Napa Valley’s Clos Pegase and Girard, and Sonoma County’s B.R. Cohn and Kunde Bought Due to Bankruptcy

ARTICLE FROM THE SF CHRONICLE:

The assets were largely split between two major buyers, both billionaires: serial winery buyer Bill Foley and A. Jayson Adair, the CEO of online car auction company Copart, court filings show.

The bankruptcy court still needs to grant final approval to the successful bids. A Primary Sale Hearing is scheduled for Sept. 27.

With final approval, Bill Foley’s Foley Family Wines will acquire five wineries and brands from Vintage — Calistoga’s Swanson Vineyards, Bodega Bay’s Sonoma Coast Vineyards, Napa’s Cosentino and the Cherry Pie and Bar Dog brands — for $15 million, according to court filings. (While the Swanson and Sonoma Coast deals include tasting rooms, Cosentino’s tasting room was sold separately to vintner Brion Wise.) Foley’s offer was a stalking horse bid, which sets the threshold for bidding in a bankruptcy case. It appears that no higher bids were submitted, as these assets were not included in Tuesday’s auction. 

Adair’s company Adair Winery Inc. has agreed to purchase Calistoga’s Clos Pegase and Girard, Kenwood’s B.R. Cohn and Kunde and Sonoma’s Viansa for $85 million, court filings show. 

What's the Point of Wine Tasting and What Wineries Get Wrong - An Editorial on the State of Napa Valley

Sterling Vineyards adds a Tram Ride to Entice Visitors

I’ve been writing about wineries and wine tasting for a long time but I’ve been tasting wine longer. Don’t fact check me here but I do recall reading that it was Robert Mondavi who first started FREE wine tasting in Napa with the thought that if you tried it you might buy it. I started wine tasting back around 1980, just four years after the Judgement of Paris competition that out Napa on the map. Back then all tastings were free and as a 21 year old kid it was a blast driving up and down Highway 29 and just stopping at any winery that looked interesting for a free sample.

Today of course the free tastings have all but dried up (there’s one left that I know of) and I often get into debates with my friends in the industry over the purpose of wine tasting. Now if you’re in the industry perhaps look away but I think there’s a philosophical divide between wineries and your standard Napa visitor over what the purpose of wine tasting is all about.

To the winery it goes back to the Mondavi belief that if you try it you will buy it. But wineries in Napa have huge overhead and like a Vegas casino need a lot of cash to keep things running. So wineries need to sell wine to visitors, especially for wineries who make wines you won’t find in supermarkets and on restaurant wine lists. Every customer is an opportunity to sell wine or a wine club.

But here’s where I often argue with my friends in the industry - the standard wine taster isn’t thinking at the wine tasting experience as a way to decide which wines to buy. No, they are looking at the wine tasting experience as the final product, a fun way to spend a few hours or a weekend drinking good wine and having a good time. They might buy wine, they might join the club, but that wasn’t their main intention when they walked in your front door. Think about it - Do you buy every food item you sampled at Costco? No, you only buy the ones you really liked and there are probably many times you didn’t buy anything even though you liked it.

And yes, I am making sweeping generalizations here as there are still plenty of people who do buy cases of wine and plenty of wineries who offer stellar hospitality even if you don’t. But I think the wine industry needs to address how they can cater to both the wine buyer and the wine taster. Maybe it’s a simple as returning to the lower cost (and lower expectation) bar tastings that reduce the winery’s cost while addressing the customer who isn’t necessarily a wine buyer? I’m not saying I have a good plan but I am interested in what you have to say - feel free to comment below.

Wally

Napa and Sonoma Wineries That Allow Children and Babies 2024

Photo by Kathryn Romeyn

Coming to Napa or Sonoma with a toddler or baby or anyone under 21? Well then know that a lot of wineries are 21 and over. But don’t pout, you can still do your Napa or Sonoma trip as long as you pick your wineries from the list below. All of these wineries are family friendly so you don’t have to worry about being in a quiet tasting room stressed out that the people next to you are not happy that your toddler is crawling on the table.

And guess what, the wineries below are all on the PRIORITY WINE PASS so you not only get a happy baby but a happy wallet as well since you can get two for one deals or other discounts if you just show them your pass. In case you don’t know what the heck I’m talking about the Priority Wine Pass is the annual pass that’s good in Napa, Sonoma, Paso, San Diego, even Washington and Oregon. Here are all of the deals on the pass and if you need one click the button below to get the pass for just $39 per couple, the cheapest price you’ll find anywhere. Just get one per couple, it’s going to be worth it!

family friendly wineries 2024 in napa and sonoma

NAPA

Artesa Winery: 20% OFF ALL EXPERIENCES Walk-ins welcome, but reservations recommended on the weekend. 

