Megan Baldacci

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Napa Valley Favorites (by AVA):  

Stags Leap

•  Baldacci Family Vineyards- Family owned and operated. (I was a lover of their wines before I knew Michael). They are best known for their single vineyard 100% Cabernet Sauvignons. (And, of course, best of barrel/vineyard named after his mother- Brenda). A diverse collection of wines from sparkling, Chardonnay, what I like to call a Cab lovers Pinot, and Gewürztraminer. Expansion of the existing cave and new tasting room was completed in 2021 with panoramic views of their Stag's Leap vineyard. A hidden gem of a tour with caves rumored to be the tallest in the valley and even a chocolate tasting option! These wines are a true expression of the land, their farming practices, and the love Michael has for the Napa Valley. 

• Regusci Winery- Another Stag's Leap property, 5th generation family owned and operated. The roadside on the Silverado trail is lined with wildflowers and their gardens are well curated for a beautiful setting to taste these gorgeous wines. One of the only California Ghost wineries, Regusci has a rich rooted history in the Napa Valley and is a must visit.   

Calistoga

• Davis Estates- They offer an exceptional food pairing with the wine tasting. The menu changes every 6 weeks and the recipes are available on request. The tasting room looks out over the vineyards across Larkmead and all the way to the  Castle. I highly recommend the tour of their art collection and private phase 5 room that members are given a fingerprint sign in to the room. Great Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay and more! The estate hosts provide a curated and intimate tasting sure to wow any visitor. 

Mt. Veeder 

• Mayacamas- Take an XTV tour to the top and on a clear day you can see the bay. The new additions and enhancements since the 2017 fires have an industrial, yet comfortable, elegant flare that enhances the beautiful wines they offer. Off the beaten path, but well worth the journey for some great wines!

Carneros, Napa

• Domaine Carneros- Sparkling wines, pinot, caviar tasting, and cheese pairings with French Chateau vibes. Beautiful sparkling wines of all price points.    

Carneros, Sonoma

• Donum Estate- Primarily Pinot noir and Chardonnay. The wines are fantastic and there are over 40 art installations which are constantly increasing on the property. They offer multiple tours that allow for the viewing of these one of kind art pieces. This is a unique and different experience with food pairings from their gardens that are sure to wow any visitor. 

St. Helena

• Farmstead- Offers a farm to table style that is sure to impress anyone. You have to start with their mini ham sandwiches, trust me...they are to die for. I recommend ordering family style so you can try it all. And, do NOT forget their killer margarita!

Yountville

• Mustards- Known for their pork chop but any daily special never disappoints. This is a local favorite at lunch time. Fresh food and amazing service!  

Napa

• Angele- French cuisine in downtown Napa. Dinner time is candlelit, with romantic vibes and an array of delectable treats. The food is “chef's kiss“ and the wine list is great, as well. My personal favorites are the steak tartar and duck leg confit.
• Scala- Mediterranean with a seafood influence. My favorites are the Veal Scala-pini and the Tuna Carpaccio. Lunch or dinner in this place is a show stopper with killer cocktails!!!  Same owner as my favorite italian…(see below)
•  Bistro Don Giovanni- The outside patio feels like you have transported to Italy with fresh pasta and amazing meat balls. 

JCB Lounge, Yountville- A VERY unique and different tasting room. Leopard print upholstery, baccarat crystal chandelier, and everything excess. Wide array of wines to choose from, and an ambiance that is sure to be unlike any wine experience you have seen in Napa Valley.  

Cadet Wine Bar- Known for staying open late, a local favorite centered on Old World Wines. 

Model Bakery- Artisanal breads and sweet treats, but I believe their showstopper is the sausage breakfast sandwich on their (Oprah Winfrey's favorites list) English muffin. This is the perfect start to a day followed by wine tasting or energy expenditures. 

Napa Valley Farm Workers Foundation- A local organization committed to supporting the grape growing community by working to open doors, encouraging growth, and changing lives.