Oakville wine tours… history, prestige and delicious wines. Immerse yourself in a one of a kind wine country experience in the heart of Napa Valley.
Oakville is arguably the most prestigious wine growing region within Napa Valley, and many wines from this area have price tags worthy of the reputation. “Cult Cabernet” producers like the renowned Screaming Eagle, Harlan Estate, and Dalle Valle have bottles that cost upwards of $500, but don’t let the big dollar signs scare you. Oakville offers beautiful vineyards and outstanding wines at more reasonable price points, as well.
The appellation stretches approximately two miles across central Napa Valley and is home to over 60 different growers and wineries, who produce predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon grapes (go figure). Sunny summers, cool, dry autumns, and well-draining soils make Oakville the ideal climate for growing Cab. You also see a fair bit of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, since these grapes are often blended together with Cabernet to produce New World versions of Bordeaux-style wines —called “Meritage” (rhymes with “heritage”). For white wine drinkers, Oakville offers noteworthy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc from producers like Miner Family, and Groth. Dessert and sweet wine lovers can also find luxurious treats here.
No visit to the region is complete without a stop at Oakville Grocery, however. This wine country staple is California’s oldest continually operating grocery store, supplying visitors and residents since 1881. Browse their selection of unique, artisanal products from Napa and Sonoma, or just pop in to grab one of the deli’s mouthwatering lunch offerings. This is a great place to gather supplies for your wine country picnic, with plenty of cold cuts, cheese, and prepared salads.
Although the vineyards are stunningly beautiful year round, Oakville’s wineries offer excitement beyond the vines with beautiful art galleries, iconic architecture, fascinating local history, and remarkable wine caves. If you are passing through during the summer months, be sure to check out the Summer Concert Series held in the open-air amphitheater at Robert Mondavi Winery. Whether you visit during the glorious summers or the cozy winter months, though, Oakville is a striking and unforgettable wine country experience.