Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a town that embodies the spirit of wine country. With a balance of historic estates, boutique vineyards, and innovative tasting experiences, the best wineries in St. Helena offer something for every palate and travel style.
St. Helena blends old-world heritage with cutting-edge winemaking. It’s home to some of the most iconic names in Napa Valley, but also smaller family-run producers focused on sustainable practices and estate-grown fruit. Its walkable downtown and vineyard-studded surroundings make it one of the most enjoyable towns for wine exploration.
To make the most of your visit, aim for weekdays or shoulder seasons (spring and late fall). Many of the best wineries in St. Helena require advance reservations, but the smaller crowd size often allows for more intimate and personalized tasting experiences.
Hall Wines St. Helena offers a sleek, modern tasting room paired with serious Cabernet Sauvignon. Art lovers will appreciate the curated collection of large-scale installations throughout the grounds, and wine lovers will enjoy their signature "Platinum Experience" or outdoor tastings overlooking the vineyards.
V. Sattui Winery is a popular stop for both first-timers and return visitors. With its stone buildings, picnic grounds, artisan deli, and extensive tasting flights, it’s perfect for groups or casual wine lovers looking for a lively atmosphere and approachable wines.
Beringer Vineyards is the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa and a National Historic Landmark. Their Rhine House estate offers an elegant backdrop for tastings, while cave tours and reserve experiences highlight the winery's deep roots in Napa history.
Spottswoode Winery is a family-owned estate known for its limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. The property is organically farmed, and tastings (by appointment only) are intimate, educational, and set against a picturesque garden backdrop.
Clif Family Winery offers a laid-back yet refined tasting room right on Main Street in downtown St. Helena, a short walk from the core downtown shops. Known for their small-production wines and commitment to sustainability, Clif Family also offers unique seasonal food pairings from their Bruschetteria food truck. Tastings can be booked in advance, but walk-ins are often welcome—making it one of the most convenient and approachable wine stops in town.
Many wineries in St. Helena now require appointments. Booking in advance ensures access to reserve tastings and helps avoid scheduling issues, especially during weekends or harvest season.
Great lunch options include Gott’s Roadside and The Station for quicker, more laid-back fare—perfect for a relaxed stop between tastings. For a sit-down meal with a more upscale experience, Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch and Charter Oak are excellent choices with menus that pair beautifully with local wines. All are within minutes of the top wineries and offer menus that pair well with Napa wines.
Whether it's your first time in Napa or you're a seasoned wine traveler, visiting the best wineries in St. Helena is always rewarding. For a truly unforgettable start to your day, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons before your first tasting—offering sweeping views of the vineyards and mountains that set the tone for a one-of-a-kind wine country experience.
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal for wine tasting in St. Helena. You’ll enjoy vineyard activity, comfortable weather, and seasonal food pairings, without the crowds.
Most wineries in St. Helena require reservations, especially for seated tastings or reserve pours. Some offer walk-ins on weekdays, but it’s always best to call ahead or book online.
Yes. While many wineries are just outside of town, a few tasting rooms and boutique producers are walkable from downtown, including Clif Family Winery and ACME Fine Wines.