Paraduxx: They have some lovely red blends. 2 for 1 tastings for up to 4 guests.Call 707.945.0890 or email reservations@paraduxx.com for reservations and information. Not available via online booking.($45 SAVINGS)

Napa Cellars (Oakville):  2 for 1 Reserve Tasting (Save $40) or 2 for 1 Classic Tasting (Save $20): (707) 944-2565 Priority Wine Pass accepted Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Pestoni Family Estate Winery (St Helena): Great Picnic area!  pick up lunch at Oakville Grocery for a nice picnic. 2 for 1 tastings. Choose either the Heritage Tasting (normally $50pp) or the Legacy Tasting (normally $65pp) 707.963.0544

Grgich Winery:  I always love the experience here! Each passholder will receive 15% off in-person purchases of current release wines, and 10% off in-person purchases of library & large format wines.  You can book this one online.  Just show your wine pass if you decide to purchase wine to get your 15% off. 

Frogs Leap (Rutherford): I love strolling around this winery. Priority Wine Pass member and guest receive an “extra splash” ($10 Value)  (707) 963-4704

Brian Arden Winery (Silverado Trail Calistoga): Nice contemporary setting. Receive 2 for 1 tastings and 10% off wines excluding Library wines and non-profit wines.  One pass per two people  (707)942-4767

Sterling (Calistoga): Ride the tram!   2 for 1 on the Sterling Stroll. This is the only experience there that allows under 21.  I believe they charge $20 for the kids to ride the aerial tram. Reservations recommended .  Call  800-726-6136   ($55 SAVINGS)

Castello di Amorosa:  NO DEALS but I think you and your kids will really enjoy seeing the castle.  All ages are allowed, buit note that you have to be 21+ for the tour.  See their website for details

Charles Krug (St. Helena): 1 Estate Tasting fee waived for every $100 wine purchase.  You can book online and they will reimburse your tasting fee if you purchase wine.  ($50 SAVINGS)

V.Sattui (St. Helena): Two for One Premier Tasting per wine pass (reservations required) ($55 SAVINGS) You can picnic here after your tasting.  There is no outside food allowed, but they have a wonderful deli.  Get a bottle of wine (many to choose from!) and enjoy! (707) 963-7774

Raymond Vineyards (St. Helena): 2-for-1 Tasting in the Main Salon and 10% off all purchases. Walk-in. ($50 SAVINGS)

Beringer Winery (St. Helena): Beautiful winery! Great for photos. 2 for 1 Sip & Stroll.  Stroll Around Beringer with a glass of wine. Walk-ins welcome. Friday-Monday ($20+  SAVINGS) (707) 257-5771

SONOMA

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards: (Santa Rosa, minutes from Kenwood. ) 2 for 1 Artisan Tasting ( $35.00 SAVINGS)  888-675-9463

Landmark Vineyards (Kenwood):  $45 preferred pricing on the Perfect Pairing Experience, Complimentary House popcorn with 2 glasses purchased. *Reservations required. ( $40.00 SAVINGS) (707) 833-0053

Ty Caton Vineyard (Kenwood): 2 for 1 Tastings ($25+SAVINGS) (707) 938-3224

VJB Cellars (Kenwood):  You can have lunch here! 2 for 1 BarTastings ($25 SAVINGS) (707) 833-2300

Deerfield Ranch Winery Caves (Kenwood):  One complimentary tasting per pass ($35 SAVINGS) (707) 833-5215

Mayo Family Winery (Glen Ellen): A small family owned and operated winery specializing in small batch artisanal wines. 2 for 1 with a bottle purchase. Reservations are not required, but they do recommend making one. ($25+SAVINGS) (707)938-9401 

Wellington Cellars (Glen Ellen): 2 for 1 Bar Tasting (Walk-in only, does not apply to seated tastings) ($30 SAVINGS)

Loxton Cellars (Glen Ellen): 2 for 1 tasting; tasting fee waived with bottle purchase. Also receive 10% off 6-bottle purchase and 15% off a case purchase (12 bottles). ($20 SAVINGS

Schug Winery: 2 for 1 on the Standard Tasting, and 10% off wine purchases ($35 SAVINGS) Reservations recommended. (707) 939-9363 

Cline Cellars (Carneros/Sonoma Mountain): 2 for 1 on Classic Sonoma Bar Tasting (reg. $25/pp) or Outdoor Seated Reserved Tasting (reg. $35). Excludes Saturdays. Club price on Hosted tour and barrel room tasting experience ($45/pp - Saturday and Sunday only). Visit https://clinecellars.com/visit-us/ for a list of tasting options and experiences.  When you call to make your reservation, reserve a picnic table as well.  Picnic table reservations require a 2 bottle purchase, which allows your family use of the table for 2 hours.  You can bring your own picnic. 

