Rolling vineyards, gorgeous mountain backdrops, and lush oaks give Napa Valley a well-deserved reputation for natural beauty, but California’s wine country also offers guests a host of architectural must-sees. Historic stone structures preside over winery estates alongside everything from ultra-modern tasting salons to hospitality spaces inspired by cultural influences from around the world. If your small group wine tour wants to sample beautiful buildings as well as delicious wine, let Dynamic Wine Tours create the perfect itinerary for you! Check out a few of our favorites below.
Chateau Montelena
1429 Tubbs Lane
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-5105
No group wine tour is complete without a stop at Chateau Montelena. Built in 1888, the original stone structure honors the style of an English Gothic castle gatehouse, and still serves as the winery and tasting room today. Of course, Chateau Montelena is best known for helping the Napa Valley become a world-renowned wine producing region when one of the winery’s Chardonnays beat out French wines in an international competition in 1976. Now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, Chateau Montelena continues its tradition of excellence, beauty, and of course, wonderful wines. Don’t miss the winery tour to learn about the history and architecture of this world-famous estate!
Ehlers Estate
3222 Ehlers Lane
St. Helena, CA 94574
(707) 963-5972
If your interest is architecture, Ehlers Estate is a natural part of your small group wine tour! The winery was founded in the late 1800s as the Bale Mill Winery by Bernard Ehlers and his wife. More recently, the stone barn built in 1886 was restored and revived by another husband and wife team–Jean and Sylviane Leduc–who also obtained estate vineyards. Their influence determines the blend of old- and new world charm that distinguishes both the estate and its wines. Ehlers Estate production is exclusive, so reservations are required–and you can even opt for an early tasting paired with Bouchon breakfast pastries. We can’t think of a better way to start the day!
Darioush
4240 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 257-2345
Darioush offers small group wine tours an ambiance like nothing else in the Napa Valley. Darioush Khaledi created his winery to honor the culture of Tarof, where the art of politeness dictates that your guest should feel more at home than when they actually are at home! The winery’s hospitality spaces and façade reflect Khaledi’s heritage, which recalls Iran with its stately columns and lush reflecting pools. Visitors can try a Portfolio Tasting in the opulent tasting bar, or opt for more unique offerings, like the Culture of Wine Experience or a wine and cheese pairing in any number of the winery’s gorgeous settings.
Trefethen Family
1160 Oak Knoll Avenue
Napa, CA 94558
(866) 895-7696
Your small group wine tour will love the the nationally-registered wooden winery at Trefethen Family Vineyards. Tasting experiences like the Historic Winery tour will provide background about this special site–the only wooden winery from the 1800s still standing today–while you sip their critically acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals. The Trefethen family has worked hard to combine the latest in winemaking technology with the wisdom and heritage of Napa Valley’s rich history, and the fruits of their labor are evident both on the estate grounds and in your glass.
For lovers of architecture and wine-lovers alike, Napa Valley is the perfect destination. If these wineries sound like places you’d like to experience for yourself, call us on (707) 252-2300 or get in touch with us on our website here today to build the best Napa Valley wine tour.
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