Grapevines may be in their dormancy phase during winter, but in Napa Valley, the “chillier” months (read: balmy temperatures of about 60°F) are one of the best times to visit—we’re talking lighter crowds, more affordable prices, and a groundswell of new restaurants, tasting experiences, and happenings. Below, a seasonal preview of what’s to come, plus a first timer’s guide to the region.
What’s New
Travelers to Napa Valley can look forward to a buzz of activity this winter season. On the hotel front, Meritage Resort and Spa will unveil a stylish, multi-million dollar redesign to its 322 guest rooms in March 2024. Meanwhile, a new outpost of Saks Fifth Avenue’s Fifth Avenue Club at Stanly Ranch, an Auberge Resorts Collection, will offer personal styling and shopping by appointment — bringing high style to California’s premier wine region.
Wine-lovers have more tasting options than ever, now that a crop of new spaces have opened. Three years after wildfire forced its temporary closure, Sterling Vineyards is welcoming visitors again with its groundbreaking aerial gondola (one of the few triangular-shaped gondolas in the world!), which offers 360-degree views of the Palisades and Vaca Mountains. And the LVMH-owned Chandon unveiled its three-year transformation this past fall – to coincide with the winery’s 50th anniversary. The nine-acre estate now offers several new indoor and outdoor spaces (think private safari-like tents) for tasting experiences and is also home to the new Epicurean Hub restaurant. For an urban alternative, head to St. Helena to check out Orin Swift Cellars’ sleek new tasting room, housed in an 80-year-old former bank. The speakeasy-style lounge has several experiences on deck, including a tasting of wines not found anywhere else in the Valley.
The Napa Valley dining scene is ramping up, too. Among the buzzier new additions is Slanted Door from celebrated Bay Area chef Charles Phan; Moro Napa, the Valley’s first Moroccan restaurant; Chispa, with its dedicated tequila bar; and Charlie’s, a new concept from the former executive sous chef at The French Laundry. Two-time James Beard Award winning chef Chris Bianco is also making his Napa Valley debut at Carneros Resort and Spa. The legendary talent behind Pizzeria Bianco, widely recognized as one of the best pizzerias in the country, has reinvigorated the culinary program at FARM offering an Italian Farmhouse concept with dishes like gnocchi with forest mushrooms and risotto with winter squash
Mustard Season
What is the first sign of spring in wine country? An explosion of wild mustard flowers that blankets the valley in brilliant yellow blooms. While peak viewing usually occurs in mid-February, the stunning display of mustard flower typically crops up at the end of January and lasts through March and often signifies the start of bud break – the flowering of the vines. It’s truly a spectacular sight to behold (find the most Instagram-worthy photo ops here), proving that good things come to those who travel in between seasons. As a bonus: Napa Valley weather is mild, the biking and hiking trails are primed for adventure, and it’s easier to book reservations at the best tasting rooms and restaurants.
First Timer’s Guide to Napa Valley
With hundreds of wineries, a dozen Michelin-rated restaurants, and an infinite array of adventures, Napa Valley is not a destination you can discover in one go — or is it? Now that Visit Napa Valley has just released an ultimate first-timer’s itinerary to the region, it’s never been so easy to scratch beneath the surface. Their experts recommend using Yountville as a base and hitting attractions like the Oxbow Public Market, the Napa Valley Museum, and First Street Napa in between tastings. Get your foodie fix in St. Helena, where there are dozens of excellent restaurants and tasting experiences, and don’t leave without experiencing a mud bath in Calistoga! Check out their nifty four-day guide for more!
