Contact Wally

Use the form on the right to contact me.

I am happy to help you plan your trip to Napa.  If you need a free winery trip planning agenda please give me as much time as you can due to the large number of requests.  I can typically turn around a custom agenda in 3 days.

Happy also to help you with restaurant and hotel recommendations, all honest and unbiased and based on my own experiences.

Cheers,

Local Wally

         

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Local Wally's Blog to Napa | NapaTouristGuide.com

Read Local Wally's Blog to Napa for up to date news, features, and stories from Napa Valley. Guest Posts Welcome!

Is Robert Mondavi Winery Closing in 2023?

Local Wally

Yes, Robert Mondavi Winery will be going through a massive remodel starting in April/May, 2023 and won’t reopen until possibly 2026. In the meantime they have leased the building in downtown Napa that formerly housed Stone Brewery - the historic Borreo Building at 930 Third St. at Soscol Avenue. From my sources they only thing that will for sure remain is the iconic arch.

This means that for the next few years if you want to visit one of the famous and iconic wineries in Napa Valley you should target Beringer, Charles Krug, Chateau Montelena, or Louis M Martini. And of course, first timers love visiting the Napa castle (Castello di Amorosa) and its sister property, V. Sattui.

Remember, if you need help planning your trip whether you are a couple or a large group you should reach out to me to check for discounts and updates. I’ll provide you with honest and unbiased recommendations on which wineries I think are worth your while (and your pocketbook) and show you how you can stretch your wine dimes for an unforgettable trip to Napa or Sonoma.

Wally

2023

Napa Winery Discount Promo Code for Priority Wine Pass 2023 - FREE WINE, NAPA WINE TRAIN DISCOUNT!

Local Wally

two for one wine tasting, buy one get one free, for Napa and Sonoma 2023

Napa wine tasting is expensive! Stretch your budget with a handy dandy two for one and other discount pass! Just one pass is needed per couple to access 2 for 1 tasting deals in Napa and Sonoma and the promo code is LOCALWALLY. And to make it even simpler, just click the button below to be magically transported to the discounted page - no catches, no fake click bait come on, everyone can get this deal… while it lasts!

What is the Wine Pass good for? Besides two for one deals at popular wineries like Charles Krug and Louis M. Martini you’ll find half off at V Sattui, Napa’s favorite picnic spot (the winery is owned by the same person who built the famous Napa Castle, Castello di Amorosa) along with dozens of other great deals. Napa Wine Train? Discounted. E-Bike rentals? Discounted. Stroll downtown or Yountville and hit up the two for one offers, or reach out to me and I’ll build you a custom stop by stop agenda, for free! Right, no charge, I am happy to show you my favorite wineries. And don’t forget, drinking and driving is high risk in highly policed Napa so let me know if you want a discount driver and I’ll hook you up with some great drivers, many of them previous tour guides for the large wine tour companies.

Want to see all of the deals before you buy? Click Here!

Here’s that link again to buy the pass with my discount LOCALWALLY promo code: DISCOUNT LINK


How to Get FREE Concierge Service in Napa or Sonoma 2022

Local Wally

Need help planning and picking wineries? Totally baffled as to who to trust, where the best wine tasting deals are in Napa or Sonoma, and how to plan out your day? Well let me help you with some quick advice.

FIRST - HIRE A DRIVER

There are plenty of people willing to drive you around Napa or Sonoma but here are the ones I use and trust for my readers https://www.napatouristguide.com/getting-around-napa-transportation From drivers who can legally drive rentals to fancy limos to giant shuttle buses, these drivers can do it all. Most of them are previously tour drivers for the large wine tasting companies as well as Napa locals so they know their stuff.

SECOND - GET FREE CONCIERGE SERVICE WITH A PRIORITY WINE PASS

I love the wine pass for the two for one deals and other discounts but I really love that they will help you plan out your trip, stop by stop, day by day, included when you buy the pass. This isn’t a generic one size fits all response, they’ll work with you to make sure that the wineries they pick are ones they think you will love. It’s included with the cost of the pass - other companies are charging $100 to $500 to help you so this is a really nice service they offer.

