Jarvis Winery is an underground winery wherein the whole process of wine making is in a deep cave. The cave is parabolic and circular which enables easy movement and accessibility. The stream and waterfall running through the center of the winery helps in maintaining the humidity of the caves while adding to the beauty of the winery. Unique tastings and tours of the cave winery are scheduled every day. It is better to plan ahead, especially during the season weekends. You get to taste six of the best Jarvis wines and you can buy bottles or cases of the wines that you like at the winery itself. All in all, a unique experience wonderful wines make Jarvis a must-visit winery.
The Castello di Amorosa, located in Calistoga, is truly one of the most unique wineries in Napa Valley. This genuine castle took 14 years to build and opened in 2007. The castle has many features that make it truly unique, including a moat, a drawbridge, a chapel and even a torture chamber, complete with authentic instruments of inflicting pain like the iron maiden. Other than the exquisite craftsmanship, the castle offers several different wine tasting packages, although they do not have a winery on site. Visitors can also take horse-drawn carriage tours of the estate and attend church services in the castle.
Located in Novato, this beautiful winery hosts oenophiles from surrounding cities. The family-operated winery comprises of an expansive tasting room and an outdoor patio to indulge in leisurely wine-drinking. A visit to the Trek Winery will allow you to taste any five of their acclaimed wines for a small sum. Thereafter, you can pick from their splendid wine collection to take a bottle home.
Situated near Glen Ellen, Quarryhill Botanical Garden is a 25-acre (10.12 hectare) haven of Asian plants. The botanical garden is home to some rare species, among which the Acer pentaphyllum and Liriodendron chinense are just two. No visit to Quarryhill is complete without visiting the beautiful Asian Woodland Garden, with its lush green foliage, water-lily pond and trails. Quarryhill Botanical Garden is open throughout the year, with self-guided, docent-led and school tours offered.
Founded in 1973 by former photographer Jack Cakebread, this winery has produced a plethora of award-winning vintages. The winery produces 85,000 cases annually and is best known for its classic rich Rutherford Cabernets, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The entire family is involved with the winery operation, which includes promoting healthy food. The Cakebreads founded the American Harvest Workshop, an annual four-day event that promotes local agriculture and involves chefs, winemakers and farmers. The family also sells organic produce grown on winery grounds when available. Tours and tastings are by prior appointment only.
For a feel of winemaking history, visit Napa Valley's oldest winery. Founded in 1861, Charles Krug Winery has 800 acres (324 hectares) of prime vineyards spread out across several Napa Valley appellations and produces more than ten varieties of wine. A registered historical landmark, the facility includes the original wine cellar and contains one of the valley's largest collections of rare and aged vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon.