APPT ONLY

Ekitmo Wines (Sebastopol): 2 for 1 tasting ($10+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Zinfandel,Petite Sirah, Sauv Blanc

LE Estate (Carneros): 10% off wine purchases. Reservations are recommended

Jean Edwards Cellars (Sonoma Plaza): 2 for 1 tasting (Save $20

Larson Family (Sonoma): 10% off wine purchases  Known for: Three Lab Cab, Chardonnay, and Pinot

Ceja Vineyards (near Carneros Brewery in Sonoma) 15% off in-person wine purchases Known for: Pinot, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Rose, Red Blend, Merlot, Syrah, Cab, and Late Harvest/Dessert Wine.

Schug Vineyard (Sonoma): 2 for 1 tasting for TWO ($20+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Late Harvest, Sauv Blanc, Merlot, Cab, Malbec

Viansa (Sonoma): 2 for 1 tasting M-F and 20% off their picnic lunches with reservations any day of the week email: JSandine@vintagewineestates.com ($30+SAVINGS) Known for: A bit of everything

Cline Cellars (Sonoma): 2 for 1 Reserve Tasting and 10% off wine purchases ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Zin, Mouverde, Chardonnay…and they really have it all.

Jacuzzi Cellars (Sonoma): 2 for 1 Reserve Tasting and 10% off wine purchases ($20+SAVINGS) Known for: Italian style varietals

Canihan Winery (Sonoma): 2 for 1 tasting and meet the winemaker by appointment only ($20+SAVINGS): Pinot, Syrah BY APPT ONLY

Mayo Family Winery (Glen Ellen): 2 for 1 Tastings and 10% off wine purchases ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Zin, CAB

Kivelstadt Cellars (Glen Ellen): One Complimentary Tasting per pass and 10% off wine purchases ($15+SAVINGS): Red Blends, Pinot, Syrah, Viognier, Sauv Blanc, Rose

Spann Vineyards (Glen Ellen): 2 for 1 Tasting or Complimentary Tasting for Two with a bottle purchase. Special discount on Pizza lunch and wine pairing (reservation required)  ($20SAVINGS) Known for: Zin, CAB, Chardonnay, Blends

Deerfield Ranch Winery Caves (Kenwood): One complimentary tasting per pass ($15SAVINGS) Known for: DRX, Meritage Red Blends, Cabs, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot, Sangiovese, Syrah, Zin, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauv Blanc, Rose, White blends

Muscardini Cellars (Kenwood): 2 for 1 Tastings and 10% off wine purchases ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Single-Vineyard Designate Zinfandels, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Bordeaux-style blend and Late Harvest Zinfandel.

Manzanita Creek: (Kenwood) Complimentary Tasting for Two and 15% off purchases ($30+SAVINGS) Known for: Syrah, Zin, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot, Red blends

Ty Caton Vineyard (Kenwood): 2 for 1 Tastings ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Merlot, Red blends, Syrah, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Cab, Dessert Wines

B Wise (Kenwood): 2 for 1 Tastings ($20SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Red Blends, Cabs, Syrah, Rose, Pinot

VJB Vineyards(Kenwood): 2 for 1 Tastings ($15SAVINGS) Known for: Italian Style Wines and they also have a wonderful Deli.

Chateau St. Jean (kenwood): 2 for 1 Tasting ($20 SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, CAB, Merlot, Pinot (they also have a wonderful reserve menu)

Landmark (Kenwood):Tower tasting by appointment. Offer Priority Wine Pass members our wine society price of $30, rather than $40 regular price OR Upgraded seated courtyard tasting by appointment to include a complimentary cheese plate for two. 24 hour notice required. ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay AND Pinot

St. Francis Winery (Santa Rosa): 2 for 1 Tastings and 10% off wine purchases ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay, Zin, Cab, and other reds


Healdsburg, Lake County & Other Sonoma County Wineries - Russian River Area

Trecini (dwntn Santa Rosa): 2 for 1 tasting and 15% off wine purchases ($15+value) Known for: Merlot, Pinot, Zin, Sauv Blanc, Sparkling

St. Francis Winery (Santa Rosa): 2 for 1 Tasting and 10% off wine purchases ($10+value) Known for: Cab, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauv Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Zin

Lost Canyon Winery (Santa Rosa): Complimentary Tasting for Two ($20 value) Known for: Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot

GREEDY Wines (Sebastopol): Complimentary tasting and meet the winemaker ($20+value) Known for: CAB & Sauv Blanc BY APPT ONLY

Ekitmo Wines (Sebastopol): 2 for 1 tasting ($10+value) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Zinfandel,Petite Sirah, Sauv Blanc

