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Tour Vin – New and Featured Napa Wine Bars

Published on: February 15th, 2017

Tour Vin just returned from a week-long trip to Napa Valley. You’ll be surprised and excited to learn that new wine bars are springing up everywhere in the downtown area! We will cover a few of the new venues here, but stay tuned to our future blogs and newsletters where we’ll continue to keep you updated on new hot spots.

Cru @ The Annex
Opened about five months ago, the Cru @ The Annex is conveniently located on McKinstry Street just a couple of blocks from the Westin Verasa Napa. Cru @ The Annex focuses on featuring excellent estate wines from Vineyard 29 as well as CRU, their second label. We enjoyed the wines in a very comfortable setting, and recommend pairing them with popcorn and/or cheese.

The Wine Thief
Close to The Annex is The Wine Thief, which showcases Modus Operandi (Tour Vin is in their club), Kale Wines, AJ Pearce Wine, G Wine Cellars, Delgadillo Cellars and Solamente. These folks offer customized wine flights for $20 or $30, as well as a sit-down experience that offers cheese and charcuterie for $60 per person.

Vintner’s Collective 
Housed in a building that was once a brothel, this wine tasting experience can be described as unique. There are about 30 wines offered at any one time, and private tasting experiences are offered on the second floor. Tour Vin tasted Hertelendy Vineyards, Azur and Buoncristiani Family wines, and they were excellent. Reservations are not required unless you prefer a private tasting.

Wines on First
A wine tasting collective across the street from Andaz Napa, Wines on First offers wines from Jean Edwards Cellars, Pure Cru Napa Valley and J. McClelland. This venue is a great place to enjoy an array of outstanding varietals without leaving your seat.

A special mention goes to Jean Edwards Cellars and Pure Cru Napa Valley for participating in the well-known Premier Napa Valley Auction!

Studio M Fine Wines
Also across the street from Andaz Napa, Studio M Fine Wines specializes in new, and/or highly allocated Napa Valley wines that are hard to find – unless of course you visit these folks! We highly recommend an appointment. Here are just a few of the wines you can enjoy while enjoying this wine bar: Anomaly, Arcudi, Bryant Family Vineyard, Ghost Block, Hundred Acre, Kistler, Screaming Eagle (bottle purchase only), Sine Qua Non, Vineyard 29, just to name a few.

There’s a lot going on in the Napa Valley – it can be hard to keep up with all the new additions and must-see venues and wineries. Give us a call! It’s our pleasure to help you plan your next Napa Valley getaway.

Cheers!
Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

 

 

Tour Vin Plans Corporate Events

Published on: November 21st, 2016

What better way to start the year than with an annual corporate kickoff event in Napa Valley? These outings are a great way to bring together management and key employees to share long term corporate strategy, as well as the annual business plans of the various business units and, most of all, to promote team work within the organization.

To ensure this outing is meaningful to all involved, it takes a lot of planning well in advance of the event. Now is the time to start thinking about 2017!

First, we need to consider a hotel that can accommodate the group and that offers all the amenities required to pull it off. The number of rooms to be booked is in direct correlation to the number of employees attending. Conference rooms are a requirement, and maybe a pool, spa services, a workout facility and a bar are important, too. Needless to say, reservations far in advance is critical.

Wineries – There are more than 500 wineries in Napa Valley and we know which ones will make the group’s wine tasting experience a memorable one. If, say, 20 folks would like to enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting, there is a good chance we would need to book a private event. What better way to encourage company bonding than over a glass, or bottle, of wine?

Restaurants – There are many options to consider when planning a group’s dining experiences, not the least of which are general culinary tastes. Perhaps a private room that can accommodate everyone away from the general crowd should be considered? Or, we may decide that a special menu would be a great way to accent the experience!

Activities – Fun activities abound in Napa Valley, including golf, hot air balloon rides, hiking and shopping. Everyone has a different idea of how to relax away from business sessions, and we can help planning these excursions as well!

Transportation – So, how do we transport a large group around the Valley? We have it covered! There are many excellent car services available to accommodate corporate groups. You’ll be surprised at the luxury cars used to make transportation around the Valley fun and relaxing.

We have planned corporate events before and know what is required to make these events successful and unforgettable. Contact us to help plan your company’s next retreat!

