Wine tasting is a fun way to experience different kinds of wine from a variety of wineries. And it’s even better when you’re with a group of friends or with a special person, allowing you to create an unforgettable day with those you care about. Plus, wine tasting helps you discover new wine makers and varieties, allowing you to really deepen your wine knowledge no matter if you’re a novice or a connoisseur.

From the most famous wine region in California, Napa and Sonoma Valley, the views are breathtaking, wineries are unique and each have their own special wine tour and tasting rooms providing very special ambience and experiences. Usually, many make a day out of wine tasting, jumping from one to the next as they partake in all sorts of wine. If you’re making a day or two out of it, here are a few reasons to schedule a wine tour.

Someone Else Drives

When you go wine tasting, you’re testing out anywhere from three to five different types of wine at each winery. And although they’re not full glasses, they are enough to get you tipsy after the second or third winery. So why even chance drinking and driving, a DUI, or having to stop enjoying wine at the second winery when you can have someone else drive? When you take a wine tour, someone else is behind the wheel of your own rental car, allowing you to enjoy your time and drinks at each of the wineries you visit.

Expert Knowledge

Wine tours are run by professionals and local residents who know the ins and outs of local wineries, boutiques and off the beaten path experiences – you will be able to let someone else do all the research on local wineries while you simply enjoy their suggestions. It’s their job to provide you with the best wine experience based on your preferences and will guide you through each of the best places to try in Napa, Healdsburg, or Russian River and Sonoma Valley. This doesn’t stop at just wineries as you’ll likely need lunch or dinner reservations while in the area as well. Looking for a top rated Chef, a particular style? Usually both can be accommodated by your local wine tour guide.

Scheduled Activities

The best wine tours are the ones that have a plan before you head out so that you know what to expect. If you want to make the most out of your trip to wine country, its best to have a schedule so that you get to see and experience as much as you can, which is exactly what a wine tour provides. If you’re not from the area, you may not know how long the drive is from Atlas Peak to Calistoga. Your wine tour driver will handle the travel and planning for you.

Designated Drivers Napa Sonoma is the perfect way to experience your very own private wine tour! They use your car and a local wine tour guide will drive you around, providing a more intimate experience of one of the most beautiful places on Earth with some of the best wines ever made. Think of it as your own private wine driver!

Looking for a classy destination for a girls’ wine getaway? Spend a weekend in Napa Valley for the perfect retreat for you and your girlfriends! Whether you are organizing a bachelorette party or a well-deserved vacation, a Napa wine tasting tour will satisfy all your guests’ wishes. Napa Valley is beautifully-situated amongst hills covered with vineyards. It’s hard to believe that its idyllic location is less than a two hour drive from San Francisco. Your friends will instantly decompress and simply enjoy each other’s company.

The local accommodations in Napa are endless. Whether your group prefers a luxurious hotel or a quaint AirBnB, you have a plethora of choices. Stay two nights to get the most out of your wine weekend getaway. There’s nothing worse than rushing to your flight with a massive hangover the next day. Luckily (if your group is known for getting a little crazy), there are plenty of safe Napa drivers for hire. Napa is famous for its quality wines – make sure you enjoy them responsibly!

It is highly recommended to book a wine tasting tour with a private driver. Your tour guide will drive you safely from one winery to the next. A Napa trip should be inclusive for your whole group – no need to pull straws to choose a designated driver! Hire a reputable driver who is fully-insured. There are great companies that even provide a driver to chauffeur you in your own car or a rental. Don’t worry if none of your friends brought a car. Napa drivers can also provide a vehicle for your group, no matter the size.

