V. Sattui Winery

Thought I had to include a review of the V. Sattui Winery since it is my favorite! Their wines cannot be purchased anywhere except direct from the vineyard. I've been a Cellar Club member for a number of years now and within the past year, managed to upgrade to a lifetime Gold Club Member (one time 5 case purchase).

To be a Cellar Club member, you either need to belong to their wine of the month club or purchase a case over the course of the year. This will allow you access to the downstairs cellar club where Jay, the Manger is now back. All the staff at Sattui are great, but Jay has always been super popular with the members and I was thrilled to see he was back when we were there last month.

Sattui has a number of events throughout the year, including the Harvest Ball in the fall which is a black tie event. I've always wanted to go but never made it due to scheduling conflicts or the event being sold out the one time I was able to go! I've been to their Tax Relief Party and the Winter Barrel Tasting is right around the corner!

All their wines are great, but several of my favorites are: Duarte Old Vine Zinfandel (no longer available due to Duarte selling off their vineyard for a condo project), Gamay Rouge, California Madeira, Angelica, Morisoli and Preston Cabs, and their Port.

This is a stop I always make when going to Napa Valley.  Located on Hwy. 29 just outside of St. Helena, V. Sattui is a great first stop before embarking on your wine tasting excursion. 

The deli there is great, I have to get the shrimp, roasted garlic and cheeses every time we go since they have picnic grounds outside on the lawn.  Sattui offers a free tasting of 4 of their wines (which is rare these days) and I highly suggest trying their Muscat.  It's the best around.

Spend some time walking around and touring the winery after having lunch and prepare yourself for a great day of wine while in the Napa Valley.  Go early as this place gets busy, even in the off season, and bring your picnic basket.