The world-famous Napa Valley is known for its beautiful landscape, fantastic wines, and charming towns. Calistoga is at the north end of Napa Valley and perfectly represents all the beloved facets of Napa Valley. Rustic living coupled with hot spring resorts create a magical environment. If you are planning a Napa Valley wine tour, we encourage you to visit this town and enjoy some of the best Napa Valley wineries near Calistoga. Check out a few of our recommendations below:
Why Calistoga?
Calistoga, located at the valley’s north end, is known for its hot springs, mud baths and a slower pace than the rest of the area. The wineries reflect the vibe, keeping things smaller and more personalized. Most wine drinkers or tourists will not mind at all. After all, Calistoga is an idyllic place to take in the scenery of the Palisades Mountains, with a wine-culture history dating back to the mid-1800s.
Top Napa Valley Wineries near Calistoga
Chateau Montelena
Chateau Montelena is an important winery in Napa Valley due to its pivotal role in the famed 1976 Paris Tasting. The winery is an old-style stone castle building with lovely wooden bridges and water features along its grounds. It’s a very peaceful place to visit for a wine tasting experience. A chateau (which means castle in French) comes with a story, and this property produces one of the first wines that put Napa Valley on the world stage. Back in the first Paris Tasting in 1976, held at InterContinental Paris Le Grand on Champs-Elysées Avenue in Paris, France, Chateau Montelena turned heads. Their Chardonnay was selected as the triumphant prize-winning white wine. Today, the Cabernet Sauvignon is just as admired. Visitors today can find out more about Montelena’s history at the winery by walking through their gardens first, followed by a tasting of the award-winning wines.
Tedeschi Family Winery
Tedeschi Family Winery is a boutique winery known for its small-batch, handcrafted wines. Established by the Tedeschi family, the winery focuses on producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. The intimate tasting room experience allows visitors to engage directly with the winemaking process, making it a cherished destination for wine enthusiasts seeking personalized and authentic Napa Valley wines.
Madrigal Family Winery
Madrigal Family Winery has a rich heritage of winemaking that dates back to the 1930s. The winery is celebrated for its robust and flavorful wines, particularly its Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Sauvignon Blanc. Family-owned and operated, Madrigal offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can enjoy tastings with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and learn about the winery’s dedication to sustainable farming practices.
Hans Fahden Vineyards
Hans Fahden Vineyards, situated in the picturesque Mayacamas Mountains, is renowned for its scenic beauty and elegant wines. The winery specializes in producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Visitors are enchanted by the stunning wine caves, tranquil gardens, and charming tea house, making Hans Fahden Vineyards an idyllic retreat for wine lovers seeking a serene and unforgettable tasting experience.
Schramsberg Vineyards
For lovers of sparkling wine, the undisputed highlight of Napa valley wineries near Calistoga is Schramsberg Vineyards, one of the oldest wineries in California founded in 1862. The tradition of fine sparkling wines at Schramsberg (made with the Champagne method) continues today, and tastings in their historic caves, which are hand-hewn from solid granite in the mid-19th century, are unforgettable. A tour of the caves followed by a tasting of a sample of their superb sparklers is a must-stop on any Napa Valley wine tour.
Clos Pegase Winery
Clos Pegase seamlessly integrates art, architecture and wine in the most beautiful way. The vineyard was designed by the late American architect Michael Graves and features a postmodern design and spectacular art-filled grounds. Clos Pegase’s wines have long been praised for estate-grown Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. The guided tour is very educational and you end with a tasting in either the garden or the barrel room, so it’s very well-rounded and enjoyable.
Tips for Visiting Napa Valley Wineries near Calistoga
- Plan Ahead: Most tastings and tours at Calistoga wineries require advance reservations, especially for peak seasons.
- Get on the slow train: there are so many wineries, it’s tempting to fill a week or more with appointments. But taking time to savor each stop will pay dividends.
- Drink Water and Eat Food: Tasting wine can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink water and enjoy frequent meals. Some wineries have restaurants or at least picnic facilities.
- Transportation: if you plan on visiting several wineries, hiring a driver or taking a wine tour will not only assure you enjoy the day out without too much worry but also safety.
- Outside Napa Valley’s beaten path, Calistoga is a true gem. With these Napa Valley wineries in Calistoga, you’ll find history, delicious experiences, and true hospitality.
Join Platypus Wine Tours for a comprehensive and fun wine tour experience! With many transport options available and the most knowledgeable guides in the business, you are guaranteed to see and taste your very best on Napa Valley. Book your tour today and explore the best Napa Valley wineries near Calistoga and other towns. Cheers!
