Mayacamas Vineyards

What it's like

Mayacamas is one of the old names on Mount Veeder, with a history that stretches back to 1889. The estate sits up Lokoya Road in the Mayacamas range, and the wines are made with traditional methods that have been followed since the 1950s. A visit to the mountain is a more serious, scenic outing than a typical tasting room stop.

There are two places to taste. The estate is open seven days a week by prior reservation, and the winery also runs a downtown Napa tasting room.

Who it's best for

Cabernet Sauvignon lovers and wine-history fans willing to make the drive up the mountain. If you want something easier and less formal, the downtown room is the more accessible choice.

What to book

• Estate, 1155 Lokoya Road: tastings are $135 to $165 per person. Prior reservation is required, booked through Tock. Phone 707-224-4030.
• Downtown Napa, 1256 First Street: tastings start at $40 per person. Reservations are required through Tock, though walk-ins are welcome and there is an exterior seating area. The room is open five days a week and closed Monday and Tuesday. Phone 707-294-1433.

Check current times on the Mayacamas site before you go, since the downtown hours follow a Wednesday-to-Sunday pattern and the estate runs on an appointment schedule.

How it fits into a day

The estate takes real planning. The road up is winding, and you should add travel time on both ends, so treat it as the centerpiece of a morning or afternoon rather than a quick stop. Downtown Napa slots easily around lunch, with restaurants and other tasting rooms within walking distance.

Whichever location you choose, arrange a designated driver, a rideshare or a driver-guided tour, especially for the mountain drive.