So Many Wineries…How Can We Visit Them All?
We have been visiting wineries in this area for over 30 years and are always amazed at the incredible options. Some wineries are our favorites, and we have been members of their wine club for many years. We still love receiving our shipments throughout the year. It is hard to not sign up for all of the clubs, as they offer such great wine selections and it is fun to get the packages in the mail. Now, there is the challenge of fitting them in our wine cooler.
This year, we even included a day at Silverado Country Club for the Safeway PGA tourney. Anyone that knows me knows that I am obsessed with Phil Mickelson. We basically “stalked” him and really enjoyed the day. There were several hospitality areas set up throughout the course that featured some great wineries. I even got a picture with Thomas Keller, the famous chef, and restauranteur. What a great thing to do when you are here! Wine and golf are a great combination.
So far, we have visited several wineries including Clif Family, McEvoy Ranch, Alpha Omega, Duckhorn, Frank Family and today one of our all-time favorites, Chappellet.
https://www.frankfamilyvineyards.com
Chappellet has a beautiful meadow that is right down the street from the winery where you can bring a picnic. I happen to LOVE a picnic. My Dad told me that my paternal grandmother always had a picnic ready at a moments notice. Well, we had a fantastic time, and the views and area were gorgeous! And, the picnic was yum!
Additionally, since we arrived (only 10 days ago), we have enjoyed lunches at various places such as Bouchon in Yountville and dinner at Bistro Don Giovanni. Some friends happened to be in town with their family and were able to break away for a pleasant and relaxing meal at Bistro Don Giovanni. We shared several items on the menu to do a “small bite” tasting, and it was fantastic. Bouchon is one of Thomas Keller’s restaurants (famous for French Laundry) and is always fantastic! It was a Sunday when we were there, and the salad with the bacon lardons and poached egg with bacon vinaigrette was BEYOND!
Since we are here for a month, we wanted to find wineries that have fabulous wines and that are in our neighborhood in St. Helena. We joined some of the clubs and can go there to visit often and even to bring a picnic. You get to know the experts at each place, and they really take good care of us.
When in St. Helena, I found a wonderful shop that has beautiful housewares called Vintage Home. I purchased a book that features some of the winery owners and how they entertain. The book is called Napa Valley Entertains and is authored by none other than Blakesley Chappellet. Since I LOVE to entertain, it is inspirational to see how these individuals live their luxe life.
We are only one third through our wine country adventure…so stay tuned for more luxe living and enjoying some serious wines!
My name is Kim and my passion is surrounding myself, family, and friends in a life of luxury. Each week, I’ll share with you new tips and recipes to create a luxurious life .