Long before I moved to Napa I made an annual pilgrimage to the area for
Christmas Eve. It was something I came to love and look forward to from
the first visit onward. Why? Because in winter the Wine Country takes on
a whole new and delightfully romantic identity. The traffic goes dormant,
just like the vines. Tasting rooms are less crowded. Misty mornings and
frequent rainfall provide all the more reason to stay under the hotel-room
covers just a little bit longer. Hot days are replaced by warm seats in
front of the fireplace. Overindulging in the region's culinary decadence
feels far more guiltless when there's no need to squeeze in a clingy sundress
or pair of shorts. And best of all to a budget-minded traveler like me,
hotel rates are much cheaper and restaurant reservations are easier to come
by. If that's not enough reason to follow my lead, consider a few of my
favorite wintertime things to do and see in Napa Valley.
Shack up at Meadowood. It's one of the pricier options, but with sprawling
grounds, common areas decorated with twinkle lights, large accommodations,
and a roaring fire in the lobby and restaurant bar, it's the perfect place
to call temporary home. (900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, 800-458-8080, www.meadowood.com)
Feast at Bistro Jeanty. Philippe Jeanty's French country fare fills the
tummy and the soul. Don't miss the tomato soup in puff pastry, coq au vin
with noodles, and chocolate-mousse layered crème brulee. (6510 Washington
St., Yountville, 707-944-0103, www.bistrojeanty.com.)
Have a Dean & DeLuca picnic dinner in your hotel room. After a day
of overindulgence or forging the rain it can be nice to slip into your PJs
and call it a night. But that doesn't mean you have to go hungry or fill
up on minibar offerings. Drop by Dean & DeLuca's gourmet deli area for
provisions sure to make in-room dining deliciously elegant—especially if
you add a little caviar and bubbly! (607 South St. Helena Highway, St. Helena,
707-967-9980, deanddeluca.com)
Sip at Frank Family Vineyards. They don't call themselves the friendliest
winery in the valley for nothing. Stop in to sample delicious bubbly, Chardonnay,
Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel—free of charge—and partake in friendly
banter. (1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga, 800.574.9463, www.frankfamilyvineyards.com)
Browse the trinkets at the Vintage 1870 shopping complex. Some of the shops
housed in this historic complex are quirky, while others showcase stunning
keepsakes. Regardless, with around three-dozen boutiques it's a great place
to explore, shop, and stay dry when the air is crisp. (6525 Washington St.,
Yountville, 707.944.2451, www.vintage1870.com)
Buy a memento at Napa Valley Grapevine Wreath Company. Those gnarled vines
don't just look majestic in the vineyard. When woven they make for wonderful
garden, front door, or tabletop ornaments. Drop by to get your hands on
your very own grapevine wreath, basket, or even a large reindeer. (8901
Conn Creek Rd., Rutherford, 877-776-NAPA, www.grapevinewreath.com)
Enjoy a movie at the Cameo Cinema. St. Helena's adorable and very comfy
renovated historic film house features first-run movies and small-town charm.
(1340 Main St., St. Helena, 707-963-9779, www.cameocinema.com)
