Napa Valley: Wineries

Chateau Montelena Winery Housed in a vine-covered French chateau constructed in the 1880s, the cabs and rieslings here are sensational. Reservations are required and tour groups are limited, so it feels like a beautifully secluded retreat. 1429 Tubbs Ln.; 707-942-5105; www.montelena.com
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Graeser Winery This boutique winery specializes in small lots of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and merlot. Reminiscent of a bygone age before the big wineries arrived, coming here is like visiting a close friend’s home. 255 Petrified Forest Rd.; 707-942-4437; www.graeserwinery.com
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Joseph Phelps Vineyards Most wineries offer classes and tours, but few do it with the fun and sophistication of Joseph Phelps. Beautiful grounds, spectacular wines, and guides who are helpful without being snobbish make every guest feel special. Reservations mandatory. 200 Taplin Rd.; 707-963-2745; www.jpvwines.com
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Schramsberg Every presidential administration since Nixon’s has served Schramsberg’s sparkling wines during official functions, and this chic location is where it all begins. Tour the picturesque Victorian house, historic caves (hand-dug by Chinese immigrants), and enjoy a tasting (not terribly expensive, but a splurge worth enjoying). 1400 Schramsberg Rd.; 800-877-3623; www.schramsberg.com
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Sequoia Grove After more than two decades of family ownership, this boutique winery is now run by Michael Trujillo, Sequoia Grove’s longtime winemaker. They produce a limited quantity of ultra-premium wines, from cabs to chardonnays, but tastings are reasonably priced for great vintages. 8338 St. Helena Hwy.; 800-851-7841; www.sequoiagrove.com
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Trefethen Family Vineyards Placed on the National Register of Historic Places as the only surviving 19th-century, wooden, gravity-flow winery in Napa County (the family escaped prohibition by making sacramental wines), Trefethen’s vintages are equally time-tested. 1160 Oak Knoll Ave.; 707-255-7700; www.trefethen.com
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