Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs, a Member of Design Hotels Press Room
Four California Wine Regions You Need to Visit
Are you a fan of Californian wine? A trip to the Californian wine regions could be the perfect holiday for you, and a chance to learn much more about how the wine is produced. Tour vineyards, have wine tastings in the sun and get to know local producers and small towns across this incredible wine-producing area. From the famous Napa Valley to lesser known Yolo County and laidback Mendocino, these are the best Californian wine regions to visit.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley still produces some of the world's most prestigious (and costly) wines, and is a playground of delights for the millions of well-heeled, wine-loving tourists who visit each year. There are now over 400 wineries, many of which have their own tasting rooms to welcome visitors. Cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay are the king and queen of the grapes here and make Napa's most famous wines.
Napa is a premium region for its quality of tourist offerings as well as its wines. There are countless top-notch uber-luxe hotels, many with their own immaculate vineyards, golf courses, spas and anything else your holidaying heart could desire. Roll up your sleeves and roll out the dollar bills as everything costs big here but serious wine lovers are unlikely to leave disappointed.
You're spoilt for choice when it comes to winery visits. Some, like Castello di Amorosa, a complete facsimile of a 14th century Tuscan castle complete with torture chamber and antique suits of armour, are more like theme parks. My pick of the crop is Sterling Vineyards, one of the oldest producers in Napa, offering stunning views from the cable-car ride that takes you up to the hillside winery. Renovated following damage in the 2020 fires that wreaked such havoc on the region, the winery has interesting explainers as you walk around seeing all stages of production up close, and some very good wines in the bar which has a panoramic terrace, as well as artwork treasures by the likes of Picasso and Matisse on the walls.
Where to stay in Napa Valley
Calistoga is Napa's northernmost town, more low-key than the rest of the valley and with a rustic, historic charm. Dr. Wilkinson's has well-appointed modern rooms and warm mineral pools, plus an on-site spa including its famous mud bath treatments and a restaurant serving healthy but delicious Mexican-inspired vegan food.