{"id":43917,"date":"2017-12-21T10:18:29","date_gmt":"2017-12-21T00:18:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/?p=43917"},"modified":"2018-05-14T04:34:49","modified_gmt":"2018-05-13T18:34:49","slug":"napa-valley-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/napa-valley-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"A first-timer\u2019s guide to the Napa Valley"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>We\u2019re spoilt for choice in Australia with amazing wine regions. BUT there\u2019s still something <em>very<\/em> enticing about visiting one of the world\u2019s most renowned wine destinations, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/Napa-Valley-Hotels.d180046.Travel-Guide-Hotels?brandcid=LASTMINUTE-au.display.BLOG.DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG.generic&amp;utm_source=BLOG&amp;utm_medium=display&amp;utm_content=all&amp;utm_campaign=DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG\">Napa Valley<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The popular Californian region experienced devastating fires in October \u2013 just before my trip \u2013 that have reportedly kept some visitors away, but I can report from firsthand experience, Napa is very much open for business and there\u2019s never been a better time to support this popular spot.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGJvPsA1cW\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGJvPsA1cW\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">Sunny days very well spent amongst the vines \u2600\ufe0f\ud83c\udf47<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-05T02:04:25+00:00\">Nov 4, 2017 at 7:04pm PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<p>Here are five things to know about visiting the Napa Valley:<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"margin-top: 0px;\"><strong>1. Wine, wine, wine<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>With around 500 wineries to choose from in Napa alone (and hundreds more in nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/Sonoma-Hotels.d6946.Travel-Guide-Hotels?brandcid=LASTMINUTE-au.display.BLOG.DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG.generic&amp;utm_source=BLOG&amp;utm_medium=display&amp;utm_content=all&amp;utm_campaign=DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG\">Sonoma<\/a>), the choice of cellar doors is almost overwhelming.<\/p>\n<p>One great option is to hire a driver so you and your travelling companion\/s can both soak it all up. Literally, because spitting out these wines would be sacrilege \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<p>We do a private experience with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.noblewt.com\/\">Noble Wine Tours<\/a>, and from the first glass of sparkling ros\u00e9 \u2013 which we enjoy at 9.30am, when we\u2019re picked up by a sleek Mercedes (the classiest roadie you\u2019ll ever have) &#8211; to assistance the next day with arranging shipping back home, we are in very good hands.<\/p>\n<p>Apart from handing over designated-driver responsibilities for the day, the benefits of a private driver include: local knowledge and insight (very important when there are so many wineries to choose from!); someone to keep you on schedule and who knows the lay of the land; and, in our case, someone to take photos along the way, capturing every moment. Thanks, Nick, for a great day out!<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbE9WkEgNkH\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbE9WkEgNkH\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">Wine tasting in cute cottages \ud83c\udfe1 Napa, you\u2019re a little bit adorable \ud83c\udf77\u2764\ufe0f<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-04T14:56:57+00:00\">Nov 4, 2017 at 7:56am PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re used to the Aussie cellar-door scene, it\u2019s worth understanding that things work a little bit differently in the Napa. Here\u2019s what you should know before you go:<\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Tastings are more expensive than in Oz\u2026<\/strong> Some of our wine tastings were US$65 per person. And they don\u2019t necessarily waive that cost on purchase (\u201cEeek!\u201d I hear you say). BUT the best tastings offer a very rich experience with generous pours, tours of the grounds, and sometimes even food, all of which make the cost worth while. Don\u2019t be afraid to ask to share a tasting with your partner, especially if one of you is driving, to make the cost a little more palatable!<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Many of the best wineries and wine experiences are appointment-only\u2026 <\/strong>and they book out during busy times, so it really pays to do your research before your trip and make at least a few bookings. Just make sure you allow enough time to get from one to the next. Most experiences will designate an estimated time for the tasting experience you select, but if in doubt, just drop them an email and ask.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Wines here can be a little on the expensive side\u2026<\/strong> even before you factor in the AU$ to US$ conversion. This is a premium wine destination. While nearly 89% of US wine is produced in California, only about 4% of California wine is produced in Napa. Come with that knowledge and, if you\u2019re sensible, a budget &#8211; and consider splashing out on a special bottle or two.<\/p>\n<p><strong>4. Shipping back to Australia also isn\u2019t cheap\u2026 <\/strong>You\u2019re looking at around US$300 for a dozen bottles, plus taxes. Make sure you also check if you\u2019ll have to pay any import costs or taxes for bringing back some liquid memories.