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards (Sonoma):  2 for 1 on "Taste of Italy" experience (reg. $30/pp). Excludes Saturdays. Club price on "All'Italiana" Food and Wine Pairing experience ($65/pp - Friday thru Sunday only). Visit https://jacuzziwines.com/visit-us/ for a list of tasting options and experiences. (707) 721-8620

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Cheapest Price for Priority Wine Pass 2024

What is Lowest Price on Priority Wine Pass? $39 Baby!

Get Two for One’s at Sterling, Beringer, Beaulieu Vineyards, Paraduxx, V Sattui and deals at Hall, Grgich Hills, Charles Krug, Artesa, and many more!

Looking for the PROMO CODE or DISCOUNT CODE for the PRIORITY WINE PASS for 2024? Here it is and the code will drop the price of the pass from $69 to just $39, the lowest price offered - period! Here is the link that’s valid through Summer of 2024:

The Lowest Price on the Priority Wine Pass: Frequently Asked Questions

1. IF I BUY IT NOW WHEN DO I GET IT? The pass is digital so arrives in mere seconds. So if you’re in Napa right now and standing in line for the Sterling Tram you need to click that button so you get two for one. Sterling alone will save you $55.

2. IS THIS THE 3 DAY PASS? As Amy Winehouse said, No No No! This is the real deal, the full 12 month pass that works in Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and other wine regions. Coming later this year or even next year? Get the pass now and save the money, then use it when you arrive.

3. IS NAPA SUPER EXPENSIVE TO VISIT? It can be. Some wineries are charging $100 to $200 per person to taste. That’s not going to fly on my budget. I’d rather use the Priority Wine Pass that drops my tasting fees on average to less than $25 per person. Now that I can afford! Forget about going broke on wine tasting. Once you’re home you’re going to hate yourself if you drop thousands of dollars on wine tasting knowing you could have had an equally fun experience doing two for one tastings.

4. WHAT WINERIES TAKE THE PASS? Here’s the most accurate list here but you’ll find big names like Beringer and Hall along with plenty of hidden gems that are worth visiting.

5. DOES IT INCLUDE A DISCOUNT AT CASTELLO DI AMOROSA, THE NAPA CASTLE? Cue Amy again, No No No. The castle is one of the top Napa attractions and offers no discounts to anyone, anywhere. However the pass does include discounts on the Napa Wine Train so that’s pretty great.

6. HOW MUCH CAN I SAVE? Most of the offers are two for one’s so if you buy one pass for $39 you can save hundreds if you target the wineries on the pass. There’s even a free concierge service that will help you pick wineries, including wineries that are not on the pass if you have a few on your bucket list. The concierge will arrange them in a logical order and space them out accordingly and all you need to do is finalize the reservations. Other companies charge for this but it’s FREE with the Priority Wine Pass.

7. DO I NEED A SEPARATE PASS FOR SONOMA OR PASO ROBLES? One more time, No No No! The same pass works in all of the wine regions. That’s what makes it such a good deal. One pass to rule them all.

8. ARE YOU SURE THIS IS THE LOWEST PRICE? Yes, I go way back with the Priority Wine Pass and as a favor they are allowing me to offer this price for a limited time. For comparison Groupon sells the same pass for nearly $45 and the normal price is $69. This is a limited time offer and could end at any time so don’t wait to long if you know you are coming to Napa, Sonoma or Paso.

Two for One's and FREE Tastings in Paso Robles

Coming to Paso and wanting to stretch your wine tasting budget? Then know that I just published a brand new website just for Paso called PASOWINERYGUIDE.COM. Just like this site I break it all down for you and simplify the planning process. On that site I list all of the 2 for 1 deals and all of the FREE tastings. You can go straight to that page right here —-> CLICK FOR DEALS

spoiler alert: you need a priority wine pass to get the deals

What the heck, you have to buy a pass just to save money? Well not always and I do list the wineries that still offer free tastings. Additionally a lot of wineries will waive fees if you buy a couple of bottles. But for the easiest way to stretch your dollar you can buy one Priority Wine Pass per could and get enough two for one’s to keep you busy for a long three day weekend. Count up the money you save after paying for the pass and you’ll easily keep a hundred bucks or more in your wallet. Not bad!

