Etude Wines

What it's like

Etude is one of the valley's Pinot Noir-focused houses, set in Carneros at the north end of San Pablo Bay. The air here comes off the water and keeps the grapes cool, which is why a Burgundy-minded producer set up in this corner. Tastings are seated and unhurried, with outdoor tables under umbrellas as well as indoor space, so you can choose a spot based on the weather.

The approach is to show how place changes a wine. Several of the tastings put single-vineyard bottlings side by side, many from the estate's Grace Benoist Ranch.

Who it's best for

Pinot Noir fans who want to compare vineyards instead of just sipping a flight, and Cabernet drinkers who want a Carneros detour with something familiar in the glass. The setting is relaxed rather than formal.

What to book

• The Terroir Experience, $55 per person: 60 minutes, seated, comparing single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• The Cabernet Collection, $85 per person: 60 minutes, limited Cabernet Sauvignon selections from past vintages.
• The Study of Pinot, $95 per person: 75 to 90 minutes, a private seated look at single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from Grace Benoist Ranch. A chef pairing can be added for an extra $40.

Club members have their own tasting and receive discounted or complimentary rates on several experiences. Groups of eight or more need to book through the group form, and 15 or more can arrange a reception-style tasting.

The winery is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Appointments are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome when space allows.

How it fits into a day

Cuttings Wharf Road is easy to reach from Highway 121 and from downtown Napa via Highway 29, so Etude works as a morning or early-afternoon stop. Pair it with another Carneros pour, such as Bouchaine or Saintsbury, then drive into Napa for lunch, which the winery notes is within about fifteen minutes. Book your seat in advance on busy weekends, and sort out a designated driver or a driver-led tour before you start tasting.