Tag: The Saint

With more than 400 wineries across the Napa Valley region, it’s impressive how wine lovers are always thirsty for more. That’s why guided tours are so popular, since professional chauffeurs can steer you towards the latest and greatest. Here are four more new spots to explore: Piazza Del Dotto The third Napa Valley winery for the Del Dotto Family Wineries & Caves group, the Oakville estate features 8.5 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Done in an Italian-inspired “barchessa” or barn style, the tasting room is magnificent, with 100-year old Douglas fir beams, a grand chandelier made in Florence, and antique Italian paintings and furniture. The property also boasts al fresco tasting cabanas, vegetable gardens, 17th century fountains and – get this - an aviary with turkeys, peacocks, pheasants and doves. For the most opulent experience, go for the Delicacies food and wine pairing, bringing seven wines matched by five small plates of luxuries like Petrossian caviar, Hudson Valley foie gras, Snake River Farms beef and vegetables sourced from the Estate garden. To wrap it up - port and a cheese or dessert pairing. Be sure to tour the cave, as well, it’s more beautiful than most people’s homes. 7466 St. Helena Hwy., Napa, 707-963-2134, deldottovineyards.com. Ashes & Diamonds Napa has never had such an architectural statement as this, in California mid-century modern design with a zig-zag roof on one building and wall portholes on another. Expanses of glass, retro furniture, a vintage turntable and whimsical colors of lemon yellow and teal add extra style. Winemakers Steve Matthiasson and Diana Snowden Seysses produce Bordeaux varietals in a Burgundian approach, to be sampled in the lounge area, at the tasting bar or on an outdoor patio next to the estate vineyards. Still, the best way to explore is with the bar and