The Cheapest Price on the Priority Wine Pass is Right Here!

Most people pay $69 for the pass and since I’ve worked with them since the beginning of time they let me discount it normally to $49 or $44. But right now I have it for just $39 the lowest price offered anywhere for the pas. The promo code link is built right into the handy button below so click it to buy a pass and spend the next 12 months sipping discount wine all over Paso Robles - and Napa and Sonoma, San Diego and Oregon and tons of other wine regions.

LIMITED TIME, HURRY, ACT NOW, COME ON AND JUST GET IT!

Let me put on my plaid used car salesman jacket and let you know that this $39 offer seriously is a limited time deal during the summer of 2024. I’m always working for my readers and will do my best to keep this low price but I also don’t control when they pull the plug and have me go back to the $49 price so if you’re going to get it, get it now! It’s good for a full year so it’s pretty hard not to make the pass pay for itself again and again.

go to pasowineryguide.com for more info

Help me get google to recognize my new site by clicking over to it and checking out all of the new content. I’ll be adding more and more info over the coming months, from custom tours to designated drivers, as well as more in-depth winery reviews. You’ll find a complete listing of all of the deals on the site right now as well as a listing of every winery I think is worth visiting, all organized geographically so you can easily plan out your stop by stop agenda. Go now - check it out!

Bachelorette Party Planning Guide for Napa 2024

The ultimate bachelorette party??

Planning a Bachelorette Party in Napa for 2024?

If you somehow found yourself in charge of putting together a bachelorette party (“this is going to be easy!”) and after looking at info on Napa (“how did I get roped into this??”) find yourself overwhelmed and frustrated, sit back and take a deep breath because I’m here to help. If you’re just starting this process here are some things to know.

1. Don’t assume that the cute winery you visited with last year on your romantic weekend trip is going to welcome a group of 10 or more, especially once they know you are a bachelorette party. The honest truth is that many wineries don’t want large and possibly loud groups so finding a winery can be much more difficult than you might think.

2. You will absolutely need transportation. Factor that into your budget and if you don’t know where to start just email me and I’ll connect you with a couple of very professional transportation companies who can give you a quote.

3. If you are coming with a group of 10 or less I can show you how you can use the Priority Wine Pass to get two for one deals. This is a huge money saver and since most of the time the girls will be paying their own way keep the budget as light as you. Email me and I’ll show you the ones that you can book using the pass.

4. Be realistic on the costs. Most bachelorette parties require each girl to pay her own way and there will always be one or two girls who are being polite but quietly grumbling about how much the day is costing. There are plenty of ways to splurge and plenty of ways to stretch the budget so if you find yourself trying to figure it out just email me. I’m happy to help you sort it out and give you some suggestions and I never charge for advice and suggestions.

Bachelorettes want Wineries with Beautiful Settings and Unique Experiences

I’ve helped hundreds of bachelorettes and can tell you that if you want a successful event you need to find experiences that allow you to take beautiful photos. This eliminates the crowded wineries filled to the brim with tourists and kids - I’m not going to mention which wineries I’m talking about but perhaps avoid any castles and tram rides. How about the Napa Wine Train? OK, so it’s super expensive, like $300 to $700 per person, and after the thrill of getting on an old train wears off you’re going to wish you were somewhere where you could let loose and have fun. Trust me, the Wine Train is not the place to party.

Here’s What I Recommend for a Bachelorette Party in Napa

I would do one of these four things.

THE WALLY WAY: The first is to work directly with me and let me introduce you to my friends at wineries who not only like my bachelorette party referrals but take very good care of you. I’ll act as a free consultant to make sure all of the moving parts are in place and you do your own reservations once you have all the details to your liking. I don’t charge for this as I’ve already worked out an arrangement with the wineries who agreed to pay me a small fee for referrals, all at no charge to you. It’s good for you, good for the wineries, and I I like it too. CLICK FOR MORE INFO ON THE WALLY TOUR INFO

TWO FOR ONE BACHELORETTE PARTY: Did I say this already? If so it bears repeating. You can get two for one’s for your group of 10 or less if you have 5 Priority Wine Passes. Each pass costs $39 on my site ($69 elsewhere) so as long as your first winery stop is more than $39 you break even and then you come out ahead with each stop. The passes are good for a year so put them in the names of those who would use them again. Worth It? It could be but the downside to this plan is that there are very few wineries that will discount a large group so you can’t be too picky. Sterling, V Sattui, Beringer, all currently honor the pass and I can find you more if you reach out. In the end you’ll still have a great time and no one is going to complain about you saving them money. Here’s the link to buy the pass with my discount and then reach out to me and I’ll help you plan it.

