We’re always looking for unique experiences to complement our guests’ wine-country adventures. That’s why we’re excited to introduce you to the Irish Coffee Masterclass & Whiskey Tasting Experience, led by the charismatic Andrew Healy. This addition to your visit could provide a refreshing break from wine tasting and add a touch of Irish charm to […]
We’ve been touring guests around Napa wineries for over a decade; we’ve seen the Oakville Grocery change ownership many times, wineries get bought and sold, rules change from local government, and visitor policies evolve at winery estates. Things change so much around here; the list of good picnic spots we published seven years ago is […]
Each year, Simply Driven drives hundreds of wine tour guests throughout Napa County, and we honestly do our best to match them with the wineries and experiences they are looking for. Believe it or not, there are times when our company is simply not a good fit for guests—be it group size, vehicle needs, availability […]
There’s something to be said for spur of the moment trips to wine country, cruising around with no plan or agenda and just popping into whichever tasting rooms catch your eye. On the other hand, that kind of approach probably wouldn’t get you to Artesa Winery–which would be a real shame. This award-winning winery is […]
Soda Rock Winery’s striking water tower captures your attention the second it appears—an architectural beacon in the bare landscape of Highway 128. Next to the iconic tower, the winery occupies Alexander Valley’s first General Store and Post Office, originally built 150 years ago. Moss-covered stone walls, brightly painted wooden doors, and sleek modern siding enchant […]
Father-son relationships typically inspire images of fishing trips and tossing a ball in the front yard, but at Thomas George Estate this bond goes far beyond outdoor sports. Father-son team Thomas and Jeremy Baker put their heads, hearts, and hands together in their shared dream of creating great wines. The Baker family is the second […]
When Steve MacRostie began making wines in Sonoma County over three decades ago, he was one of only a handful of winemakers in the area. These proud pioneers danced to a different beat, driven by a love of wine and a belief in the land’s potential — saying no to big, bold Bordeaux varietals and […]
There’s no shame in drinking pink wine. In fact, there’s a lot of fun in it. Encompassing a wide array of varietals and winemaking methods rosés have a little bit of everything. Tasting through Russian River’s pinks is pleasant and provoking. If you’re looking to taste the rosés of the area we’ve arranged the perfect […]
Atop a hill, overlooking the curving Russian River and the valley that’s become synonymous with elegant Pinot Noir’s, stands Gary Farrell. The second you enter the gates and begin winding your way up the steep, curved driveway you know you’re in for something special. An iconic wine country vineyard. A visit to Gary Farrell offers […]
A summer tasting tour of Napa almost requires you seek out some of the valley’s finest rosé producers. Basking under the rays of the sun, cruising through the vine covered hills, and sipping the blush colored wine is the best kind of cliché. Rosés are people pleasers, and no matter what time of year you […]
We’re often asked to pick sides when it comes to beer and wine. Are you a beer person or a wine person? We’ve all been asked this before. Many people are adamant about their side, but in the wine world the two are intertwined. As the saying goes (and as anyone who has survived a […]
Hey Zipsters, planning a Wine Country Zipcar getaway to Napa Valley or Sonoma? Wondering how you can have the benefit of a guided, chauffeured experience and still use your Zipcar? You could volunteer to be the designated driver for the group and just take in the scenery. That’s not a terrible option, you’ll keep everyone […]
When I look back at all the things I got in trouble for during my teenage years, none of them lead to anything remotely productive… let alone a family enterprise. What began in that little fermenter has grown into a respected wine brand involving the entire Amador family, including the Amador Family’s maternal grandmother, in […]
You’re ready to visit Napa Valley or Sonoma Wine Country, but are you ready to make the most of your trip? If you’ve hired us to be your wine country driver, you’ve got most of this covered already… if not, read on. Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your wine tour: 1. […]
Be careful who you enjoy your next glass of wine with, you may end up in the wine business with them. That’s what happened at Elizabeth Spencer, another client favorite winery. In 1992 Elizabeth Pressler and Spencer Graham began enjoying wine together and in 1998 established the winery. It wasn’t completely on a whim though, […]
