There are few places like wine country in Northern California, and the Napa Valley has some of the most breathtaking scenery around. From the sweeping views of the sky, and the mountains ridge tops that frame the horizon to the endless rows of luscious grapevines - there's no shortage of natural inspiration. Plus, with so many wineries playing host to expansive decorated grounds and featuring incredible architecture, you have a lot of options.When planning a trip to Napa or Sonoma, you have about 600 wineries that you can choose from to visit. Many of the big names can be found as you cruise up Rt. 29 or the Silverado Trail, but my favorite wineries tend to be the ones off the beaten path. I'm talking about the small family-run ones, where you sit down at their kitchen table and taste the wines they made with their own hands. That's the real Napa Valley.About Wine Tasting in NapaLots of options, so little timeBefore you venture out to do some wine tasting around the Napa Valley, let's make sure you're prepared. Having been to many wineries, there are certain things you learn as you go, which might prove useful to newcomers.First, dress comfortably. Despite what you might think, Napa is an agricultural town and there's very little glamour. You're more apt to see pickup trucks and jeans around the Valley than you are Ferrari's and Dolce & Gabbana. When you're out wine tasting, the last thing you want to be wearing are 4" heels that dig into the dirt and trip you up.Bring some water. Wine tasting is fun, and you should remember to stay hydrated so it can stay that way. Too often people think they're just going to have a few sips of wine, and after visiting five wineries, they're KO'd.Plan reasonably. It's probably not a good idea to hit up ten wineries in one day. I like to plan three or four trips, and make sure to schedule the first one at around 10:30 AM. Yes, that's early, but there are worse things you could be doing than drinking wine in the morning. Also, it's important to know which wineries accept walk-ins, and which ones require an appointment. Chances are, if it's not located on rt. 29 or the Silverado trail, you'll need to make an appointment.Chappellet WineryOne of the oldest family-run wineries, high atop a mountainThis places is one of those hidden treasures of Napa, tucked away at the top of a mountain, far from the crowds. As you wind your way up Sage Canyon rd. toward Chappellet, you'll find yourself increasingly removed from civilization. There's no obvious sign for Chappellet Winery, and they like to keep it that way to avoid large crowds from funneling into their tasting room. It's highly recommended to make an appointment before you venture up the mountain, which leads you up a twisty road to the very top of Pritchard Hill where they're located.Once you park, you'll notice the triangular shaped building, which their logo is based on. Take a walk around and soak in the views from high above the Valley floor. After you enter the winery, you'll see Donn Chappellet still working at his desk, as this is one of the oldest family-run wineries still operating. The tasting happens in their barrel storage room, where you and a few others will sit down to an intimate encounter with their wines.Lawer Family WinesTake a vacation on a wine estateThe Napa Valley begins in Napa and stretches for about thirty miles North. As you head North, the last town you'll encounter is Calistoga. This cute little town hosts some amazing boutique wineries, great restaurants, and plenty of spas. If you're looking for an alternative place for lodging, then consider renting one of Lawer Family's small estate rental properties for a short time.Lawer Family Winery is a little-known place where guests can rent vineyard estates, and enjoy a retreat far away from the crowded hotels in downtown Napa. Lawer Family Wines plays host to a gorgeous setting, where you can find several different estate rentals to choose from. If you like cozy cottages with grand views, surrounded by nature, then you'll enjoy what they have to offer. It's like having your own private vineyard to stay at while touring around wine country, but book early because they fill up fast!Guests can choose from three different estate rentals, and of course, there's plenty of wine available too. The Lawer Family produces some premium varietals, including Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Syrah - all available to guests who stay with them, and for purchase on their website.
