Whew! Did it take you all of yesterday to read that post? Just one more and then I’ll go back to chatting about recipes. I wanted to leave you with some overall thoughts about our trip and some suggestions if you’re looking to head that direction.
General thoughts
For semi-pro wine aficionados (we can claim that status after 7+ years of drinking wine, right?), this trip was actually incredibly informative. We learned a lot about what blends we gravitate towards (a lot of cabernet wines are mixed with something else). We discovered that we like Rosé – as long as it’s the French style. We found some Petite Syrahs that totally floated our boat and even came home with shocking bottles like a Riesling and a Grenache.
The trip also reaffirmed our belief that you can’t go wrong with a 2007 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Every one we had and any one we talked to about this year supported this fact. The 2008’s seem to be coming on strong too.
Next trip (because this is certainly not our last) I’m looking forward to visiting more wineries in the Stag’s Leap area to take advantage of the views and the reds. I’d like to do more tastings that include pairings or tours, and I’m already updating the spreadsheet with suggestions we received too late to integrate or while we were there.
Suggested Itineraries
But what should you do with all this info? As I already mentioned, I’ll totally plan your trip to Napa for a very affordable fee. But if you’re not looking for a total custom plan, here are my (and Hubster’s) top suggestions based on your wine loving level.
I drink wine occasionally, but I’m still interested enough to visit the valley
Sterling Vineyards – The self guided tour and taste will give you a good basic knowledge of wine, definitely add the reserve tasting
Judd’s Hill – Very approachable wine
V Sattui – A variety of good, standard wine
Iron Horse Vineyards – Great views and bubbles are always fun
I keep less than 10 bottles of wine on hand at a time
Merryvale – This will be a great introduction to a variety of higher end wines
Quivira – Well rounded offering that won’t blow the bank
Prager Winery and Port Works – Fun atmosphere and you get to try port
Reynold’s Family Winery – Great, affordable wines
I have a cellar or have considered an elaborate wine storage system for my rented condo
(Hubster and I fall into this category, if you couldn’t tell.)
Merryvale – Stunning portfolio
Stags’ Leap – Superb estate wines and great tour
Cakebread – If you love red, sign up for the red tasting.
Prager Winery and Port Works – Unpretentious and they make seriously tasty stuff. You’ll be surprised by what you like.
Ok, so who wants to go to Napa?! (My hand is raised!) Let me know if you have suggestions for our next trip.
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