In 1992, my wife and I spent our honeymoon touring Northern California. One of our first stops was a few days spent touring the Napa Valley. We stayed at the Meadowood, which is where I took a few of these photographs. Until being damaged by recent fires, the Meadowood featured a Michelin 3 star restaurant and was close to several of the major wineries. It is an amazing resort, and in our top five of all time favorites.
During our visit, while not touring wineries, we spent one of our afternoons riding on the Napa Valley Wine Train. The train takes you on a 36 mile roundtrip through the valley, while you enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal and amazing views. And of course, you have access to a significant wine selection along the way. Every mile of the trip provided 5-star views to go along with the 5-star service.
During our time in the valley, we also had the opportunity to dine at Auberge du Soleil near the the Rutherford Hill winery. Another amazing meal, with amazing wines and amazing service. So many restaurants, but so little time. We really need to get back to Napa for another visit after they are done recovering from the recent fires. I have no doubt that they will once again provide some of the finest service, and landscapes, that Northern California has to offer.
“Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly, any other purely sensory thing.” – Ernest Hemingway
