Curated Hotel: The Sonoma Mission Inn + the Surprising Power of a Surprise!
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott’s birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, “Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!”.
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
A Holiday Getaway
We seem to have a number of family birthdays mixed in among the holidays. Though Scott's birthday was a couple of days after Thanksgiving he suggested we celebrate on the holiday since we had a family dinner planned. While that was a great idea, I wanted to surprise him with a little something extra this year. On Thanksgiving I had him open a box with his upcoming surprise that read, "Pack a Bag, Birthday Boy!".
We had a day to clean up from Thanksgiving and pack for our weekend getaway so it was a leisurely schedule. I was tempted to spill the beans on our destination, but I kept it a secret. Seeing his excitement for this adventure reminded me of the power of a surprise.
We had a mixture of showers and sun on our drive over to wine country. With the early rains here in Northern California we were pleasantly surprised to see how beautifully green the fields were already. Our first stop was at St. Anne's Crossing Winery in Kenwood. This picture perfect spot is a member of the Wine Club we belong to. We had a delicious tasting with a number of award-winning wines. Next off, it was just a short drive to the famed Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. I could see that my birthday boy was very pleased with his surprise!
For dinner we headed out to OSO, the brainchild of famed chef David Bush on the historic Sonoma Plaza. Oso was recently rated one of the top restaurants in Sonoma and I had a feeling Scott would appreciate the rustic modern feel and the foodie style menu. The small plate selection was amazing and the service was friendly, yet impeccable. We had the pleasure of complimenting Chef Bush on his success and the outstanding dining experience.
After a leisurely morning strolling the grounds and an indulgent breakfast at Sante, we headed through the countryside into Sonoma for some shopping and a Mediterranean-style lunch at La Salette.
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is the quintessential wine country resort. I have stayed here several times over the years but this stay was by far my favorite. I highly recommend their large menu of spa services if you have the time. The resort has recently been updated and I appreciated the extra amenities of luxurious linens and Le Labo bath products. Our getaway, and the destination, was such a fun surprise to my husband. If you are looking for a way to delight someone you love I recommend the surprising power of a surprise getaway.
To Stay: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
To Sip: St. Anne's Crossing Winery
To Savor: Oso, Sante, La Salette
For more on travel to Wine Country
Are you finding any places especially festive this time of year? I'm booking travel for clients and I love to hear your recommendations for holiday cheer.
All Images Heather Lindstrom
Thank you to the Sonoma Mission Inn for a suite upgrade and welcome bottle of sparkling wine.
Curated Hotel: The Senza Napa for a Jazzy Weekend in Napa Valley
I was recently invited to attend Brian Culbertson’s Jazz Getaway in Napa Valley so naturally Scott and I decided to make a quick weekend out of it. Wine country is beautiful every season, yet this weekend was simply spectacular. The temperature was in the high 70’s with a fresh coastal breeze. Here I am, thoroughly enjoying the pre-show with a glass of Napa Valley vino.
Jazzy Weekend in Wine Country
I was recently invited to attend Brian Culbertson's Jazz Getaway in Napa Valley so naturally Scott and I decided to make a quick weekend out of it. Wine country is beautiful every season, yet this weekend was simply spectacular. The temperature was in the high 70's with a fresh coastal breeze. Here I am, thoroughly enjoying the pre-show with a glass of Napa Valley vino.
Our weekend getaway started on Saturday with a late lunch in Yountville at a longtime favorite for french fare, Bistro Jeanty of chef Philippe Jeanty fame. We relaxed over fresh salads and cheese plates for the first time in what seemed like weeks. It felt like a mini-getaway to Provence.
Our next stop was to check into our hotel for the night, the recently renovated Hotel Senza. We had stayed here years ago when it was the La Residence. The spacious suites have been freshened up and modernized beautifully. The lush grounds and pool area are filled with a massive sculpture collection. Lounging areas are sprinkled throughout the gardens near the grapevines.
Hotel Senza possesses a rustic luxe vibe and is in the perfect location to explore wine country. It is located on the NorthWest corner of Napa just off Highway 29 on Howard Lane. From there it's an easy jaunt north to Yountville, Saint Helena or Calistoga. If you head west on Highway 12 it will take you to the picturesque Sonoma Valley.
After checking into the hotel and enjoying the wine/cheese reception presented by a local winery, we headed out for dinner on the terrace at Basalt to sample the seasonal California cuisine. Tapas and a cocktail were the perfect combination for a warm, spring evening on the river. The café lights added just the right romantic touch to this lovely spot.
