I retired last year after owning a restaurant in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, for 40 years. As a retirement gift, my wife Mariana, her brother Gustavo, his wife Carmen, and I decided to embark on a road trip across California. One day of our trip was dedicated to private wine tasting in Napa Valley, known for its exclusive wineries and some of the finest wines in North America.
Napa wine tasting tour
We hired Alexander, one of Drivania’s chauffeurs in the area, to act as our guide in his brand-new Lincoln Navigator. Having frequently used Drivania’s services in Puerto Vallarta for private excursions and occasional business meetings with my restaurant providers, I trusted their consistent high standard of service even beyond our own borders.
The day started smoothly and, as we stepped into Alexander’s comfortable vehicle, he warmly welcomed us, setting a hospitable tone and mood for the journey. Although we had already planned our itinerary, Alexander, being a local expert, confirmed that our chosen locations were, indeed, the best wineries to visit in Napa.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
Our first stop was at the renowned Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, where we strolled through the sprawling vineyard, surrounded by thick greenery and the gentle rustling of leaves. We tasted a Chardonnay paired with a creamy brie, the wine’s citrusy notes blending harmoniously with the cheese’s buttery texture. The wine was vibrant and lively, presenting a medley of green apple, zesty lemon, crisp melon, hints of vanilla, and the warm spices of holiday baking, all with a subtle touch of smokiness on an enduring, mineral-tinged finish. Just superb!
The picturesque surroundings of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, and the combination of excellent wine, delicious cheese, and the breathtaking landscape left us with a profound sense of happiness and a desire to savor the rest of the day’s private wine tasting in Napa.
Beringer Vineyards
Alexander’s discretion shone as he allowed us to immerse ourselves in the moment on our way to Beringer Vineyards, an architectural marvel with its historic Rhine House. There, as we sipped their 2020 “Private Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon and nibbled on aged gouda, the four of us marveled at the winery’s grandeur. This wine has an elegant Cabernet blend, boasting fragrant florals and dark berry aromas. Its plush palate features ripe blueberries, blackberries, and a medley of spices, supported by fine tannins and well-integrated oak, culminating in a long, inviting finish.
The atmosphere at Beringer Vineyards exuded a sense of sophistication and elegance. The historic charm of the winery and its lush surroundings made us feel like they were part of a timeless tradition, and we appreciated the attention to detail that had gone into crafting both the wine and the experience.
Opus One Winery
The journey continued to Opus One Winery, where the Bordeaux blend left us in awe. Our senses heightened as we savored a Merlot alongside a pungent Roquefort cheese. The wine’s velvety texture and complex notes caressed our taste buds, while our host storytelling brought to life the artistry behind the wine’s creation.
Our visit to Opus One Winery left us feeling immersed in a world of luxury and artistry. The tasting experience called “Art of the Table” commenced with a comprehensive tour of the winery, its surroundings, and the garden, culminating in a delectable multi-course meal expertly paired with their wines, creating an immersive and memorable experience. We were refined, captivated, and profoundly impressed by the wine, cheese, and ambiance that surrounded us, making it a highlight of our Napa Valley wine tour.
Joseph Phelps Vineyards
As the day unfolded, we visited Joseph Phelps Vineyards, where the Insignia blend captivated us with delicate floral and cigar box scents, interwoven with dark fruit, spices, and subtle oak notes, a must-try for discerning connoisseurs. We also enjoyed their vibrant Freestone Pinot Noir an exceptionally expressive wine, starting with a striking mineral presence, intertwined with lively wild herbs, a hint of saltiness, earthy nuances, and freshly picked forest blackberries. Elegantly invigorating, with refined tannins that offer a delicate, smooth finish.
Domaine Carneros
Our final stop was at Domaine Carneros, a sparkling wine haven overlooking the valley. Alexander the chauffeur, always mindful of our comfort, ensured we had time to savor each moment without rushing. Sipping on a crisp Brut alongside a delicate camembert, we relished the effervescence that filled the air. A fine rosé that exhibits an intriguing blend of earthy Parmigiano rind notes and a noticeable alcohol presence on the nose, creating a captivating aroma. Despite its high acidity and lively bubbles, the wine lingers on the palate, offering a captivating and impressive American Sparkler.
Private wine tours in Napa
Throughout the day, the landscape painted a vivid backdrop to our journey. Vineyards stretched as far as the eye could see, rows of grapevines swaying gently in the breeze. The golden sun cast a warm glow over the valley, illuminating the hills and valleys in a breathtaking tableau of nature’s beauty.
At the end of our 10-hour trip, we knew we had experienced the best wine tasting in Napa. Alexander, our silent chauffeur, had orchestrated the day with a seamless blend of efficiency and empathy, embodying Drivania’s core values.
We were very grateful to Alexander and Drivania, for offering us not just a road trip, but time well spent, memories cherished, and a story to tell for a lifetime. In the quiet elegance of Alexander’s black Lincoln Navigator, we crafted a lasting, unforgettable experience that will resonate for years to come.