BottleRock 2020: Everything You Need to Know BEFORE You Get Here - FAQ's, Tips, Discounts

BottleRock 202 in Napa is May 22 - 24

QUICK BOTTLEROCK INFO

WHAT IS BOTTLEROCK?:

Napa Valley is a 3-day music, wine, food and brew festival in Napa, California May 22 -2 4, 2020. There are five music stages, a culinary stage and more. Basically it’s Woodstock done Napa Style, which means lots of food, wine, and great bands. Crowd size? 120,000 people! It’s big!

WHEN IS IT AGAIN?:

The three day festival is on Memorial Day Weekend, May 22 - 24. The 3 Day Tickets are all SOLD OUT but you can still buy individual days.

TICKETS? HOW DO I GET TICKETS TO BOTTLEROCK?:

Go to the official BottleRock site to buy tickets - here is their link.

HOW MUCH DO TICKETS COST?

General Admission single day tickets are $159. You’ll get access to all stages and all the bands that day, can view celebrity chefs on the culinary stage, and purchase food, wine and beer from the various vendors. Upgrade to the VIP tickets which are $359 and you gain access to the VIP Village with premium bars, more food, comfy seats, up-close prime viewing near the stage, and Yes, VIP only bathrooms. That might be worth it right there!

PRO TIP: Ticket Prices increase as the event gets closer so buy them as soon as you know you are going. The prices quoted are valid as of Jan 9, 2020.

DANG IT! TICKETS TO BOTTLEROCK ARE SOLD OUT. NOW WHAT?

You waited too long, didn’t you? If you want tickets you can go to their link above and be put on a waiting list.

GETTING TO BOTTLEROCK AND WHERE TO STAY

WHAT AIRPORT SHOULD I FLY INTO?

You have options - Oakland International is probably the top choice, followed by Sacramento, Santa Rosa and then San Jose. And yes, you can fly into San Francisco but my experience there is to expect flight delays if the fog rolls in, which is often.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

The key location is downtown Napa but be ready for sold out hotels and high rates. As of this writing there is only ONE Napa hotel that I could find that still has availability - the Motel 6 Napa. It’s nearly $400 a night, way more expensive than it’s worth but book it or you might be wishing you did. You can move out farther to the outlying areas like Fairfield where the Motel 6 Fairfield is currently $220 a night. Figure an Uber will set you back around $60 to $75, maybe more if they surge the prices.

WIN VIP ACCESS IF YOU CARPOOL

Attend with four or more people and you might be randomly picked to a VIP upgrade. That’s cool.

PARKING

Parking is free in the surrounding downtown area - head over to Fuller Park area as a starting point. It’s about a mile away. Look, parking is going to be tight so just grab a space there an walk past the line of cars searching for that one last elusive spot.

BottleRock Festival in Napa

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GO WINE TASTING ON A BUDGET IF YOU CAN’T GET INTO BOTTLEROCK

Have a bit of extra time and want to go wine tasting? Tried to get tickets and could not? Whether you’re a Bay Area local who comes to Napa and Sonoma multiple times a year or an out-of-towner who is just here for the weekend, if you want wine tasting discounts you need a Priority Wine Pass. The PWP gets you two for one tastings at a ton of Napa and Sonoma wineries, saving you $25 or more at every winery stop. The pass is just $39.99 using my promo code localwally and you only need one pass per couple. Basically you hit up two wineries and you more than break even and then you save again and again, enough for a nice dinner at the end of the day.

Click here for the complete 2020 updated list of deals on the Wine Pass.

Napa Wine Tasting

Napa Wine Tasting Tips During BottleRock Weekend (aka Memorial Day Weekend)

1. Wineries will be busy - try to find wineries that require reservations and book in advance. Make sure you keep your reservation, too. Many of the Napa wineries are small businesses who count on you showing up.

2. Hire a Driver! Uber can be tough during BottleRock so hire a driver and be treated like the VIP you are. Figure a driver will cost you $45 an hour, chump change when compared to a DUI. I’ve just started a new driving service called Nick + Wally’s Wine Tours where my driver can take up to 14 people in his vehicle. Interested? Email me for more info.

3. Groups of 8 or more are tricky! A lot of wineries, especially on a busy day like Memorial Day Weekend, will turn down large groups if you try to crash in without a reservation. If you are trying to do a day of tasting even with a group of over four email me and let me help you pick wineries and plan out your day. I don’t charge - just give me a shout and I’ll get right back to you.

Best Walk In Wineries That Accept the 2 for 1 Wine Pass (4 or less per group)

• Sterling: Normally $35 per person, get two for one and save $35.

• Beringer: Normally $25 per person, get two for one and save $25.

• V. Sattui: Great deli, normally $20 per person, get two for one and save $20.

• Grgich Hills: Come in without a pass and pay $40 per person, come in M-F with a pass and get a special flight, two for $25.

Downtown Tasting Rooms that Accept the Priority Wine Pass

• Gustavo Wines: Across the street from Oxbow Market, get two for one tastings, save $18.

• Krupp Brothers: Free upgrade from Signature flight to Reserve flight for two, save $40.

