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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Read Local Wally's Blog to Napa for up to date news, features, and stories from Napa Valley. Guest Posts Welcome!
Coming with a big group to Napa? Let me help you plan it out and find you the discounts. i build out free agendas all the time for groups, whether bachelorette parties or corporate events.
Read MoreNew Promo Code for $10 Off for Sterling Vineyards
Read MoreCharles Krug Winery
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.
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 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
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!
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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 Wine Tasting at Conn Creek Winery
Everyone wants a deal in Napa. After all, wine tasting in Napa has gotten super expensive with some wineries now charging $50 per person to taste... at the bar! So I totally get why people get so excited when the see FREE COUPONS for big names like Mumm, Chandon, Mondavi, and Castello di Amorosa, the Napa castle. There was a time when these wineries actually had deals but I haven't seen them in a long time. That's right, save yourself some time and stop searching for winery discounts at these wineries. And if you find a deal that's too good to be true, well, do you really think the $19.99 Ray Ban ads on Facebook are real? (spoiler: Not real!)
As for sites offering inside knowledge on FREE NAPA WINE TASTING!!!!! - Last month there were two, this month only one - Sutter Home . These guys invented the terribly popular (and some suggest just terrible) White Zinfandel. Still, free is free so there you go! That's it. You can find cheap or free tastings if you head up on the Sonoma side towards the Russian River but that's an entirely different beast.
When I started Napa Tourist Guide over 10 years ago there were coupons everywhere. My goal was to collect them all in one place so you didn't have to search. Now that the coupons are all but gone you can still get deals but you have to pay. Napa is filled with passports, phone apps, and other "pay to play" offers. I did my research and keeping with the original guiding principles of my site to offer honest, advertiser free advice, I went with just one - the Priority Wine Pass.
I met the gal who owns and runs the wine pass company and she is not only sweet but legit. Dinner at her house usually involves Napa winemakers or others in the industry. The Priority Wine Pass has the usual suspects such as Grgich Hills, Beringer, Krug, etc - but also offers deals at Napa's hidden gems, the boutiques who most visitors pass by on their way to the castle or tram ride. And while I too enjoy the intensity of a busy winery bustling with crowds I like to temper that with quieter, more private experiences. The Priority Wine Pass does a good job in balancing it out, giving my readers options, and that's why I partnered with her to help guide my readers to the best deals in Napa.
And to make sure you get your money's worth, if you buy a Priority Wine Pass and email me I will build you out a custom stop by stop agenda based on your wine preferences and my experience of which wineries I think you will love. You want big names, you got it. You want quieter tastings away from the crowds, I can do that too. And I also offer advice on which wineries are worth paying full price - and which ones are not!
Since I started this site my competition for readers has grown immensely but my marketing budget is the same - zero. If you like what I do please share it on your social media and tell your friends. And if you decide to buy a Priority Wine Pass use my link to get my discount - you get a good deal and I get a few bucks that helps keep the site running. You only need ONE pass for every two people to get two for one's and deep discounts - go to 2 wineries and you more than break even.
Thanks and Enjoy Your Time in Napa!
Local Wally, 2018
Local Wally dines at The French Laundry and answers all of your burning questions - Is it worth it? How much does it cost? How to get reservations? With photos of every bite!
Read MoreConversations at Copia, foodie lecture series hosted by the Culinary Institute Arts (CIA), foodie photos and event schedule. Get tickets now!
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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.
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.
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.
READ LATEST UPDATE HERE: NAPA VALLEY AFTER THE WILDFIRES OF 2017
OCTOBER 14TH UPDATE: The skies are blue, the air is good, the worst is over. If you are planning a trip the week of Oct 15th just make sure you call the wineries to verify they are open. But don't postpone or change your trip! Napa is nearly back to normal and we look forward to seeingyou!
ATTENTION NAPA VISITORS: A huge devastating wildfire is moving through Napa, mainly on the Silverado Trail side. Some wineries have been rumored to be destroyed, hundreds of people evacuated. The fires in Sonoma continue to rage out of control as well. This is a significant and dangerous fire, now considered to be California's deadliest fire in its history.
Photo: Elizabeth Weise. The area just south of Napa and Sonoma.
UPDATE 10-13: Fires still active and air quality very poor, I would avoid visiting Napa or Sonoma until at least next week. A number of wineries and the Napa Wine Train are predicting they will be back in operation on Monday. If you were planning on visiting this weekend I would still reschedule. If your plans have you here next week there is hope your trip will be OK, especially if later in the week. They are predicting higher winds again this weekend which could fuel the fire so everyone pray that this gets under control quickly.
UPDATE 10-12: My advice? I would try to reschedule if you are coming in this week. Fires are still pretty much out of control with the Silverado Trail area severely impacted. I heard Cakebread is planning to reopen this Sunday and some wineries along Highway 29 are now open but the air quality is not great. Signorello Winery is completely burned down, though their vines are safe and unscathed. As of this morning the entire town of Calistoga has been evacuated This is a serious fire so think twice before coming and try to reschedule if you can. Most locals are suggesting it will be a week before things return back to normal.
If you are planning on coming later this Fall when the fires are out you should reach out to me and let me help you pick or re-pick your winery visits. I can help route you to wineries who have had less impact as well as wineries who really need your business to rebound. Napa is a small community made of up locals who appreciate your business so if we all pitch in we can get through this.
Wally
I would strongly reconsider a wine tasting day in Napa this week. Though some the wineries along Highway 29 are still open the air quality is poor and the threat of fire very real. However, the best source will be your hotel - call them for updates if you are planning on visiting this week. And call the wineries you plan to visit. Many are closed or have partial staff.
If I gave you an agenda you might want to reach out to me as my picks might be very different due to the fire - even after it is put out and things return to normal. I've been told that a number of my favorite wineries have been impacted so you will want to check with me to make sure they are still open for business before you arrive.
More to come - Local Wally
