Nickel & Nickel

What it's like

Nickel & Nickel works from a restored farmstead on Highway 29 and makes only single-vineyard wines, so a tasting here is basically a comparison of places. The Victorian farmhouse and old barn give the visit a rural, unhurried feel, and the seated formats put the vineyard differences at center stage.

It is one of the better stops in Oakville for understanding how one grape changes from site to site.

Who it's best for

Cabernet drinkers who like to compare vineyards, small groups, and people who enjoy a walk through old buildings between sips.

What to book

Four formats are listed. Uncork & Unwind is $75 per person for four wines from four vineyards, about 60 minutes, for parties of one to six. The Farmstead Experience is $115 per person, 90 minutes, four wines with an artisan cheese plate. Digging Into Cabernet is $150 per person, 1 hour 45 minutes, with five Cabernets and small bites. Groups of nine to sixteen can book the Private Group Experience at $135 per person plus a 20% service fee. Reservations are encouraged, especially on weekends, and booking is through Tock. Phone is (707) 967-9600.

As everywhere in the valley, plan on a designated driver, a rideshare, or a tour service, since tastings add up over a day.

How it fits into a day

It is open daily from 10am to 4pm, so it works as a morning or early-afternoon stop. Opus One, Robert Mondavi Winery and Groth are all close by, and Yountville is a short drive for lunch.