A week in Napa
Driving down just about any road in that area, there are grapevines stretching from the side of the road about as far as the eye can see. Some curve over the hillsides, while others just line up like neat rows in the varietal militia. It’s stunning to see, and a testament to the fertile nature of the valley. Need some ideas on your own visit?
The wine highlights:
The wine highlights:
- Altamura: Sangiovese
- Failla: everything
- Joseph Phelps: everything, including their delicious Chardonnay from Freestone
- Robert Biale: Grande Vineyard Zinfandel
- Regusci: Cabernet Sauvignon
- Duckhorn:Sauvignon Blanc
- Goosecross: the deliciously floral Orange Muscat; a perfect aperitif.
- Cliff Lede: the connection to rock and roll. Yes, they have a Dark Side of the Moon vineyard plot.
- Ciccio in Yountville: calamari with pepperoncini and garlic, orecchiette with chicken livers and sage, and the Negroni menu! There are 7!
- Farm at Carneros Inn (Carneros): macadamia crusted halibut with vadouvan butter. Delicious. If you put vadouvan butter on a shoe it would be delicious.
- Bouchon: duck confit over lentils, paired with a 2013 glass of Failla Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Memorable.
- Ad Hoc’s Addendum (Napa): the fried chicken, savory pork chops and mac and cheese. Like you read and dream about.
- Auberge du Soleil balcony: anything on the small plates menu. Not sure which was better: the food or the view. Breathtaking both.
- Angele in Napa: the perfect post-lunch espresso with a side of hot milk.
- Market in Yountville: the Butter Scotch pudding. Divinely inspired.