Balletto Vineyards (Santa Rosa): ,4 Complimentary Tastings ($40 SAVINGS) Known for: Reds, whites, and red blends

Wine Guerilla (Forestville): Complimentary Tasting for 2 and 10% off wine purchases Known for: Zin

Landmark (Forestville): Upgraded seated courtyard tasting by appointment to include a complimentary cheese plate for two. 24 hour notice required. ($15+SAVINGS) Known for: Chardonnay AND Pinot

K Squared Cellars (Windsor): 2 for 1 tasting ($15 value) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Pinot, Merlot, Zin, Rose

Trione Vineyards & Winery (Geyserville): 2 for 1 tasting and 10% off case purchases ($30+ Savings) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Syrah, Zin, Sauv Blanc, Primitivo

Cast Wines (Geyserville): 2 for 1 tasting  ($25 Savings) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Zin, Sauv Blanc, Sparkling Wine, Cab

Meeker Vineyard (Geyserville):2 Complimentary Tastings ($30+ Savings) Known for: Dry, age-worthy, bold reds, and unusual white, rosé, and dessert wines

VML (Healdsburg): 2 for 1 tasting ($15+value) Known for: Chardonnay, Pinot, Sauv Blanc, Sparkling, Zin, Red blend, Syrah, Dessert wines/sweet wines

ACORN Winery/Alegría Vineyards (Healdsburg): 2 for 1 PRIVATE sit down tasting with owner or winemaker with reservation and 10% off bottle purchases ($30 Value) Known for: Cab, Cab Franc, Sangiovese, Red blends, Syrah, Zin,Petite Sirah

West Wines (Healdsburg): 2 for 1 tasting ($30 Value) Known for Cab, Viognier, Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc

Portalupi (Healdsburg Square): Complimentary 3 pour tasting for TWO with bottle purchase ($20 value) Known for: Red blends, Sauv Blanc

Blanchard Family Winery (Healdsburg Square): 2 Complimentary Tastings BY APPT ONLY and 15% off wine purchases ($20+value) Known for: Red blends, Whites

Spicy Vines (Healdsburg Square): 2 for 1 and 10% off wine purchases Known For: Zinf, Syrah, Petit Sirah, Chardonnay, Rose

Hudson Street Wineries (Healdsburg): Complimentary Tasting and 15% off wine purchases ($10+value) Known for: Chardonnay, Zin, Cab, Syrah, Sauv Blanc, Rose, Petite Sirah, Pinot

Hart’s Desire Wines (Healdsburg): 15% off wine purchases, 20% off case purchases, and complimentary tasting with purchase Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Grenache, Sangiovese Rose, Pinot, Tempranillo, Zin, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Claret, Late Harvest, and Muscat

White Oak Winery (Healdsburg): Complimentary Tasting, 10% wine purchase, ($25+value) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Zin, Cab, Pinot, Red blends

Alexander Valley Vineyards (Healdsburg): 2 for 1 Reserve Tasting ($20 value) Known for: Chardonnay, Merlot, , Zin, Cab, Red blends, Gewertz

Sapphire Hill (Healdsburg): 15% discount on wine purchases, 20% discount on all case purchases & complimentary tasting with bottle purchase ($10+ value) Known for: Sparkling, Moscato, Gewertz.

G&C Lurton Vineyard (Healdsburg): 2 Complimentary tastings and 10% off wine purchases & private estate tour available by appointment ($20+ value) Known for:Bordeaux style wines, cab, merlot, cab franc, sb

Viszlay Vineyards (Healdsburg): 2 for 1 Tastings with Advance Reservations ($15 value) Known for: Rose, Chardonnay, Pinot, Red Blends, Zin, Petite Sirah, and a Prosecco

Merriam Vineyards: (Healdsburg) 2 for 1 Tasting ($15+value) Known for: Cabs, Pinots, Red blends, Petite Verdot, Merlot, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, and Late Harvest wines

Rued Winery: (Healdsburg) 2 for 1 tasting Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot, Zin, and Cab

*(voucher req’d)Kendall Jackson: (Healdsburg) Two for One tasting ($15+value) Known for: Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Meritage, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Muscat, Pinot, Merlot, Cab, Syrah, Zin, Red blend

Manzanita Creek: (Healdsburg) Complimentary Tasting ($15+value) Known for: Syrah, Zin, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot, Red blends

Rodney Strong: (Healdsburg) 2 for 1 on our Estate tasting in our tasting room. 15% off Wine Flights and Wine & Food Pairings on our Terrace when available. 15% off Winter Food & Wine Pairings. 15% off wine purchases. (Some wines may not be discounted). ($25+value)