You only need ONE pass per couple to get the 2 for 1’s and free concierge service, and I even have a $20 discount right here for you.

So stop stressing and get back to dreaming about your trip to Napa or Sonoma wine country! Get the wine pass for discounts and make sure you reach out to their concierge for free trip planning advice!

Cheers,

Wally

Standard Disclaimer: While all of the drivers I work with have a long history of good service I am not responsible for driver behaviors and make no legal claims as to licenses, insurance, etc with the individual drivers. Do your own due diligence.

Napa Valley Cheat Sheet: Everything You Need to Know in One Quick Blog Post

Local Wally

Normally I respond to your email questions within 48 hours but even Wally gets to go on vacation. During the month of June, 2022, I will not have access to emails so will not be responding - but hey, I still have you covered with this quick cheat sheet to help guide you through planning your trip to Napa or Sonoma. Ready?


FIRST TIME TO NAPA?

NAPA 101: First timers start here - a stop by stop planning agenda that outlines the best Napa wineries to visit from Yountville to Calistoga.

NAPA 102: The sequel to Napa 101 takes you along The Silverado Trail, the other main artery through the valley.

BEST WINERIES FOR FIRST TIMERS ON A BUDGET: This popular page details wineries with discounts and overall good deals.

NAPA ON A BUDGET - TRIP ITINERARIES AND DISCOUNTS: Every discount deal in Napa is here along with sample trip itineraries. If you are completely overwhelmed just follow the advice on this page and visit these top wineries who offer the biggest bang for yoru buck.


WHAT IS THE PRIORITY WINE PASS, IS IT WORTH IT, AND DO I NEED IT?

In the past Napa had tons of coupons and offers but today most wineries with deals just offer them via the Priority Wine Pass. For $39.99 you get a pass that gets you mainly two for one’s. It’s good for a year, and good in both Napa and Sonoma. Click here to see all of the winery deals.

You only need ONE pass for every two people - Get it HERE so you get my $20 off discount.

Top wineries on the pass include Beringer (save $30), Charles Krug (save $45), Napa Cellars (save $25), Wm Hill Estates (save $35), V. Sattui (great picnic spot, save $22.50). There are also plenty of boutique wineries as well as discounts on the Napa Wine Train and eBike winery tours.

IS IT WORTH IT? At only $39.99 for two it’s hard not to make the pass pay off. Even if you just went to Beringer and Krug you come out ahead by $30. I don’t know about you but if I found $30 on the sidewalk I pick it up - definitely - and I might even start dancing and singing Hallelujah depending on how much wine I already have had.


BACHLORETTE PARTIES OR GROUP EVENTS

GROUPS OF 6 OR LESS, ON A BUDGET

Most wineries allow groups of 6 of less with no limitations or extra fees. If you want discounts then get one Priority Wine Pass for every two people (example: Get 3 passes for a group of 6) and then go to this list to pick wineries. Space them out every 90 minutes to two hours and make sure the second one allows picnics or has food for sale. A simple itinerary might be:

10:00 Beringer: Grab a glass of wine and stroll the groups, with the Priority Wine Pass it comes out to only $15 per person.

11:30: Charles Krug: A historic winery with a modern interior, get two for one with your Priority Wine Pass. Each tasting comes out to $22.50 with the two for one. Then grab some snacks (wood fired pizza, anyone?) and have a picnic.

1:30: Hans Fahden: They discount groups of 10 or less so take the short scenic drive to Calistoga and do this one. It’s simply beautiful and if you want instagram worthy shots this is the place with it’s reflecting ponds and old wooden bridges. Two for one, just $20 per person with your Priority Wine Pass.

3:30: For the last stop you could do Castillo di Amorosa, the Napa Castle. There are no discounts here but it’s worth the full price and super fun for groups. Or stay on budget and go to Louis M Martini or V Sattui, both really nice wineries with outside areas perfect for your final stop.


