Raise a glass to more valley vino pairing well with fresh air
Always a favorite spot of Napa Valley guests and locals alike, downtown Napa’s Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at Archer Hotel is a terrific wine country launching pad and winding down locale. Many tastings throughout the valley offer distinct outdoor experiences. To complement Archer’s earlier list of Great Outdoor Tastings in Napa Valley, the following list highlights additional wineries with outdoor tastings in Napa Valley that are sure to delight. Or, consider touring on the Wine Trolley for a fun way to see the Valley.
NOTE: Due to fluctuations in local and state regulations, we recommend contacting venues to confirm openings and capabilities.
01
Amizetta Estate Winery
Set on a steep hillside property overlooking Lake Hennessey, Amizetta Estate has beautiful, sweeping views of the valley that complement its small-production mountain wines. They’ve developed a reputation for warm hospitality and personalized tours. Call 707.963.1460 or request an appointment for an outdoor tasting on the patio.
02
Materra Cunat Family Vineyards
With a moniker nod to “Mother Earth,” Materra Cunat delivers an intimate vineyard tasting in a serene setting and gracious hosts. At the northern edge of Napa, the winery’s patio is surrounded by its beautiful grounds. For a tasting with up to four guests, call 707.224.4900 or book online.
03
Quixote Winery
An exuberant, funky Spanish-style estate with whimsical architecture and organic wines, Quixote Winery is tucked away in the mountains about 10 miles north of downtown Napa. An outdoor tasting may include sharing the pathway with tiny lizards who are part of the varied landscape around the winery. Call 707.944.2659 or book your tasting reservation online.
04
Reverie II
A hillside estate at the base of Howell Mountain, Reverie II warmly welcomes visitors for appointment-only tastings. After being served, guests ride an ATV to the top of a hill that overlooks the vineyards. Call 707.337.4259 or email Austin Robertson to set up an appointment for an outdoor tasting.
05
Scalon Cellars
Beautiful views in the vineyard set the scene for an outdoor tasting at Scalon Cellars. One of the founders had originally worked in a vineyard and struck up a friendship with the owner of a Napa construction company; the two decided to open a winery together. At least one of the founders is always present during tastings. Make a reservation by calling 707.666.2245 or contacting the winery.
06
Shadybrook Estate Winery
Ready for the ultimate winery-ranch experience? Head on over to Shadybrook Estate for horseback riding through vineyards, as well as private tastings on the terrace. “The Perfect Pairing” includes an estate wine tasting paired with an assortment of cheese, charcuterie, spreads, fruits and nuts. Call 707.255.5661 or make a reservation.
07
Tamber Bey Vineyards
Calistoga’s Tamber Bey at Sundance Ranch offers wine tastings in a gorgeous equestrian setting. Tour the winery and stables and meet the resident horses. Additional fun tastings include the Savory Cookie Pairing and the Picnic Box Lunch. Check out their full lineup of experiences, then call 707.255.5661 to secure an appointment.
08
The Terraces
Enjoy an awesome view of the terraced vineyard from the beautiful deck at The Terraces at Quarry Vineyard. Check out the ghost winery and root cellar (where they age some of the best balsamic vinegar around) on an ATV tour. Contact the winery to set your appointment or call 707.963.1707.
09
Vineyard 29
For a high-end private tasting of top-tier wine at a modern estate, visit Vineyard 29. Wine tastings are offered for both its CRU and Vineyard 29 wines and take place on an outside terrace, along with fun culinary bites. The expansive views of the valley floor complement the elegant wines and knowledgeable staff. Arrange your visit by calling 707.963.1707 or emailing the winery.
10
Krupp Brothers
Guests can experience the Krupp Brothers wines in two settings: on the idyllic outdoor patio at the winery and via sidewalk seating in front of the charming downtown Napa tasting room. Either way, the top-notch service and delicious tastings “crush” it. For a winery tasting, call 707.225.2276 or email the estate. For a downtown tasting, call 707.266.1233 or email the tasting room.
11
James Cole Winery
About 6 miles up the Silverado Trail is James Cole and its inviting stone winery. Parties of up to six are welcome to enjoy four to five tastings of the exclusive wine offerings in a serene outdoor setting. Go online for reservations for your tasting (by appointment only) or call 707.251.9905 to reserve a time.
12
Aonair
Set in Conn Valley above Lake Hennessey, Aonair focuses on handcrafting rich, full-bodied wines in limited barrel quantities, primarily sourced from the rocky, volcanic hillside vineyards of the surrounding Napa Valley. To set an appointment for an outdoor tasting, call 707.738.8352 or email Matt Lonergan.
13
Artesa Estate Vineyards & Winery
Overlooking Los Carneros, Artesa Estate showcases its California estate-grown wines, pairings and architecture inspired by its founders — the oldest winemaking family in Spain. Call 707.224.1688 or set an appointment for an outdoor seated tasting (where, on a clear day, you can see San Francisco), and be sure to try the tempranillo (and Archer team fave).
14
AXR Napa Valley
Private tastings of organic wines, hosted among the redwoods and on a lovely outdoor terrace or private veranda: Welcome to AXR Napa Valley. Along with tasting delicious wines, guests tour the wooded property — including a fairy circle — and learn of the fascinating history of the land. To set a reservation, call 707.302.8181 or email [email protected].
15
Caldwell Vineyard
“Clones, Cops and Cabernet.” This is how Caldwell Vineyard tells its story — one of “love and family, misbehaving, taking chances and mischief” — and it’s intriguing, no doubt. The main house on the property is in the historic registry of Napa, and the cave is carved from solid rock. The 90-minute outdoor tasting for up to eight guests showcases six current releases. Request your tasting appointment or call 707.255.1294.
16
Clos du Val
The outdoor patio of the Hirondelle House at Clos Du Val overlooks the vineyard that produces iconic wines. Limited to six guests, this tasting experience pairs a selection of wines with seasonal, artisanal bites. Book your outdoor tasting or call 707.261.5212 for more details.
17
Fontanella Family Winery
A gated private estate in a serene setting, Fontanella Family Winery sits atop Mt. Veeder, crafting “bold, layered and unexpected premium wine.” The owners (and sometimes their dogs) love to visit during tastings. Call 707.252.1017 for a reservation, or send an email to request an appointment among olive trees on the patio.
18
Fortunati Vineyards
A beautiful patio overlooks the vineyard at Fortunati. Natural farming and winemaking techniques produce hand-crafted wines that highlight the unique land and climate. The husband-and-wife owners are passionate about their winery and are gracious, fun hosts. Call 707.255.9300 or go online to schedule a private tasting.
19
Gabrielle Collection
Just up the street from Archer Hotel is Gabrielle Collection taste + at the First Street bridge. Choose from six delightful outdoor tasting options. Make reservations online or call 707.815.0364 to ensure your tasting on the patio Wednesday - Sunday.
20
But wait — there's more
For a full list of wineries and tasting rooms in Napa Valley, along with contact information and links to their respective websites, check out this page maintained by the Napa Valley Vintners — a nonprofit trade association.
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