• Outland Wines: 2 Free tastings with a 4 bottle purchase, save $50. These are great wines at a nice price, recommended.

• JaM Cellars: 2 for 1 tastings, save $25, open late. No tasting flights on nights that have live music so call ahead.

• Wines in First: Happy Hour glasses of wine all the time and two free tastings with the purchase of one bottle, save $15.

• Cornerstone Cellars: M-F, two for one tastings, save $30.

• Ancien: Special price of $40 per person gets you a VIP tasting with cheese and charcuterie, make reservations, save $40.

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Best Food at BottleRock - Don’t Miss!

Here’s the complete list of food offerings at Bottle Rock 2020 in Napa! OFFICIAL SITE

Fried Chicken from Ad Hoc

La Calenda

What sets BottleRock apart from other music festivals is that the food and wine are elevated to, well, Napa level. No crummy hot dogs that have been warming under lights for 5 hours, you can expect incredible food and drinks. My recommendation is to hit the Thomas Keller options - a bucket of Ad Hoc Fried Chicken is an absolute must. Don’t think about it. Do it. And for a snack later get the tacos from Thomas Keller’s new Mexican inspired restaurant, La Calenda. Is this the hip version of The French Laundry? Ha, I bet by the end of the day it costs just as much but what they hey, you only live once.

DID SOMEONE MENTION THE FRENCH LAUNDRY? HERE’S A VERY POPULAR ARTICLE I WROTE ON MY EXPERIENCE THERE.

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Who’s Playing at BottleRock Festival 2020?

FRIDAY BOTTLEROCK LINEUP, MAY 22

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Miley Cyrus, Brandi Carlile, Foals, Jimmy Eat World, Local Natives, Finneas, Milky Chance, Amos Lee, Village People, Muna, Ripe, The Frights, Digable Planets, Atlas Genius, Oliver Riot, White Reaper, Meg Myers, Tessa Violet, Uncle Blazer + DJ Ango from Workaholics, 99 Neighbors, In the Valley Below, Ryland James, Chris Pierce, Pacific Radio, The Haden Triplets, Grass Child.

SATURDAY BOTTLEROCK LINEUP, MAY 24

Stevie Nicks, Khalid, Janelle Monáe, Maggie Rogers, Blondie, Of Monsters and Men, Empire of the Sun, Tegan and Sara, CAAMP, Grace VanderWaal, Eric B. & Rakim, Hamilton Leithauser, Ra Ra Riot, Jack Harlow, MAX, DJ Z-Trip, TWIN XL, DeVotchKa, Reignwolf, slenderbodies, Smith and Thell, Madison Ryann Ward, JJ Wilde, Hembree, almost monday, Peter Harper, Lily Meola, Sam Johnson, Napa Valley Youth Symphony.

SUNDAY BOTTLEROCK LINEUP, MAY 25

Dave Matthews Band, Anderson .Paak & the Free Nationals, Zedd, The Avett Brothers, Maren Morris, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Iration, Jon Bellion, Matt Nathanson, Trampled by Turtles, The Band Camino, Turkuaz w/ Jerry Harrison & Adrian Belew: Remain in Light Turns 40, Mandolin Orange, Hobo Johnson & the Lovemakers, Big Freedia, Absofacto, Eliza & the Delusionals, Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears, Evie Irie, KOTA the Friend, Full Moonalice: The THC Revue, Buffalo Gospel, The Alive, Lily Meola, Obsidian Son, Silverado Pickups.

THANKS TO BOTTLEROCK NAPA WEBSITE FOR THEIR LINEUP PHOTOS. VISIT THEIR SITE AT https://www.bottlerocknapavalley.com/.

Sterling, Beringer, Castello di Amorosa - Napa Holiday Hours - What Wineries are Open Christmas and New Years?

Top Napa Valley Wineries Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day

STERLING VINEYARDS HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Open 10 to 3 - Christmas Day: Closed. - New Year’s Eve: Open 10 to 3 - New Year’s Day: Closed

Ride the tram to the top and sip some wine - make sure you email me for the FREE $10 off Promo Code!

BERINGER VINEYARDS HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Open 10 to 3 - Christmas Day: Closed. - New Year’s Eve: Open 10 to 3 - New Year’s Day: Closed

Iconic Napa winery that should be on your list.

CASTELLO DI AMOROSA (THE NAPA CASTLE) HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Open 10 to 4 - Christmas Day: Closed. - New Year’s Eve: Open 10 to 5:30 - New Year’s Day: 10 TO 5:30

OMG, an actual castle? With wine???

BEAULIEU VINEYARDS (BV WINES) HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Open 11 to 3 - Christmas Day: Closed. - New Year’s Eve: Open 11 to 3 - New Year’s Day: Closed

Historic Napa winery with a very cool intimate tasting bar.

CAKEBREAD CELLARS HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Open 12 - 2 - New Year’s Day: Closed

One of Napa’s best tours, make sure you make reservations.

DARIOUSH WINERY HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Closed - New Year’s Day: Closed

Sorry Griswald, it’s closed.