TUK TUK TOUR: This might be my favorite way to host a bachelerette party. A Tuk Tuk is a three wheeled vehicle that is small enough to slip into the vineyards where you’ll sip wine in a private setting at wineries not open to the public and feast on a gourmet picnic that’s instagram ready. It’s an incredible experience an you will absolutely be the hero if you book this tour. Let me connect you so I get the small referral fee and again, it’s no extra charge to you and I’ll make sure they take really good care of you. And if you do happen to contact them directly please tell them Local Wally from Napa Tourst Guide sent you! Good karma coming your way! CLICK HERE TO FOR MORE INFO ON TUK TUK TOURS.

Beautiful food is what your bechelorette party deserves!

BOHEMIAN HIGHWAY TOURS: If you want pure luxury without the luxury price tag them reach out to me about booking the Bohemian Highway. Private tour of wineries that are not open to the public or who offer exemplary experiences away from the crowds, gourmet picnic lunch from a well known resort, all for a price that’s about the same as if you booked the vehicles and wineries yourself. They specialize on the Sonoma side but think of them as the type of company that can provide you with whatever you want. So same as the others, they do pay me a referral fee so please let me introduce you. Your fees are not impacted when you do and it really helps me keep the site running. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON THE BOHO TOURS

And Plenty of Other Options…

• Start your day with a class on how to make the perfect Irish Coffee. Held in downtown Napa and custom to your group, super fun and it definitely gets the party started.

• Do an electric bike tour - I’ll help you figure out the details and connect you with the best bike rental company

• Gott’s Refresher and wine? I can hook you up with a winery that can bring in gourmet burgers from Gott’s to go with your wine tasting.

• Private chef? Got you covered, just ask.

• Make your own floral bachelorette headbands? I’m not going to pretend I understand but I do have a winery that will set this up for you and it’s been quite popular.

• On a budget? I can help. No budget too small, I’ll help you get the biggest bang for your buck.

Good Morning America: Napa on a Budget 2024?

Photo by Greg Frediani, Napa Designated Driver

Good Morning, America!

Everyone is talking about inflation and rising prices everywhere, from fast food to housing costs. Somewhere in the middle is wine tasting, once a cheap way to escape reality but sadly not immune to price increases to the point where a day of tastings in Napa can set you back hundreds of dollars. Yikes!

But there is a way to still do NAPA ON A BUDGET. Long time fans of my website know that my site was founded in 2007 when I collected every coupon and discount to be found for Napa wine tasting and put them all on one page. Two for One’s, free tastings, great deals, it was what Local Wally was all about. As the years went by the free tastings dried up with coupons soon to follow. Tasting fees skyrocketed beyond what a normal person could afford and Napa went from a fun escape to a luxury experience.

The Priority Wine Pass to the Rescue

Right as the coupons and phone apps faded I met up with the Priority Wine Pass, the two for one pass that’s good in Napa, Sonoma, Paso, and other key wine regions, the next best thing to a free coupon. With the annual pass you get unlimited two for one tastings at their winery partners, saving you $30, $40, $50 at every stop. Since the pass is only $44 (my exclusive offer, lowest price offered at this time) you can easily break even at the first winery and then pocket the savings at every stop thereafter - for a full year.

Wait - GMA Said Visa Signature has BOGO Deals in Sonoma?

Right, Good Morning America just ran a little blurb on how to do Wine Tasting on a Budget and mentioned the BOGO deals on the Visa Signature Card. If you have one of these cards make sure you google the deals. But I wouldn’t go get the Visa card just for the discounts as you know what a slippery slope it is to get another card,. They also mentioned the Priority Wine Pass which is very cool but DIDN’T mention that you can get the $69 pass for only $44 if you get it from me, Local Wally. The link is below - I currently have the cheapest price for the Priority Wine Pass and am one of their original partners and can vouch that this is the pass you want. Most of the deals on the Visa Signature Card are also on the Priority Wine Pass PLUS you get free concierge service with the wine pass to help you plan out your wine tasting adventure stop by stop based on what type of wineries you are looking for (and what budget, that’s important!). The concierge service is worth it alone - try calling Visa and asking them to plan out your trip. Go ahead, try it.

More Wineries Coming Every Day in Both Napa and Sonoma!

