Even though Jen Cornell has more than 800 custom private wine tours under her belt, she has never created the same itinerary twice. That’s no accident. For Jen, getting to know her guests, understanding what makes them tick, and turning their wish lists into unforgettable days in wine country is half the fun. She gets so wrapped up in the details that she sometimes feels like she’s going on the tour herself!
Part artist, part chef, and self-described “Jacqueline of all trades,” Jen brings creativity, curiosity, and a healthy dose of local know-how to everything she does. Her secret to staying on top of what’s happening in Napa and Sonoma? “Eyes and ears on the ground and research, baby!”
It’s the people, the community, and her talented Platypus teammates that keep Jen inspired. And after hundreds of thoughtfully crafted wine country experiences, she still loves what she does.
So, what does someone who knows wine country this well recommend? We asked Jen to share a few of her personal Napa Valley and Sonoma wine country favorites.
- Production Tour:
Hall Wines and Round Pond Estate in Napa Valley. - Food & Wine Pairing:
Sequoia Grove Winery, Clif Family Enoteca in Napa Valley; and St. Francis Winery in Sonoma Valley. - Family Run Winery:
Fortunati Vineyards, Tedeschi Family Winery in Napa and Annadel Estate Winery in Sonoma County. - Indoor / Outdoor Picnic Spot (non-winery):
Bothe Napa Valley State Park, Bartholomew Park in Sonoma Valley, or any mustard field in the spring. - Romantic Winery:
Far Niente Winery in Napa and Annadel Estate Winery in Sonoma Valley. - “Wined-Out”, Where Else to Enjoy Adult Beverages (or mocktails):
Chrispa Bar and Grace’s Table, in Napa. - Favorite Restaurant:
Grace’s Table, Red Rock Cafe, R+D Kitchen, Sam’s Social Club, Market and Brasswood Bar and Kitchen in Napa Valley. El Molino Central, Layla at MacArthur Place and Sunflower Caffè in Sonoma Valley. Gold Coast Coffee and Bakery in Duncans Mills in Sonoma County. - Non-Wine Experience:
Theda’s Ice Creamery in Napa, and the Sonoma Coast. - Nite Life Spot:
Los Agaves Napa, Fieldwork Brewing Company at the Oxbow Market in Napa.
Jen is one of our expert curators who has helped make Platypus Wine Tours what it is today.
So whether you hop on one of our join-in California wine tours or book a private tour, don’t miss Jen’s recommendations. Explore Napa wineries and Sonoma wineries, dine at amazing restaurants, go on local adventures, and experience wine country like never before!