Following a dreamy sleep, in a comfy bed with luxurious linens, and a substantial continental breakfast at Hotel Senza, we lounged on the patio, near the vineyards, to finish our espresso. By 10:00 am it was time to head out to the parking area at Napa College to catch the shuttle to the Jazz Getaway.
Brian Culbertson initiated the Jazz Getaway in 2012. The 5 day festival is held at several local venues, including Jamieson Vineyard Ranch, on Highway 12, at the gateway to the Napa Valley. With shuttle service, food trucks, wine and water for sale and ample shade areas, it seems the festival planners thought of every detail.
We arrived shortly after the doors opened on Sunday to beat the rush. Food trucks and wine stands were ready and waiting. After much consideration, we chose the Vera Pizza Napoletana pizza and a splash of Rose'. There were many delicious dining options at the Jazz Getaway.
Show Time!!
The show started with the vibrant energy of Vincent Ingala.
Next onstage was Mr. Brian Culbertson himself. Love his splashy green sequin jacket! Brian started this event back in 2012. From the first year, this event has featured a fantastic roundup of wine country concerts and events. Brian plays each day of the 5 days of the Jazz Getaway with unique artists joining him at each venue. Onstage here he is joined by Eric Darius.
The Temptations brought back a classic vibe. The show ended with Michael McDonald, one of my longtime favorites. I've seen Michael McDonald in concert several times over the years and I always enjoy his soulful style.
Festival Fashion
I always enjoy observing fashion at an event like this. Short flowy dresses, maxi skirts, palazzo pants, lace shorts, and rompers were very popular. Hats were everywhere, stylish and so practical for sun protection.
I was honored to be invited to attend the Jazz Getaway this year. If you are a fan of music, jazz, wine country and/or wine, this is a unique experience you will most definitely enjoy. Tickets for many of the events sold out this year, so shop early.
5 Favorite Things to Do in Napa Valley
I'm often asked about my list of favorite things to do in Napa Valley. Along with incredible scenery, world-class wines and dining, there are a few things that always land on my itinerary. These are my 5 favorite things to do in Napa Valley this time of year.
5 Favorite Things to Do in Napa Valley
I'm often asked about my list of favorite things to do in Napa Valley. Along with incredible scenery, world-class wines and dining, there are a few things that always land on my itinerary. These are my 5 favorite things to do in Napa Valley this time of year.
Go wine tasting with a view!
Many wineries in Napa Valley have sunny terraces or patios with views. The infinity pool at Signorello, and Domaine Carneros (like a french château), are two of my favorite spots. I want to try the modern vistas at Cade on our next visit. For sips and bites, you simply can't beat the deck at the luxurious Auberge Du Soleil (you won't want to leave--EVER!).
Enjoy a concert in the vineyard or in a wine cave.
Napa Valley has a vibrant music scene and experiencing music, while sampling fine food and wines, creates a unique multi-sensory experience. One of the most exciting events of the season is the upcoming Brian Culbertson's 5th Annual Jazz Getaway from June 8-12. There are still tickets available for this gold-standard jazz event. Scott and I will be attending on Sunday. The lineup includes: Michael McDonald, Fourplay, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, Mint Condition, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Larry Graham & Graham Central Station, Eric Darius, Average White Band, Stanley Jordan, Michael Lington, Althea René, Marqueal Jordan, Vincent Ingala, Morgan James, Cecil Ramirez, comedian Jammin' Jay Lamont, DJ's Rick & Russ w/CJ Flash, plus The Temptations featuring the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway Horn Section. I am so excited to be attending this fantastic event.
Enjoy a spa experience at your wine country resort.
After a day of tasting and meandering around the valley, it is wonderful to come back to your resort for a swim and time by the pool. A massage or facial is even better to get you in the relaxed vacation mode. These resorts, with spas, are highly recommended and I have visited each of them over the years.
Pick up a picnic lunch.
Stop by Oxbow Market in Napa, or Oakville Grocery in Yountville, and pick up delicious bites and wines to create the perfect picnic among the vines. Be sure to pack a picnic blanket (I always have one in the trunk), or pick up a beautiful blanket as a souvenir at one of the many shopping spots in the valley, like St. Helena, Calistoga or Yountville.
Drive the Loop!
From Napa head north on the iconic Silverado Trail towards Calistoga. You spot beautiful vistas and quintessential wineries at every turn. Stop in Calistoga or head south through St. Helena, Rutherford, Yountville on Highway 29. The perfect scenic loop!
