Black Stallion Estate Winery

What it's like

Black Stallion is on Silverado Trail, open Thursday through Monday from 10am to 5pm, with the last reservation at 3:30pm. Its biggest strength is flexibility. If you have not booked, the stand-up Bar Tasting is $30 per person, takes about 30 minutes and needs no reservation. If you have, the seated Signature Tasting is $55 per person for about an hour, with a menu of curated tasting options featuring four current release wines, on an outdoor patio or in the tasting room.

A step up is the Unbridled Elegance Tasting at $75 per person, which focuses on four of the winery's top red wines; a cheese and charcuterie plate can be added for $40, or $30 for members. The Estate Picnic Lunch is $60 per person ($50 for members) for two hours, with a protein, sides, dessert and a cooler you keep. Wine is bought separately when you arrive.

Who it's best for

Groups that are hard to plan around, or visitors who want a bit of everything: a quick sip, a patio seat, or a lunch outdoors. It also suits couples doing a relaxed afternoon. The picnic is for adults 21 and older in groups of two to six.

What to book

Reservations are required for the seated tasting for parties of one to six on Tock; larger parties of seven or more should call 707-227-3250, and groups of nine or more can email the concierge. The bar tasting is walk-in friendly. Members receive a complimentary tasting for up to four guests.

Plan a designated driver, rideshare or driver-guided tour.

How it fits into a day

Black Stallion is on the southern end of Silverado Trail, convenient on the way in from Napa. Combine a late-morning picnic or tasting with a stop at Trefethen or a Stags Leap District winery, then drive up to Yountville for dinner.