Saintsbury

What it's like

Saintsbury keeps things small and personal. The tasting takes place in English-style gardens, or in private tasting rooms when the weather does not cooperate, just off Highway 121 on Los Carneros Avenue. It is a seated, guided visit with no counter to crowd around, and where it fits the schedule, the host can walk you through the winery and cellar.

The focus is narrow on purpose: single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the two grapes that thrive in Carneros's cool, breezy climate.

Who it's best for

Couples and small groups who like Burgundian-style wines and want to talk about vineyards with a host rather than hop between busy rooms. It is a good fit if you prefer a quiet garden to a bar. Larger parties are not a natural match, since the standard booking tops out at six.

What to book

The Garden Tasting is $65 per person and runs about 75 minutes for up to six guests. You taste four current releases and one Cellarbook selection, with a focus on the single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Appointments are required: reserve through Tock, or phone the winery on 707.252.0592. Parties larger than six should call the winery directly.

Bookings are available from 10:00am to 3:30pm, starting on the hour and half hour. Picnics are not allowed, so plan lunch elsewhere.

How it fits into a day

Saintsbury is a natural first or second appointment in Carneros, close to downtown Napa. Many people pair it with a neighboring Carneros stop such as Etude or Bouchaine, then head up valley or into Napa for lunch. Because you are on a set appointment, build the day around it and leave a little buffer for the drive. As always in wine country, arrange a designated driver, a rideshare or a driver-guided tour in advance.