It looks like my girlfriend and I will be able to squeeze in a trip to Napa this week on Friday, and as its our first time in the region were looking at getting some suggestions for some last minute things. We were just in Sonoma Sunday for the barrel tasting event and particularly enjoyed the more intimate locations. The highlight of that day was tasting with the winemaker at Occidental Road and having a chat about the behind the scenes with Richard.
We’ve got our eyes on picking up a bucket of chicken from Addendum, but other than that not much else. Open to any and all suggestions!
We were just at both last week. Charlie at Promontory is an amazing host and the property is gorgeous.
I would recommend a visit to Del Dotto. They seem to get panned here somewhat, but the reserve wines are outstanding, and compared to many in the valley, reasonably priced. It isn’t the quiet staid wine tasting that some expect, quite the opposite. It’s a party with wonderful wines, which to me makes it a can’t miss stop when in the valley.
Addendum’s website still has “gone into hibernation for winter and will return in spring” posted on the front page. You should confirm if they’re open this Friday.
Tamber Bey in Calistoga is a fun visit, and a bit different from most Napa wineries. The tasting room and winery were built on the site of an old horse farm, and still has horses and white horse fencing all around the winery. The wines are great (Consulting winemaker is Thomas Rivers Brown), and the staff are laid-back and fun. They have indoor and outdoor tasting areas, so depending on the weather you are covered. I’m not sure if it is still offered, but Calistoga was offering a Winter “Winery Pass”, where you purchase the Pass for $60, and you get free tastings at like 20 area wineries. If you plan on visiting more than a handful, it’s a great deal.
Go to Heitz and then try to get to Corison. Not far apart, try to set up a appointment with Corison as soon as you can. You can just walk into Heitz and its free. Last time I was there they were pouring 98 Marthas, not bad for a free tasting in Napa!
Thank you all again for the suggestions! Just finished the day of tastings and got a bite to eat at Gotts roadside waiting for a reservation at Morimotos later!
Notes to be posted later