Winter in Wine Country brings cozy tastings, roaring fireplaces, seasonal pours, and quiet vineyard views. If you’re planning a cold-weather escape or holiday getaway, Napa and Sonoma offer some of the most memorable winter wine experiences—perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups.
These are the best winter wine tasting experiences in Napa & Sonoma, combining warmth, style, and seasonal charm that turn a chilly wine tour into something truly special.
Winter wine country is a different world: vines are dormant, crowds are smaller, and the atmosphere feels reflective and inviting. Many wineries adjust their tasting menus to include warming wines and gourmet bites, ideal for wine-lovers who want something off-season and immersive.
What sets winter experiences apart:
Their “Vertical Flight by the Fireplace” tasting is precisely what winter calls for—rich red blends and Cabernet vintages, served fireside in a cozy lounge setting. Pro tip: book late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour glow.
Artesa’s modern architecture includes indoor cozy corners with heated patios. Winter here means rich Rhône-style reds and unexpected pours like barrel samples direct from the cellar. Pro tip: ask to try barrel tastings—you’ll often find exclusive winter blends.
Known for sparkling, Gloria Ferrer turns winter festive—champagne-style pours, warm appetizers by fire pits, and occasional mulled wine specials. Pro tip: the Terrace Tasting is ideal when paired with seasonal small bites.
Their reserve-level Red Blend Tasting pairs robust wines with comforting bites, like truffle cheese and winter bread, served in their elegant barrel-ageing room. Pro tip: request a tour of the barrel cellar to feel the wine in its snowy-season home.
In winter, the gondola ride up is misty and atmospheric, and the hilltop lounge often has blankets and hot beverages waiting. Pro tip: go just before sunset—you’ll get sweeping valley views when the clouds lift.
The Palate Play winter pairing includes warming seasonal ingredients and hearty dishes like winter squash and roasted root vegetables. Indoor-outdoor space is equipped with heaters and blankets. Pro tip: book the private salon for intimate winter tastings.
A family-owned classic preparing winter flights that highlight their Reserve Zinfandels and Bordeaux-style blends. Tastings are conducted indoors in a century-old barrel room that feels like a storybook. Pro tip: add their olive oil tasting for a homey, seasonal vibe.
Let Old Vine Wine Tours create your seasonal escape—private transport, curated tastings, and cozy settings to match winter mood. We’ll avoid the crowds, hit wineries with roaring fireplaces, and schedule stops to follow the sun.
Ready for a wintertime tasting adventure? Book your cozy wine tour today.
December through February are ideal—many wineries offer special flights, and the quiet season offers more intimacy.
It depends—winter is quieter and cozier, while summer brings vineyard views and outdoor ambiance. We can design either to match your style.
Yes. Most wineries will accommodate you with heaters, blankets, and cozy indoor spaces in winter with advance notice.
Definitely—winter is the best time to try barrel samples and new vintages still aging in the cellar.
