Wow! Can you believe 2018 is almost over? This year has been one for the books and I definitely did my fair share of wine tasting – all in the name of research so I could share with you of course! Here are some of my favorite wineries I visited this year, and highly suggest checking out when booking your wine tasting trips in 2019.
In no particular order, my favorite wine tasting experiences of 2018 were:
Amizetta
Tucked way back at the base of Howell Mountain this small boutique winery is the definition of a hidden gem. One of the best views in Napa, down to earth vibe and just straight up good wine make this a must visit! One of my favorite Cab Francs!D
Davis Estates
Wow, what a gorgeous property! Don’t be fooled by the rustic log cabin look from the outside, Davis is surprisingly very modern…underground. Their caves and private tasting rooms below the main winery are something straight out of James Bond – hand print entry doors and all!
Aonair
This is the type of winery where you never want to leave. Homey vibes, friendly hospitality, breathtaking views and crazy good wine. Best Grenache in Napa! Go try it for yourself!
AXR
Ghost stories, fairy circles, impeccable design and age-worthy Cabernets – this newish tasting room has made its way to one of my favorites. And we can’t forget about the cheese covered potato chips – something you never knew you needed until you’ve had it!
Newton
I’ve been in a lot of wine caves but WOW, Newton has one of the very best I’ve seen. Walking down five flights of an old metal spiral staircase, dropping into the middle of the caves, far underground, it’s something straight out of a movie. Newton has been the only winery where I have purchased a Chardonnay. That should tell you something!
Seavey
If you are looking for some more old world type reds that you can lay down for 10, 15, 20 years, Seavey is your place! Very small production, hand crafted, elegant wines make this a very special Napa winery.
Larkmead
If you are a red wine lover, Larkmead will definitely not disappoint. Everything in their lineup is incredible and the grounds are beautiful. Very relaxed and homey, yet very exclusive, this is another winery you won’t want to leave. Can I just live here?
Silver Trident
Right off the main drag of downtown Yountville, this tasting room is super accessible. If you’re looking to stay in town, this is the best spot! Such a beautiful space and the tasting with small bites is to die for. The entire lineup is tasty and every type of wine lover will leave happy!
Soujourn
Steps from the downtown Sonoma Square, Sojourn offers a quant tasting experience in a rustic home that’s been converted to a tasting room. Their portfolio of Pinot Noir will delight any Pinot Noir lover, especially their Russian River Pinots!
The Terraces
Four wheel rides, balsamic tasting, chats about Burning Man with the owner – this winery is not your typical Silverado Trail stop. Ecclectic, memorable, no bs – just great juice! Loved the Cab Franc, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah here.
Quintessa
Yes, it lives up to the hype. After a four-wheel ride through the vineyard, sips of Sauvignon Blanc in a glass tasting room overlooking the estate, down to our full flight of their famous red blend in their main tasting room – this was a day to remember. The epitome of a luxury wine tasting experience.
Well there you have it – you now have an entire list of wineries you must visit in 2019! Cheers to the New Year. Wishing you lots of good wine, laughter, love and success.
