Looking for the best wineries in Calistoga?
Calistoga is an idyllic little town full of wine-country charm. Located at the tippy top of the Napa Valley wine region, it’s home to world-class wineries, restaurants, and spas. In fact, with so many natural hot springs, Calistoga has become known as “Spa Heaven”, providing a relaxing experience to visitors from all over the world.
But if you’re here for wine – I’ve got you covered with the best- wine tasting tips and recommendations!
Where is Calistoga?
Napa Valley is famous for its wineries, but many wine lovers don’t realize it’s broken up into a handful of nested regions, including Calistoga.
Located at the northern end of the Napa Valley, Calistoga is home to some of the best wineries in the region. If you’re looking for a beautiful location, amazing wines, and relaxing spa getaways, and mouth-watering restaurants, Calistoga is definitely worth a visit.
What is Calistoga’s Terroir Like?
With its Mediterranean climate, Calistoga is a perfect destination for wine lovers. Calistoga is one of the warmest sub-regions of Napa, benefiting the least from the moderating effects of the Bay to the south.
Instead, Calistoga’s hot days are offset by cool nights thanks to salty breezes from the Pacific Ocean drawn in through the Chalk Hill Mountain gap. Here, grapes grow well, producing some of Napa Valley’s most delicious wines!
Best Wineries in Calistoga
Bennett Lane
Bennett Lane is the northernmost winery in Calistoga. This family-owned winery crafts incredible estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. Their tastings are included on my budget-friendly Napa guide, and they offer several different tasting experiences to choose from!
Girard Winery Calistoga
Girard has something for everyone! Enjoy stunning, sweeping Napa views while sipping on a full range of wines. They craft everything from Sauvignon Blanc to Zinfandel to Cabernet Sauvignon to Pinot Noir. No matter your preferred wine style, there’s something here for you!
>> Related: Girard Winery Full Review <<
Chateau Montelena
Chateau Montelena is one of the most historic wineries in Napa. In fact, you could argue it put Napa on the wine collector’s map! They’re most famous for winning the white section of the Judgement of Paris wine competition. Any good wine nerd needs to visit here! Plus, the property is absolutely stunning. You could spend hours wandering their gardens.
Castello di Amorosa (AKA – The Castle Winery)
Castello di Amorosa is commonly referred to as “the Castle Winery”… for good reason! This beautiful winery was built to resemble an Italian castle, with all of the stone, art, and collectibles brought over from abroad.
This is a great winery to visit if you want great Instagram photos to take home and are looking for more easy-drinking, entry-level wines.
Davis Estate
Davis Estate was part of a media trip I attended several years ago, with the prominent focus here being on their incredible use of technology. They’ve truly integrated tech into the wine world.
Their wine-tasting experiences offer everything from sweeping panoramic vineyard views to welcoming porch swings to cave tours.
Frank Family Estate
Frank Family holds their tastings in their original Craftsman home. It’s by far one of the most welcoming tasting experiences in Napa Valley! Enjoy intimate, seated tastings held on the inviting back porch or front lawn.
One of my favorite things about Frank Family is their commitment to giving back. Throughout the year they host numerous initiatives to raise money for worthy causes, and I really appreciate that commitment.
Insider tip – be sure to try their sparkling wine!
Canard Vineyard
Wine lovers swoon over Canard Vineyard’s sustainably-grown, dry-farmed wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Ziinfandel, and other Bordeaux varieties. Each wine is single-vineyard from their estate vineyards, crafted with the utmost care. This family-owned winery is a must visit!
Tank Winery
Tank Winery is probably the most unique winery in Napa Valley. Located in the town of Calistoga, they’ve converted an old gas station into their winery and tasting room. Each vintage offers something new, with trendy, artistic labels and even cooler wine inside.
Tank is a great place to visit if you want something unique and unexpected in Napa.
Theorem Vineyards
Soak in panoramic views as you sip incredible wines. Nestled on the northern slope of Diamond Mountain in Calistoga, approximately 1,100 feet above sea level, this winery offers an experience you simply can’t find anywhere else. It’s absolutely enchanting.
Larkmead Vineyards
Larkmead is one of the oldest, family-owned grape-growing estates in the Napa Valley. Their tranquil tasting experiences are held surrounded by the serenity of their beautiful vineyards and gardens, just off the Silverado Trail. Guests enjoy a private guided tour of the winery followed by an in-depth tasting.
Calistoga Winery Map
To make planning your trip to Calistoga wineries easier, I’ve compiled my favorite in this easy Calistoga winery map! You can easily pin or add your own destinations as well.
Calistoga Winery FAQ
Can you bike to wineries in Calistoga?
Yes! Some wineries in Calistoga are bikeable. It’s a great way to appreciate the scenic vineyard views in wine country.
What wine is Calistoga most known for?
Calistoga is part of Napa Valley, making it most known for its Cabernet Sauvignon.
Is Chateau Montelena worth visiting?
Yes! Chateau Montelena was part of the Judgement of Paris, the wine tasting that put Napa on the map. Today, it’s a beautiful and historic winery to tour. It’s one of the most photogenic wineries in Napa!
How many wineries are in Calistoga?
There are over 50 wineries in Calistoga. This list contains the best wineries in Calistoga, but there are many more to explore.
Do you tip at Napa Valley wine tasting?
While it’s not technically required, it is customary in Napa (and highly appreciated!) to tip at wine tastings. if your server has gone above and beyond, poured you extra wine, or given you an especially great experience, consider leaving a 20% tip.
Can you picnic at wineries in Calistoga?
Napa limits the number of wineries allowed to host picnics with outside food. Always check with the winery (on their website or by calling) ahead of time to confirm if you can bring your own picnic or if food is available for purchase. Here’s a list of picnic friendly wineries in Napa.
