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Somm says...
Insider Tips from our Founder / Certified Sommelier


Women in Napa Winemaking: A Spotlight on Priyanka D. French
Discover the growing influence of women in Napa winemaking and meet Ghost Block Estate Wines lead winemaker Priyanka D. French as she shares her journey, philosophy, and the evolving role of women shaping the future of Napa Valley wine.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Mar 234 min read


Hidden Mountain Escape - Fontanella Winery
Tucked into the scenic slopes of Mount Veeder, Fontanella Family Winery offers a peaceful mountain escape just minutes from downtown Napa. From estate Cabernet Sauvignon and the unique Per Sempre blend to an intimate Journey Tasting experience, this family-run winery showcases the character of Napa’s mountain vineyards. With the 2026 Napa Vine Pass, visitors can enjoy exclusive savings while discovering this hidden gem.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Mar 172 min read


Elevated Elegance At Gandona Estate High Above Napa
Perched on Pritchard Hill, Gandona Estate Winery blends Portuguese heritage with Napa Valley terroir. Enjoy private tastings of small-lot wines like Gandona Cabernet Sauvignon and Fraga do Arco, while taking in vineyard terraces and sweeping views.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Mar 12 min read


A Spotlight on St Helena Wineries
Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena offers a wine tasting experience that feels both timeless and effortlessly refined. From historic vineyards and century-old family estates to intimate tastings that celebrate sense of place, this storied appellation invites you to slow down, and sip thoughtfully.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Feb 95 min read


The Black Chicken Legacy from Robert Biale Vineyards
Robert Biale Vineyards in Napa’s Oak Knoll District offers a laid-back tasting experience rooted in history and heritage winemaking. Best known for its iconic Black Chicken Zinfandel, the winery showcases old-vine character, bold flavors, and balanced structure—making it a must-visit stop with the 2026 Napa Vine Pass.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Jan 13 min read


When Napa Wine Shocked The World
The day Napa wine shocked the world! May 24, 1976, the Judgment of Paris changed wine history, as a Napa Valley Cabernet shocked the world by defeating top French producers.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Jan 14 min read


Strolling Along The Silverado Trail
Quietly tracing Napa Valley’s eastern edge, the Silverado Trail is a favorite for those in the know. Home to boutique wineries and hidden gems, this historic route invites Vine Pass holders to slow down, explore thoughtfully, and unlock exclusive tasting experiences that showcase the depth, character, and winemaking pedigree that define Napa Valley.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Dec 1, 20253 min read


Explore An Iconic Napa Winery -- Trefethen Family Vineyards
Discover one of Napa Valley’s most historic family-owned wineries at Trefethen Family Vineyards in the Oak Knoll District. Learn about their Collectors Cabernet Experience and how visitors can save $25 with the 2026 Napa Vine Pass, plus a review of their 2021 Estate Malbec.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Dec 1, 20252 min read


Meet the Oak Knoll AVA: Napa's Best Kept Secret
Nestled just north of the city of Napa, the Oak Knoll District is one of the valley’s most quietly exceptional AVAs, a place where moderation defines the climate, balance defines the wines, and hospitality defines the experience.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Nov 23, 20254 min read


A Day in Yountville: Breakfast, Bottles & Boutiques
A Day in Yountville: Breakfast, Bottles & Boutiques! Plan the Ultimate Wine-Country Day With the Vines of Napa Vine Pass

Jeff Arnold, CS
Nov 13, 20253 min read


Meet the Carneros AVA: Where Cool Climate Meets World-Class Wine
Discover the Carneros AVA where cool coastal breezes, morning fog, and rolling vineyards create some of the most elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in Napa Valley. In this guide, we explore two standout stops, Hyde Vineyards and Saintsbury Winery, plus a delicious lunch at Boon Fly Café.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Nov 7, 20253 min read


Save Money with a Napa Valley Wine Passport
Save on Napa wine tastings with the Vines of Napa VINE PASS, your Napa Valley wine passport for exclusive winery discounts and tasting deals.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Oct 14, 20252 min read


Guide to Napa Wine Varietals - Napa Valley Wine Pass Tips
Understanding the basics of Napa’s famous wine varietals is the first step toward a truly memorable tasting experience.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Sep 16, 20255 min read


The Timeless Beauty of Napa Valley’s Wine Country
Few destinations embody the charm of wine country quite like Napa Valley wine country. Nestled in Northern California’s rolling hills, this world-renowned region is celebrated for its vineyards, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Sep 4, 20252 min read


It’s Almost Harvest Time in Napa Valley
As the golden days of August begin to wind down, a quiet excitement pulses through the rows of vines stretching across Napa Valley.

Jeff Arnold, CS
Aug 19, 20253 min read


Welcome to Vine Pass Napa Wine Passport
Welcome to VINE PASS Napa Wine Passport! 23 wineries. One Pass. Endless Memories!

Jeff Arnold, CS
Jul 21, 20252 min read
Napa Valley Wine Blog
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