My Weekend in Napa Valley…Its Wine O’Clock Somewhere!

Anyone that knows me knows my love of all things wine. What better way to indulge my favorite pleasure than a visit to Napa Valley. After hearing so much about the storybook town of Yountville, it was made even more picturesque with the lights and decoration for the upcoming holiday season.

For my stay, I carefully selected a hotel that my guests would receive wonderful amenities if they were to book through me. I wanted to experience the hotel first hand so I could share my experience with all of you. And wow, my stay at the gorgeous Bardessono Spa Resort did not disappoint. From its serene landscape to the impeccable service, this is a don’t miss location to navigate the region.

My brother shares an affinity for all things wines with me and his favorite location is Yountville. Since I was unfamiliar with the area, he provided me with a list of “must visit” vineyards and dining spots. Plus he shared the idea of renting a car on your own but hiring a local driver. I never knew this was an option and it was perfect and affordable.

We started the morning climbing the hills to the beautiful views and even more delicious wines of Peter Michael. Luckily, none of their sweeping vineyards were destroyed by the fires; however, you could really see the damage done and the smell of smoke still drifts through the trees. The wines were perfection but out of my budget! So instead of purchasing I savored each sip at the tasting. In order to keep the tastings going and the wine from going straight to my head, at the recommendation of the vineyard, we tried Busters BBQ. A local BBQ joint known for its tri-tip sandwiches. It was the perfect solution! The balance of the day was filled with more amazing tastings throughout the valley including Davis Estates and Sinegal Estates.

Our dinner that evening was at Press in Saint Helena. The highlight was the bacon tasting set across our table with different types of bacon hung by a silver clothes line with clips. You then take the beautiful silver scissors provided to clip a taste of each one. Secret tip: this is not on the menu, so you have to ask for it!

Our second day began at Wheeler farms where we were able to taste many different types of wines that are produced there by outside producers. Tyler was a dream host providing us with stories and savory small bites. I highly recommend a stop in to Wheeler and story time with Tyler. It was definitely a highlight. Our lunch and wine tasting was at Round Pound. The farm to table ingredients paired with their wines was such a treat. Plus the views from this winery are truly special. We then ventured onto Chappellet and joined the wine club there!

We headed back to the hotel to finish watching the LSU football game (Baton Rouge girl!) and cheered them onto their victory at the Lucy Bar in our hotel. Our final dinner was an early one at the Bottega Yountville.

I would like to mention one final thing about this trip. We decided to go off season to avoid the major crowds and expensive high season mark ups. I highly recommend this idea as we had such incredible personalized service. It was a bit chilly and rainy, but the wine tastings were filled with fireplaces and wine to warm you up.

If you book Bardessono through me, you will receive the following perks: