Should you consider a Napa Valley winter trip in December or January? Napa Valley during these two months is undoubtedly the quietest time in this spectacular wine country. As one long-time Napa Valley resident once mentioned to me, “Winter is how the Valley used to be during the entire year long ago.” If you really want to get away, this is the time to be in the Napa Valley. It’s beautiful, serene, and most of all relaxing. Here are a few things to do in December and January in the Napa Valley.
Calistoga Winter in the Wineries Passport Program
Visitors to the rustic Calistoga area can purchase a passport ticket for a $50 fee and can enjoy wine tasting at fifteen different wineries in and around Calistoga. The Passport also provides discounts at various lodging properties including the Mount View Hotel & Spa, Eurospa & Inn, Christoper’s Inn, Carlin Country Cottages and more. The Passport Winter lasts now through February 10, 2013. See what wineries we like in Calistoga. More Passport information
Robert Mondavi Art Exhibit
On January 11, the Robert Mondavi Winery will open a new art exhibit: The “Ancient Textures and Sacred Landscapes.” The exhibit will take place in the Vineyard Room and feature pieces from local Napa Valley artist and photographer Teri Sandison. The exhibit will be open for public viewing during winery hours through March 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Taste some vino and view the exhibit, what a treat! For more information about the exhibit, please contact Karen O’Neill at 707-968-2040 or karen.oneill@cbrands.com.
January is Restaurant Month in the Napa Valley
The Napa Valley celebrates its internationally renowned food and wine during Restaurant Month in January 2013. Look for special offers at various restaurants throughout the Napa Valley. Take a look at the “Visit Napa Valley” Website for special restaurant offers.
Mustard Season
Thirty days after the first big rainstorm of the year, wild mustard will grow, making for one of the more fantastic sites in wine country. We had that big rainfall early this year so in late December and throughout January, mustard should be abundant. Whether it be sunny or cloudy, the shades of the mustard plant will delight as they line the vineyard rows of the Napa Valley. Bring your camera and be ready to share you photos at this lovely time of the year. Send us a good photo and maybe it will make our “Wine Country Photo of the Day.”
As a boutique day spa we are the beneficiaries of all the efforts of the wine industry to attract tourists to the valley during what is considered the off season. While this may be the “off season” in terms of numbers it is the “on season” in terms of beauty in the Napa Valley. The grasses are greener, the mustard a vibrant yellow and the skies more clear. Napa Valley during this time is a picture postcard.