*(voucher req’d)Ferrari-Carano Vineyards: 2 for 1 Classic Tasting ($5value) Known for: Chardonnay, Fume Blanc, Sauv Blanc, Pinot, Merlot, Sangiovese, Zin, Cab, Red blends

Albertina Cellars (Hopland): Complimentary Tasting & Tour. Owner and winemaker will be offering a 1-2hour tour of the vineyard. Known for: CAB, Merlot Reservations Required. BY APPT ONLY

Chacewater: (Lake County) Complimentary Tasting ($10+value) Known for: Chardonnay, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Merlot

Six Sigma: (Lake County) 2 for 1 Tasting ($10+value) Known for: Rose, Sauv Blanc, Pinot, Tempranillo, Cab,

Sky Pine Vineyards & Bobdog Wine: (Cloverdale) Complimentary Tasting ($10+value)Known for: Cab, Malbec, Meritage, Merlot, Port, Rose, Zin, Dessert Wines BY APPT ONLY

Fritz Winery: (Cloverdale) 2 for 1 Reserve Tasting ($15 value) Known for: Rose, Sauv Blanc, Chardonnay, Red blends, Zin, Pinot

 

Napa Wineries Open July 4th, 2018

Local Wally

Happy Fourth of July from Napa Tourist Guide

Happy Fourth of July from Napa Tourist Guide

Don't assume that your favorite winery will be open in Napa on the Fourth of July!  Always call first and if you have the Priority Wine Pass here is a quick list of the wineries who have verified they will be open for business this 4th of July.  Remember, use your Priority Wine Pass to get discounts such as two for one tastings at these and other wineries.  If you don't have a pass buy it here and get ONE per couple only to save easily a hundred dollars a day on tastings.

Anderson Conn Creek

Andretti

Bennessere

Boeschen

BR Cohn

Bouchaine

Close Pegase

Consentino

Delectus

Girard

Judd's Hill

Leaf and Vine

Long Meadow Ranch

Mark Herold

Maxville

Napa Cellars

Pine Ridge

Pope Valley Vineyard

Summers Winery

Viansa

Whitehall (open until 3:30)

 

 

 

Napa After the 2017 Wildfires - Still Good to Visit?

Local Wally

How is Napa Valley After the Big Fire of 2017?

Charred hillsides after the Napa fire of 2017 from last last year - it's all green now.

Charred hillsides after the Napa fire of 2017 from last last year - it's all green now.

You've been dreaming of a trip to Napa, you've been planning, you're ready to go - but then the Oct 2017 wildfires hit, the worst fire in the history of California, and you think - should you come or should you cancel?  And I totally get it.  Napa is romantic, Napa is lush with vegetation and vineyards, is it still good after the big fires?

And here's what I say - Yes, Napa is still GREAT after the fires.   The media did a great job of covering the fire, perhaps too good of a job because I still get questions from readers wondering if there are any wineries left and if the area is too scorched to visit.  The truth of the matter is that most visitors will not even notice that there was a fire unless they look up at the tops of the hillsides to see the burned trees.  The hillsides are coming back green and ready for your snapchat.

But wally, didn't the wineries burn down?

No, only two wineries actually burned to the ground - Signorello and Patland Vineyards.  The rest of the wineries were either not impacted or 100% back in business.  But the wineries, especially the smaller, family run wineries, need your support.  They lost months of income and revenue while the valley was recuperating and need visitors like you to come in.  And while you're there buy some wine, ship home a few bottles, and know you're helping a small business stay afloat.

visit these wineries most impacted by the fire

PATLAND WINERY:  One of only two wineries that actually burned to the ground, Patland is bouncing back with the Patland Cave Experience.  Tasting and tours are only $40 per person and if you have the Priority Wine Pass they'll give you a two for one.  This will be a true VIP sort of tasting experience and you'll feel good about helping one of the wineries that needs your help the most.  If you don't have a Priority Wine Pass you can get it here - get just one per couple. Reservations required.


RELIC WINE CELLARS: You probably have never heard of Relic Wine Cellars because they are not open to the general public - you have to know somebody to be invited.  But they were hit hard by the fires so working with myself and the Priority Wine Pass they are offering FREE tastings for two with a $300 purchase, or $40 per person without purchase if you just want the cave tasting experience.  It's near Patland so do both.  You can only get this offer with a Priority Wine Pass, buy it here - one per couple.  Reservations required.


CHIMNEY ROCK WINERY:  The fires came close but the winery was saved.  They're offering FREE tastings to Priority Wine Pass members with only a 2 bottle red wine purchase.  This is a great opportunity to taste some of Napa's best reds and saves you $100 on tasting fees.  Like the other offers you must have the Priority Wine Pass so buy it here, one per couple.  Reservations required.