Back in 1881, Napa Valley was titled as California's maiden American Viticulture Area. This is actually a fancy of saying that government outlined borders and terrestrial feature distinct for harvesting vineyards and wine production. On this date, Napa Valley is world's one of the most high-status wine production regions with more than hundreds of wineries, sprawling across hillsides. For your information, this is also one of the smallest wine production regions, making itself an easy to explore dream destination for the wine connoisseur.
So, if you have a thing for wine and are planning a vacation in the valley soon, below are some tips that will help you make an informed decision:
Know that September and October are the harvesting months in the Valley
Because of Northern California's charming climate, Napa makes a good choice to visit once in a year. If you are not so a people's person, you can avoid visiting in summer though. Plucking grapes for making sparkling wines start in the month of August, and the harvest gets heavy by the time September and October come in. Who does not love cabernet sauvignon? You will be glad to know that cabernet sauvignon is the king of the valley, and holds 40% of harvest each year. Early fall is the best time to visit Napa Valley as this is when harvest parties happen and tourist can be a prime part of various interactive wine experiences.
Grape-stomping, do not tell me watching it in movies has not got you wanting for it ever. And, if you happen to be an oenophile, visiting Napa while its various interactive wine festivals are ON is the best idea. It's time to let your dream be a reality.
Pick your winery sensibly and get a booking
With the hundreds of wineries in Napa Valley, wine tasting is a must-do. Speaking of California natives, they have a special place for its wines in the heart. However, things are a little different when you come to Napa Valley. With tons of big cash sprawling wineries, many are into making same wine. However, there are some hidden gems as well, who are real classics. If you pick places like Ridge and Corison, these places hold quite an importance to California's heritage. Making outstanding wines, they are accessible only on advance reservations. Ask the Napa wineries hotels, if they could help you with some recommendations.
Know your limits
It is always fun to visit as many wineries as possible, but it becomes easy to do with the only high concentration of vineyards in a limited area. Visiting more than three wineries in a day is never a good idea – according to an oenophile. Not only should you avoid being smashed, but you should also avoid rushing. Make sure you have not downed tasting. You have to be on your own to have the real taste and enjoy the time.
Martin Wynn
