Chimney Rock Winery

What it's like

Chimney Rock is on Silverado Trail in the Stags Leap District and keeps daily hours from 10am to 5pm, with visits arranged by reservation. The everyday option is Taste of Terroir, a 90-minute seasonal tasting at $75 per person for groups up to eight, on a shaded patio or in private salons. It is listed as reservation recommended and walk-ins welcome, which gives you some flexibility.

For more depth there are three upgrades. The Single Vineyard Tasting is $125 per person and pairs Cabernet Sauvignon with artisanal cheeses, offered at 11:00 and 2:30 Thursday through Sunday for up to six guests. The Behind the Scenes production tour with barrel tasting is $145 per person, runs 90 minutes on Thursday afternoons and fits parties of one to four. The Vineyard Odyssey, a two-hour tour by specially designed cart, is $195 per person, Thursday through Saturday, for guests 21 and older.

Who it's best for

People who want a choice between easy and immersive. Taste of Terroir is relaxed enough for a spontaneous stop, while the tours reward anyone curious about how Cabernet is grown and made. The winery notes that dogs are welcome, which helps if you are traveling with a pet.

What to book

Book on Tock. The Single Vineyard and Odyssey experiences need at least 48 hours of advance notice, and tasting fees are non-refundable within 48 hours of the reservation, so choose dates carefully. Wine club members have their own complimentary tasting.

Plan on a designated driver, rideshare or tour driver, especially if you are stacking Silverado Trail stops.

How it fits into a day

A 90-minute tasting makes Chimney Rock a good late-morning or mid-afternoon anchor. Neighbours such as Pine Ridge, Clos du Val and Stags' Leap Winery are close by, and Yountville is a short drive for a meal.