The Napa Valley Wine Country is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in the world. With beautiful rolling hills, rich with life and eloquence, its no wonder this has become one of the most notable wine destinations in the world. With hundreds of wineries to choose from, its hard to decide which are best to visit. We’ve went off the beaten path to find you 10 of the “best kept” secret wineries in the Napa Valley Wine Country. These range from your smaller family owned vineyards, to larger upscale cellars. Either way, all of these wineries qualify for a visit next time you’re in the area.

Artesa Vineyards and Winery

1345 Henry Road
Napa, CA 94559-9705
Phone: (707) 224-1668

The architecture and hidden intimacy of this vineyard has almost all of its patrons under thrall, and that would be enough. However, their wines are also a precious product of classic California high standards; they’ve been recommended in periodicals Playboy, and Wine Enthusiast. Taste them with cheese in the wineries weekly “Vino con Queso” event, with cheese selected from an expert.

Burgess Cellars

1108 Deer Park Road
Deer Park, CA 94576
Phone: (707) 963-4766

This winery truly is a well kept secret; it’s tucked away in the mountains of California. Walk through the wooden door into a cozy discrete winery, where the wine tastings are complimentary. Visits are by appointment only, but this is because the owner feels that it’s important for visitors to benefit from one-on-one experience. Not only is the wine glorious, but the staff cares about serving their clientele.

Cartlidge and Browne Winery

205 Jim Oswalt Way
American Canyon, CA 94503
Phone: (707) 552-5199

This winery is known for its chardonnay, which they’ve been making since they joined the wine industry. This winery is also known for its great value, a place where the wine is affordable, and high quality. They have their own blend of red wine which they named after a painting by Jack Delaney. Come by for a complimentary tasting, and a unique experience.

Cliff Lede Vineyards

1473 Yountville Cross Rd
Yountville, CA 94599-9471
Phone: (707) 944-8642

Prepare yourself for a luxurious experience. The sign outside says, “Poetry,” for their signature poetry cabernet sauvignon. Spend time at the quiet Poetry Inn as you enjoy your wine tasting experience. It’s $20 to try four wines, including a Cabernet Sauvignon and a claret. For a little extra you can take a tour through the vineyard.

The Hess Collection

4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558-9708
Phone: (707) 255-1144

At The Hess Collection you’ll enjoy a historic winery, and even a mini-museum. Prepare to feel as though you’ve been transported back through time. Check out the art gallery, or pay for a tour which includes three wine an food pairings. Also, you can experience their dry Greek zinfandel, or try their signature blend the Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, with dark chocolate and berry flavors.

Honig Vineyard and Winery

850 Rutherford Rd
Napa, CA 94558
Phone: (707) 963-5618

The Honig winery appears small at first glance, with an inviting laid back atmosphere to set the tone. You may think they run a small operation, but they really produce 60,000 cases of wine each year, which are shipped to restaurants all over the country. Honig Vineyard and Winery is eco-friendly with a sustainable farming program, and use of only organic pesticides and fertilizers. They also conserve water, and recycle regularly. In addition, they make the most creative Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet in Napa Valley.

Miner Family Vineyards

7850 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
Phone: (707) 944-9500

This beautiful winery is tucked away in the hills of California, is truly picturesque, complete with an ivory tower where you will find the wine tasting room. Their wines are first-rate, and their signature blend, the Oracle red blend, is unforgettable. For $30, sample their premium wines in the Grand Cru tasting.

Reynolds Family Winery

3266 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558-1424
Phone: (707) 258-2558

This Tuscan-style winery was once a chicken ranch, believe it or not. It now holds some of the best wines in Napa Valley. The draw of this place is really the people, who have fascinating stories to tell. Their wine tells stories of its own, of pomegranates and berries, chocolate and exotic spices. Try their signature wine, the Persistence red blend, and their Carneros Pinot Noir.

Trefethen Family Vineyards

1160 Oak Knoll Avenue
Napa, CA 94558-1303
Phone: (707) 255-7700

This historical landmark has a spacious tasting room decorated to tee with rich furniture, and distinct design. Trefethen is a family-owned business with all of the grapes coming from Trefethen’s own vines. They have wonderful wine tasting sessions ranging from $10-$20. If you call ahead, you can reserve a half-hour tour through the winery.

ZD Wines

8383 Silverado Trail South
Napa, CA 94558-9436
Phone: (707) 963-5188

ZD Wines has a great atmosphere and delightful people. Their primary production continues to be Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but they also produce Syrah and Cabernet. They have regular wine tastings for $15, and a cheese pairing seminar for $40, with cheese from local artisans.

If you’re looking for transportation on your next visit to the beautiful Napa Valley Wine Country, feel free to contact us today. We’ve specialized in luxury Napa Wine Tours since 1991.