The Covid bounce over, Napa is settling into its new normal - or should I say, back to it’s old normal where healthy competition for visitors is the name of the game. They know that a normal Napa visitor can only visit three or four wineries a day and they want to make sure that theirs is on your list. That’s why so many wineries are opting to be part of the Priority Wine Pass family, offering two for one discounts to get you through their front door and earn your repeat visits in the future. Of course it doesn’t hurt if you join their club or buy their wines but that’s all optional. Here’s the complete list of wineries on the Priority Wine Pass with more being added every week. Some of the new ones include:

• STERLING VINEYARDS: Newly reopened with a new tram, get a two for one and save $55. Self guided tour and stunning views at the top.

• V SATTUI: One of Napa’s most popular picnic spots with their onsite deli, now two for one, save $55.

• BEAULIEU VINEYARDS: BV is one of Napa’s most iconic wineries and just joined as two for one, save $55.

• RUTHERFORD RANCH: Another hugely popular winery with a great picnic area, two for one, save $55.

• CORNERSTONE: Love this lovely tasting room in Yountville and love them even more with a two for one, save $50.

There are so many new deals, too many to list here, so make sure you check the complete list before you arrive and remember that the Priority Wine Pass comes with FREE concierge service to help you plan out your trip. And I know the concierge very well - she’s my wife - and we work together to make sure that my readers get the very best trip and the biggest bang for their buck.

I guess I should tell you how to buy the pass - just CLICK HERE to get the pass with my discount. It should be $44, a normally $69 and the lowest price offered on the internet.

WOW! FLASH SALE ON THE PRIORITY WINE PASS. NORMALLY $69 BUT NOW JUST $39 DURING JULY 2024. GOOD FOR A YEAR SO BUY IT NOW, USE IT LATER!

Just a typical Local Wally experience, sipping wine and picnicking in the vineyards

More Than Just Wineries: E-Bikes and More!

Don’t forget that the Priority Wine Pass also has deals on Hot Air Balloon rides, the Napa Wine Train, E-Bike Tours, and even hotels. It’s really a no brainer and I’m guessing you have a brain if you got this far. So don’t overthink it, it’s only $44 so how wrong can you go if you break even at your first winery?

Drivers, Large Groups, Bachelorette Parties, Wally to the Rescue

A lot of people forget that you can’t drink all day and expect to drive very well. I’m perhaps stating the obvious but a DUI is a real drag if you are on vacation so don’t risk it and let me connect you with a driver. I work with all levels of drivers, from Designated Drivers who can legally drive your rental, drives who were once tour guides but have branched out to drive you in their vehicles, to party busses and limos and even large coaches for corporate events. Just reach out to me and I’ll hook you up.

And yes, I have friends all over Napa who love my bachelorette parties, corporate groups, wedding groups (pre and post wedding events). If you have a big event and need help just reach out - I don’t charge to connect you to my friends. Don’t try to figure it out on your own, just let me hook you up with wineries that have a long track record of taking very good care of my groups. I even have private luxury experiences that will take you to exclusive winery destinations and treat you like VIPs, but without the huge price tag, as well as connections for fun experiences like wine tasting in a Tuk Tuk (don’t know that that is, just ask me!) to private chef lunches in the vineyards. Hey, basically whatever you want I can at least point you in the right direction so don’t be shy as I’m happy to help. And really, when was the last time you could actually communicate with the guy who wrote the website?

Thanks for reading this far and don’t forget to reach out to me for free and honest advice to help make your Napa trip the experience of a lifetime.

PRIORITY WINE PASS FOR NAPA AND SONOMA: CHEAPER THAN GROUPON PROMO CODE 2024

SAVE $55 ON THE STERLING TRAM RIDE AND WINE EXPERIENCE USING A PRIORITY WINE PASS!

CHEAPER THAN GROUPON! PRIORITY WINE PASS JUST $39 ON NAPA TOURIST GUIDE!

Use the pass for two for one deals at popular wineries like Sterling, Clos Pegase, Beaulieu Vineyards, Raymond, discover cool boutiques with awesome wines, get discounts on the Napa Wine Train and hot air balloon rides, hotel deals, you really can’t come to Napa or Sonoma without it. That would be un-smart to pay full price when you can get half off, right? And you’re smart, I know you are.

pays for itself at your first stop!

With wineries now charging $35 to $55+ to taste - per person - a two for one pass that only costs $39 is a pretty sweet deal. And yes, this is THE CHEAPEST PRICE for the Priority Wine Pass you’ll find on the internet as of 5/2024. I go way back with the Priority Wine Pass and trust me when I tell you that you need this pass! Most people save at least a hundred bucks a day using it and it’s good for a year and good not only in Napa but Sonoma, Paso Robles, San Diego, Oregon, and many other wine areas.

here are all of the deals: click here!