LARGE GROUP ADVICE

GROUPS OF 10 OR LESS: Go to my WINERIES THAT LOVE BIG GROUPS page for a list of wineries that will take your large group.

GROUPS OVER 10, UP TO 100: Go to WINERIES THAT TAKE LARGER GROUPS page for help planning a super large event of over 10 people. Tip: Not many wineries allow these super large groups so make your reservations as soon as you have your dates. With Wedding or Corporate events it’s sometimes best to just pick one winery, but a good one, and allow your guests to hang out and mingle for a couple of hours.

If you are not coming until Fall then you can send me an email and I’ll work on this when I return. As long as you plan ahead by a month or more you should be fine.


Shortcuts to Top Info Requests

WALLY’S PREFERRED DRIVERS: Most visitors now just hire a private driver as Uber doesn’t work well in Napa and driving yourself is risky. I have drivers who can drive rentals, drivers who will make your reservations for you, and drivers with limos and large group shuttles, all at great rates. Go to my Preferred Drivers page to see which one works best for you.

THE TOP 10 NAPA RESTAURANTS: From The French Laundry ($1,000 per couple) to Happy Hour BBQ, you won’t be disappointed with any of these options.

IS THE FRENCH LAUNDRY WORTH IT?: Join me as I dine at The French Laundry with lots of photos and see for yourself.


Coming to Napa Soon and Need Help Right Now?

While I can’t respond personally to your email if you need someone to jump in and get it done for you then use one of these two options:

HIRE MELISSA AS YOU TOUR DRIVER: For groups of 6 or less Melissa will take you in her luxury SUV. Best yet, she will play out your agenda and make the reservations for you.

BUY A PRIORITY WINE PASS AND USE THEIR FREE CONCIERGE SERVICE: As long as you buy a pass (get it here, one for every two people) you can take advantage of their free concierge service. They will help you pick and plan your wineries just like I do, and it’s free as long as you get the pass first.

Wine Tasting in Your AirBnB! Private Chef? Discounted Rates? Yes Yes Yes!

Local Wally

Coming to Napa or Sonoma with a group and staying at an AirBnB or VRBO? End your day of winery hopping with a private wine tasting event at your place! My friend Laura from Wildcrafted Wines will come to you with her favorite wines from various wineries. She can also arrange food and private chefs to really knock this out of the park. Are you a local? Of course Laura can come to your house or even a work event.

Outdoor Private Tastings with Winemakers?

For smaller groups of 8 or less Laura can arrange to meet you at an outdoor location to pour wines, sometimes even bringing along the winemaker to discuss what you are drinking. Vineyard views, a shady tree, a glass of wine, doesn’t this sound better than being pushed around in a crowded tasting room?

Great for Bachlorette Parties!

Hit up some wineries but get back to your own place where you can really have fun! Let Laura know what sort of wines you love as she has access to, well, everything. You’ll love being about to just relax and sip wine, lots of wine.

Best yet, Laura will give my readers a nice price break off her already reasonable rates. Spoiler Alert: It’s cheaper than going to a winery! Interested? Then let me connect you to Laura and you can work out the details.

DIVA DANCE PARTY + BACHLORETTES = AMAZING NAPA EXPERIENCE

Local Wally

Planning a bachlorette party and want something a bit more adventurous than just sipping wine? Then check out the Diva Dance Parties by Image Dance Studio! Kick off your day with a bit of dance fun, then go straight to the winery for some of Napa’s best!

Diva Dance Party is a fun experience you can share with your friends whether your doing a girl trip to the Napa Valley, celebrating a birthday or bachelorette party. You will have the opportunity to choose from a list of different dance styles such as Line Country Dance, Heels, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre or learning the moves from famous iconic Music Video's. You want to make memories with your friends in our photo booth and strike a pose with our Polaroid camera. They also offer personalized tank tops for your party, gift bags & of course, wine tasting - they didn’t forget about the wine!

