Lex and Learn

I think it might be, heaven that is. Rolling hills, vineyards for as far as the eye can see, unbelievable wine, and mouthwatering food. Napa is an adult Disneyland.

For my dear friend Katie’s bachelorette party I was also fortunate to “do Napa” in a way most will never experience. A limo whisked us from her parent’s home in Livermore to three wineries, all of which hosted us for very private tastings thanks to Katie and her father being in the industry.

For example, at Domaine Chandon we sat in a private area of the stunning outdoor patio where we sampled 12+ champagnes and wines. Each pour was better than the next and the truffle popcorn…well, I would have packed a separate carry-on with bags of it if that was an option. From Chandon we all left with a bottle of Pinot Meunier, a light red that pairs well with vegetables, hard cheeses and olives. The Blanc de Noirs was my favorite champagne so I’m glad to know what to buy the next time I need a good bottle from the liquor store.

Next we headed to Trinchero Family Vineyards for an exclusive lunch on a patio that is not open to the public. The food was spectacular and the views divine. I could have stayed there for the rest of the day. It was a truly unique and special experience. I also regret not purchasing their Sauvignon Blanc. It was light, crisp and extremely refreshing. I’ll have to go back!

We ended our Napa adventures at Louis Martini. The basement cellar evoked a feeling of The Godfather and the Petite Syrah was one of my favorite pours from the entire day. I will try to wait for our first fall night to open this bottle, as the blueberry and chocolate notes (yes, I learned a few things!) will taste delicious on a cooler night.

On the limo home from Napa we listened to Call Me Maybe about five times and enjoyed a Rose from Louis Martini. We had to keep the party going through dinner.

Yes, dinner. Somehow we found room to eat again and our experience at Underdog Wine Bar in Livermore was perfect. We spread out across two huge outdoor couches on the patio and took in the fabulous views of the valley mountains and vineyards. The weather was cooling off so I took advantage of the flight options to try a few more Petite Syrah pours. The Concannon Vineyard, Nina’s Cuvee varietal was wonderful. I was getting nervous about how to get multiple bottles home so I did not purchase it but I’ll be stalking it in wine stores until I find a bottle in Colorado. It’s rich and smooth — very memorable.

On Sunday, before our flights, we enjoyed brunch at Wente Vineyards where Katie will be married. The fact that I get to go back to wine country in just a few weeks blows my mind. Maybe we’ll have time for a meal at Underdog so I can buy the Concannon Petite Syrah…

I’m now forever spoiled on how to “do Napa.” But that’s okay, I like to aim high. And more importantly I had two days to reconnect with best friends who have been there for me since high school. Our friendships have seen and weathered so much. I am eternally grateful to have these girls in my life.

Have you been to Napa and if yes, what wineries do you love?