<\/p>\n<p>Some of my favourite wineries include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Stags\u2019 Leap<\/strong> \u2013 Not to be confused with nearby Stag\u2019s Leap Wine Cellars. The Manor House sits on beautiful grounds, where you can take a guided tour and hear about its fascinating and colourful history that goes back to the 1880s. Despite some interruptions to wine production over the years (Prohibition, war \u2013 all part of the colourful history), wine grapes have grown here continuously since the winery\u2019s founding. These old vines are producing some of the finest wines I\u2019ve ever tasted. The 2014 Stags&#8217; Leap Winery Ne Cede Malis Petite Sirahis something special. \u201cNe Cede Malis\u201d (pronounced Ne KAY Day Mah LEES) comes from the Latin phrase \u201cDon\u2019t give in to misfortune.\u201d It\u2019s the family motto of Stags\u2019 Leap founder, Horace Chase.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGGf_wgwfS\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGGf_wgwfS\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">Leaping into another day of Napa wine tasting at @stagsleapwinery\ud83c\udf77\ud83c\udf47\ud83c\udf41 Because all good Saturday\u2019s start with mid-morning drinking \ud83d\ude1c<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-05T01:36:08+00:00\">Nov 4, 2017 at 6:36pm PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Rombauer <\/strong>\u2013 The winemakers here are Aussie, but that\u2019s not why they made the list. Rombauer are known for their chardonnay, which has won many accolades over the years. It\u2019s a richer, butterier style, but still has a sharp finish \u2013 and if you\u2019re into that kind of thing, it won\u2019t disappoint. Then there\u2019s their zinfandel, which is a deep purplish-black, with heaps of rich dark berry flavours \u2013 all it needs is a good meaty dish to keep it company. Rombauer also has a nice little veranda with a great view, where you can sit and order wines by the glass if you don\u2019t have a tasting pre-booked.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Failla Wines<\/strong>\u2013 Cutest cottage ever. Sit down in a small group setting in a 1930s farmhouse and spend an hour drinking some fantastic, small-production, cool-climate wines made with grapes sourced from the Russian River region. Their pinot noirs are the highlight, with vibrant red fruit and soft tannins. They\u2019re a little too easy to drink.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 style=\"margin-top: 0px;\"><strong>2. Great places to stay<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Every good wine weekend needs a great home base, and the very central <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/Napa-Valley-Hotels-Marriott-Napa-Valley-Hotel-Spa.h25644.Hotel-Information?brandcid=LASTMINUTE-au.display.BLOG.DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG.generic&amp;utm_source=BLOG&amp;utm_medium=display&amp;utm_content=all&amp;utm_campaign=DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG\">Marriott Napa Valley and Spa<\/a> is an excellent choice.<\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.lemediavault.com\/images\/1f1fd381f58a9dfcbb5a5ca2bd55482f.jpeg\" width=\"1048\" height=\"1048\" \/>\n<p>Featuring 275 guestrooms, and expansive grounds and facilities,which include a pool, spa, fitness centre, and some great function spaces. I know where I\u2019ll be angling for our next team work trip \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.lemediavault.com\/images\/075b23dc3328cd676ab7de6f4a91d748.jpeg\" width=\"1048\" height=\"788\" \/>\n<p>I love that our room features its own private courtyard, perfect for enjoying a (nother!) glass of wine after a tough day in the Valley.<\/p>\n<p>Be sure to take advantage of all the Marriott Napa Valley Destination Amenity Fee ($20) has to offer,\u00a0including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A culinary garden tour\u00a0with sparkling wine<\/li>\n<li>Morning yoga classes<\/li>\n<li>Access to the Preserve Spa\u00a0Eucalyptus Steam Room\u00a0every morning, from 8.30am to midday<\/li>\n<li>Bike access<\/li>\n<li>Bottled spring water\u00a0replenished in your room every day<\/li>\n<li>Wine tastings in the lobby between 5-6pm<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Despite the size of the hotel, and people coming and going, the room is super quiet, and I sleep extremely soundly (I\u2019m sure it was the bed, not the wine).<\/p>\n<p>VINeleven restaurant is where it\u2019s at for breakfast (and until midnight daily, for that matter, for all your in-house dining needs). Fresh fruit and delicious omelettes will set you in good stead for a big day in wine\u00a0country.<\/p>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.lemediavault.com\/images\/2efa12d0c2401460583cae4bc3dcdcf3.jpeg\" width=\"1048\" height=\"1048\" \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.lemediavault.com\/images\/50f38651ef6faf1f07e6df4afc6519f4.jpeg\" width=\"1048\" height=\"1048\" \/>\n<p>Free parking and a friendly team seal the deal, making the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/Napa-Valley-Hotels-Marriott-Napa-Valley-Hotel-Spa.h25644.Hotel-Information?brandcid=LASTMINUTE-au.display.BLOG.DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG.generic&amp;utm_source=BLOG&amp;utm_medium=display&amp;utm_content=all&amp;utm_campaign=DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG\">Marriott Napa Valley Resort and Spa<\/a> an easy\u00a0choice.<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"margin-top: 0px;\"><strong>3. Amazing restaurants <\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Food and wine go hand-in-hand and the Napa doesn\u2019t disappoint. If you\u2019re planning well ahead and are in the market for something fancy, be sure to try and nab a table at Thomas Keller\u2019s famous French Laundry.