September is truly one of the most wonderful times of year in wine country. The grape harvest is underway after a long summer, the air is beginning to cool down with the promise of autumn, and the entire state is honoring California Wine Month! Celebrate this signature season in the City of Napa with a special event or a couple days sipping and dining downtown.
The iconic Napa Valley Wine Train will host Chris Phelps of Inglenook aboard its Private Reserve Train on Saturday, September 9 at 6:30 p.m. for a culinary and wine adventure as part of its all-new 2017 “Meet the Maker” dinner series. While enjoying a multi-course gourmet feast prepared by Chef Donald Young and impeccable wine pairings, passengers will also be able to discuss the pairings and tasting notes in depth with Chris Phelps while relaxing in the luxury setting of the Private Reserve Train.
We know it’s wine month, but in case you’ve got a craft brew lover in tow, you may want to check out the Napa Valley BBQ and Beer Battle. This show-down, featuring local breweries as well as the best barbecue chefs in town (plus a little wine tasting!), will take place at the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel and Spa on Sunday, September 17.
The Napa Valley Wine Train’s monthly series, Rock the Rails, promises a fun evening in wine country (and benefits the new Rail Arts District in Napa). Come aboard the train for wining, dining and a relaxing ride to see September’s live performance at Grgich Hills Estate. The train departs from Napa station, near Oxbow Public Market – about a five-minute walk from Downtown Napa.
The Meritage Resort and Spa regularly hosts winemaker dinners that delight visitors with an evening of delectable food, wine and fascinating talks from local winemakers. September’s dinner will feature Staglin Family Vineyard, a family winery founded in 1985. Stroll under the oak trees or among the vines before dining on the resort’s vineyard deck – while listening to live music and learning more about Staglin’s history and winemaking style.
From chefs to winemakers to executives, women have helped build Napa’s wine country. On Sunday, September 24, Copia on First Street will host a panel called “Wine Country Women of Napa Valley.” The panel will commemorate these women and discuss a new book that profiles 65 women of wine country. This is a unique way to learn more about the history of Napa and the great women who pioneered it.
Of course, you can simply savor California Wine Month with us by strolling the dozens of tasting rooms downtown and conversing with local winemakers to hear their stories. Or perhaps sit down at one of Napa’s many exceptional restaurants to indulge in a wine-country inspired meal crafted to reflect the bounty of the season.
There are lots of events and activities going on around the City of Napa in September, so find some inspiration and plan plenty of time to explore during your stay!