12 Hours in Napa Valley

 

Inspired by our trip to the vines of Napa Valley, California, this leaf print is our new favourite for a monochrome take on showerwear. Wear in the bath while relaxing with a glass of your favourite red (after all, it has so many antioxidants).

Simone wearing our Seraphine Headband in Napa Valley 

12 Hours in Napa Valley 

As wine obsessives, we’re constantly taking notes on the best wine regions around the world. A 1 hour drive from San Francisco and a quick flight from LA, Napa is an easy long-weekend getaway for West Coasters and a side trip for Aussie's visiting California. 

Napa Valley is truly world class and as it receives over 3 million visitors a year, a nice time to visit is in the autumn as it’s not too crowded. The wineries are not only picturesque, but the hospitality and food are second to none - the classics, like 3 michelin starred The French Laundry, Opus One, and Auberge du Soleil, will always rank high on the list of luxury. But what to do if, like us you only had one day to explore Napa? 

Wineries

Domaine Carneros by Taittinger 

There are over 400 to choose from. Many are based on the main road so it is possible to visit many (with a designated driver!) We were able to visit about 4 in one day and lunch. 

Robert Mondavi

One of the original greats who pioneered winemaking in the region, great hospitality and beautiful views. One of the first stops as you drive into the area. 

Spotswoode

You'll have to venture off the beaten path to find this spot, but that only makes uncovering it feel even more special. Run by matriarch Mary Weber Novak and her two daughters Beth and Lindy, this hidden gem is very picturesque. Spots here go fast, so book tastings well in advance.

Trinchero

Amazing interior design with curiosities and featuring a variety of wine flights. Learn how a vineyard’s soil, climate, elevation and sun exposure can impact the wine in the glass with a side-by-side evaluation.

Featuring a padded bar “speak easy style” In prohibition days they would clad the bars to keep the sound out, hence the name speak easy. 

Domaine Carneros by Taittinger recalls a French château, and has a lovely terrace with table service; reservations aren't necessary and you can share a plate of cheese with your wine, too.

 

Lunch

Archetype has the best brunch and a design that looks like it's straight out of the Hamptons or a Nancy Meyers movie. Be careful—it’s tempting to overstay over a long lunch – you may have to rush through your afternoon of wine tasting appointments. You may just want to eat cheese platters with your wine tastings to maximise winery time. 

Archetype

Stay 

If you're lucky enough to stay for a few days , our pick is a stay at Carneros Resort featuring onsite spa, featuring a cool barn design, FARM restaurant and Boon Fly Cafe, you may not want to leave.