Getaway to Dry Creek Valley Wine Country, California
Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.
Scott and I tried something new for the updated version of our winter holiday. Though we were unable to fly to Riviera Maya due to his back issues, we decided a short road trip would be just the right idea. Wine country is our favorite Northern California getaway and we thought it would be fun to stay in a vacation rental rather than a hotel this trip. With above average temps and sunny skies we knew we were in for a sunny escape to wine country. The vibrant yellow mustard, brilliant blue skies and puffy white clouds were dazzling.
After a fair amount of research we settled on Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate in Dry Creek Valley. As it turns out, this was the perfect choice for a luxurious, comfortable and private "home away from home" for the long weekend. I love these views up the winding driveway to Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate. The location is excellent just 8 miles outside of Healdsburg.
We took the winding gravel path past the lemon tree, mounds of rosemary and lavender, and the beautiful pool area.
From the moment we arrived at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate we felt instantly at home. Laurie and Robert, the homeowners, greeted us warmly, and we were directed past the lemon tree to the short, winding path beside the swimming pool, leading up to the private suite.
Laurie familiarized us with the simple details to make our stay comfortable. Luxury linens, fine furnishings, fragrant bath products and a cozy fireplace created a lovely ambiance. A Keurig coffee maker and small refrigerator made it easy to create a light breakfast or afternoon snacks, and to chill white wine. The bathroom area is comprised of two small rooms; with high end stone tiles and finishes, it is compact and efficient. The toilet and small sink are in one room and the shower is in another. There is no counter space but the glass wall shelves were sufficient for storage.
For more details on our stay read my review on Homeaway of Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.
This view offers peaceful vineyard vistas during the daytime and brilliant stars at night. I can only imagine how wonderful a dip in the pool would be on a toasty summer day in the valley.
After settling into our suite we made the short drive to quaint Geyserville for dinner at Diavola. We don't splurge on carb-loading pizza very often, but when we do, we always hope it is good as this one. Thanks for the great recommendations, Laurie and Robert!
Following a leisurely morning with coffee and a light en suite breakfast we had picked up at the small market in Geyserville the night before, we were off to lunch at Rustic "Francis's Favorites" at Coppola Winery. In this lovely hilltop spot, reminiscent of Tuscany, we enjoyed friendly service and fun conversation with fellow diners. (PS-my purse must have fallen off the chair because I'm a bit of a germaphobe who would much rather hold my bag then set it on the ground #winecountrynocares :)
Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola has created a unique concept around the swimming pool with cabines to rent for family days at the pool. This looks like a super fun concept for warm weather fun. It reminds me of throwback summers on the shore. For more details on pools and cabines here.
Our next stop was for a tasting at Matrix Winery. The interior is currently being remodeled into what will become a beautiful tasting room and deck, but the outdoor spaces are still beautiful. We enjoyed some luscious pinot noirs at Matrix on this sunny afternoon next to the water feature.
Scott was getting around pretty well on this day, thankfully. Maybe the sound of splashing water soothed his soul?
Or maybe it was the wine?
A video posted by Heather Lindstrom (@stylemindchic) on Feb 6, 2016 at 2:56pm PST
This photo is a simply a gratuitous reminder to stick with pilates...DAILY!!!
From Matrix it was a quick trip back to the guest suite for some relaxation before heading out to dinner. Laurie and Robert's very friendly kitty (pictured above) came inside for a visit. Did I mention Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate felt like our "home away from home"?
After freshening up we were off to dinner in Healdsburg, for our second visit to Dry Creek Kitchen, of Chef Charlie Palmer fame. We had the most impeccable service and delicious bites on this evening. The ingenious sommelier, Rolando, introduced us to some lovely wine and conversation that made for a memorable evening. I was also happy to see that Chef charlie Palmer 'liked' my photo of our evening at Dry Creek Kitchen on Instagram.
We found the vibe to be significantly more warm and friendly than our visit here several years ago. We highly recommend you make a reservation here and talk to Rolando about wines (and life).
Another fantastic perk of staying at Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate is that Laurie and Robert graciously offered us a private wine tasting at neighboring Mazzocco Winery.
We scheduled our tasting for noon on Sunday and were lucky enough to meet Mick. He shared a number of delicious pours of Mazzocco wines, some of which were created with grapes grown at Pony Ranch Vineyard. He also shared stories of the local vineyards and the history of the area. If you visit Mazzocco ask for Mick and he will spoil you, no doubt.
