Total Trail Miles: 35.8
Napa Valley represents multiple unique experiences but some of the wineries are harder to find than others. This trail is focused on wineries that offer something above and beyond the norm, make exceptional wine and are hidden from the rest.
Start the trail deep inside the rolling hills of Stags Leaps at Quixote. This whimsical estate sits on a small parcel of land at the foot of the Palisades and is arguably Napa's most significant architectural possession. Viennese painter, architect, ecologist and philosopher Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s eclectic earth sheltered structure is a wonderful representation of architecture without rules. Quixote produces one of Napa's best Petite Sirah.
Work your way back to The Trail and head north for about twelve and a half miles until your reach a signpost that reads 3242 Silverado Trail on the right. Boeschen Vineyards a very unassuming presence on the trail so you need to pay attention when approaching the winery. Founded in 1999 by the Boeschen Family, this beautiful small production winery is rich in history including a Victorian rose garden, 120-year-old Lady Banks rose vine and the oldest metal frame greenhouse on the west coast. Doug Boeschen makes elegant Bordeaux style reds and one of the valley's best Sauvignon Blanc from fruit grown on a picture perfect estate.
Continue north on The Trail, cross the floor at Bale Lane and head south until you reach the entrance to Bale Grist Mill State Park. Make a right and follow the directions provided by the winery upon reservation. Stony Hill has been producing unique white wine on the rocky slopes of Spring Mountain vineyard for the past sixty years and pours wine to taste 600 feet off the valley floor inside and out of the vintners home. The vibe up here is old school relaxed - the wine, exceptional. Stony Hill is a classic hidden gem.
Final stop - a unique section of Spring Mountain at the summit. Continue south on '29' until you reach Madrona Avenue in St. Helena. Make a right and then another at Spring Mountain Road, climb five miles before reaching a row of mailboxes at the Sonoma/Napa line. Make a right and look for the signs to each winery. Depending on reservation availability, choose one of three - Sherwin Family, Barnett or Smith Madrone. Each estate represents a unique interpretation of this rugged mountain wilderness but none will disappoint. Wildlife, views, water and great wine. Spring Mountain at its best.
Dine at Cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen (707) 963-1200
Boeschen | St. Helena AVA