GRGICH HILLS ESTATE HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: 9:30 to 4:30 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Open 9:30 to 4:30 - New Year’s Day: Closed

One of my favorites, an old school winery with an old school tasting room. Incredible deal on the Priority Wine Pass if you have one - normally people pay $40 per person to taste here but if you show them your pass you get two tastings for $25. Need a pass? See below for the link.

INGLENOOK WINERY NAPA HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Open 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: Closed

She’s a beauty!

V. SATTUI WINERY HOLIDAY HOURS

Christmas Eve: 9 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Open 9 - 5 - New Year’s Day: 9 - 5

Super cool winery with a full deli because you will be hungry after drinking all that wine.

NAPA WINERIES ON THE PRIORITY WINE PASS HOLIDAY HOURS

Looking to save a bit of money on your wine tasting fees? Just use your Priority Wine Pass for 2 for 1 and other discountson the wineries below. Don’t have a pass yet? Get it here for $39.99, a $20 discount. You only need one pass per couple to get the deals. MAKE RESERVATIONS WHERE NOTED.

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Andretti Winery: Christmas Eve: 10:30 - 5 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10:30 - 5- New Year’s Day: 10:30 - 5 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING , MAKE RESERVATIONS

AXR Napa Valley: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 5 - FREE TOUR AND PRIVATE TASTING WITH $100 COMBINED PURCHASE, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Beaulieu Vineyards: Christmas Eve: 11 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 11 - 3- New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Bennett Lane Winery: Christmas Eve: 11 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 11 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 11 - 3 - FREE UPGRADE TO PRIVATE SEATED TASTING EXPERIENCE

Beringer Vineyards: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3- New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Black Stallion Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 2 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 3 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

Brian Arden Winery: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Closed- New Year’s Day: 11 - 4 - HALF OFF WINE TASTING FLIGHTS FOR 2, M - TH

Burgess Cellars: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 4 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TASTING FEE WAIVED WITH 2 BOTTLE PURCHASE

Clos Pegase: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 4 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING, TWO FOR ONE TOUR, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Conn Creek Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: Closed - New Year’s Day: 10:30 - 4:30 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING, or $25 OFF PER PERSON ON THEIR BLENDING SEMINAR, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Davies Vineyards: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3:30 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: Closed - FREE UPGRADE FROM PINOT TASTING TO SPARKLING + PINOT TASTING

Delectus Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 4 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Elizabeth Spencer Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 5:30 - EXTRA POUR WITH FLIGHT

Girard: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 4 - TWO FOR ONE, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Grgich Hills Estate: Christmas Eve: 9:30 - 4:30 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 9:30 - 4:30 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 4 - GET TWO TASTINGS FOR $25 - WITHOUT THE PASS TASTINGS ARE $40 PER PERSON

Hall Wines: Christmas Eve: 10 - 1 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3 - New Year’s Day: Closed - RESERVE WITH WINE PASS AND GET MEMBERSHIP PRICING ON EXPERIENCE AND PURCHASES

Hill Family: Christmas Eve: 10 - 2 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 -2 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

JaM Cellars: Christmas Eve: 10 - 5 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 12:30 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

Jessup Cellars: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 2 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

Judd’s Hill Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 4 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 4 - New Year’s Day: Closed - FOOD AND WINE PAIRING FOR $100 PER COUPLE, NORMALLY $135

Krupp Brothers Downtown: Christmas Eve: 2 - 6 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 2 - 8 - New Year’s Day: 2 - 8 - FREE UPGRADE TO RESERVE TASTING

Miner Family: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 2 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

Napa Cellars: Christmas Eve: 10 - 2 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: Closed - TWO FOR ONE RESERVE TASTING

Rutherford Hill Winery: Christmas Eve: 10 - 2 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: Closed - FREE UPGRADE TO SIGNATURE TASTING

Rutherford Ranch Winery: Christmas Eve: Closed - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 3:30 - New Year’s Day: 10 - 3:30 - FREE TASTING FLIGHT WITH EACH WINE PASS

Swanson Vineyards: Christmas Eve: 10 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10:30 - 3:30 - New Year’s Day: 10:30 - 3:30 - TWO FOR ONE, MAKE RESERVATIONS

Trinchero Family Estate: Christmas Eve: 10 - 2 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 10 - 5 - New Year’s Day: Closed - 20% OFF WINEMAKERS SELECTION FLIGHT

V. Sattui Winery: Christmas Eve: 9 - 3 - Christmas Day: Closed - New Year’s Eve: 9 - 5 - New Year’s Day: 9 - 5 - TWO FOR ONE TASTING

How Bad Are the Napa and Sonoma Fires? Should I cancel my Trip 2019?

Kincade Fire Nearly Contained as of 11-5-2019

Photo: Josh Edelson, AFP Via Getty Images

11-5 Update on the Sonoma Kincade Fire

The fire is nearly contained and things are getting back to normal - despite the 3rd earthquake in the past week. But don’t worry, if you are planning a trip to Napa or Sonoma just keep the plans and come on in - the wines are pouring and everyone in the industry is looking forward to your visit.

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10-30 Update on Sonoma Kincade Fire

The Kincade Fire has scorched 76,825 acres and is only 30 percent contained as it continues its destructive path across Sonoma County, This morning is a critical time for firefighters as gusty winds pick up.

