Guide to High End Napa Wineries
Posted at 19:33h
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Generally considered to be the wine capital of the US, there’s nowhere to truly experience wine quite like Napa Valley. With deep winemaking roots that trace back to Europe yet with a flair all its own, Napa is the go-to spot in the states for premier wine tasting. There’s nothing better than spending a weekend visiting the finest high end Napa wineries, and just a quick trip is more than enough to leave you ready to return again and again.
Read on to discover everything that you need to know about high end Napa wineries, as well as our top recommendations of wineries you won’t want to miss.
Our Ultimate Guide to High End Napa Wineries
The winemaking industry has been an integral part of the culture of Napa since the 1800’s. Thanks to the valley’s beautiful Mediterranean climate, wine can thrive in Napa more vibrantly than anywhere else in the country. The area’s history continues to weave its way through Napa culture today, with many of the finest wineries in the area dating back decades, or even centuries.
As winemaking standards have elevated in Napa, breathtaking high end wineries have taken form, and now, Napa is one of the most prestigious spots for wine tasting in the world. No trip to the valley is complete without visiting these elite wineries that continue to innovate and expand the wine industry as a whole.
What to Expect From a High End Tasting Experience
High end wine tasting experiences are often more intimate than a standard wine tasting, with groups kept small – often just to your individual party. You’ll enjoy personalized service, and have the opportunity to engage with your sommelier and learn all about the wines you’re tasting.
Additionally, many high end wine tasting experiences provide you with the chance to see the winery’s winemaking process for yourself, with facility tours or trips down into the winery’s wine caves. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the effort and dedication that goes into making the perfect bottle of wine, and see firsthand what the art of winemaking is truly like.
Our Favorite High End Wineries in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is home to a host of high end wineries, perfect for guests from far and wide. Here are a few of our favorite spots here in the valley.
Image Credit: Davis Estates
4060 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515
Open Daily: 10am-4pm
Davis Estates
There’s nowhere in Napa like Davis Estates for a premier luxury wine experience. Not only is the century-old winery rich in history and beauty, its emphasis on crafting wines of the highest pedigree makes all the difference. Cherished tradition meets cutting-edge advanced technology at Davis to create deep Cabernets, fresh Chardonnays, and bright Sauvignon Blancs that leave visitors craving more.
Plus, members of the exclusive Phase V Founders Club will experience the winery’s Cellarium, accessible only via an infrared hand scan. This exotic, fully enclosed glass room provides the atmosphere of a wine cave without the chill – the ultimate high end wine experience.
Image Credit: The Vineyardist
263 Petrified Forest Rd, Calistoga, CA 94515
By Appointment Only
The Vineyardist
Few things feel more exclusive than an intimate reservation-only Napa tasting experience. At The Vineyardist , you’ll find yourself whisked away to some of the most breathtaking land in wine country as you explore vineyards tucked away in the heart of the Diamond Mountains.
The winery’s dedication to organic, sustainable, biodynamic farming capture’s the land’s unique, vibrant terroir like no other. You’ll taste the difference when your personal group visits The Vineyardist’s state of the art winery and experiences their limited production wines for yourselves.
Image Credit: Lithology
500 Meadowood Ln, St Helena, CA 94574
Open Daily: 10am-3pm
Lithology
Escape from the hectic stress of life and visit Lithology , one of the many high end wineries Napa Valley boasts. Nestled at the base of Howell Mountain, this intimate tasting experience features a tour of the winery’s barrel room and winemaking facilities, so you can see the care and intention that goes into every bottle.
Sleek, modern elegance can be found around every turn at Lithology, and visitors will be wrapped in the timeless craft of winemaking from the moment they step inside.
Image Credit: Fantesca Estate & Winery
2920 Spring Mountain Rd, St Helena, CA 94574
Open Daily: 10am-5pm
Fantesca Estate & Winery
A visit to Fantesca Estate & Winery is an intimate, exclusive wine experience that’s not to be missed. You’ll have the opportunity to tour the estate’s Spring Mountain property alongside a a dedicated estate host, who will give you an up close and personal glimpse into the vineyard, wine cave, and inner workings of the winery.
Fantesca Estate & Winery prides itself on its elite artistry and state of the art winemaking practices, and their tasting options serve as a reflection of their dedication to excellence. With unparalleled hospitality and care, you’ll experience the finest that Napa has to offer.
