{"id":20816,"date":"2024-04-09T06:00:42","date_gmt":"2024-04-09T13:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/?p=20816"},"modified":"2025-10-23T11:59:24","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T18:59:24","slug":"chardonnay-tasting-napa-valley","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/blog\/chardonnay-tasting-napa-valley\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Places to Taste Excellent Napa Valley Chardonnay"},"content":{"rendered":"
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When we hear about the \u201cAnything But Chardonnay\u201d (ABC) crowd, we can\u2019t help but wonder why\u2014with so many different styles and expressions depending on where the grapes are grown and how the wine is produced, we\u2019re confident that there\u2019s a Chardonnay to please every palate.\r\n\r\nOne of the top places in the country to experience this versatile wine grape is none other than the Napa Valley<\/a>. With variations that include steely, mineral-driven, cool climate bottlings and rich, ripe white wines with tropical fruit for days, Chardonnay lives up to its chameleonlike potential in the hands of Napa\u2019s talented winemakers.\r\n\r\nWe\u2019ve compiled a list of some of our favorite places in Napa Valley to sip Chardonnay. We promise that even the strictest of ABC devotees will find something they like in this lineup.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Goosecross Cellars<\/h2>\r\n1119 State Lane, Yountville, CA 94599, (707) 944-1986 <\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”59967″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/goosecross.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nThis family-owned and operated winery in Yountville<\/a> is known for its dedicated hospitality, welcoming atmosphere, and world-class wines. Take to the scenic deck to sip Goosecross Cellars<\/a>‘ expertly crafted wines found only at the winery, including the Burgundian-style Napa Valley Chardonnay, made from Dijon clone fruit from the winery\u2019s Corrotto Vineyard on the Napa side of Carneros.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Members of the three-tiered wine club enjoy complimentary tastings on the \u201cClub Patio,\u201d plus other perks, making it a must for fans of Goosecross\u2019 small-production, winery-only portfolio.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Hess Persson Estates<\/h2>\r\n411 Redwood Road, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 255-1144<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”57033″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.hessperssonestates.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nHop aboard a luxury ATV for an educational vineyard tour<\/a> and wine tasting at Hess Persson Estates<\/a>. This family-owned Napa Valley winery atop Mount Veeder<\/a> may be known just as much for its three-level Hess Collection Art Museum<\/a> as it is for its Lioness Chardonnay. Stop by to marvel at highly eclectic contemporary art, walk the collection with their Director of Art, or book a Tour of the Palate<\/a> experience, a guided museum tour followed by estate-exclusive wine tasting paired with three-course seasonal bites.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Hess Persson is one of the few Napa Valley wineries that offers a hands-on blending experience<\/a>\u2014in it, you can play winemaker for the day and create your own custom blend to bottle and take home.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Beaulieu Vineyard<\/h2>\r\n1960 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 257-5749<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”53790″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.bvwines.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nWith over a century of winemaking in the region, Beaulieu Vineyard<\/a> (\u201cBV\u201d for short) has long been known as an iconic Napa Valley wine producer. While Cabernet Sauvignon<\/a> is the grape the winery is most known for, of which BV produced one of the earliest \u201ccult\u201d Cabernets in the region, BV crafts several different varietal wines and blends worth noting. In fact, it was one the first producers in the area to start making distinctive Chardonnay from Carneros. Today, BV makes several different Chardonnays from single vineyards and blends from throughout the region, each revealing classic varietal character and diversity of terroir.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Because of the winery\u2019s history in crafting exceptional Cabernet wines, most of the tasting experiences offered are focused on Cabernet wines. To shift your attention to Chardonnay, it\u2019s best to reach out to the winery directly to ask about a customized tasting experience for your group, or even a virtual tasting experience, which you can do from the comfort of your home.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Oasis by Hoopes \u2013 Hoopes Vineyard<\/h2>\r\n6204 Washington Street, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 944-1869<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46007″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.hoopesvineyard.com\/oasis-by-hoopes\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nLed by second-generation proprietor Lindsay Hoopes, who learned about farming and cultivated a deep respect for Napa Valley terroir through her father Spencer, Oasis by Hoopes<\/a> is a welcoming retreat from everyday life. More than just a winery, this regenerative farm and animal sanctuary is a family- and pet-friendly destination for wine fans young and old to immerse themselves in California wine culture. Here, you can sip multiple vintages of Hoope\u2019s Genny\u2019s Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay, which blends an old-world approach to production and farming, with a respectful nod to Napa terroir.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> For a total Wine Country getaway, book a stay at the Hoopes Farmhouse, a picturesque 1890s farmhouse that sleeps up to eight, featuring a full kitchen, pool, and wraparound porch overlooking the fruit orchard and vineyards.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Mayacamas Vineyards & Winery<\/h2>\r\n1155 Lokoya Road, Napa, CA 94558, (707) 224-4030<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”58411″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.mayacamas.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nThis historic property dates back to 1889, when it was built into the side of a dormant volcano crater in the shadow of Mount Veeder. Known for their incredible consistency through generations of ownership, as well their reflection of classic winemaking traditions, Mayacamas<\/a>\u2019 wines are widely recognized for their outstanding quality. Their Chardonnay is no exception, regularly heralded as one of the greatest examples of American Chardonnay and celebrated for its remarkable ageability.