1458 Lincoln Avenue
The newest addition to Calistoga’s list of tempting reasons to visit, the Depot is anchored by a distillery (the Boisset spirits portfolio has already garnered 34 awards) and a showstopping bar that was designed to honor the city’s rich history. Guests enter through a marketplace with a plant-based order-at-the-bar eatery and then can proceed to one of the meticulously designed cars that house everything from an artisanal chocolate shop to a tequila purveyor. There is a wine tasting experience and a patio where diners can order from any of the on-site eateries and have it delivered. It would be easy to spend all day here.
Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs
1507 Lincoln Avenue
We love the laid-back atmosphere at Dr. Wilkinson’s (pie, anyone?) and any excuse to visit is a good one. If you haven’t tried the spa yet, then book yourself in for a facial and a mud bath — it’s exactly what your summer has been missing. They have recently started using the luxurious Caudalie products (wine-grape-centric and made in Bordeaux), which add a little something extra special. Wondering what to do with Dad on Father’s Day? Sign up for the Tequila & Whiskey Tasting for Dads by Jean-Charles Boisset.
1091 Larkmead Lane
If you only book one tasting on your next visit, make it at the Miller House. The newest addition to Frank Family’s property, the space’s design is Wine Country perfection, and winemaker Todd Graff is a Napa treasure so it’s hard not to love anything he makes. Try the Miller House Elevated Experience ($100 pp), which includes current release sparkling and still vineyard-designated wines paired with hyper-seasonal artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The food and wine are elevated even further by the Michelin-star-level hospitality.
1100 Larkmead Lane
Originally founded in 1895, the 115-acre vineyard has deep roots in both Napa and San Francisco (ask about the spirited Lillie Hitchcock Coit — yes, as in Coit Tower), is situated on one of the prettiest pieces of property in Wine Country and only makes 100 percent estate-grown and-produced wines. Today, the fourth generation of the Solari family runs the estate and has earned the prestigious California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and the GOLD level Napa Green Winery certification. This is quintessential Napa Valley and so charming you won’t want to leave.
1367 Lincoln Avenue
Enjoy a little tech with your wine? At this cozy tasting room guests can opt for a tasting served by a robot sommelier, RobinoVino ($75 pp). Proprietor Maria Reznikova was inspired by winemaking practices all over Europe and when she fell in love with California Wine Country she melded Old World with New World. A can’t-miss option if you are staying downtown and tasting on foot.
1440 Lincoln Avenue
Another new opening, this tasting-room-meets-cafe-meets-boutique is a wonderful addition to downtown. French expat, owner and winemaker Claire Ducrocq Weinkauf has created a little slice of France in Calistoga. This month sees the launch of the Crepe Service, but don’t underestimate the croque monsieur, quiche and baguettes from Sarmentine — they are delicious as well.
1111 Dunaweal Lane
Home to Wine Country’s only gondola experience, Sterling is the perfect place to wow out-of-town visitors. Book the Tour and Terrace Experience and enjoy a leisurely self-guided wine tasting for a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a working winery. Finish off with a seated tasting and a cheese board on the Southview Terrace overlooking the valley ($75 pp). This year the winery is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a party in August that includes a jazz club and an interactive dinner. Check the website for more details.