Napa remains fine though planned power outages are having impact on visitors this week. If you are coming I would stick to the plan and not postpone but would recommend you call each winery the day before and the day of visiting to make sure they have power.

AS OF THIS MORNING RIGHT NOW THE SKIES IN NAPA ARE BLUE AND THE POWER IS ON. Here is a photo taken just a few minutes ago - 10-30-2019 at 19:00 AM

It goes without saying that our thoughts and prayers go out to our Sonoma neighbors and fire fighters. But if you are visiting Napa I would still come. The last fire had a devastating effect on the tourist economy and was deeply felt by the wineries, restaurants, and many small business owners as visitors stayed away thinking that Napa was burned to the ground. The Sonoma fire is serious but Napa is largely unaffected, as is the bulk of Sonoma. Feel free to email me if you have questions or concerns.

Wally

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10-29 UPDATE

The Kincade Fire has spread to 75,415 acres and is 15 percent contained. Of the 124 structures destroyed, Cal Fire says 57 are homes. Of the 23 structures damaged, officials say 15 are homes.

Winds eased overnight, but firefighters have concerns about gusty winds that are expected to pick up this afternoon.

Last night, Cal Fire issued an evacuation warning for parts of Lake County due to the Kincade Fire, including Twin Pine Casino in Middletown.

Meanwhile, some evacuation orders have been downgraded for parts of western Sonoma County, including Bodega, Bodega Bay, Carmet, Muniz Ranch, Sebastopol, Occidental, Freestone, Camp Meeker, Forestville, Rio Nido, Hacienda, Monte Rio, Cazadero, Guerneville and Valley Ford.

OCT 28 UPDATE ON SONOMA KINCADE FIRE 2019

The Sonoma Kincade fire is now in its 5th day with only 5% containment. Most of the destruction is on the Sonoma side towards Geyserville but Calistoga is now nearing evacuation.

Evacuation for Sonoma Kincade fire as of 10-28, 2019

How is Napa Valley Impacted by the Sonoma Kincade Fire? Should I Cancel my Trip?

Tough call as I don’t want to send you into a fire area but Napa Valley is marginally impacted, mainly forced power outages and reduced air quality. However, here is a photo of Napa taken 10-27-2019. As you can see the fires are having minimal impact but you will want to keep an eye on this if you are coming this week, especially if you are staying towards Calistoga. The best source is your hotel - call them before you jump on the plane.

I’ve been getting emails from people asking if they should cancel their November plans and I think in that case I would not - a lot can happen in a few days and it would be unthinkable that the fires will still be raging another week or more. So be calm, stay on top of the news, but don’t cancel just yet.

Napa is marginally impacted by the fires in Sonoma.

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UPDATE FROM 10-25: Fires are raging in the northern section of Sonoma - if your plans were to visit the Healdsburg or Geyserville section of wine country you might want to reconsider.

Note where Calistoga is, the north tip of Napa Valley

But What About Napa and the Fires? Should I cancel My Trip? How Bad is It?

While fires can swiftly change, as of this morning the skies are blue and everyone is cautiously optimistic about the impact to Napa Valley. So if you have a trip planned just keep an eye on things but don’t cancel! Everything should be fine and if the air quality later isn’t perfect remember that the wine will be.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to the people impacted by the fires and to our fire fighters keeping the blaze in check. We love you guys.

Napa 101: First timers Guide to Napa

Not Napa Auto Parts! I Want Napa Valley Deals!!

Yo Google, I know you do the best you can but when I search for Napa I mean Napa Valley, not Napa Auto Parts! I want to go wine tasting, not change my oil. And I want deals. Lots of them.

No Auto Parts here at Napa Style - but lots of good Wine and Food stuff!

What Kind of Deals Are There for Napa Valley?

You can search the internet for Napa Wine Tasting Deals and they basically fall into these categories:

• Coupons: Pro’s - free. Con’s - lots of fake coupon sites out there that make you jump through hoops only to find that there really isn’t a deal.

• Phone Aps: Pro’s - Cheap way to get some deals. Con’s - Not always up to date, some deals are actually just reworkings of deals offered for free on other sites.

• Chamber of Commerce Passports: Pro’s - Some have some good deals such as the Downtown Napa card that let’s you taste for pennies at the downtown tasting rooms. Con’s - The Chamber of Commerce deals are very limited in scope as they want you to stay in their own little area.

• Priority Wine Pass: Pro’s - Lots of wineries, from big names like Beringer to small boutiques. There are even deals on hotels and the Napa Wine Train. Con’s - Like the other deal options you won’t find Castello di Amorosa (the Napa Castle), Robert Mondavi, Domaine Chandon, or Mumm Napa on it.

WWWD? (What Would Wally Do?)

First, who am I? I’m Local Wally. I wrote the original batch of articles on Napa for TripAdvisor, the ones you probably already read and are woefully out of date. I came up with the Napa on a Budget tagline back when Napa wine tasting was still cheap and no one cared about budget and the very first guy to collect and publish every deal in Napa on a website. I’ve worked with all of the discounters and know all of the deals out there.

