Napa Valley has almost 500 wineries, but not every winery affords the visitor an experience that brings delight to all the senses. Our beautiful valley is sandwiched between the Mayacamas and the Vaca mountain ranges and it is these topographical features what allows for a huge range of micro-climates and terroirs that consistently render superior wines.
A few weeks ago I hosted a guest whose is passionate about landscape photography. Personally, I often find myself taking shots of nature, attempting to capture the beauty of flowers and the details that make each visit magic. Our guest challenged us with a question that I now feel must be documented so we can all benefit from our insider’s knowledge.
Which Wineries in Napa Afford The Most Imposing Views?
Take note my friends; my husband and I have spent the last decade scouting old and new Napa wineries to identify the best wines, most warm hospitality & most delightful landscapes. We are sharing our findings with you; and we can’t wait to include one or several in a future itinerary. One thing to keep in mind is that many of these wineries are literally top of the mountain and as such it is best to have an adequate vehicle and good knowledge of the treacherous and small roads that lead to the top.
Lobo Wines
We picked Lobo for having a glorious view from Atlas peak where they grow their most selective varietals which must be handled and harvested by hand due to the complexities of the terrain. Their artisanal wines are consistently great. Victoria Coleman, their winemaker is the first black woman to graduate from the UC Davis viticulture and enology program. Victoria’s wines are absolutely delightful.
Let’s head to Lobo, visit with their proprietors and enjoy a down-to-earth tasting that will remind you of all that is beautiful.
OVID Napa Valley
Do you enjoy organic wines? If you do, you won’t want to miss out on this gem. OVID is iconic, very approachable and majestic beyond words. Atop Pritchard Hill OVID is literally a slice of heaven. When we visit OVID together we want you to taste their Cab Franc. Hexameter is like no other. Grab your glass, walk the vineyards and take a photo. The views from Pritchard are without question a poem for the eyes and the soul.
Aonair Wines
Remember I mentioned the importance of a good vehicle and a very experienced driver? Aonair is one of those Napa destinations that will test your driving skills. Quoting directly from their website: ” Down a long country road lined with tattered fences and mossy boulders, amidst old oaks surrounded by vineyards, through tall grasses that give way to dusty dirt roads and ranches, and over a stream that blossoms into a lake, Aonair’s story begins…”.
In my opinion Aoinair is one of the most romantic and picturesque wineries in Napa. It is both elegant and approachable and their wines are complex, memorable and beautiful. My personal wine library features many of their wines.
Diamond Mountain Vineyard
At the peak of Diamond Mountain there is a hidden gem. This treasure above the clouds is among my favorite places in the world. Getting to Diamond Mountain is no easy feat but you will enjoy every second of your visit. This is the kind of place that takes your Instagram to the next level. Yes, their wines are first class and their hospitality is delightful but I assure you you will remember each breath you take and your eyes will see beauty unimaginable.
I still have a few more majestic wineries I want to share with you, but for now this sampling should help guide your next visit to Napa. Call us to reserve your dates. Talk to our head concierge about potential add-ons such as picnics catered by private chefs or opportunities to stay at selected wineries.
We can’t wait to host your next luxury tour in Napa.
Much Love
The NPT Team
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