Having vacationed a number of times in both Napa and Sonoma wine country, we have some favorite wineries that we have visited or have been recommended by friends to visit on future trips. Napa Valley is loaded with opportunities for group tours by bus, train, bicyle or car. Lodging accommodations are plentiful and varied with resorts, motels, lodges, vacation cottages, inns and bed and breakfasts available with advanced reservation. This is our TOP SIX list of places in Napa Valley that we have enjoyed more than once over the years, listed here in alphabetical order. BERINGER VINEYARDS is the oldest operating winery in St. Helena. The historic home of this winery is interesting and has beautiful grounds with gardens. Enjoy your wine-tasting and capture the numerous Kodak opportunities! MUMM VINEYARD is noted for outstanding sparkling wines. Their customer service is outstanding and their tours are a great learning experience. Wine Enthusiast Magazine often recognizes Mumm as one of "America's Best Tasting Rooms"...need one say more?! GRGICH HILLS ESTATE is unique in that all their wines are made from organically and biodynamically grown grapes. This is a fine family-owned winery that is be dedicated to producing the best possible product. ROBERT MONDAVI WINERY is the leading innovator in the valley. He startled the wine community years ago when he chose to change from oak barrel to stainless steel aging. This winery was founded in 1966 with the buildings a mix of contemporary and "old world". Don't miss touring this winery. RUTHERFORD HILL WINERY has the most extensive wine-aging caves in America. Tours are a must here, however reservations are needed for groups of 8 or more. STERLING VINEYARDS are so special. The setting is expansive and beautiful and is accessed by aerial tram to the top of the mountain. It is family-owned...you will thoroughly enjoy the self-guided tour that includes a video. The wine tasting is exceptional, the customer service is informational, attentive and takes place on one of the decks overlooking the valley below...another Kodak moment! The website www.wineloverstravel.com is loaded with great information about wine tasting and often identifies the types of wine produced at many of the vineyards. You will want to read about vineyards in many parts of our country...wineries in the North, Midwest, East, South and, of course, the West. I enjoyed the writing style of this website author and so will many others.
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