<\/p>\n<p>Lunch at Auberge Du Soleil overlooking the Valley is a must. Settle in and peruse the iPad menu, which thoughtfully includes half-pours. This certainly makes trying a variety of local drops an easier task! I have been known to judge a long lunch on the standard of the bread and butter, and the sourdough here does not disappoint. Neither do the cabernet-braised short rib and apple tart \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbBEmnGAML_\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbBEmnGAML_\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">They had me at Cabernet braised short rib \ud83d\ude0d The Napa Valley dining bar has been set very high with our first meal at @aubergedusoleil \ud83c\udf77\ud83c\udf74<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-03T02:43:21+00:00\">Nov 2, 2017 at 7:43pm PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<p>Slightly more casual, but no less delicious, Long Meadow Ranch is a great lunch option too. The place is buzzing when we visit on a Saturday afternoon and sample a variety of share-style dishes. Brussel sprouts with bacon and onion, grilled trout, and caramelised beets are perfect wine-country comfort food.<\/p>\n<p>Others to add to your list:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Acacia House<\/strong> &#8211; Chips and dip are a little bit fancy here, coming with caviar! And they do a mean cheese sandwich that hubby raves about.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGMn8TAuEa\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbGMn8TAuEa\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">When you order \u2018Chips and Dip\u2019 and it comes with caviar \ud83d\ude2e<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-05T02:29:38+00:00\">Nov 4, 2017 at 7:29pm PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Bouchon Bakery<\/strong>\u2013 go early. Lines can run out the door.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bouchon<\/strong>\u2013 the restaurant, not the bakery, also comes highly recommended for something a little bit fancy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bottega<\/strong> \u2013 it\u2019s definitely in the rich-food category, but when in wine country, why not? The short-rib meatballs are a must.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dean and DeLuca<\/strong> \u2013 when you can\u2019t possibly face another indulgent long lunch (#firstworldproblems), grab deli-style delights at this popular spot (think crab cakes, cold baked salmon, and slices of meat) to enjoy outside with views of the vineyards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 style=\"margin-top: 0px;\"><strong>4. Magical scenery <\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ll probably find yourself having a few pinch-me moments. I definitely did when I was running past wineries on a crisp (hello, two degrees!) autumn morning, with the vineyards, clear blue skies, hot air balloons, and amazingly fresh air. The superior oxygen levels will also make your run feel easier, even after a full day of drinking \u2013 I promise.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbH9DPkAadc\/\" data-instgrm-version=\"8\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:8px;\">\n<div style=\" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;\">\n<div style=\" background:url(data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC\/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5\/P8\/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo\/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI\/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf\/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BbH9DPkAadc\/\" style=\" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;\" target=\"_blank\">Morning runs in wine country \ud83c\udfc3\ud83c\udffc\u200d\u2640\ufe0f\ud83c\udfc3\ud83c\udf47<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\">A post shared by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nic.redfern\/\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;\" target=\"_blank\"> Nicole Redfern<\/a> (@nic.redfern) on <time style=\" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;\" datetime=\"2017-11-05T18:52:02+00:00\">Nov 5, 2017 at 10:52am PST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async defer src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"margin-top: 0px;\"><strong>5. The people <\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Okay, okay, this is a bit of a corny one, but the people you meet really do help make a holiday, and Napa locals and visitors alike are some of the most fun, friendly, and interesting people I\u2019ve had the chance to get to know through my travels.<\/p>\n<p>Now is the time to support the region. I promise you\u2019ll be the one who gets the most reward out of it.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/Napa-Valley-Hotels.d180046.Travel-Guide-Hotels?brandcid=LASTMINUTE-au.display.BLOG.DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG.generic&amp;utm_source=BLOG&amp;utm_medium=display&amp;utm_content=all&amp;utm_campaign=DEC-NAPA-VALLEY-GUIDE-BLOG\"><strong>Book your next trip to the Napa Valley<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We\u2019re spoilt for choice in Australia with amazing wine regions. BUT there\u2019s still something very enticing about visiting one of..<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":43919,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_mi_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[9,11],"tags":[],"acf":{"credits":[{"name":"","label":"","full_url":""}],"enable_review_score":false},"posts_api_cpm_point":{"name":"","description":"","thumbnail":"","address":"Napa County, CA, USA","latitude":"38.5024689","longitude":"-122.26538870000002","icon":"\/images\/icons\/marker.png"},"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43917"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43917"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43917\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43936,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43917\/revisions\/43936"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43919"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43917"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43917"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lastminute.com.au\/vc\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43917"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}