If you would like to dress to the theme of the dance you have chosen to make the experience more fun. And it doesn’t have to be a bachlorette party - girls weekend, birthday celebration, and guys are welcome as well.

INTERESTED: Call my friend Christa Gonzales at 707-738-6556 and tell her that Wally sent you. She’ll take good care of you - and get back to me to let me help you pick out some wineries for your post dance event! You can email me at wally@napatouristguide.

Want more info? Just click the button below and make sure you tell them that Local Wally sent you!

Here's The Lowdown on Local Wally's FREE Concierge Services to Make Planning Your Trip or Group Event to Napa Easier (and cheaper!)

Local Wally

NEW FOR 2024: FREE CONCIERGE SERVICE FOR NAPA AND SONOMA TRIP PLANNING! BACHELORETT PARTY? YES!!

I’m feeling like everyone could use a break so to kick off 2024 I’m waiving my fees for concierge service and going back to my roots of just helping my readers plan their best trip to wine tasting trip in Napa and Sonoma. My business manager thinks I’m crazy but since I’m also my own business manager I don’t have to listen to him. And that’s good for you - so here’s how this works.

COMING AS A COUPLE OR A GROUP UNDER 6?

Just email me and I’ll help you pick wineries and even build out a stop by stop agenda, absolutely free. I love the Priority Wine Pass for discounts so I’ll show you the best ones on the pass as well as the ones that don’t discount that are worth it. No one wants to plunk down $50 per person at a winery only to leave underwhelmed. That won’t happen if you listen to me.

Planning a Bachlorette Party?

If you’ve been tasked with putting together a bachElorette party and have never done this before you need to reach out to me. First, I don’t charge. I’ll show you some of the things I’ve learned over the years in helping put these sort of events together and steer you towards wineries that not only will take you, but want you. There are a lot of wineries who frankly don’t take very good care of bachelorettes but the wineries I work with will dedicate staff just for you to make sure everything goes well.

COMING AS A GROUP OF AROUND 10 PEOPLE?

Many wineries are still limiting groups to 6 or 8 so instead of spending hours on the phone trying to find wineries let me show you the wineries that not only will take larger groups but will let you use the Priority Wine Pass for two for one discounts. This is the way to go - a better experience at half the price?

COMING WITH A LARGE GROUP OF 12 TO 100? CORPORATE EVENT?

Won’t lie to you, these are harder to book but lucky for you I am friends with a handful of wineries who are willing to take my large groups AND provide upgraded VIP service. This means you get your own space, your own server, and will be treated like the VIP you are. The wineries I work with won’t break you up into smaller groups and scatter you around the winery, either.

All of my groups get special Wally treatment and offers not open to the public, like being able to buy cases of wine and sit in the vineyards, or enjoying areas of the winery not open to the public. And all of this is FREE OF CHARGE for the time being in 2024.

FINDING TRANSPORTATION HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER

No one wants to be the Designated Driver and driving while sipping is a huge risk so just hire a driver. I know drivers who can legally drive rentals, who can drive you in their vehicles, and work with companies who can supply limos and party buses. And all of them provide the Wally discount so you know that you are getting a great rate with a reputable driver. Do I charge for this? Nope.

What’s the Catch?

I know, its a bit crazy that I spend hours a day in front of this computer responding to emails and calling wineries for my readers. And I’m not sure how long I will do this, but for now all you need to do is email me back a “review” that I can use on my website. along with an optional photo. I won’t use your name, I wont even use your photo unless you provide one. I’m trying to grow this part of my business and you reviews will help me do that. And yes, if you really like what I do I accept tips. But other than that, no catches.

Thank You!

Should You Cancel Your Trip to Napa Due to Omicron and Covid? Spring 2022 Update!

Local Wally

Is it Safe to Visit Napa During Spring 2022 Due to Covid and the Omicron Surge?

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Hey, I totally get it. You spent a good chunk of the last two years of your life staring into the bottom of a wine glass and finally booked that trip to Napa. But now with Delta surging is it safe to visit Napa? Should you cancel your trip or group event? Can you visit Napa during Covid times safely, and will it even be a good time?