Some wine tour companies have a set list of wineries that they repeat each day. This is a simple option for groups that are new to Napa or to wine tasting in general. However, other tour companies can customize their itinerary to meet your needs. This is a surprisingly affordable option for a group with varying palates. They specialize in large group tastings and can tailor your tour based on each member’s preference, even for that one friend who only drinks rosé! Personalized wine tours offer versatility and guarantee your friends’ satisfaction. This flexibility is a huge advantage to choosing a private driver for your Napa party. Your Napa tour driver will become an unforgettable part of your experience. Private tour guides have more opportunity to interact with your group. They are knowledgeable about the wineries and local businesses, often providing great dinner recommendations. In addition, your Napa driver can also act as your own private photographer! The pictures and memories they can provide will be priceless!

The fun does not stop after your group tasting tour. Downtown Napa is filled with tons of farm-to-table restaurants and trendy bars. There is no shortage of great food in downtown Napa! After dinner, your girlfriends will love the ease of bar hopping without needing to call an Uber. Take a break from wine and grab a cocktail at the local jazz club or pool hall. After your long night of drinking, do yourself a favor and visit a nearby taco truck. You will thank yourself in the morning.

Spend your second full day in Napa at your leisure. It is nice to wake up late and head to brunch, with or without mimosas. Your group may opt for another wine tasting tour with your Napa driver. After all, wine should be a crucial part of your trip. However, great alternatives include shopping at local boutiques or recuperating at the spa. If you have extra time, drive north to Calistoga for a luxurious mud bath. This is a unique experience that your friends will never forget!

Napa is a perfect destination for a girls’ weekend wine tasting getaway. Your friends will delight in the varietals offered, first-class meals, and picturesque Napa Valley setting. Tailor your group’s activities for a memorable getaway filled with quality time together and great wine. With over 400 wineries in the area, your girls will have countless tasting options. Ask your friends to compile a list of their top wineries then reserve your private driver. Your Napa driver will provide a customized and intimate group tasting, without the risk of DUI. Plan your trip today!

Without question, Napa Valley is known for its beautiful vineyards and award-winning wines. Although the main attraction is wine, gourmet food in Napa is a close second. After all, what is good wine without good food? Napa is home to multiple Michelin star-rated restaurants, which host a range of cuisines. Dine al fresco at your favorite winery or cozy up in a candle-lit restaurant. After a long day of boutique wine tasting, the local dining options are endless. All these great options make decisions about where to dine challenging. We are here to assess your specific needs and customize your luxury event!

At Behind the Scenes, we understand the importance of good food. When planning your dream Napa getaway, it can be difficult to narrow down the best wineries and restaurants for your group. A trip to Napa should involve rest and relaxation, not Yelp searches for restaurant reviews. Leave the planning to us so you can simply sip your glass of wine and enjoy your guests’ company!

Since your party is unique, your experience should be as well. If your guests are looking for a lively night, we recommend a stop in downtown Napa. This is the most popular foodie destination in the area. Visitors can be seen strolling down the picturesque streets at all hours of the day. Several popular options including Coles Chophouse and Ristorante Allegria. The restaurant is located in an old bank building that was built in 1916, making its ambience beyond comparison. We can recommend great local wine pairings that your party can enjoy throughout the night.

If your guests prefer to avoid downtown Napa crowds, FARM at Carneros is a short drive from Napa Town Center. A visit to FARM is an impressive way to end an executive wine retreat. The menu boasts a seven-course tasting menu, with an optional wine pairing. The tasting menu rotates seasonally. Your party will delight in each culinary surprise that is presented! Many companies opt for a day-trip for their staff instead. If so, we can reserve a table for brunch at FARM as another great option. Try their homemade beignets and seasonal Domaine Carneros mimosas, which may include rosemary, lavender, or basil. These are just some of the many comforts found in Napa Valley!

Wine and food pair perfectly in Napa Valley. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or an executive trip, Napa dining can satisfy any need. Our staff is knowledgeable about each restaurant’s variety in delicacy, ambience, and price point. With this local perspective, our clients are guaranteed to find any experience their heart desires. Leave your planner at home and come enjoy our expertly-curated meals and wine pairing!