Let’s face it, wine tastings in Napa and Sonoma are not cheap. Believe there used to be a list of wineries with free tasting but most are outdated by now. Typical Napa tastings are now around $45-$80 making a trip almost a splurge (especially if you are visiting multiple wineries) vs. a fun casual trip. If you are looking to taste some wine and have fun while not spending a lot, here’s my list
I’m going to keep updating list with more wineries so make sure to follow me on Instagram for updates and other recommendations! Keep in mind that wineries do change their menu and fees so use this list as a reference but always check with the winery or their website for the latest policy.
Napa
Rombauer: You might have seen their bottles at different retail stores. They are known for Chardonnays and Zinfandels and their tasting is super affordable at $20 (which is a price of 1.5 or 1 glass at a restaurant) and the ground with a picnic area is super cute. Seems like they now also offer wines by the glass instead of the tasting experience
Paloma Vineyard: They offer free vertical tasting of their Merlot (as of Feb 2021). Small family owned winery so it’s a private and intimate experience. Please do leave with a bottle if you like them!
Vincent Aroyo: Located a bit further north in Calistoga, you can taste variety of whites and reds and $20, waived with a 3 bottle purchase. Casual and super friendly hosts!
Lola Wines: Another charming tasting house in downtown Calistoga where you can taste for $30, waived with a 3 bottle purchase. Have a variety of whites, Pinot, and Cab.
Domaine Chandon: Mostly known for sparkling, their flights range from $20-35. Expansive ground with picnic chairs and indoor tasting bar
Mckenzie Mueller: $30 waived with a bottle purchase. Small family owned winery. They have a charming barn with a grass area and view of the vineyard
Cosentino: $30, waived with a bottle purchase. They have a variety of bottles between $16-40 for you to choose from.
V Sattui: Their tasting flight isn’t technically under $30 but you can purchase a bottle fo Rosé or sparkling for ($30-40) to enjoy in their picnic area
Sonoma
BR Cohn: Their most recent experience options include $35 for tasting and also offer $10/glass options. View is pretty great as well so it will be a fun experience as a couple or small group
Cline Cellars: Have various options starting at $15, waived with purchase
Ledson: They have multiple tasting options and the cheapest option is $30. They also used to have a casual $5 tasting inside their wine shop
Jacuzzi Family Vineyards: I have not visited yet but their tasting fee is $20/person
*List is based on the information from early 2022 and would recommend double checking directly with the winery to confirm
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