So for me the best Napa Valley deal is the Priority Wine Pass. You only need one pass per couple, it’s good for a full year from purchase, it works in Napa and Sonoma, and if you get the pass you also get something that no other discounter can offer - ME. That’s right, I want to make sure that if you bought the pass because of my recommendation that in the end you LOVE the pass so every pass comes with free advice from me, including a stop by stop itinerary that I custom build just for you - not a cut and paste copy job.

GET THAT PASS - ONE PER COUPLE - IT’S DISCOUNTED $20 IF YOU USE THIS BUTTON TO BUY.

Are there Deals at Castello di Amrosa?

How to Get a Deal at Castello di Amorosa, the Napa Castle

Everyone wants to go to the Napa Castle. It’s a full scale, Game of Thrones castle but instead people killing each other there’s wine. You will see other sites that claim to have an “exclusive” deal at the castle but as Elaine said on Seinfeld they are most likely fake, fake, fake. The ONLY legit deal I know is on the Priority Wine Pass but there is a catch - it comes with the Napa Wine Train excursion. That ain’t cheap but it’s a fun splurge. You can read all about the Napa Wine Train Castle Winery Tour Excursion here but to cut to the chase it’s $300 per person.

With your Priority Wine Pass they will knock off $25 per person, up to four people with one pass. Hey, it’s something, right? And it’s legit. Reservations required please call (707) 253-2111 and mention you are a wine pass member during booking. At check-in please bring ID and wine pass to obtain special pricing.

Sterling Vineyard and the Tram Ride

How to Get a Deal at Sterling Vineyards

After the castle everyone wants to ride the tram at Sterling Vineyards and taste wine at the top of the mountain. If you have the Priority Wine Pas you get TWO FOR ONE so you save $35. No need to make reservations either, you just show up and show your pass.

I also have a FREE $10 off promo code I will send you if you email me. Totally free, no catches. By now you must know how to email me, right? OK, one more time….

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What's a Good Gift for Wine Lovers? Christmas Gift Idea for Wine Lovers!

Looking for a GREAT gift idea for your wine loving friends? Stumped looking for that ultimate wine Christmas, Birthday or Holiday gift?

If you have a Wine Loving friend but stumped on what to get him or her for Christmas, Birthday or Holiday, the answer is easy - Get a Priority Wine Pass for them! The Wine Pass is a $39.99 card that gets your friend two for one tastings all over Napa, Sonoma, and other big wine regions. It’s either a digital or hard card (like a credit card) that you can give as the perfect gift, stocking stuff, or LAST MINUTE OMG I NEED A GIFT NOW Idea!

You only need one pass to get the two for one’s - and in Napa it works at Beringer, Sterling, Charles Krug, Grgich Hills, BV, Napa Cellars, Rutherford Ranch….. yes, most of the big names are on the pass as well as tons of hidden gems. Your wine friend is going to love you for this!

Here’s how it works - they walk into a winery wanting wine, drooling for wine. They show the pass on their phone. They get two flights of wine, not one, for the same price. That’s half off! Here are all of the deals on the pass.

THE NAPA WINE TRAIN? YES, IT’S INCLUDED!

Want to kick it up a few notches? The Napa Wine Train discount is included on the pass for $25 to $35 off per person, up to 4 people. This includes the popular Castillo di Amorosa train excursion. If you want to really impress your friend or loved one book a train excursion and tell them you have the Priority Wine Pass. You won’t need to show it until you arrive so you can book now knowing you will get the discount when you arrive.

BAY AREA PEOPLE, I’M TALKING TO YOU

Whatsa matter, you have so much money that you want to pay full price for wine tastings? If you live in the Bay Area I know you go to Napa more than once a year. The Wine Pass is good for a full year so your friends can go again and again. And there are no limitations as to how many times you visit each winery and use the discount. This isn’t some lame coupon book where you only get one shot - that would be stupid.

If you have questions you can read all about the pass here. Or just buy it. At $39.99 it’s one of the best gifts you can give to your wine loving friends.

What Are the Best Restaurants Open in Napa Valley for Thanksgiving 2019??

Thanksgiving 2019 in Napa Valley! Lucky you treating yourself to a grand holiday feast in Napa Valley. Here are my top picks for dining in style on Thanksgiving in Napa. Call ahead to make reservations and to check their hours - some only serve food during the day and seating is limited all over the valley.

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Thanksgiving Dinner on the Napa WIne Train

Napa Wine Train Thanksgiving Excursion

Hang on to your drumsticks, what an adventure! Dine in one of the elegant luxurious dining cars on the Napa Valley WIne Train. Departs at 5 on Thanksgiving, Full on turkey feast with a view to remember. GET MORE INFO HERE

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Thomas Keller’s Ad Hoc restaurant in Napa

Ad Hoc

I don’t need a holiday to dine at Ad Hoc, one of Thomas Keller’s top rated restaurants. It’s a prix fixe dinner, everyone gets the same thing based on what’s cooking in the kitchen. And it’s always delicious. You normally have to wait until the day of to see what’s on the menu but lookie here, I have a link to the Thanksgiving dinner menu - spoiler: there’s caviar involved!

