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Three Perfect Days in Wine Country


Three Perfect Days in Wine Country

Indulge in California’s famed Wine Country, a cornucopia of farm-to-table, fine dining, wine, and the good life. Defined by mountain ranges and influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, this region enjoys a dry Mediterranean climate perfectly suited for growing grapes and outdoor living. There is much more to do in Wine Country than drink wine and tour vineyards, including outdoor pursuits and sports, museums, history tours, cooking classes, and one-of-a-kind shopping. 

We interviewed Brittany, Destination Manager for our Wine Country home, to create the perfect itinerary for a visit. 

 

Day 1: Settle in and wine tasting in St. Helena  

Upon your arrival, your local host will greet you at the charming residence located in the heart of Wine Country.  Your home feels like a European country estate, with romantic views of a nearby vineyard and rolling hills for beautiful sunsets, lush gardens and a spacious, modern layout. After settling in, head to picturesque Main Street which is just a short bike ride or walk away to explore the shops, galleries and tasting rooms before dinner. Your concierge will arrange an afternoon tasting at a winery if you’d like to jump right into your experience. Nearby St. Helena is home to dozens of wineries and vineyards, including BeringerCharles Krug and Louis M. Martini, plus the boutique and upscale Fantesca EstateSomerston EstateTrinchero Napa Valley and HALL Wines 

There are exceptional restaurants nearby St. Helena is home to many of them. For dinner, your concierge will reserve a table for you at the well-known Goose and Gander which grows most of their produce on a local two-acre farm. Feast on amazing rustic American food from their seasonal menu, imbibe on the fresh, creative libations or a bottle of local wine.  Sip on the Hemingway Daiquiri or the Bali Spice Old Fashioned. Nibble on garden radishes, fried olives, farm cheeses and house cured charcuterie. Feast on steak, pork, chicken, fish and even delicious vegetarian entrees.  

 

Day 2: Special winery tours and the CIA way 

Today enjoy wine tastings nearby on your customized winery tour.  Private transportation with Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service will be arranged and an itinerary unique to your taste and wine preferences will be crafted. Beau chauffeurs are not just drivers, they are knowledgeable ambassadors of the region and the wine industry. They will educate and enlighten for a truly enjoyable experience.  

Following your wine tasting tour, spend the afternoon learning to cook the CIA way at the famed Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in downtown. The CIA offers cooking classes and tours and what better place to be inspired by local ingredients and flavors! Your personal concierge will handle all the details, you just need to select the classroom of your choice: Farm to Table, Julia’s Kitchen: Celebrating French Cuisine, Cooking Fundamentals, or Flavors of the Mediterranean Table, to name a few.  

After class, walk along the paved river trail through town and shop the many boutiques and stores for that special memento. The CIA offers a gift shop and chef supply store for that perfect kitchen tool. For art lovers, there are galleries galore full of paintings, sculptures, pottery, photography and drawings. The Napa General Store is fun to shop for furniture, wine accessories, home goods, and locally made items. They also have a very popular patio and restaurant for a snack. Of course, there are the many tasting rooms and breweries to help you meander around town. For an early happy hour, head over to the Hog Island Oyster Bar at Oxbow Public Market. This deliciously casual oyster and seafood haven showcases the amazing farmers, fishermen and artisan food producers of the area.  

For dinner, you have a reservation at local favorite Brasswood Bar + Kitchen in St. Helena for an incredible menu of fresh comfort food inspired by local harvests. The atmosphere is cozy and warm. Try the Herb Infused Pappardelle and Short Rib Sugo or the Duck Bolognese in red wine sauce. Local wine and handmade cocktails complement your meal, and their Butterscotch Panna Cotta is the perfect end note. 

Day 3: Up, up, and away…  

Though you may have planned your trip for the wine, a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. just might become the highlight of your vacation. Your experienced and knowledgeable pilot will act as your guide, sharing interesting information and breathtaking views of the natural beauty of the region from above. 

Back on terra firma, enjoy a leisurely bike tour through the Calistoga Bike Shop to wrap up your final day. Your expert and fun guide will lead you on an outing, whether you’d like to explore nature, visit local villages or squeeze in a few more vineyards and tastings.  

Tonight, relax at home with Chef Alex, a legend with EE investors, for a five-star meal prepared in your home. Taste local wine and nibble on small bites on your beautiful terrace while Chef Alex creates a grilled peach and prosciutto salad, oven-roasted king salmon with corn and green squash, and grilled rack of lamb with fingerling potatoes. Be sure to save room for his famous pumpkin almond cake and caramel ice cream.  

 

At Home With Equity Estates  

Your Equity Estates home is gated and sits on a private vineyard with endless views of surrounding hills and landscapes. The backyard is stunning with lush, dramatic plantings, a garden of fresh herbs, tomato and artichoke plants. With an expansive chef’s kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining, large common areas and four bedrooms, this 4,000-square-foot home is designed for enjoying life with family and friends.  Enjoy a morning or afternoon swim in your beautiful pool. Take in a gorgeous starry night in the hot tub or under the covered patio by your outdoor fireplace. 

Your private concierge will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make your stay effortless by arranging reservations for activities and outings, transportation, and meals out or meals in. They will even pick up your groceries to ensure your gourmet kitchen and wine cellar are stocked with all your favorites from the local market.  Leave the details to us. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.  

Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call