Napa Valley

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Wine Country in Napa & Sonoma, California

An August 2005 trip to Napa Valley by NLindsay

I've always been a wine enthusiast, so recently I went to the Napa/Sonoma wine area in California.

  • 6 reviews
  • 1 story/tip

Wine Country in Napa & Sonoma, CaliforniaBest of IgoUgo

Overview

Where does any wine lover in the United States long to visit? The answer, of course, is California, specifically the areas of Napa and Sonoma. The presence of vineyards here dates back to the 19th century. Whether you are a connoisseur or an amateur, you’ll find plenty of wines that interest you. The best times to visit are in the spring, when the vines are budding; and in the fall, during the harvest. Summers are beautiful, but it can get quite hot during the day. Regardless of the time you have to spend here, you’ll definitely want to include certain places on your itinerary. These include the Benziger Family Winery, Beringer Winery, Ledson Winery, Niebaum-Coppola Winery, and V. Sattui Winery.

Quick Tips:

When visiting, don't forget sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, bottled water, and of course, your camera. These are essentials!

Best Way To Get Around:

If you're going to visit wine country, you'll definitely want a rental car. The wineries are spread throughout Napa and Sonoma Valley.

Ledson Winery & VineyardBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Ledson Winery & Vineyards"

Starting in Sonoma Valley on Route 12, be sure to stop at Ledson Winery and Vineyards. This winery is a must not only for their wine, but also for the photo opportunities. You’ll no doubt want to take a picture of the mansion-like winery, along with the circular drive and beautiful flowers including a large fountain. Also be sure to check out the gift shop where you’ll find gourmet foods and great souvenirs. They offer an indoor as well as outdoor tasting area. The shaded picnic tables are a perfect area to rest out of the sun.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by NLindsay on May 24, 2006

Ledson Winery & Vineyard
7335 Sonoma Hwy (Hwy 12) Kenwood, California 95409
(707) 537-3810

Benziger Family WineryBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Whether you're visiting with friends or family, you’ll want to visit the Benziger Family Winery. Here they offer tram tours of the vineyards and property for an amazingly low $10 per person. It’s a great opportunity to learn a little more about the whole wine making process. The tour also includes some time inside their wine caves and best of all the opportunity to taste some of their wines. Try the Chardonnay!
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by NLindsay on May 24, 2006

Benziger Family Winery
1883 London Ranch Rd. Glen Ellen, California 95442
(888) 490-2739

Niebaum-Coppola Estate WineryBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

One of the most famous wineries here is the Niebaum-Coppola Winery. Known as Rubicon Estate, this property is owned by the Coppola family. Francis Ford Coppola set out to reconstruct this estate in 1975 and has succeeded. The fountains out front, as well as the grand staircase at the entrance, are worth seeing. You can also see the Oscar that he won for The Godfather on display in the museum, which is free to all visitors. They also have a great gift shop and tasting room.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by NLindsay on May 24, 2006

Niebaum-Coppola Estate Winery
1991 St Helena Highway Napa Valley, California 94570
(707) 968-1100

Domaine CarnerosBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Located between Sonoma and Napa on Route 12 is Domaine Carneros by Taittinger. Their winery, which they call “The Chateau”, is an amazing sight. Sampling their wines on the terrace overlooking the vineyards is certainly worth the money. They even offer a cheese tray if you'd like a snack with your wine. The atmosphere is unbeatable. It's also the perfect place to take a picture of the vineyards because you have an elevated view.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by NLindsay on May 24, 2006

Domaine Carneros
1240 Duhig Road Napa Valley, California 94559
(707) 257-0101

Artesa WineryBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

The Artesa Winery, located just outside of Napa off of the beaten path, is worth a stop. Artesa means “handcrafted” in Catalan, the language of Barcelona. This winery has an amazing view as well as magnificent architecture. They have gorgeous fountains on the grounds. On a clear day, you can see miles and miles of vineyards.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by NLindsay on May 24, 2006

Artesa Winery
1345 Henry Road Napa Valley, California 94558
(707) 224-1668

Dining Outside in Wine CountryBest of IgoUgo

Story/Tip

Before you complete your trip, be sure you visit the V. Sattui Winery. This family owned winery sells their wines exclusively at their property. I love their Rieslings. Take your time strolling through their deli and cheese shop. Then select your dish(es) of choice as well as a bottle of wine and head on outside to their large shaded picnic area. There you can toast to your unparalleled experience through California’s famous wine country.

About the Writer

NLindsay
NLindsay
Loves Park, Illinois

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