Let me answer your questions. Yes, it’s safe to visit Napa. No, you should not cancel your trip. And Yes, wine tasting in Napa is still a good time, even during these strange times. That is, if you follow my advice.

First, know that Napa is following the current guidelines and recommendations which means masks are not required indoors. Wait, does that freak you out? What about all the new surges in Europe coming soon? If you want to play it super safe just skip the giant tasting rooms and hit up the small guys where you get a one on one wine tasting experience.

Wait a second Wally, a private tasting sounds intimidating, a bit like eating sushi in front of Jiro.

Don’t be ridiculous! I would never send you to a stuffy winery where you feel like you need to swill your glass only to have it splash onto your shirt. Wine tasting should be fun and I keep to that motto even for private tastings. Play some bocce ball, walk through the redwoods, do a private tour, all in a relaxed and friendly setting where it matters not that you know little about wine other than you like it. I can help guide you to my favorites, but basically avoid inside tastings at the giant, big name, mega wineries and hit up the smaller ones off the main drag. If you do decide to hit the big names then just make sure they have tasting experiences that keep you away from the crowds, like the new Beringer experience where they pour you a glass of wine and you can socially distance tour the winery on your own.

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Is it Safe to Have a Bachlorette Party or Big Group Event in Napa During the Omicron Mutation Surge, 2022?

Thinking you need to cancel your big bachlorette party. Don’t! I mean, really, what can you do that’s safer than drinking wine outside at a winery? I’ve done a ton of bachlorette parties and group events and I’ve learned that the best setting for these, even in non-Covid times, is at a winery that gives you lots of space away from the rest of the crowds so you can have a good time without worrying about bothering people. So if you want a winery where you can spread out and have fun and back burner any thoughts of Covid I can help.

The wineries I recommend will give you your own space, some will even close down a section of the winery just for you. Heck, some of the smaller wineries I work with will close down the entire winery just for you! I work with one winery that will just sell you cases of wine and put you off in the vineyards so there is virtually no threat of interacting with people outside of your group. And you want a private space, an estate at a winery where you can host a corporate event all to yourself? Yup, I can do that too.

Basically look, just reach out to me and let’s start the conversation. All of my advice is free and I’m happy to connect you to my wineries friends who are happy to host you. I’m happy, they’re happy, you’re happy, it’s truly a wonderful world I’m talking about here.

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Let’s Summarize, Shall We?

  • Even with Covid still bouncing around in 2022, Napa is about as safe as you’re going to get. Look, you can’t go to Europe without risk of getting stuck there. You don’t want to chance Mexico where Covid could be surging but no one is going to tell you that. Compare that with Napa where the only thing you have to worry about is getting here. Once here, as long as you dine and wine outside, it’s as safe as having friends over to your backyard.

  • This is your open window to visit - Spring has always been the best time to visit Napa for me. The vines are just starting to bud out, the mustard blankets the hillsides like a painting, and the crowds are much thinner so spreading out is easier. Wait until Summer and if it’s like last year the crowds will surge faster than Omicron and wineries and restaurants will be packed.

  • Planning a group event is as simple as reaching out to me and requesting a Covid-Safe winery. I’ll connect you with wineries that will let you spread out away from the crowds. So whether you are coming with a small group of friends, planning a post wedding event, or looking for a giant corporate gathering, I can help. Yes, I can totally help.

  • And yes, if you are coming with a BIG GROUP of over 6 you really need to reach out to me as I can connect you with wineries that will take your group and treat you like VIPs - at a price that’s about the same as you would pay at a Beringer or Krug but with much better hospitality. No charge, just ask!

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor so use your own judgement as well as the CDC guidelines while making your decisions regarding a trip to Napa. I am not advocating any irresponsible behaviors when it comes to health matters. Basically, I am not responsible for your actions even if based upon my articles.

