Three days exploring California wine country

As the summer travel season heats up, I’ve gotten several emails from readers taking trips to wine regions in California and Oregon asking for any recommendations I might have. I’m always happy to espouse an opinion, so if you find yourself in a similar scenario, feel free to reach out. If Napa isn’t in your travel plans, that’s fine too. This is my perfect long weekend itinerary in the heart of California wine country.

DAY 1

Assuming you took an early flight, it’s possible to be in Napa Valley by 11 a.m., so I suggest you start your trip with a tasting at Chappellet Winery atop Pritchard Hill. Not only are the wines here delicious (I’m a big fan of their chenin blanc), but the winery’s hilltop location gives you iconic views of the stunning terrain.

As you make your way back down to the valley floor, stop by the Hog Island Oyster Co. in downtown Napa. Eat your fill of fresh oysters while sipping on a cool white as you people watch.

After lunch, head back north to Rutherford for a visit to Round Pond Estate. As fantastic as the wines are here, you’ll be missing out if you don’t try their estate olive oils. The olive oil tasting I did here is still one of my favorite wine country memories, and it gives their staff a chance to showcase their second-tonone hospitality.

For dinner back in Napa, visit Osha Thai Restaurant. It’s probably not what you’d expect to find in America’s cabernet capital, but maybe that’s what makes it so delicious. Afterward, enjoy a bottle of bubbles at Cadet, one of America’s greatest wine bars.

DAY 2

Start your day with a visit to the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art. This sprawling museum features multiple galleries and installations across its 200+ acre campus.

While you’re on the valley’s southern end, stop by Domaine Carneros to explore how sparkling wine is made. Great wines and a gorgeous setting make this a no-brainer.

Have a late lunch at Gott’s Roadside. There are two locations in the valley, but I prefer the one in St. Helena. Burgers are what have brought this local chain wide acclaim, but the ahi tuna burger is my personal go-to.

From here, I always like to pop into The Salon at Heitz Cellar. Tasting occurs in the winery’s original building from the 1960s. If you’re extra lucky, you’ll get the chance to try their grignolino, a light-bodied red available only at the winery.

From here, I’d head farther north, visiting Schramsberg Vineyards if you’re in the mood for more sparkling wine or Corison Winery, where you can taste one of the best wines in all of California. Better yet, do both.

For dinner, visit the French-inspired Bouchon in Yountville. The food and service are impeccable, and I find it impossible to visit Napa without a visit. While you’re there, check to see if the bakery next door is open. If so, you’re in for a treat. Don’t let the line scare you — the pastries are worth the wait.

DAY 3

I’ll admit, this one is a hot take: skip the wineries. Northern California has so much to offer that I’d be remiss if I didn’t point you toward something other than wine and food. On your way back to the airport, stop at Muir Woods National Monument, where you can walk in an old-growth redwood forest. Walking among these giant trees is as holy as anything you’ll find in a church, and — all the better — you won’t be hungover on the flight home.