First visit
A first-timer's day on Highway 29
The classic Napa day: historic estates and famous Cabernet along Highway 29 from St. Helena to Rutherford, a farm-to-table lunch and a French bistro dinner in Yountville.
Beringer Vineyards · GoogleThe day
History, Cabernet and a bistro dinner
- 10:00Beringer VineyardsWinery · St. Helena · From $35 per person
A historic St. Helena estate with caves and gardens, and tastings from $35 per person. A good, relaxed first stop.
- 12:30Farmstead at Long Meadow RanchRestaurant · St. Helena
Farm-to-table lunch with garden seating in St. Helena.
- 14:15Beaulieu VineyardWinery · Rutherford · From $50 per person
A Rutherford classic, with tastings from $50 per person. Book ahead for an afternoon slot.
- 15:45Grgich Hills EstateWinery · St. Helena · From $60 per person
Open until 4:30, with walk-ins welcome when there's room and tastings from $60 per person.
- 19:00Bouchon BistroRestaurant · Yountville
A classic French bistro dinner in Yountville. Reserve ahead, especially on weekends.
Getting around
Highway 29 gets busy on weekend afternoons. A driver keeps the day relaxed: Private SUV Wine Country Tour of Napa Valley from Napa up to 6 runs from Napa for up to six, or try Napa Valley Wine Tour: Self-Guided GPS Audio Driving Guide if you'd rather have a self-guided audio companion with a designated driver.
Tours and private driversGood to know
- Three tastings is plenty for a first day.
- Book Beaulieu and lunch first; Grgich is the most flexible stop.
- Eat a proper lunch: tasting on an empty stomach catches up with you.
- Bouchon tables go early; set a reminder when reservations open.
Want it tailored to you?
Tell the trip planner your dates and what you like; it builds your own version.
Hours and prices change; confirm when you book. Some links earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.
Made a video or post here?