Whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or a first-time Napa Valley visitor, we understand that you might be curious about your trip! Here are a few frequently asked questions, but feel free to contact us about any topic not discussed below.
What Are Varietals?
The term “varietal” describes wine that primarily contains a single variety of grape. A blended wine is one that comes from several grape varieties. There are hundreds of varieties of grapes, but a few of the most well known in California include cabernet sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir and zinfandel.
Wine Tasting 101: How Do I Get Started?
Wine tasting is a sensory experience, as you will use sight, smell, and taste to evaluate different varietals and styles. You will begin to recognize the differences between major wine varietals, and be able to compare different blends of the same varietal. If this still sounds intimidating, simply follow these steps:
- Color: When sampling a bottle of red, color is very important. Younger bottles will appear brighter than the more brick-colored older bottles. Avoid wine that appears cloudy or has brownish tints.
- Aroma: Each sample will be given in a glass large enough for you to swirl your wine around a bit. Doing so helps release the aroma and flavors so you can smell them. Common words used to describe wine aromas include fruity, floral, spicy, toasted, and nutty.
- Flavor: Sipping the wine allows the aromas you smelled to meet your taste buds. Your glass may be, for example, bold and complex or light and sweet.
Each wine has a blend of characteristics that create a unique tasting experience.
Napa Valley Seasons: What Can I Expect When Visiting?
Thanks to the mild climate, you can visit Napa Valley at any time of the year. During peak touring season, June – October, we will do our best to plan itineraries that avoid long wait times at popular wineries. Depending on the seasonal climate and your preferences, you may want to sample mostly red or mostly white wines. If the holidays are approaching, you may want to sample some sweet, late harvest wines that are perfect for desserts and gatherings.
The temperatures do cool down at night. I recommend a jacket or layers for enjoying the evenings in the Valley.
Transportation. Our tours are completely customizable, including the transportation you choose. Depending on the weather, you could use bicycles or motorcycles to travel between nearby wineries. We also offer group tours and private drivers in every season.
Other Activities. However, the additional activities that are available will vary widely by season. There may be local parades and events, hiking, ice-skating, and paddling available. Contact us to inquire about the options available during your trip to Wine Country.