When you’re having a good time, there’s a moment in wine tasting when you look around and think: “I could get used to this.” Being able to spend extended time at a favorite winery is one of the joys of visiting Napa Valley.
Though the wine is the star, the best places to while away the hours offer a combination of beautiful scenery, a comfortable place to perch, interesting wines and a place to hang with the right group of friends. Here are three Napa Valley wineries that fit the bill.
BELLA UNION
VIBE: MODERN AERIE WITH 180-DEGREE VIEWS
The Social Hours from 4 to 6 p.m., when walk-in guests can enjoy wines by the glass, keeps things convivial. By-the-glass offerings include wines from Bella Union, which focuses on blends, plus wines from sister properties such as EnRoute Pinot Noir or Dolce late harvest wine, or even a non-alcoholic spritz.
On a sunny day, check out The Wren, Bella Union’s Mediterranean front patio with panoramic views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Or, if chilly, snuggle with compadres into cozy green banquettes in the Salon. Every tasting includes complimentary nibbles like crispy pea pods, nuts, marinated olives and banana chips.
FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS
VIBE: GETTING COZY
Arriving at Frank Family Vineyards, with its ivy-covered buildings surrounded by sun-drenched vineyards, you feel like you’ve discovered a picture-perfect winery made for relaxing.
Curl up in a corner window seat of the restored yellow Craftsman home, which features intimate tasting salons. Sip a glass of brut rosé sparkling wine or select from a diverse range of wines including Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, all made in a bright, food-friendly style.
Another favorite place to hang is on the wide back porch, where if it’s warm, you can ease into a swinging chair to enjoy the view. If you’re tasting with a larger group, the Miller House, a modern indoor-outdoor space with a soaring ceiling and an outdoor fireplace, will feel like a home away from home.
JAM CELLARS
VIBE: INTIMATE NEIGHBORHOOD BAR WITH TUNES
JaM Cellars in downtown Napa is a mash-up night club, recording studio and listening room in a friendly, mid-century space—perfect for hanging out with friends.
Music is always part of the experience, but Thursdays are special thanks to live performances. Advance reservations can be made online and tickets are included when ordering from the something-for-everyone menu of sparkling, red and white wines.
You might see a couple cuddling on a couch, large parties spilling out of booths and regulars lining the bar. Join in the groove with musical quizmaster Nick Foxer, who sings hits by Cher, Maroon 5 and Gnarls Barkley, challenging the crowd to write down the performer and song name.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself singing along.
