Domaine Chandon is one of the most popular Napa Valley wineries. The winery has a lot going for itself. They make great sparkling wine, have a wonderful garden and scenic views of the vineyards, and they are the only winery in the Napa Valley with a restaurant. Chandon is also is the first major winery driving along Highway 29 as you head north from San Francisco or Oakland.
The winery offers a 30-minute informative tour showing the highlights of how sparkling wine is made. Following the tour visitors can belly up to the tasting room bar and try several different types of sparkling wine. It is interesting to try many of the sparkling wines that you normally do not find in a wine shop. For example, we tasted the Chandon Riche and immediately loved the taste of this sparkling wine. It has just the right sweetness and flavors to go with meals that are on the spicy side. We recently tried a bottle of the Riche with some spicy crab cakes. Wow!
The restaurant is a wonderful place to dine. The chef and winemaker have put their talents together to come up with some fantastic food and wine matches. The restaurant is on the expensive side but it really is a treat. We didn’t dine on this visit, but we have in the past and it is always fabulous.
All in all, Domain Chandon is a magnificent winery to visit. It is definitely a luxurious winery but the atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
The Good: Good tour, great wines, beautiful setting, excellent restaurant.
The Bad: Can be crowded even during the week.