Living in the Bay Area brings a lot of added value, like (once you get over the housing market, yikes!) the close proximity to Napa Valley Wine Country. Bring on the wine! Some of my favorite memories since moving out to California are my wine days with the girls. We have become quite the professionals at navigating our way to some of the best wineries in a day’s time. Here’s my guide to 5 wineries for the ultimate Napa Valley experience in just a single day. Cheers!
1. Mumm
Let’s start the day with some bubbles, shall we?! Mumm winery is situated on the famous Silverado Trail In Rutherford, CA. Reservations are recommended but not required. The last time we visited was on a whim and we were quickly seated after waiting only 10 minutes.



2. Opus One
Opus one is a splurge to visit but I highly recommend if you’re traveling to the valley. The drive down to the tasting room is lined with olive trees and the architecture is absolutely breathtaking. We visited last summer when we had some family in town and then again for my 30th birthday. Recommend trying their Overture Red blend and taking a walk to the roof where the views are spectacular. Reservations required.



3. Frank Family Vineyard
If you enjoy a butter-bomb chardonnay – Frank Family should be at the top of your list. The vineyard and tasting room is located in Calistoga, CA and has been a long time favorite of mine. Grab a couple of cheeses and bottle of chard and sit down at one of the picnic tables just outside the tasting room.


4. Duckhorn Winery
Duckhorn pinot niors have always been a good-to of mine. The tasting room is located in Saint Helena and is situated in the Duckhorn Vineyards Estate House. With a beautiful setting of vineyard and garden views, the site is ideal for pioneering an intimate and sophisticated sit-down wine tasting experience that quickly sets the standard for wine country hospitality.
5. Caymus Vineyards
Last but definitely not least, my all-time favorite – Caymus. My love for Caymus runs deep and if you are an avid cabernet sauvignon lover – I am sure yours does too! The tasting room is located in Rutherford, CA. Caymus Vineyards 100% family-owned by the Wagners. Caymus produces two Cabernets Sauvignons – a “Napa Valley” and the venerable “Special Selection”. Both Cabernet bottlings have aromas and flavors which can only be achieved through “hang time” – a technique which chances the loss of crop if early winter sets in.