Wine is one of the oldest beverages known to man, and continues to be celebrated globally. Yet, the intricacies of grapes, winemaking, and tasting might seem a bit daunting to newcomers. Fear not: we’re here to help! We’ve compiled 50 wine facts and tips designed to inform and empower you the next time you reach for a bottle. So, whether you’re popping a delightful Champagne or a Napa Cabernet, use this guide to take your wine knowledge and experience up a notch. Because when it comes to the world of wine, it’s a big wide world worth exploring. Photo courtesy of Unsplash The Grapes Tho ..read more

Most people know what a hot spring consists of (a natural source of hot or warm water), and that Calistoga is known for its mineral baths of all kinds. But how does it work, and why is this relaxation practice good for you? One thing we’ve learned is that because heated water holds more dissolved solids, hot springs have a high mineral content, which means it’s all the better for a soak. And while there may not be a ton of scientific research into its health benefits, we do know that this practice of using heat to release toxins is tens of thousands of years old. “Quiet nights, warm soaks ..read more

Known as Napa Valley’s Main Street for its ritzy flare, chic boutiques, pioneering wineries, and contemporary art galleries, St. Helena is a dreamlike destination for epicures the world over. Getting to this wine lovers’ paradise is an easy 90-minute drive from both San Francisco and Sacramento, California—a sophisticated-yet-charming spot situated between Calistoga and Yountville, just 18 miles north of Downtown Napa. Regardless of the time of year you visit, you’ll find plenty of sights and activities to explore in St. Helena. So, when you’re ready to discover all the top spots to get pamp ..read more

While Napa Valley certainly draws visitors for its world-class wineries and vineyard views, there’s much more to Napa than just wine, and nowhere is this more evident than in Calistoga. Located in the northern part of the Napa Valley, Calistoga is a great place to go wine tasting, no doubt, but it’s also home to some truly unique attractions, hot springs spas, local shops and eateries, and some of the most picturesque scenery in the region. When you’re ready to experience all that this small town has to offer, read our guide to the top eight things to do in Calistoga. Soak in Thermal Hot S ..read more

Napa Valley is a year-round playground of fun, with each month bringing its own unique flavor of excitement. From sun-soaked summer festivals and lively concert series to fall harvest celebrations and gourmet gatherings, there’s never a dull moment in Wine Country. To help you plan an unforgettable visit, we’ve curated a list of some of our favorite annual events happening throughout the region. So, if you’re dreaming up a trip to Napa Valley, why not elevate your getaway by lining it up with one of these annual events? SPRING/EARLY SUMMER EVENTS BottleRock Napa Valley, Photo courtesy of B ..read more

Situated on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains, just west of St. Helena, is the Spring Mountain District—a serene hidden gem in Napa Valley renowned for its mountainside estates, historical wineries, exceptional wines, and breathtaking landscapes. Fantesca Estate & Winery, Photo courtesy of Brandon Tavelli Photography Established as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1993, the Spring Mountain District is defined by its unique blend of sedimentary and volcanic rocky soils, varied terrain, high elevation, and cool, wet climate. Home to approximately 1,000 acres of vineyar ..read more

Napa Valley is known worldwide for its prized vineyards, but it’s the charming town of Calistoga at the region’s northernmost tip that offers its own alluring reasons to visit—rejuvenating natural hot springs, boutique-lined shopping strips, stellar hiking trails, and irresistible eateries. Beyond its geothermal geysers and relaxing spas, Calistoga has a plethora of swanky resort-style retreats, so no matter how you define relaxation, this collection of hotels has got you covered. Hot Springs Retreats After a day of sipping and seeing, slip into a state of deep relaxation at these Calistog ..read more

When we hear about the “Anything But Chardonnay” (ABC) crowd, we can’t help but wonder why—with so many different styles and expressions depending on where the grapes are grown and how the wine is produced, we’re confident that there’s a Chardonnay to please every palate. One of the top places in the country to experience this versatile wine grape is none other than the Napa Valley. With variations that include steely, mineral-driven, cool climate bottlings and rich, ripe white wines with tropical fruit for days, Chardonnay lives up to its chameleonlike potential in the hands of Napa’s talen ..read more

Few places epitomize romance like Napa Valley, making Wine Country the perfect destination for a Valentine’s Day getaway. From luxury hotel packages to glamorous winery events and playful cooking classes, Napa Valley is the place to visit and fall in love this Valentine’s Day. Of course, no need to feel limited to a Wine Country getaway in just February. Napa Valley, with its beautiful weather, luxury hotels and spas, and exceptional dining options, makes it easy to find a romantic moment any time of year. Romance not your thing? No problem! Grab your pals for a Galentine’s Day to remember ..read more

Northern California is home to many magical places, but when it comes to food, wine, and scenery, there’s perhaps nowhere more magical than Napa Valley. Happiness is not a state of mind, but a trip to Napa Valley. And though no one really needs an excuse to visit Wine Country, we’re always happy to have one, especially when it’s in the form of new places to discover and enjoy. And by “new places,” we obviously mean all the amazing new restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, and, lately, even some truly fantastic cocktail bars. If you’re looking for an excuse to venture to Napa Valley thi ..read more