Rains are on their way to Napa but that doesn’t mean you have to throw in the towel on touring and tasting at some of the region’s finest wineries. In fact, many are the perfect hiding place when looking for a little escape; not just from the hustle and bustle of your busy work week, but from the gusty winds and weekend rains, too! We’ve rounded up a few charming, cozy spots that will have you leaping out of your comfortable bed and pj’s and heading for the highway; these Napa wineries are perfect for a rainy day. Trust us, you’ll want to trade that mug of hot tea for something with a bit more flavor! These wineries are just what the doctor ordered when the sky turns a little somber. Think: fireplaces galore, soothing candlelight, and the rich smells of oak and smoke encircling you. Perhaps you’re less motivated by ambiance and are after some hearty, seasonal fare or just a chance for some stimulating conversation about one of life’s greatest pleasures–the complexities of a fine bottle of wine. Whatever the case may be, pull on your galoshes and run between the raindrops because we’ve got five amazing wineries right here in Napa that we think will meet your rainy day needs!
Failla Wines – This winery boasts amazing cool weather wines and tasters can experience them while curled up in a beautiful 1930’s farmhouse. The tasting lodge is chock-full of cozy furniture for guests to lounge upon while Failla staff dole out glasses and explain their winemaking philosophies, tell stories about the property and regale you with historical facts. Tastings maintain a casual vibe–you’ll feel like you’re in a friend’s living room, complete with expertly curated lodge-like decor and a fire-engine red wood-burning stove jutting out from the stone hearth.
B Cellars Vineyards and Winery – B Cellars is famous for their expertly crafted, food-centric wines. Because they create blended wines, the spoils of their wine-making pair much more readily with meals than varietal wines. As a result, you’ll want to engage in a tasting that puts food at the forefront. One of B Cellars founders uses his viticulture studies and years of culinary experience to create amazing creations and pairings in the kitchen, even earning the nick-name “The Mad Chef.” You’ll definitely want to indulge in one of their tasting experiences. Afterall, it’s raining! You don’t want to make a second stop to pick up food on the way home.
Ovid Vineyards – Wouldn’t you love to enjoy a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc or Merlot on a rainy day? We know we would! Ovid Vineyards grows organically farmed and CCOF-certified grapes destined to become a delicious taste of heaven. The winery will allow you to imbibe as you stand in awe of the natural world, sheltered from the storm in full view outside the modern windows and skylights. The structure is all clean lines and natural materials–an amalgamation of new and old which will leave you feeling equal parts protected and exposed. A thrilling place to be in a downpour!
Macauley Vineyard – A Macauley tasting experience is a wonderful alternative to crowded tasting rooms or sterile-feeling winery environments. This appointment-only tasting is in a beautiful small home on the Hunnicutt Winery property, where Macauley’s wines are made, and allows you to enjoy quality wines in a casual, friend-next-door setting. Dry off next to the big fireplace and listen to your guide spin tales of your Cabernet’s journey from grape to glass.
Far Niente – Pull up a chair at the long farm table and watch the changing weather in the valley below out the windows and glass doors. The estate and accompanying gardens at Far Niente are lovely in cooperative weather but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the cozier sides of this winery as well. There’s plenty of information to soak up while avoiding getting soaked outdoors. Far Niente was founded in 1885 by a forty-niner of the California gold rush. Considering it’s been around for so long, the entire history of the establishment is a tale you won’t want to miss. You can also escape below ground to a small 60 foot wine cave. The chandelier overhead casts a warm glow throughout and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a magical escape!
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