The history of Napa Valley goes back to 1861 when the first winery was established. Napa has an absolutely fascinating history. This is one of our most popular tours for a reason.
First of all, it’s a life experience to walk through caves that were dug out over 150 years ago to create the perfect storage conditions for wine. This was long before temperate controlled warehouses came into being. It’s simply amazing to learn how they produced wine without the machinery we have today, often using horses and brute strength. To hear the stories of the trials and tribulations is inspiring. This will be a day to remember for the rest of your life.
We usually visit some of the very oldest wineries on our tours, dating back to the 1800’s. But we also love to take our guests to other wineries from the 1940-1960’s wineries that were instrumental in shaping the fine wines of Napa.
Have a look at our sample itinerary below and start to dream about your luxurious tour!
Historical Wineries - Sample Tour:
Beaulieu
Beringer
Chateau Montelena
Duckhorn
Inglenook
Mondavi
Schramsberg
Silver Oak
Stags Leap Wine Cellars
Trefethen & more
You will visit 3 wineries and enjoy a fabulous food and wine pairing lunch at one of the wineries, all included in the tour. We like to start the day at Schramsberg, the second oldest winery in Napa since 1862 and famous for their sparkling wine. Silver Oak is a favorite for lunch, famed for their Cabernet which developed a cult following back in the 1990’s. We like to wrap up at Inglenook, a grand chateau, and considered as the pioneer of fine wine in Napa back in the 1940’s. However, appointments are subject to availability and we will ensure you have a fantastic day wherever we take you.
9:30 A.M.
Your chauffeur arrives, wearing his top hat of course, to pick you up - anywhere you wish in Napa or Sonoma.
10.00 A.M.
Your day begins with an appointment for a private tour and tasting, just for your group. Your guide at the winery will tell you about the history of the winery, and no doubt also explain how winemaking was done over 100 years ago. You will see the vineyards and winemaking process along with historic memorabilia. At the end of the visit there will be a tasting of a range of wines, typically 2-4 wines. Your personalized private tour allows you to ask any question you like.
12.30 P.M.
We arrive at your second winery visit of the day. Here you will enjoy a beautiful food and wine pairing lunch, a tour of the winery and tasting. It’s a special experience to have lunch at a historical winery, sipping fine wine and learning. The wine flows!
3.00 P.M.
You begin your 3nd winery appointment at another historical winery. Each winery you visit will be totally different, unique, and each has its own story to tell.Guests of Top Hat Luxury Wine Tours are always given VIP treatment.The tour will end with another tasting of 2-6 wines.
5.30 P.M.
The last visit wraps up and we will take you back to your accommodation or drop you off wherever you wish.
