The millions of tourists that flock to wine country every year focus on, well, wine. But Napa Valley and Sonoma have so much more to offer and our guides are the key. These local experts have uncovered every nook and cranny of the region from the best restaurants and romantic wineries, to the best picnic and nightlife spots. They’ve led California wine tours through countless Napa wineries and Sonoma wineries. This month, we caught up with our guide Army and got his top 10 picks.
- Production Tour. Aonair: cave tour, ATV vineyard tour, and beautiful views.
- Food & Wine Pairing. Chateau Potelle: intimate and the best story going back to 1979.
- Indoor/Outdoor Picnic. Bennett Lane: garden with mountain views as well as the barrel room indoors.
- Family Run Winery. At Platypus Tours, we guide California wine tours through small production family owned Napa wineries and Sonoma wineries, and have developed a love for their authentic and unique wines. For Army, a favorite is Tedeschi. The family of this historic winery in Napa beams pride and love in the wine they produce. They started with very little and grew successfully in an incredibly competitive market – 2 generations going strong today.
- Romantic Winery. Hans Fahden: wedding venue with cave and multiple intimate spots for tasting.
- “Wined-Out”: Where Else to Enjoy Adult Beverages. After so many tastings, it’s nice to break things up. Army says head to Archer Hotel in downtown Napa. Their rooftop bar includes great views, a large space with fire pits, and a sports bar on one end. Unwind with a cocktail and some tasty appetizers.
- Restaurant. Farmstead: farm to table fun atmosphere.
- Non-Wine Activity. Sonoma-Marin cheese trail for award winning dairies and food on the coast.
- Nightlife Spot. “Take ’em to Joe’s” has become a common saying around Napa locals, meaning head to Downtown Joe’s. Army says this is a casual, non-pretentious spot, “funky and easy” with outdoor and indoor seating. Drink one of their local craft beers or choose a wine from local Napa wineries and Sonoma wineries, while sitting along the river enjoying live bands that play at Joe’s most days of the week.
- Army’s choice is Fieldwork Brewery inside the Oxbow Market. Kill 2 (or 3) birds with one stone and enjoy craft beers while shopping around and tasting some amazing food all within the Oxbow. From souvenirs to beers to gourmet meats, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your needs.
Army is one of our many talented and lovable tour guides who helps make Platypus Wine Tours what it is today. We strive to bring our customers the best experiences. So whether you hop on our join-in California wine tours or book a private tour, don’t miss Army’s recommendations. Explore Napa wineries and Sonoma wineries, dine at amazing restaurants, go on local adventures, and experience wine country like never before!
