Thursday, October 2, 2014

Napa

This was our 2nd trip to Napa, but this time with great friends in a rented home in the heart of wine country. 


The group outside Bottega Restaurant
Our last trip was only 2 short days and all pre-set tastings. This time we were able to drive around to other wineries and stop in as we wanted. 

We also saw the downtown area and visited some great restaurants.

Monday, September 1st
Our 1st stop of the day was at V. Sattui Winery. This was very cute, well landscaped. Very busy inside with a cheese counter and small shop. We bought a bunch of cheeses for later afternoons tastings.
(The truffle cheese is a must buy!) We did the wine tasting, but did not purchase any with intentions of going back. 








Toms nephew came to join us, so Tom and Gail split from us for a while. The rest of us went to Quintessa Winery. This by appt only winery was $65 per tasting, but was partially waived upon placing an order.



 

Tuesday, September 2nd
Happy Birthday Brian!! Started with a tour of downtown Napa. There was still some damage after the recent earthquake. We stopped for a coffee at the Napa Valley Roasting Company during our walk. My white mocha tasted like milk and syrup. After walking around sight seeing, Joe went to the car to make some calls and we stopped at Bellisimo for some Mimosas. Very cute friendly little place. The girls stopped in a few shops, including helenlyall, where I will shop when Im rich someday ;)


 


Wednesday, September 3rd

After I went for a run that morning, I met up with Joe, Tom and Gail who were on their way to grocery shop. I tagged along and we ended up at breakfast at Archetype. Beautiful restaurant, excellent homemade fresh food. Homemade granola was amazing on top of fresh fruit, figs and yogurt.

We were passing Signarello, which Joe wanted to see, so we stopped in. Spectacular view with an infinity pool at your tasting side. I want this patio in my backyard!




We went back and met up with the rest of the crew.

We started the touring with a long drive up the redwood mountains to a small home-like winery called Keenan. Laura was nice and knowledgeable. Purchased some wines for dinner and split a few with the Holts.

Later that afternoon we had a reservation for a cave tour at Bremer Winery. Beautifully landscaped family owned winery. Tom was great to tour with. Bought some wine for that nights dinner!
www.bremerfamilywinery.com