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Visits to this iconic winery are reservation-only. You can book a tasting in advance at either the Mayacamas Downtown Tasting Room or the Vineyards Estate through the winery\u2019s online reservation system.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Flora Springs<\/h2>\r\n677 St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-8032<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46014″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.florasprings.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nWhile officially founded in 1978, grapes were first planted on this St. Helena<\/a> property, located at the foot of the Mayacamas, in the late 1800s, which marked the start of Flora Springs<\/a>\u2019 fascinating history. The winery produces several different Chardonnays, each with a unique flavor profile, from the juicy and tropical Family Select Chardonnay to the limited-production Flora\u2019s Legacy Chardonnay, made from a barrel selection of the finest Chardonnay of the vintage, in honor of Flora Komes, the inspiration for the winery.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Flora Springs feels so strongly about the quality of their Chardonnay and other white wines that the winery has been a leading proponent of the movement to introduce the #whitewineemoji.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Stony Hill Vineyard<\/h2>\r\n3331 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-2636\r\n<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”56877″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.stonyhillvineyard.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nA tucked-away treasure, high on Spring Mountain<\/a>\u2019s rocky slopes, sits Stony Hill Vineyard<\/a>\u2014one of the first post-Prohibition wineries built in the Napa Valley. With its volcanic mountain soil, limestone sub-layer, and northeast-facing placement, Stony Hill\u2019s terroir is perfectly suited for growing their preferred style of Chardonnay grapes. Sip their storied Chardonnays at their newly redesigned Residence estate. With its warm, welcoming mid-century modern aesthetic modeled after Stony Hill\u2019s original Chardonnay label design, this uniquely Napa experience is well worth the trip up the hill.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Stony Hill Chardonnays are unlike the oakier varieties in California. Because they are barrel-aged, without the malolactic fermentation, Stony Hill Chardonnays are like liquid gold\u2014bright and fresh with hints of pear, apple, and lemon zest.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Quilt & Co. Tasting Room<\/h2>\r\n807 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559, (707) 777-8198 <\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46009″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/quiltandco.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nLocated in the heart of downtown Napa, this tasting room concept is the passion project of fifth-generation winemaker and Napa Valley native Joseph Wagner. You can taste through Joseph\u2019s full portfolio of wines under one roof, exploring the diverse expressions of the Chardonnay grape. A flight of Belle Glos, Napa Valley Quilt, B\u00f6en, Elouan, and others will highlight the distinct acidity, aroma, oak influence, and flavor profile of a wide range of Chardonnay styles. Experiences include curated wine flights, sharable charcuterie boards, and food and wine pairings in collaboration with Quilt & Co.<\/a>\u2019s sister restaurant next door, Avow.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Can\u2019t make it to the tasting room? Book a guided virtual tasting experience with one of Quilt & Co.\u2019s knowledgeable staff members, complimentary with the purchase of six bottles.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”text-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Cakebread Cellars<\/h2>\r\n8300 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (800) 588-0298<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”59215″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” el_class=”mid-width” link=”\/businesses\/2231\/cakebread-cellars”][vc_column_text]The very first wine that Cakebread Cellars<\/a>\u2019 founders, Jack and Dolores Cakebread, released after founding their winery in 1973 was a Chardonnay. With over 50 years of perfecting their craft, this iconic winery continues the tradition of producing beautiful examples of Chardonnay from their vineyards tucked within the cool Carneros appellation. Cakebread Chardonnays are known for their delightful acidity and notes of apple and pear, of which you can try yourself during one of their seated tasting or tour experiences.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Don\u2019t miss the chance to book Cakebread Cellars\u2019 Chardonnay Tasting, which celebrates 50 years of producing some of Napa\u2019s best Chardonnays. During this communal seated tasting, you’ll sample four single-vineyard, limited-release bottles, each highlighting interesting differences to help hone your palette\u2014and your love of Chardonnay![\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”text-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Ditch the \u201cAnything But Chardonnay\u201d crowd and explore these amazing places to taste everyone\u2019s favorite white wine in Napa Valley. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":254,"featured_media":59164,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/blog-v2.php","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[126],"tags":[249,135,329,111,118],"class_list":["post-20816","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wineries","tag-chardonnay","tag-napa-valley","tag-napa-valley-chardonnay","tag-wine-tasting","tag-wineries"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20816"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/254"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20816"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20816\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":70851,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20816\/revisions\/70851"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/59164"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20816"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20816"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20816"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}