New deals are being added weekly so keep checking back as you never know who will be popping on the pass. And guess what? When you buy the pass you also get FREE concierge service to help you plan it all out, stop by stop. Free. Yes, free.

Add a driver

Most people don’t drink and drive in Napa any longer (or at least they shouldn’t) so reach out to me if you want a discount driver. Combine that with a Priority Wine Pass and you just cant do Napa any cheaper! Just email me and I’ll connect you with a driver.

BEST New Winery Deals & Discounts in Napa and Sonoma on the Priority Wine Pass 2024

Incredible Artesa Winery in Napa - no reason not to go now that you can get a discount! Photo Credit: Artesa Winery

ARTESA WINERY: 20% OFF

Artesa is a celebration of the harmony between nature, art & architecture. It’s also one of the key locations in the Netflix movie “WINE COUNTRY” with Amy Poehler. Haven’t seen it? Then that’s on your agenda tonight, right after you book a reservation to Artesa Winery using the 20% off discount. Normally $65 per person, you’ll get two tastings for a bit over $100. Yes, yes yes! This stunning winery is worth it at full price but with the discount it’s a steal.

NEED A PRIORITY WINE PASS? get the lowest price on the internet right here!

To get all of the deals you’ll need one Priority Wine Pass per couple. Pay full price? Why?? Just use this link or click the button below that uses my PROMO CODE LOCALWALLY and you’ll get the pass for just $44, the lowest price on the internet. Use it all day (and all year, it’s good for 12 months). The more wine you drink the more you save - sounds good to me!

Ride the new tram (aka gondola) to the top of the mountain for stunning views and wines. Photo Credit: Napa Valley Register

STERLING VINEYARDS: 2 FOR 1, SAVE $55

If a little excitement and a big view is what you’re looking for in a winery then Sterling Vineyards is a MUST EXPERIENCE visit, especially now that you can save $55. You’ll ride in their new gondolas to the top of the mountain for a self guided tour which ends at a lavish observation deck with you holding a glass of wine. Is this a dream? If it is then dreams do come true and with a 2 for 1 it’s even better. Are you good at math? Then you know that just going to Sterling more than recoups the cost of the Priority Wine Pass.

Beaulieu Vineyards in Napa, one of the original wineries and now even better with a 2 for 1 deal. Photo Credit: Wine Spectator

BEAULIEU WINERY: 2 FOR 1 OFFER, SAVE $55

What a lovely place! In fact, it was so lovely that they named it Beau - Lieu, or BV for short. One of Napa’s oldest wineries, discover how the dirt influences the flavor of the wine (as in grown in dirt, not dirt in your wine) on their Discover Rutherford Dust experience, now 2 for 1 so you save $55. If you love cabs you are going to love this experience as much as your wallet will. Are you keeping score of all the money you are saving using the Priority Wine Pass??

Lovely Etude Winery, a hidden gem. Photo Credit: Napa Winery Project

ETUDE WINERY: 2 FOR 1, SAVE $40

For an elegant and relaxing tasting experience away from the crowds visit Etude Winery in the Carneros area in the southern tip of the valley. This hidden gem is close to Domaine Carneros, the famous “champagne” stop that everyone wants to make and not too far from Artesa Winery. Their Discover Etude is a nice overview of their wines with a keen focus on Pinots which are the specialty of wineries in this area. Bar tasting so you can experience their fine wines in a casual way while saving enough time to get another winery stop in :-)

Raymond’s Vineyards

Raymond vineyards: TWO FOR ONE, SAVE $50

Raymond’s vibrant main tasting salon offers expansive vineyard views and an elegant but whimsical environment. Your host will present several different wines from our portfolio that will delight both novice and experienced wine tasters. While visiting, don’t miss a walk through their Biodynamic focused Theater of Nature, explore The Corridor of Senses, and experience a winery like no other.

Brian Arden Winery in Napa

BRIAN ARDEN VINEYARDS, TWO FOR ONE, SAVE $55

Modern without being cold, Brian Arden is a hidden gem of a winery with a friendly staff and beautiful surrondings. Enjoy the upbeat and energetic atmosphere of their Tasting Room bar and gaze out the 30 foot windows into the Palisade Mountains. Weather and space permitting, your experience may be hosted on their spacious 10 foot wrap around patios.