Ad Hoc’s Thanksgiving Dinner Menu

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Angele Napa Valley

Angèle Restaurant and Bar

You can’t get much more romantic than Angèle - that is if you equate romance to a lovely French bistro on the river. The food here is always top notch and if this year is like the past you can expect a pre fixe Thanksgiving menu with plenty of wine pairing options.

https://www.angelerestaurant.com/

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Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley

Auberge du Soleil

The restaurant at 5 star resort Auberge du Soleil is one of the classiest dining experiences in Napa, often rivaling The French Laundry in top pick. You can bet that the food here will knock your socks off, make reservations if you want an elegant dining experience where the food lives up to your expectations.

Auberge du Soleil Menus

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Bistro Jeanty in Yountville (Napa Valley)

Bistro Jeanty

You know how to find a good restaurant, right? You go where the locals go and the locals flood Bistro Jeanty, a casual French bistro that balances exquisite cuisine with prices that won’t make you gasp. I have loved every dining experience I have ever had here.

https://bistrojeanty.com/

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Celadon Napa

Celadon Napa

A tiny dining room, a warm and inviting patio with outside fireplace, make reservations early for Celadon, one of my favorite restaurants that serves upscale “comfort food” from around the glove, from Asian to Italian to Mediterranean.

https://www.celadonnapa.com/menu/

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Farm Restaurant in Napa in the Carneros area

Farm Napa Valley

Located in the upscale Carneros Inn, Farm Napa Valley is right in between Napa and Sonoma, a perfect location if you are in the south part of the valley. Thanksgiving is served from noon until 6, a three course family style dinner serving traditional Thanksgiving fare with an upscale twist.

https://www.farmatcarneros.com/

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Harvest Table, Napa Valley

Harvest Table

Harvest Table is located in the posh Harvest Inn resort and is one of Napa’s best dining experiences, a bit of a hidden gem. Incredible cocktails as well as an incredibly well executed gourmet feast right down to the traditional turkey. Set price, including a reduced price for children making this a family friendly option.

https://www.harvesttablenapa.com/

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La Toque in the Napa Westin

La Toque

Michelin star Thanksgiving, anyone? That’s what you’ll find here at La Toque, the famous restaurant inside of the Napa Westin serving up their Thanksgiving feast from 1 to 5.

https://latoque.com/

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Meadowood Grill in Napa Valley

Meadowood Grill Napa Valley

Fancy, fancy, fancy! Meadowood Grill is located in the Meadowood Resort, a 5 star luxury resort that looks a bit like an East Coast country club. Dress up a bit for this one, the menu has both Turkey and Lobster, my kind of Thanksgiving.

https://www.meadowood.com/dining/the-grill

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Solbar in Napa Valley

Solbar

You know that resort I told. you about called Auberge du Soleil? Well they also own the more trendy Solage resort which is where you will find Solbar. Totally upscale without any of that stuffiness nonsense.

https://aubergeresorts.com/solage/dine/

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More Napa Thanksgiving Dining Options

Shout out to https://www.visitnapavalley.com/ for compiling this list. Go check their site out!

ALBA (707) 320-9000 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

All Seasons Bistro (707) 942-9111 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Bank Café and Bar (707) 257-5151 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Boon Fly Café (707) 299-4870 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Brix (707) 944-2749 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Calistoga Restaurant & Brewery (707) 942-4101 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Charlie Palmer Steak (707) 819-2500 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM

Cordeiros Bar & Grill (707) 244-1960 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Crush Ultra Lounge @ The Meritage (707) 251-1900 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Downtown Joes (707) 258-2337 8:00 AM - 1:15 AM

Fume Bistro (707) 257-1999 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Galapao Gaucho (707) 255-5121 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Grill 29 Restaurant at Embassy Suites (707) 253-9540 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Le Paris Artisan (707) 731-0948 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Lovina (707) 942-6500 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Lucy Restaurant & Bar (707) 204-6030 11:00 AM-9:00 PM

Napkins (707) 927-5333 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Redd Wood (707) 299-5030 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Sam's Social Club (707) 942-4913 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM / 3:00, 5:00 or 7:00 PM

Siena Restaurant @ The Meritage Resort (707) 251-1950 6:30 AM - 11:00 AM / 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Silverado Resort Grand Ballroom (707) 257-5495 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Silverado Resort Grill (707) 257-5400 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar (707) 819-2490 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Tarla (707) 255-5599 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

VINeleven @ The Napa Valley Marriott (707) 253-8600 6:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Is Napa Valley Just Like Disneyland Now?

Happiest Place on Earth? Castello di Amorosa in Napa Valley

How to Find (or avoid) Disneyland Napa

Napa Valley has many personalities but the one that seems to stick these days is that Napa Valley has become “just like Disneyland”. Depending on who is saying it this is either a compiment (“It’s so fun - and there’s wine!!”) or disparagement (“Auggh, the crowds, the cost, the traffic!”). A lot of well meaning guidebooks focus on one or the other, discounting the alternatives, but that’s not right. It depends on what kind of experience you are looking for - a lively party Napa, or a more romantic and quiet one. And both can be had on the same weekend if you know where to look.

Is Sonoma Better? Oh, Stop It!