Cheers!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin’s Wine Concierge Business

Published on: October 25th, 2016

Your Napa Valley concierge, Tour Vin specializes in creating personal Napa Valley vacations for clients. We are proud to say you’ll never be offered a pre-packaged wine tour when working with us.

We have some big news! Tour Vin has recently expanded the brand by agreeing to represent four small production, boutique Napa Valley and Sonoma wineries in Orange County, California. Our retail focus is within small, well-known restaurants and wine bars that cater to locals who enjoy a combination of the food and wine experience.

The wineries we represent offer wine tastings by reservation only and the exceptional wines can be challenging to purchase. We are reaching out to our clients and friends to let you know that not only can we can facilitate a private tasting for you, but we can also respond to specific inquiries about these exclusive wines and how to obtain them for your own collection.

The four boutique wineries with which we are now associated include Jean Edwards Cellars, Modus Operandi, Webster Cellars and Zoetic Wines. Specific varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. These wines are handcrafted primarily by the winemaker/owner and are produced in limited quantities. If you would like to set up a private wine tasting or have questions about any of these wineries or the wines they produce, please contact us through our website at www.tourvin.net.

In other news, Napa Valley’s harvest has come to an end and the crowds have diminished, which makes this the perfect time to visit the area!

Cheers!
Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

 

Tour Vin – Exciting New Venues in Napa Valley

Published on: September 12th, 2016

We just returned from our trip to Napa Valley and wanted to update you on the venues we visited! We focused on a few of the new, hip wine bars and a new restaurant that offers many exciting options for our guests.

Wine Bars:

Cadet Wine & Beer Bar – Located in downtown Napa, this venue offers a casual spot to enjoy wine, beer, cheese and salami plates, or an excellent grilled cheese sandwich. We were there after 7 p.m. and this place was rocking!

Mark Herold Reserve Room – Another downtown wine bar that just opened, this venue serves highly rated wines to the public and tastings require advance reservations. Experience their Portfolio Tasting (current releases of their Cabernet Sauvignon), as well as the Chef’s Tasting (artisan bites paired with their wonderful wines).

JCB Tasting Salon & Atelier by JCB – This new venue in Yountville offers a tasting room, as well as a culinary experience. The private tasting area allows guests to enjoy the JCB wine collection and, right next door, you can nibble on fine cheese and charcuterie. We stopped in for a quick snack!

Restaurant:

Two Birds/One Stone – When you visit Freemark Abbey in St. Helena, make sure to stop in here for dinner. The restaurant showcases California cuisine and the menu features chicken meatballs, pork belly, king salmon, duck breast, Wagyu short rib and prawns. You will definitely enjoy the sweets, too – Kikori whisky, chocolate custard or peaches n’ cream. Reservations are a must!

Stay tuned for our newsletter later this month for more up-to-date information on what’s going on in Napa Valley. If you haven’t signed up as yet, click here!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin – 2016 Napa Valley Harvest

Published on: August 15th, 2016

It’s amazing how quickly time flies – the 2016 Napa Harvest is already under way! The first Napa Valley grapes were picked on July 28 in southern Napa to make Mumm Napa’s sparkling wine. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes will be harvested next over the next week. With the warm weather the consensus is that Harvest is occurring at about the same time as last year.

Also heard through the grapevine is that this year’s crop is expected to be larger than 2015’s, which is great news for the growers and hopefully for consumers as well! If you are touring Napa Valley within the next few weeks, you will see vineyard management in full swing: pruning vines, adjusting the canopy and resetting irrigation.

Be sure to book your trip early as large crowds develop the end of August through mid October. If you pick your wine venues carefully during harvest time, you can experience hand sorting of the grapes, grape pressing, the pump-over process and incredible cave tours. No doubt about it, this is where the action is at this time of year!

Hope you are enjoying the summer with a bottle of your favorite varietal! Cheers!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin – New Restaurants to Check Out in Napa Valley

Published on: July 18th, 2016

It’s not easy to keep up on Napa Valley’s new food venues. Fear not – Tour Vin has the scoop on all the current hot spots!

Starting in Calistoga, check out Johnny’s Restaurant & Bar (the old space was occupied by JoLe’s and Barolo) in the center of town. The restaurant offers seafood, steak and salads, while the bar offers charcuterie and oysters. So far, Johnny’s is receiving great reviews!

