Savor the Flavors of Napa Valley

The distinctive bouquet of wine has hovered over Northern California's Napa Valley since the mid-1800s, when settlers discovered that the area's Mediterranean climate and rolling hills were ideal for growing grapes.  Local vintners made the leap from commercial to premium wine productions in the 1960s.  In 1976, a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley beat many fine French labels in a blind tasting in Paris, putting Napa Valley firmly on the map as a destination for serious lovers of wine.

The fabulous flavors of the valley are not limited to wine - Napa is also prized as a fine dinning destination.  Local chefs use fresh produce and seafood, rich artisanal cheeses, free-range meats and locally produced olive oil to create dishes that complement Napa's wines.

This year, the food and wine experiences of Napa Valley will be showcased in a new event, Flavor! Napa Valley, to be held November 17-20.  The weekend's events will include tastings with wine experts; culinary demonstrations by accomplished chefs; a dinner with local vintners and sommeliers; and a Sunday lunch where growers will introduce guests to the tastiest and freshest local foods.

Most events will take place at the valley's Silverado Resort and Spa and the Culinary Institute of America.  Proceeds will benefit the scholarship fund at the institute.

While fall is harvest season and the wineries are in full production mode, Napa Valley is ready to welcome visitors all year long.  Summer is the busiest season, when visitors enjoy sunny skies and warm-to-hot weather tempered by breezes from the Pacific Ocean.  Spring is quieter and very lovely as the countryside comes into bloom.  Winter can be rainy, but the valley is still beautiful and a perfect location for a quiet sojourn - and some serious wine tasting.

Experience Napa so you can enjoy the excellent food and wine.