Image Credit: Louis M. Martini Winery
254 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574
Open Daily: 10am-6pm
Louis M. Martini Winery
At Louis M. Martini Winery, guests are encouraged: come for the wine, stay for the experience. No matter the experience you crave, you’ll find it at Louis M. Martini Winery, and you can trust that it will be executed in the most high quality manner.
From luxury tastings in the estate’s tasting room to outdoor cabana pairing experiences surrounded by the beauty of Napa Valley, you’ll sip Cabernets and Merlots in style at Martini. Plus, visit the winery’s 90 year old barrel cellar for an intimate glimpse into the Martini family’s library wines and inspired culinary creations.
Image Credit: Harlan Estate
Oakville, California
Harlan Estate is not open to the public.
Harlan Estate
One of Napa Valley’s most elite wineries, Harlan Estate has been crafting world-class wines in the western hills of Oakville, California since 1984. Owned by the Harlan family, wine aficionados will be familiar with other wineries within the Harlan portfolio, Bond and Promontory.
The team at Harlan seeks to express the richness and depths of the land through their phenomenal wines. Known for their elegance, complexity, and extraordinary aging potential, Harlan offers some of the finest wines in Napa.
Image Credit: Opus One Winery
7900 St Helena Hwy, Oakville, CA 94562
Open Daily: 10am-4pm
Opus One Winery
At Opus One Winery , great winemaking begins with a collective mission to champion the founders’ vision: a singular wine that transcends generations. A certified green winery, Opus One prioritizes sustainability in all aspects of the winemaking process, and the winery itself rests in serenity in a beautiful, natural environment.
Uncompromising quality is the trademark of Opus One, and a single sip is enough to reveal why the winery is considered one of the finest high end Napa wineries. Visit the stunning estate to experience their exceptional vintages for yourself.
Image Credit: Vineyard 7 & 8
4028 Spring Mountain Rd, St Helena, CA 94574
Tastings Available by Appointment
Vineyard 7 & 8
Located atop the breathtaking Spring Mountain, Vineyard 7 & 8 offers an intimate experience for wine lovers to enjoy. One of the most beautiful high end wineries in Napa, this mountain escape offers premium wines with a clear sense of place.
Through sustainable farming and viticultural techniques, Vineyard 7 & 8 crafts world-class Chardonnays and Cabernet Sauvignons that provide a vibrant, effortless glimpse into the beauty of Napa Valley. Make an appointment for an estate tasting to experience the richness that these wines have to offer.
Image Credit: Mayacamas Vineyards
1155 Lokoya Rd, Napa, CA 94558
Open Daily: 9:30am-4:30pm
Mayacamas Vineyards
Founded in 1889, Mayacamas Vineyards has been a staple of the high end wineries Napa Valley holds dear for generations. Their winemaking practices uphold a commitment to consistency and classical winemaking techniques that set their wines apart.
Mayacamas Vineyards releases wines seasonally, so there’s always something new to discover in their legendary tasting room. From Sauvignons to Chardonnay and beyond, visiting Mayacamas Vineyards takes visitors back through time to the fine wine experience that was always meant to be.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About High End Wineries in Napa
Ready to begin your elevated wine experience? Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions from visitors planning their trip to the best high end wineries Napa Valley has to offer.
Is there a dress code when visiting high end wineries in Napa?
While dress code may vary from winery to winery, when in doubt, we suggest opting for an elevated wine country casual look. For more specifics, feel free to check with the winery you plan to visit when making your reservation for your visit.
How long does a wine tasting last at high end wineries in Napa Valley?
Wine tastings vary in duration from winery to winery, but it is generally best to plan for at least 90 minutes for your tasting. For more specifics, consult the winery’s website.
Do high end wineries in Napa Valley require a reservation?
Yes, most high end wineries in Napa Valley require a reservation for a tour or tasting. In fact, some high end wineries do not have standard operating hours – all visits are by reservation only. At Davis Estates, we are open daily between the hours of 10am and 4pm, but a reservation is required to secure your visit.
Experience the Best of Napa Valley Wine at Davis Estates
Napa Valley is world renowned for its elite wineries and exclusive tasting experiences. Nowhere else in North America can you find the premier wines of Napa or enjoy the finest hospitality and beauty that the valley can offer.
At Davis Estates, we want to make your visit to Napa one to remember. Make a reservation to visit our luxury tasting room and see for yourself why we’re proud to be one of the finest high end wineries in Napa.