by Joseph Nicholson

Created on: February 07, 2009   Last Updated: February 09, 2009

Sometimes called a "Disneyworld for Adults", ever since a Cabernet from Stag's Leap Wine Cellars won top honors in a 1976 blind tasting in Paris, California's wine country has been on the global wine-making map and has enjoyed a steadily increasing popularity from oenophiles and casual sippers alike. The large number of wineries in the Napa Valley region make it impossible to visit them all in a single day, and choosing among the options can be quite daunting.

For those who appreciate organically and biodynamically grown grapes with the perfect food pairing, Robert Sinskey Vineyards offers an unparalleled taste experience. For those seeking an in-depth tour and unique destination, Daryl Sattui's replica of a medieval Italian castle at the upper end of the valley is a must-see. Gloria Ferrer and Ferrari Carano, in Sonoma, and Domaine Carneros in Napa, provide both opulent settings and delectable sparkling wines.

Pine Ridge Winery, in Stag's Leap, offers a unique orientation in the form of a Cabernet from each of Napa's top appellations. And, in terms of personal attention, the by-appointment-only tour at Tres Sabores can't be beat.

Not every tour is created equal, but then again, not every tourist has the same tastes. Most, but not all vintners offers tasting, and some are by reservation only, so planning ahead is a good idea. A typical tasting usually runs anywhere from $10 to $30 for a customizable flight of reds, whites, and reserve wine selections.

Many wineries also offer tours of their storage caves and wine-making facilities, sell cheese and souvenirs, and allow guests to picnic on their painstakingly manicured grounds. When choosing wine country destinations, it's important to prioritize the aspects of a winery that appeal most. Gorgeous garden tours with inexpensive wines are available at Frog's Leap and Cline Vineyards.

Like any proper wine-growing region, Napa Valley is divided into several distinct appellations, each suited for particular grape varietals because of its unique soil profile and microclimate. Thus, the Carneros region to the south is famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, while the central appellations of Rutherford, Oakville, and Stag's Leap attract fans of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. The northern regions of St. Helena and Diamond Mountain are ideal for Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Because wineries may own vineyards in numerous appellations, however, there is a significant overlap of varietals available at each location. Touring wine tasters can opt to explore a single region, or attempt to hop from winery to winery to explore more of the region at once.

Napa Valley and its environs are among the most attractive of leisure destinations for couples, honeymooners and others simply looking to get away. About two hours north of San Francisco, the rural feel of Napa's small towns and agricultural landscapes transports urban visitors while its world class wine, five-star dining and luxury resorts melt away every care.
There are several ways to tour Napa, each offering its own unique benefits. One of the most popular ways is by chauffeured limousine. Not only does the driver handle transportation, leaving visitors to partake of Napa's bounty unencumbered, but the drivers are usually also experts in the area and customize each trip to the party's tastes and interests. The Napa train also is quite popular, making its appointed stops at several top wineries. And, of course, visitors are welcome to rent a car and manage their own transportation, stopping in wherever the spirit may lead them.

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