Shed Healdsburg-a wonderful place to buy a picnic or dine. We enjoyed a tasty gelato.
All getaways must come to an end. Our thanks to Laurie & Robert for an unforgettable getaway to Dry Creek wine country. Thank you for sharing your lovely estate with us for the weekend. We promise, we will visit again soon!
To Stay:
Our new favorite 'Home Away from Home' in wine country: Pony Ranch Vineyard Estate.
H2 Hotel (previous post here)
For more on Healdsburg: Getaway to Healdsburg and Getaway to Sonoma Valley Wine Country
To Dine:
Spoonbar from previous post here
To Taste:
Wine Country Weekend - Three Day Getaway!
Wine Country Weekend
Fall is a brilliant time of year to escape to Northern California wine country. The leaves are luminescent with hues of autumn; the sky transforms into a deeper shade of blue. Scott and I recently took advantage of some time off to make our annual fall trip to wine country. Our first stop was for lunch on the patio at Solbar on the Silverado Trail in Calistoga. The food is always delicious, service is incredibly friendly and the location is unbeatable.
Our next stop was almost next door at Clos Pegase winery in Calistoga. I've always appreciated the attention to detail with stonework and art collections at Clos Pegase. The winery is especially picturesque in the fall season.
A room with a view at Clos Pegase.
By this time we were ready to head to the Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa in Santa Rosa to check in for our getaway. Scott had booked us a couple of nights on Hyatt points he discovered he had.
It's always nice to receive a special welcome ...
and an upgrade to an executive suite.
Our suite was extremely spacious, well-appointed and comfortable with luxurious touches.
An hour or so to relax and we were off to dinner at Willi's Wine Bar, which has rave reviews from the SF Chronicle, as well as other reviewers. We used the Uber app, which is an amazing way to get a quick ride--to and from--your destination safely. Download it and use it during your next night out if you haven't already discovered it.
The next morning we discovered the quintessential cafe breakfast at Dierk's Parkside Cafe'. Not to brag but I have never seen a mimosa this big! The staff was friendly and fun at this neighborhood gem in Santa Rosa. #yummy
Next we were up for some natural beauty.
A stop at the beautiful J Vineyards and Winery is always a treat.
Desmond shared some fantastic history and took great care of us at J Vineyards & Winery.
We were hungry by the time we reached Healdsburg, one of our wine country favorite spots, and couldn't resist Bravas Bar de Tapas. The small plates with Spanish flair and terrace dining are so enjoyable. The dish pictured is of caramelized onions over goat cheese bruschetta with drizzles of balsamic--simple and delicious!
Our friends recommended Wilson Winery on Dry Creek Road so we meandered to this beautiful spot. We were blown away by the vineyard views from the terrace, as well as the bold, red zinfandels we tasted. Scott couldn't resist joining the wine club at Wilson Winery so we will definitely be returning.
Sips....
Rose' sunset over wine country.
Back at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek, a cozy fire-pit was waiting for us.
#nightnight
The next morning, we discovered the shops and restaurants at Railroad Square, within walking distance to the Hyatt Vineyard Creek. The Omelette Express serves up a decadent and filling breakfast.
This trip was more of a meandering through a larger area of wine country than some of our previous trips. Our final stop was in Sebastopol where we discovered the delightful K & L Bistro for lunch. The service, decor and ambiance created the perfect foodie gem. Each town in wine country possesses a unique charm.
We lucked out with the weather in November. It was cool enough for booties and a cashmere poncho but warm enough for walking through vineyards and dining on the patio in comfort.
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Getaway to Sonoma Valley Wine Country
In late October Scott and I stole away to Sonoma Valley wine country for the weekend. We've been keeping ultra busy with our careers, so a relaxing fall getaway was much anticipated. It's 'crush' season in wine country around this time and you can smell the rich, earthy, tangy scent in the air. Those grapes are giving their all for the cause and we appreciate them.
For this stay we choose a sentimental favorite from one of our early visits to Sonoma, Inn at Sonoma. The Inn is affiliated with our favorite Zen Suites at Gaige House in Glen Ellen. Following our three-hour drive we checked in and were reminded of the cozy charm and homey touches, like the freshly baked cookies stocked in the copper cookie jar.
A fireplace in our suite, and a glass of wine, got us immediately in the mood for relaxation. We had a late evening reservation at Harvest Moon Cafe, on the Sonoma Square, which was an easy walk from our hotel.