Are Napa Wineries and Restaurants Open 2021? How to Plan A Trip to Napa During Covid Times and Other Frequently Asked Questions

Local Wally

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Is Napa Open Again?

As of January 26, 2021, Napa has been given the green light to reopen!

Are Napa Wineries Open and Serving Tastings Now?

Yes, though tastings of of this writing are still OUTSIDE. A lot of wineries have added tents and have made their tasting spaces very hospitable so you might not even notice or care - after all, you’re still in Napa, you’re still tasting great wine, it’s better than sitting at home watching TV, right?

Are There Any Winery Production Tours Open in Napa?

Not likely, nor will there be any cave tours or anything else that is done indoors.

Do I Have to Wear a Mask When Wine Tasting?

Masks are required when you enter a winery (or anywhere where you cannot remain 6 feet apart) but you may take them off once seated and tastings. Proper etiquette is to replace your mask when the server approaches your table.

Do I Need Reservations at Napa Wineries?

Yes, the days of popping in and bellying up to the bar were ending before Covid and have now been replaced with sit down, reservations required, wine tastings. Because of this some wineries are holding firm on their 21 and over rules so always call ahead if you are bringing minors with you.

Are Napa Restaurants Open Again (Jan, Feb, Mar, 2021)?

As of January 26, 2021, restaurants are OPEN again with outside dining.

Is The French Laundry Worth It?

At roughly $1,000 a couple for dinner and choosing from their wine list frugally, it’s expensive. It’s not recommended if you are a politician but for normal folks looking to celebrate the end (or near end) of the pandemic there’s no substitute. Read my review from my experience (or drool over the high res photos I shot). If you can afford it, do it!. Reservations are hard to get so start planning now if this is on your bucket list.

What Happens If I Plan a Trip to Napa in 2021 and It Gets Shut Down Again Due to Covid? Will I Get Refunds?

Wineries that have been forced to shut down due to Covid in 2021 will most certainly refund any fees they might have charged for your reservation. Some wineries actually just take your credit card number but don’t actually charge you until you arrive. Just verify this when booking. Drivers on my site that I recommend will all refund any deposits should you have to cancel, even if you just change your mind. Just give them enough notice so that they can rebook your time slot.

What Happens if I Buy the 12 Month Priority Wine Pass But Can’t Use It Due to Covid?

Buying the 12 month Priority Wine Pass keeps me in business as I get a small affiliate fee when you do. Plus, to make sure you get your money’s worth I offer FREE advice and help you plan your trip, all with honest and unbiased personal advice. But I get that you might not want to pay for a pass if your trip might be cancelled. If this happens, reach out to me and while I can’t promise a refund I can most likely get your pass extended so you can use it once Covid is over. Covid has been really hard on my travel website business so I do appreciate anyone who buys the wine pass today.

I’m Trying to Plan a Bachelorette Party in Napa for 2021 and Need Help!

After years of helping folks plan group events and bachelorette parties I’ve become a bit of an expert. The days of invading wineries with a group and expecting to be served are over. Groups 8 and above require reservations and planning. Covid has made this even harder so I have partnered with a handful of wineries who are happy to take larger groups and provide exceptional personal service for your event, all at prices not much more than a standard tasting fee. I also can provide transportation to make sure everyone gets home and tucked into bed safely. Don’t try to figure this out on your own! Just reach out to me, I don’t charge for my advice and happy to help.

Is Sterling Vineyard and the Tram Open? Do You Still Offer the FREE $10 Off Coupon Code?

Sterling is not slated to reopen until Summer 2021. It could open sooner, but use that as an estimate. I am working with Sterling to continue my free $10 off deal once they re-open, as well as deals on other experiences once Covid is history.

Is Uber Back Up in Napa?

Uber never really went away but is not recommended for Wine Tasting in Napa because wineries now require you make reservations and Uber has never been very good about consistently arriving on time in Napa. Add to that the chance that the previous people might have been contagious and it’s just too risky. Instead, reach out to me and let me connect you with one of my drivers. Their rates are just a bit more than if you used Uber all day and you get personal service from drivers I trust.

