Let me begin by sayingthat I’ve nevertaken a trip to a vineyard Ididn’t enjoy. Sure, there havebeen a few that producedless–than–favorite wines, butthat’s part of the adventure.The breathtaking views,wonderful food and friendlywinemakers always makethe journey worthwhile.
For starters, if you’re interestedin traveling to vineyardsoutside of Texas, Napais an obvious destination.Yes, it’s crowded on weekends,and more commercial than it used to be, but it’s still a greatwine destination. To avoid the big crowds, travel there during theweek...you’ll save on lodging, too.
I would suggest you check out Copia (the American Center forWine, Food and the Arts), www.copia.org , in the town of Napa.They offer interesting courses, daily seminars and much moreabout wine, food and the arts. They can also help you plan youritinerary of vineyards to visit.
Some of the vineyards you’ll want to check out:
- eju on Hwy 29 – very entertaining...a ‘singing’ wine tasting (look for Alan the ‘Yodel Meister’)
- St. Supery – Nice wines, charming setting
- Domaine Carneros – beautiful views, lovely Rose champagne (this is always our first stop when we arrive in Napa)
- Darioush – Worth the visit just to view the tasting room
- Cakebread – Love their Cab and Chardonnay
- Etude – Wonderful Pinot Noir
- Palmaz – This is a beautiful winery and the winemakers are from San Antonio!
- Folio Vineyards – Beautiful tasting room with nice selection of wines not only from the region but other countries as well
- Robert Mondavi – Helped put Napa on the map!
- Truchard – A family run vineyard with incredible rolling hills and a fabulous Pinot Noir!
- Rubicon Estates – Stunning facility...good wines
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There are many, many more.
Don’t forget to save room for lunch and dinner...the food in Napa is some of the best in the state. We always make time for lunch at Dean and Deluca––where else can you find a cheese sommelier!? Their sandwiches and pastries are wonderful, and you’ll want to spend some time perusing their great kitchen gadgets and specialty food items...not to mention their wine store.
Restaurants––wow, where to start. Bouchon in Yountville is a gem as is the bakery right next door. If you can get in, the French Laundry is everything you’ve heard and more...probably one of the best meals we’ve EVER had––ever! We also enjoyed Mustards, Cole’s Chop House (a good steak and a good Napa cab go handin– hand), Redd in Yountville, Tra Vigne, Bistro Don Giovanni, Greystone at the CIA (Culinary Institute)––all good. For a great hamburger, Taylors in Napa lives up to the hype. Also, the historic Oakville Grocery is a must–see!
Napa’s a great start to the California wine country...but there’s so much more! Head to goodtastewithtanji.com and click on “Wine Trips”. I’ve got more fun ideas and experts with Rennert Travel who can help you plan your vacation.
Let me know about wine trips you’ve taken––email me at goodtaste@ tanjipatton.com.
Fun Wine Recommendations:
Louis Latour Pinot Noir Domaine de Valmoissine
About $12 @ Central Market
This is a light, fruity pinot noir and a great value!
Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau
About $10 @ HEB
November is Beaujolais Nouveau time...the first taste of this year’s release and a tradition in France to see which producer can get their wine on the market first. Beaujolais Nouveau is released the third Thursday of November. Made from Gamay grapes it is a light red, fruity wine.