In seeking pure relaxation I only had my iPhone but snapped a couple of ambient shots from the heated patio. The dishes were fresh with fall harvest cuisine and the service was friendly. Harvest Moon Cafe had a local gem feel to it and we were pleased with our choice for the evening.
The next morning, following a free, hot breakfast at Inn at Sonoma, we headed out for a stroll around the square. The sun popped out after a night of heavy rain, and the vibrant colors of fall were everywhere.
We had plans to meet friends, Dean and Kathryn, so we messaged them to meet us for a light bite at El Dorado Kitchen, which I have written about in a previous post here. We especially enjoy the patio dining at this spot on a sunny day.
Sonoma Valley in crush
We watched the weather reports and ended up cancelling a garden tour my husband had booked early in the week. Instead, in a lucky roll of the dice, Scott ended up making a reservation at the Mayo Family Reserve Room in Kenwood for the 'ultimate' seven-course food and wine pairing.
Scott's Thoughts:
"Having enjoyed previous tastings at the Mayo Family Winery tasting room in Glen Ellen, we decided it was time to check out the Mayo Reserve Room food and wine pairing in Kenwood. This was one of our first more extravagant tasting experiences, as we usually look for the high quality, low fee tasting rooms, and often share a taste. (Sharing allows us to safely visit more wineries.) Our experience featured a blend of service from our very friendly pouring concierge and Chef Clayton Lewis. While we watched the rain outside, we were served seven wine tastes with seven delectable bites designed to bring out the highlights of each wine. With each pairing, Chef Lewis came to the table to describe the flavors to watch for as we tasted wine, then food, then wine. The Roussanne with a bacon-flavored madeleine was my favorite taste—a very mild yet interesting white with a finish that completely changed with this pairing (think a hint of bacon in the finish)! I could see it paired with morning bacon, spicy sausage gravy, or a BLT for a special brunch. We ended with a Late Harvest Gewurtztraminer and a savory desert, the spices of which beautifully countered the sweetness of the wine. I’ve never been a fan of the Gewurtz, but this was a completely intriguing taste! In the end, we took several bottles home, my favorite of which is their Estate Pinot Noir, a big, full red with hints of spice and dark fruit. The experience was amazing—friendly, educational, a journey of visual and flavor sensations. Try it, and be inspired to step outside your usual wine routine and create your own taste pairing!"
"THE SINGLE BEST DEAL IN WINE COUNTRY... WHAT AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE" — Wall Street Journal
The food and wine pairing at Mayo was a unique culinary and viticulture experience, as well as an excellent value, at just $35.00 per person. The experience lasted 90 minutes and the staff couldn't have been warmer or more approachable. We highly recommend Mayo and you can book online on Open Table. Take a look at the website here. Let the rain fall!
What happened next, for our evening meal, was one of those memorable occasions that deserves it's own post. Suffice it to say, our evening at Olive & Vine was extraordinary and I look forward to sharing part deux of our trip in my next post.
Sunday was a 'lounging with the paper and hot mugs of steaming coffee' kind of morning. We enjoyed another filling breakfast on the patio, at Inn at Sonoma, always a nice touch. Somebody got caught with his hand in the cookie jar, again.
We discovered that Williams-Sonoma has reopened at the original location for the brand. Chuck Williams opened the first Williams-Sonoma here in 1956. The new shop has been designed to match the original space. They have also created a 'rustic luxe' home collection and outdoor living space. For all of us home decor types, it's definitely worth a visit. It's picture perfect.
Williams-Sonoma is back in Sonoma!
I wanted just about everything...
and I think you will too.
I hope you've enjoyed this getaway to Sonoma Valley wine country.
For more on my travels to my old stomping grounds:
Getaway to Wine Country in Healdsburg
![Wine Country Getaway [Napa Style!]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a66444d017db2e6975e076e/1527984208254-1ZJ5T4O1T43P817SUFSR/DSC03099.JPG)
Wine Country Getaway [Napa Style!]
Just a week ago Northern California was experiencing temperatures 15-20 degrees above normal which is pretty perfect for a long weekend. Scott and I had a getaway planned to Napa so the timing was good. On a sun-splashed day we got up early, threw open the sunroof and made the 2 1/2 hour trip to Napa. As we were driving over, I had a memory of a lovely estate off Silverado Trail. It sat high on the hill, with cypress lining the drive. The flagstone terraces flanked a perfectly placed vanishing edge pool....at least that is how I remembered it. I made it my mission to find it.....and we did!
