Summer Wine Read: Napa Valley
The Smart Traveller’s Wine Guide
By Maria C Hunt
£12.99 @academieduvin
And other online retailers
Sometimes size does matter. This compact yet info packed book is definitely a ‘smart size’ for the Napa traveller.
I have visited Napa a few times but I wish I had been armed with this tiny but mighty guide.
For the wine nerds/ curious 🍷
There is a relatable exploration of Napa’s diverse terroir, its entrepreneurial heritage, a guide to the AVA system plus a glossary of all wine terms enabling any wine beginner to sound like a connoisseur.
For those who think they know Napa wineries 🍷
This guide highlights the cult classics as well as unassuming standouts. I loved how Maria curates different wine routes depending on whether you want to spend the day visiting mountain locations or if you prefer the valley floor offerings. She also is realistic as to how much one can physically pack into a day and thoughtfully offers wine tasting experiences based on individuals’ personal preferences.
Whether you are a history buff, wellness enthusiast want a savoury cookie tasting with your wine – these USPs are all highlighted in the featured wineries.
I want to visit the Tank Garage Winery in a historic petrol station next time I go!
Maria’s section on ‘How to get into Elite Wineries’ is gold. There are still absolute no gos in Napa but some exemplary wineries such as Realm and Opus One do open their doors and Maria shows you how..
For Pure Pleasure Seekers 🍷
I adored how Maria shows that Napa is a cultural hub. Yes, there are over 400 wineries but there also fantastic restaurants, boutique hotels, spas, shops, museums and bike tours to explore.
I also appreciated how Maria includes countless restaurant, grocery and market advice from local winemakers. These are the people whose palates I really trust and my next trip will be made up from a collation of their reccs!
So, for those who think they know Napa or are thinking of going, this is the essential reading for you. Whether it is to visit a winery or the short film festival – this book really has you covered.
You can also check the video here!
Cheers Guys!