Right after the Disneyland comparison you will often hear how Napa is spoiled and Sonoma is the place to be. I totally disagree with this. I love Sonoma (check our SonomaTouristGuide.com) but the idea that Napa is somehow spoiled or ruined is just not true. Napa has over 400 wineries and over 300 of them now require reservations. Making reservations is a form of crowd control and unlike Disneyland where limiting the number of visitors at Star Wars Galaxy Edge still means monster crowds, a reservation in Napa means you get your own slot, your own space, your own private or semi-private experience - away from the masses. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Some people will want the Disneyland excitement of Napa, the massive wineries, the mega tasting rooms, and there’s nothing wrong with that! So here are my top picks for the most popular, the most Disneyland-esque wineries in Napa.

The Best Napa Wineries for the Disneyland Experience

If you are coming to Napa for the first time, if you are hanging with friends just looking for a weekend getaway, if you just want to drink wine versus tasting wine to buy, then these wineries will be right up your alley.

1. CASTELLO DI AMOROSA - THE NAPA CASTLE: This is insane, an actual full size castle built in the same manner as they would have built a castle back in the middle ages. Everything is authentically recreated, right down to the dungeon and hand painted frescoes. The basic tasting experience gets you in through the front doors but the tours will take you deep into the castle, a Game of Thrones sort of experience that can’t help but impress. TIP: Come early as they close the doors once they hit their daily number of visitors.

2. V. SATTUI WINERY: If the exterior of V. Sattui looks a bit like the Napa castle it’s no surprise - the same person owns both. V. Sattui is the picnic spot in Napa, a full deli inside, an expansive picnic area outside, and always a lively crowd.

3. DARIOUSH WINERY: A Persian palace exterior, a trendy Las Vegas feel to the interior, Darioush Winery certainly stands out. You expect to see Lara Croft jumping from column to column with a machine gun strapped to her back. You have to see this one, you really do!

4. DEL DOTTO VINEYARDS AND WINE CAVES: Adventure into the wine caves where you’ve be surrounded by barrels and barrel tastings! With three locations in Napa Valley pick the cave that suits your personality - go rustic in the historic caves handpicked out of the rocky mountainside, or go total Las Vegas in their over the top Italian caves surrounded by marble and intricate tiles. It’s all fun, do all three!

5. HALL ST HELENA: When I first started visiting Hall Winery it has a tiny tasting bar about the size as the one in my kitchen. That all changed with a remodel that increased the size of the tasting room to what seems like Marriott Ballroom dimensions. And that adds to the lively party feel to this “no reservations required” experience. Head outside to see the vineyards for a breather.

6. STERLING VINEYARDS: With a tram ride that takes you to the picturesque hilltop winery, you have to do Sterling! What? Tram ride? That’s right, just like the old Skyway ride at Disneyland. But unlike Disneyland where the tram just went back and forth, the Sterling tram takes you to wine tasting and killer views of the valley.

   WANT A DISCOUNT ON THE TRAM? Just email me and I’ll send you a totally free promo code for $10 off per person on the tram ride and tasting experience. Free. I mean that.

Want to Avoid the Disneyland Experience? Visit these Napa Wineries!

If you want a quieter Napa experience then get your phone out and make reservations at the following wineries, all of them my personal favorites.

1. AXR NAPA VALLEY: It’s a bit hard to find, tucked away near Beringer (wait, add Beringer to your Disneyland experience!) but will feel like a totally different world. This is a private tour and tasting where you’ll take a walk into the redwoods with a glass of wine, visit a fairy circle (you will see, it’s cool), and then head in for a tour, maybe a sip from the barrels, and some of Napa’s best wines. 90 minutes, you’ll savor each one.

2. SWANSON VINEYARDS: You’ll swear you’ve stumbled into the French countryside when you pull into Swanson Vineyards. The outdoor area is just charming with rustic tables next to the vineyards. Inside the Sip Shoppe is perhaps the most enchanting and whimsical tasting room I have ever seen - it was co-designed by the late Kate Spade. Private tastings, very fun and casual, romantic as can be. Sip here all afternoon, you’ll be very happy.

3. MAXVILLE LAKE WINERY: Don’t let the 15 minute drive off the Silverado Trail sway you from visiting Maxville Lake Winery. It’s one of the most beautiful modern wineries in Napa, one that no one seems to know about. A reservation here usually means you have the entire winery to yourself, including the outdoor area that’s perfect for a picnic with a view of the lake. Tours of the caves, barrel tastings, they are open to whatever sort of experience you want.

4. KRUPP BROTHERS WINERY: The gates swing open and you drive the narrow road to what appears to be a genuine Italian villa, stone buildings with a view of the vineyards and small lake. It’s a hidden gem, not to be confused with their downtown tasting room. Make reservations here and you will forget all about the castle.

5. REGUSCI WINERY: A historic stone winery, one of Napa’s oldest, in a romantic setting that looks straight out of the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun”. Come during harvest and you’ll even see them shaking the olive trees in front. Reservations required means the tasting room never gets that crowded and their staff is one of the friendliest in the valley. Highly recommended, and their wines are top rated.

I Wouldn’t Be Local Wally if I Didn’t Tell You About Discounts!

