Schramsberg Vineyards

If you could take just one photo: The wine caves

When you take a sip of Schramsberg's sparkling wine, you are tasting some of the very best in California—and you are also getting a taste of Napa Valley history. Schramsberg has been making wine in the same time-consuming and labor-intensive method that is used in Champagne since the late 1800s. Their caves were the first caves dug in the Napa Valley (Robert Louis Stevenson wrote about them in his book Silverado Squatters), making the tour, during which you will learn all about riddling and disgorging, all the more memorable. During an informal and intimate tasting, you will be able to try all of their wines (including a few still wines). Tasting the Blanc de Blancs (or "white juice from white grapes"), made exclusively with chardonnay grapes from the Sonoma Coast, next to the Blanc de Noirs ("white juice from red grapes"—Pinot Noir) is a unique and delicious opportunity.

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The bubbly is superb at Schramsberg, known for its creamy, toasty champagne-style wines. Schramsberg was the first domestic wine ever served at the White House, way back in 1972. Tastings are part of the tour, and it’s worth taking the time for a proper visit. Unlike at other sparkling-wine cellars, you taste the entire line, including the coveted têtes de cuvées, not just the low-end wines. Bring a sweater; the caves are chilly, even in July. Bottles cost $35 to $90, tour and tasting $25 (reservations essential; book three weeks ahead for peak periods).

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