Stroll the lovely grounds at Cline Family Cellars

CLINE FAMILY CELLARS: TWO FOR ONE, SAVE $25

At the south tip of Sonoma near Carneros is Cline Family Cellars, a winery with lushly landscaped grounds and outside wraparound patio that seems perfect for a relaxing visit with a glass of wine. I like this old style tasting experience, just come up to the bar and let them take you on a tasting tour of their various wines. It makes for a faster wine tasting experience, though I bet you won’t want to leave too soon as the gardens beckon. Two for one excludes Saturdays but just buy two bottles and they’ll waive your tasting fee.

Jacuzzi Winery impresses all!

JACUZZI FAMILY VINEYARDS: TASTE OF ITALY, 2 FOR 1, SAVE $30

Mind blown, this Italian villa is owned by the same people who make Jacuzzi’s?? And guess what, you can get their Taste of Italy experience which features a seasonal flight of Italian varietals accompanied by locally baked fresh bread with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dip, Two for One?? Do this one and Cline back to back as they are across the street from each other. Super beautiful winery that looks like you are back in Tuscany. Like Cline, the two for one excludes Saturdays but no worries, you’ll still get club pricing on the All'Italiana food and wine pairing experience.

Wellington Cellars in Glen Ellen

WELLINGTON CELLARS, GLEN ELLEN, 2 FOR 1, SAVE $30

It seems like the good old days are coming back with wineries like Wellington Cellars in Glen Ellen (north Sonoma) where you can just show up and walk up to the bar for a tasting experience - two for one! Afterwards buy a bottle of wine to savor the ambiance on their patio. So relaxing, so chill, a short drive north from Sonoma takes you to this experience and it’s worth the drive.

NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN DISCOUNTS & DEALS FOR 2024: IS THE WINE TRAIN WORTH IT???

Lunch aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train

New Deals and Discounts for the Napa Valley Wine Train in 2024!

It’s finally back! The Napa Valley Wine Train now is offering the following discounts for 2024!

LEGACY TOUR: Set out on a full-day Wine Train adventure, where every detail is one to savor, and each moment is one to remember. Delight in stunning sights, four courses of Valley-inspired fare, and exceptional tastings at Charles Krug and V. Sattui — all while riding in sophisticated style aboard fully restored Pullman rail cars. With ONE Priority Wine Pass you get $30 off each person, up to four people.

GOURMET EXPRESS LUNCH OR DINNER: Soak in the splendor of the Valley as you embark on a leisurely lunch ride, settling into traditional rail seating surrounded by elegant etched-glass partitions. Embrace a slower pace while aboard antique Pullman rail cars on a return trip from Downtown Napa to St. Helena. With ONE Priority Wine Pass you get $20 off each person, up to four people.

VISTA DOME LUNCH OR DINNER: Marvel at panoramic Napa Valley views from the second-floor observation-style Vista Dome car. As you pass rolling hills and rows of vines, indulge in a four-course lunch prepared and served onboard—personalized service, opulent furnishings, and a sophisticated ambiance complete this three-hour voyage. With ONE Priority Wine Pass get $25 off each person, up to 4 passengers.

Photo Credit: Napa Valley Wine Train

HOW TO GET THE NAPA VALLEY WINE TRAIN DISCOUNT DEAL

One Priority Wine Pass is all you need to get all of the discounts for up to four people. Plus the wine pass is good for a full year so if you’re here for more than a day you’ll want to use it again and again for deals all over Napa and Sonoma. What kind of deals? How about a two for one at Sterling where you’ll ride the tram to the top for one of the best views in the valley? Save $55 per couple with the Priority Wine Pass. Or how about a picnic at a winery nearby that looks a bit like a Monet painting with ponds and wooden bridges? Two for one, of course. There are plenty of other killer deals on the pass (and even a free concierge service to help you plan it all out) so get your pass here.

Is the Napa Wine Train Worth It?

OK, yes, the Napa Valley Wine Train can be expensive! But with these discounts it makes it all a bit more affordable. And hey, really, why not pocket the savings and buy yourself a nice bottle of wine? If sipping wine and dining on gourmet food on a vintage refurbished train is on your bucket list then you owe it to yourself to check that list before you, well, kick the bucket! The experience is luxurious and special, the sort of thing you might talk about for the rest of your life. So yes, it’s worth it, especially with the discounts. Remember, you only need ONE Priority Wine Pass to get the discount for up to four people so bring some friends to max out the savings.

Are you a local? Live in the Bay Area? Then for sure get the Priority Wine Pass for winery deals all over Napa and Sonoma (remember, the pass is good for a year) and then use it when mom and dad come to town to really impress them with a fun adventure. Mother’s Day? Valentines Day? Just about any reason is good enough to jump on the Napa Valley Wine Train. If you have any questions you can email me, of course!