Harvest time in Napa Valley is a crucial time. But it’s not all work and no play. Even though the residents are focused on bringing in a successful 2019 crop, Napa Valley wineries and vineyards open their businesses to visitors to join in the flurry of activities. Hands-on tours, grape stomping, and a Napa Valley balloon ride have become traditional activities for visitors to the area in the fall.
Welcome to Napa Valley Harvest 2019!
Besides tasting delicious wines, autumn is a great time to learn more about the wine making process and get up close and personal with the process. Many wineries open their facilities to guests to pick, stomp, create, bottle, cork and label. In many instances, because of the busy season, you will need to schedule your “hands-on” activities in advance.
“Winemaker for a Day”- Raymond Vineyards
For 90 minutes, individuals can experiment with making three different blends from four different varietals. You will bottle and cork your favorite blend and have your personal label attached.
Photo: Raymond Vineyards
“Day in the Life of a Winemaker” – Round Pond Estate
Enjoy an authentic educational experience as the Round Pond Estate winemaking team takes you through the activities at the crush pad into the barrels. The orientation is followed by an artisan lunch under the Estate’s pergola.
Grape Stomping
For those who wish to become intimately involved with the harvest, guests are invited to hop into the barrel and participate in the Grape Stomp. Many wineries have a specific date in which they are offering this – Conn Creek Winery’s event is October 19. Other wineries like Grgich Hills Estate offer grape stomping every day during harvest!
Photo: Grgich Hills Estate
Grape Sorting, Destemming, and Pressing – V. Sattui Winery
Learn about and engage in the steps that take the grapes from the field to the winery. The production staff will answer any questions about their winemaking process.
“Bottle Blending Day Camp” – Judd’s Hill Winery
Following your morning Napa Valley balloon ride, head to Judd’s Hill Nursery for additional training in the art of winemaking. You will receive tasting and bottle blending instruction and then let loose to blend your own masterpiece from four Bordeaux-style components. Your personal creation will be bottled, corked, labeled and sent home with you to enjoy with family and friends.
Begin Your Day with a Napa Valley Balloon Ride
Take advantage of the great weather and the incomparable views with a hot air balloon California ride. Enjoy Napa Valley from a different perspective as you gracefully float above the communities and vineyards of the Valley.
We at Balloons Above the Valley are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience as you soar above the remarkable Napa Valley scenery with a stunning mountainous backdrop.
Check out our website for information and to make reservations for one of our packages that also include a gourmet brunch and wine tour.
Phone Balloons Above the Valley for information about a Napa Valley balloon ride for family or friends at +1.800.464.6824.