Many of Napa’s wineries offer discounts, including some listed in this article. You can always reach out to me and I’ll help you personally pick wineries, either Disneyland or not, and show you the best deals. Or search yourself on this complete list of Napa deals. You will need a Priority Wine Pass to get the deals but remember you only need ONE for every two people. The pass is $39.99 if you use this link to get it with my discount.

And you can always email me of you have questions! I am one guy doing this with the simple goal of making sure that you have the best time in Napa. I don’t charge for free advice (that’s why it’s free!) so go ahead and ask.

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Plan Your Own Netflix Wine Country Getaway in Napa... on a budget!

If you haven’t seen the Netflix film Wine Country with Amy Poehler you need to stop what you are doing, open up a big bottle of wine and watch it… Now! OK, spoiler alert, it’s a bit of a chick flick but there are plenty of hilarious moments. “What do you taste? There are no wrong answers…” Tip: Never answer that question.

So now you want to plan out your own weekend getaway to Napa. You want to get silly drunk, roll down hills, maybe even renew some old friendships? Well here’s the reality check - Napa is expensive. Super expensive. Like $50 per person to taste at some wineries expensive! But I can help. Yes, I can definitely help.

GROUP SIZE MATTERS IN WINE TASTING

A group of 4 or less, Napa is all yours. Once you hit 6 you need to think about reservations. And once you go over 8 you should know that some wineries just don’t want you, especially if you’re laughing and giggling and just having a great old time. The trick is to call ahead and make reservations. They might charge you more but at least you know when you arrive that they are expecting you, have a server ready for you, and have space set aside for you. Yes, some wineries are totally cool with large groups coming in unannounced - Castillo di Amorosa, Chandon, Sterling, and a few others. But even if you do get in it means long lines waiting for wine, a major buzzkill. No one wants to wait for wine so make reservations if you have a group over 5 people.

If you are coming with over 8 people just email me and let me help you. I don’t charge for this - I try to help the wineries and in turn they help me and my readers. In the end you get a deal cheaper than you could get yourself. If you are trying to ballpark wine tasting fees for any group over 8 use $40 per person, per winery, as a starting point. It can be less but for planning it’s best to be realistic.

HOTELS ARE EXPENSIVE AND BOOK UP FAST

In the movie they had this great house all to itself. Well, that’s a tall order in Napa. If you want that experience you should expand your search to Sonoma. But if you want Napa then start with hotels. You want a hotel that is close to restaurants. That’s because at the end of the day you don’t want to be driving to eat dinner. This means find a place in either downtown Napa or Yountville. Use this link to start browsing the deals - https://arestravel.com/hotel/list/3035/m211 - If you wanted that private estate in the vineyards email me - I know some wineries who have villas where you can stay. These are not published so just ask.

GET A PRIVATE CHEF EXPERIENCE WITHOUT A PRIVATE CHEF

One of the very cool things in the Netflix movie Wine Country was that they had a private chef. But if you aren’t staying in a farmhouse or just can’t afford your own chef then check out Long Meadow Ranch’s Chef’s Table. I’ve done this - it’s incredible. There’s a private communal table in the winery that seats around 10 people. Next to the table is a kitchen with your own chef who carefully and skillfully prepares a 2 hour dining experience for you, course by course, with wine pairings. It’s totally indulgent and so much fun, especially for a Wine Country getaway. I also have an offer for my readers that adds on a private cave tour if you book the dinner so make sure you email me to get that.

On an even tighter budget? Go to The Bounty Hunter for dinner where there’s great BBQ and a killer Happy Hour and tons - I mean TONS - of wines by the glass. Top notch food and authentic Napa experience.

SPA EXPERIENCE IN NAPA… ON A BUDGET

A Wine Country weekend should mean some relaxing experiences as well and Napa has no shortage of top notch, high end spas. But for those looking for a budget spa experience do something that is uniquely Napa and go soak in a mud bath. Calistoga is home to plenty of options to soak in natural spring waters filled with soothing clay and peat. Couples welcome, even threesomes (um, OK), and it’s a spa experience that you will remember for a long time.

GRAPE STOMPS, CAVE TOURS, HOT AIR BALLOONS, NAPA WINE TRAIN, NAPA HAS IT ALL

If you’re coming in Fall make sure you book a Grape Stomp. Grgich Hills has a good one where you stomp away and take home a wine stained t-shirt. Cave Tours are great during off season when it’s raining outside or on a super hot summer day when you want to get out of the heat. Hot Air Balloons start early so decide if you really want to get up early and do not plan on this after a night of fun wine drinking. And who can resist the Napa Wine Train? With lunch and dinner excursions, an excursion that drops you off at wineries, even a Wine Train and Castle trip, there’s something for everyone and a totally unique experience. And guess what, I have discount tickets so make sure you ask before booking.

OVERWHELMED? JUST EMAIL ME!

A big part of what I do here is help visitors find the Best of Napa on a Budget. All honest advice, no tricks or gimmicks, I’ll help you plan it all out and it’s all free of charge. All I ask is that you tell all of your friends about me and you follow me on instagram! Here’s to a great weekend Wine Country getaway!