The Oak Knoll District AVA is located at the south end of the Napa Valley floor. The 8,300 acre area is characterized by a cool, moderate climate due to its proximity to the San Pablo Bay and the coastal fog that blows in from the coast. As a result, Oak Knoll’s growing conditions are optimal for many varieties of grapes: particularly Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling. We’ve sussed out the best tasting experiences in the Oak Knoll District, with an itinerary heading north from downtown Napa, then returning back south down the Silverado Trail.

Wineries / Napa

Robert Biale Vineyards

Robert Biale Vineyards specializes in Zinfandel, and are particularly known for their pride and glory: Black Chicken Zinfandel, a bold, smooth variety with a name referencing the code used in the days of prohibition. After tasting through their fabulous Zins, ask about limited production special releases like their Petite Sirah and Rosé. Tastings are offered by appointment only in a rustic, welcoming tasting room.

Insider Tip

For a rich treat, ask to try the dessert Petite Sirah, a unique and delicious port.

Directions

From Celani Family Vineyards, drive North on Big Ranch Road for 1.1 miles. The destination is on the right.

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Wineries / Napa

Materra | Cunat Family Vineyards

Newly opened Materra|Cunat Family Vineyards is a family-run winery that just opened in 2015. The winery grows many grape varieties, including Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier–ripe for sampling in the bright, airy tasting room (by appointment only). Consider the Reserve Library Tasting for a selection of reserve wines and artisanal cheeses served intimately in the library.

Insider Tip

Ready to geek out over the technological advances in winemaking? Ask about their computerized fermentation tanks.

Directions

From Andretti Winery, head North on Big Ranch Road. The destination is on the right.

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Wineries / Napa

Trefethen Family Vineyards

The tone is set for a visit to Trefethen as soon as visitors enter the driveway: the drive is flanked by cypress trees and vineyards on either side of the road, and the relaxed, rustic ambiance continues as visitors sip award-winning Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Trefethen’s original building was badly damaged in a 2014 earthquake, but the winery is hosting tastings by appointment in a temporary tasting room while historical architects work to restore the original building, which was constructed in 1886.

Insider Tip

Tastings are currently done in an elegant tent, complete with chandeliers and a fountain, until the original building can be restored. It’s the wine tasting equivalent of glamping.

Directions

From Materra|Cunat Family Vineyards, drive West on Oak Knoll Avenue. The destination is on the right.

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Wineries / Napa

Darioush Winery

Persian owner Darioush has created a palace in the Napa Valley, where visitors are greeted by 18-foot freestanding columns, water fountains, and lush gardens. Tastings are held inside the opulent winery, offering samples of premium Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in a setting that evokes a bygone era.

Insider Tip

The fabulous pistachios, offered to cleanse the palate during the wine tasting, are also available for purchase.

Directions

From Trefethen, head east on Oak Knoll Avenue. At the end of the road, turn right onto Silverado Trail. The destination is on the left.

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Wineries / Napa

Razi Winery

Founded and owned by architect Fred Razi, who often hosts visitors personally, this winery offers an intimate tasting experience in a low-key setting. Sip and swirl unfiltered Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay while relaxing alongside the winery’s Chardonnay vineyards. Note that tastings are held by appointment only, Monday through Saturday.