Just a week ago Northern California was experiencing temperatures 15-20 degrees above normal which is pretty perfect for a long weekend. Scott and I had a getaway planned to Napa so the timing was good. On a sun-splashed day we got up early, threw open the sunroof and made the 2 1/2 hour trip to Napa. As we were driving over, I had a memory of a lovely estate off Silverado Trail. It sat high on the hill, with cypress lining the drive. The flagstone terraces flanked a perfectly placed vanishing edge pool....at least that is how I remembered it. I made it my mission to find it.....and we did!
Just a few miles up Silverado Trail, on an eastern hillside, just as I remembered it.......Signorello Estate.
That pool.......
Jacqueline, so much fun, set us up in her 'office' by the pool. She gave us the best start to our Napa Weekend.
Thank you Jacqueline (it was our pleasure)!
We had made reservations for a couple of nights at the Andaz Napa where we greeted with the utmost in friendly and professional service. There is no counter for check in at the Andaz, instead we were assigned a staff member for a seated check, via iPad, on the couch with a glass of wine.
Our suite at the Andaz Napa was wine country luxurious with a sitting room, see through fireplace and a sleek spa style tub and marble shower. The linens were pure luxury. We had stayed here previously when it was the Avia. In making the switch to Andaz (a Hyatt brand) I would say it has only improved in amenities and service.
We dined at the famed Celadon in Napa by the river. I have been a big fan since Celadon first opened in 1996 and a close friend of mine and Chef/Owner Greg Cole introduced us. This Michelin recommended gem of a restaurant delivers outstanding 'Global Comfort Food' and Greg's passion for food and wine continues to shine. I have hosted a bridal luncheon, a birthday party and other special dinners at Celadon and they always treat us with the best of care.
Taking an after dinner walk along the riverfront we happened across some live music at Silo's. We were not even close to being the oldest ones in the crowd which was a bonus (we live in a University town of Chico so that tends to be the norm). It was definitely the perfect night on the town in Napa.
This terrace at the Andaz Napa is the perfect spot for relaxing.....
Zuzu, one of our favorites for friendly, casual tapas dinner near the river.
New friends around the fire pit~perfect start to our evening!
Though the river is unusually low this year this is a great view of the new Napa Riverfront area. It's a mixed use blend of gourmet restaurants, boutiques and luxury town-home living. I've always been intrigued by mixed use projects such as this, it feels like a European style of living. Another new favorite this trip was a brunch at Grace's Table. They have excellent reviews and our dishes were wonderful with an international flair. The weather was so warm they opened up one wall of the restaurant for patio dining.
Miner Family Winery, one of our favorites.
"You know it's great wine if your smile turns purple!"
Wine Notes from Scott
A few things come together to make for a great tasting experience. Of course, the wine comes first. There’s just no sense spending time where the wine is not excellent or a style you love. Big, complex reds? Citrusy Sauv Blanc? Chardonnay with mineral or butter or oak? The other factors that make it for me are setting, and staff friendliness/expertise… oh, and cost. A friendly and generous host can make for a ton of fun. A packed room can be a pain, but it can also be a party. A tasting room with a patio or a view can make for a fantastic, lingering taste experience. For this trip, our first destination was Signorello, perched on the hillside with a spectacular view (here’s a little vid that shows the beauty:
History, wine and culinary education at it's finest!
It became our only destination that afternoon because it was a slow day—only two other couples there—our amazing “ambassador”, Jacqueline, hooked us up with a long, casual, poolside tasting. The wines were fabulous, ranging from crisp Seta, Chards on the mineral side, juicy Cabs, and their amazing, big and complex Padrone. We walked away with a 2007 Cab for a special future night. Other tastings: Miner Family—always interesting blends, along with the usual excellent standards (Stagecoach Cab!). Tasting here feels like family, and their patio encourages you to take your time. Our prizes? An Odyssey and an Oracle—medium and big red blends. Stags’ Leap: what can we say? Great Cabs, a beautiful, rustic setting, and crowded (it was a 3-day weekend). There are more tasting rooms popping up in town, now, so we hit a couple neighboring our hotel: pureCRU and John Anthony. PureCru had some good wines, but John Anthony’s were really good, and we had more fun there with Rozzy pouring. Again, with all the great wine in the valley, I’m going back for the fun!
I was wrangling photos with a funky tech thing (can anyone relate?) so I'm grateful Scott had time for some writing today. In previous posts I have shared my love for both the Napa and Sonoma Valleyin wine country getaways.
Do you have a favorite go to spot for a getaway weekend?
