A Hidden Gem for Families in Napa Valley: The Best Boutique Winery Near St. Helena

There are endless wine tasting possibilities in Napa Valley, but if you don’t get off the main drag, you’ll miss some of the best experiences in my opinion. Sure it’s fun to pop into the well known names and massive productions, but it’s not the quiet retreat of tasting in a boutique winery, where the owner might drive up in a truck and stop to chat.

One of my favorites stops is Failla (FAY-LA), a family-friendly wine tasting experience just outside of Saint Helena. Whether you experience wine tasting inside the quaint and collected space, or sip outside in one of the thoughtful lounges, this winery is truly a spot to unplug and soak in the off the beaten path wine culture of Napa.

I recently stopped by mid-week with my baby and a girlfriend for a laid back late morning pour. Never did I image this would be my life in wine country, but I grew up admiring and wishing for a European lifestyle, and I’d say this is probably as close as you can get to it, without living overseas. So it tracks that this is where I’d find myself after years of daydreaming of that life.

If you find yourself on that path as well, then I know this is a spot you’d love too. All of the wine is exceptional, but I brought home a couple bottles of their Chardonnay. I hope you try it! And let me know what you think.

 

Local Insider Tip: Pick up Sandwiches before or after your tasting at Sunshine Foods Market in Saint Helena and picnic at Crane Park while the little ones explore.