Napa
(FAST FACT: A ton of grapes yields approximately 720 bottles, or 60 cases, of vino.)
What’s New in Napa? Pack some stemware and fill up in Napa Valley. If it’s been a while since you’ve paid a visit, get your reservations in a row and hit up these Napa newbies.
Dine
In December, Oxbow Public Market became Napa’s newest culinary magnet, where about 35 merchants sell the region’s best meats, poultry, seafood, artisan cheese, breads, baked goods and, of course, wine. 707.963.1345, www.oxbowpublicmarket.com.
Sip
You’ll have to wait to experience one of Napa Valley’s most exciting tasting spots: the new-and-improved Hall Wines in St. Helena. Renowned architect Frank O. Gehry is at the helm on the eye-popping project, scheduled to open in 2010. The nearly 11,000-sq.-ft. center will include the restored Hall Wines building, top-notch technology and eco-friendly design elements. (Hall Wines hopes to achieve LEED certification.) If you simply can’t wait for Hall’s completion, book a tour now to witness four-years-worth of drawings, photographs and models that went into the project’s conception, plus partake in a wine tasting. www.hallwines.com.
Whether you are a Napa Valley novice or a frequent visitor wanting to experience the area’s little-known gems, contact Wine Country Concierge (WCC). Longtime Napa resident and WCC owner, Jackie Richmond, knows the in-and-outs of Napa and can create a personalized itinerary to suit your sipping needs. 707.252.4472, www.hallwines.com.
Live
If you’re an FNV (Frequent Napa Visitor), maybe it is time to consider a second home in Cali’s lush wine country. In the spring, The Lodges at Calistoga Ranch unveiled its final phase of 27 two-bedroom, fractional-ownership residences. Each picture-perfect pied-à-terre comes equipped with more than 2,500 square feet. of space, an alfresco living area, an expansive kitchen (with storage to stash your vino, of course), and access to a community pool, fitness area, wine cave, hiking trails and The Bathhouse at Calistoga Ranch. www.calistogaranch.com.
Stay
Set to open Sept. 18, The Westin Verasa is the first luxury property to debut in Napa Valley in five years—and it will be well worth the wait. The 180-suite hotel-condominium is rooted in the historic architectural style typical of the area—from wood and stone accents to expansive bay windows. Plus, the Westin outpost has a lengthy to-do list to keep you busy during your wine country reprieve, including a tasty trip to Chef Ken Frank’s famed French eatery, La Toque. If you’re in town this January, enroll in Frank’s highly anticipated Truffle Camp, complete with truffle-cooking lessons and winery visits. Can’t get enough of Verasa? A few condos are still available for purchase starting from the $400,000’s. www.verasanapa.com.