CAN IT BE DONE? NAPA ON A BUDGET 🤑 UNDER $150 A DAY?

Local Wally

Napa on $150 a Day? Can It Be Done?

I was wasting time on YouTube today and a recommended video popped up claiming you can do NAPA ON A BUDGET FOR UNDER $150 A DAY! Hmmm, Napa has gotten really expensive, especially after Covid-19 jacked up all the tasting fees. This looked like click bait to me and like a hungry trout sniffing a wriggling worm wrapped around a treble hook I bit down hard. Before I go on let first let me say that I really like Tim and Fin. They’re entertaining, they’re fun, and they do a good job at creating compelling content, certainly better than I could. But with all due respect, I think i could plan a better Napa on a Budget day than they did.

Their strategy for keeping costs low was to only go to one winery per day. In their case they picked Castillo di Amorosa, the Napa Castle. I like the castle, and I totally get how they wanted to simulate a trip to Italy since they had to cancel their trip to Tuscany. But the castle is $55 per person for the tour and tasting. That means they pretty much blew their entire budget on one stop. And while the castle is unique, it can border on being a bit touristy. If they had asked me how to do it here is my plan.

First, I would buy a Priority Wine Pass. This is the 2 for 1 Pass. It’s $40 but you only need one per couple. Let’s see, $150 - $40 leaves you with $110.

Then I would go to these wineries:

  1. Beringer: Stunningly beautiful, it’s iconic Napa. Use the Priority Wine Pass and get 2 tastings for $30. That leaves you with $80.

  2. V Sattui: Tim and Finn went to Castello di Amorosa but I would instead go to V. Sattui, the original winery owned by the same person who built the castle. They have a full deli here and huge picnic grounds. Plus, you get half off one tasting so you save $17.50. If your budget is tight split the tasting and get yourself a sandwich. Let’s assume you spend $20 for lunch and $17.50 for a shared tasting, total $37.50. This still leaves you with $42.50.

  3. Merryvale: Let’s do a boutique winery with exceptional wines. Use the Priority Wine Pass and get 2 tastings for $30. With that you end the day with $12.50 left in your pocket. enough for some tacos at La Esperanza Taco Truck for dinner.

The entire day comes in under $150 which includes a picnic lunch and a Napa local dinner “destination”, a taco truck. I know, you might need to search for quarters in the seat cushions in your car if you want to splurge at V. Satuii and yes, i am totally stiffing the servers on tips which is not going to give you good Karma, but you did get to visit three wineries AND if you are coming back to Napa in the next 12 months you can use the Priority Wine Pass again as it’s good for a full year.


napa Updates for Fall 2020

New Wally Preferred Drivers, the Safe and Fun Way to Get Around Napa!

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Just about everyone wants a driver these days when wine tasting in Napa. Sipping and Driving isn’t tolerated and Uber is no longer a good option since you now need to be ON TIME for reservations, something Uber was never that good at in Napa. Don’t hire a driver based solely on price - get one that has a track record of doing a good job, a driver that I’ve already vetted out for you. I don’t charge you to connect with them - just let me know when you are coming, how many people, and if you would rather have someone drive your vehicle/rental or if you want them to drive you in their vehicle. I’ll match up your needs to one of my Preferred Drivers and send you their info. Simple as that. No hassles, no upcharges, and no wondering if you’ve made a good decision or not. And driver rates are all very competitive so don’t worry about my gold plated service costing you more than a Craigslist driver. Email me to connect - from couples to bachlorette parties I have drivers who can handle it all.

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Sterling $10 Off Freebie Still Available, a Local Wally Exclusive!

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Yes, Sterling was hit by the Napa Glass Fire and as of mid-October is currently still closed but the main winery was not impacted and sources say that they are rushing to reopen as soon as possible. If you coming to Napa towards the end of October there is a very good chance they will be open for tastings again.

Make sure you request my free $10 off code! It’s totally free, no catches, but you do need to email me to get it.