Do you remember the Fish Story space in downtown Napa? The original concept struggled, so now Basalt (opened in April) resides here and offers a California-based menu with influences from Spain, Mexico and Portugal. Small and big plates are available and include chicken, quail, black cod, pork tenderloin and ranch rib eye. You get the picture – many fantastic choices.

Two Birds/One Stone just opened and is conveniently located in the newly renovated Freemark Abbey Winery in St. Helena. Featuring California cuisine, you can enjoy Wagyu short ribs, prawns, duck breast, King salmon and more. As an aside, check out the new tasting room – we are hearing very good things!

JCB of Raymond Vineyards fame opened a tasting salon in Yountville. What is unique to this venue, named Atelier by JCB, is their offering of wine, cheese, caviar, seafood, charcuterie, pate, pasta, tea and coffee. Stop in while you are strolling through beautiful downtown Yountville.

Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter, which is published every other month. This month’s issue will cover additional restaurant venues, new wine bars and wineries.

Cheers!
Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

 

Tour Vin – Napa Valley Harvest Fun

Published on: June 25th, 2016

Planning ahead for your Napa Valley vacation during the annual harvest is a must! Usually occurring between August and October, the harvest sees vineyard workers busily preparing the vines for eventual harvest, which is coordinated by the winemaker. The goal is to pick grapes at their peak ripeness, also defined by the winemaker, and to begin the winemaking process.

Since these months are also within peak travel season, it is wise to plan your trip as early as possible. All wineries open to the public will, of course, offer wine tastings. The trick is to find those that also offer a behind the scenes look at the winemaking process and perhaps allow guests to experience a barrel tasting of a prior year’s harvest!

Another reason many folks travel to the Napa Valley is to enjoy the amazing dining experiences offered throughout the Valley. Many restaurants offer seasonal menus, a farm to table experience and amazing wine pairings to accompany your meal. Restaurants book up quickly this time of year (we just booked a party of eight for September!), so walk-ins will miss out.

Many guests also plan to use a car service for their daily trips up and down the Valley. Don’t wait! Early reservations are a must to secure a driver and this travel frill will surely enhance your overall wine tasting experience.

We at Tour Vin pride ourselves in checking out all venues (wineries, restaurants, hotels and B&Bs) to ensure our clients’ experiences meet their expectations. This extra effort allows us to provide information first hand, which not all concierge services offer.

Enjoy the summer and let us help you plan your next trip to Napa Valley!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin – Upcoming Napa Valley Events

Published on: May 16th, 2016

It’s time to get serious about planning your next trip to Napa Valley. Too early you say? Not really. Hotels, wine tasting events and restaurants are taking reservations for summer and fall. Tour Vin is already booking Napa vacations in September.

Here are a few events you don’t want to miss:

21^st Annual Taste of Howell Mountain (June 18) More than 40 wineries will be serving their wines all in one place. Enjoy food pairings, live music and auctions while meeting many of the locals who attend this wonderful event!

Festival Napa Valley (July 15-24) Start out with a 5K run and then indulge in the various lunch and dinner events held throughout the Napa Valley. Music and dance are a huge part of this weeklong event, so you don’t want to miss the Festival Gala at Meadowood Napa Valley!

Hotel and B&B Special Packages (ongoing) Packages are offered by many of the top hotels in the valley, especially if you book mid-week. Take advantage of wine tasting passes, incredible breakfasts, summer spa specials and resort credits.

Napa Valley has become a top vacation destination for those who enjoy food, wine and the outdoors. Don’t miss out on what the wine country has to offer!

Cheers!
Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin – Pawsport: A Pet Lover’s Weekend

Published on: April 24th, 2016

You want to plan a trip to Napa Valley, but can’t bring yourself to leave your favorite furry friend with the dog sitter? Tour Vin has a solution! Sign up for Pawsport, Napa’s only dog-friendly weekend, May 12-15 and bring man’s/woman’s best friend with you!

For a nominal fee, you can enjoy wine tasting at 17 of Napa’s finest wineries while your pet enjoys dog treats and mingling with other four-legged visitors. Also available are souvenirs for you and your pet.

A few of the participating wineries include: Clos Du Val, Cornerstone Cellars, Flora Springs, HALL, Hill Family Estate, Luna Vineyards, V. Sattui Winery and many more!

Contact us to help guide you through the maze of options!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge

Tour Vin: Visiting Wine Tasting Venues in Napa Valley

Published on: March 15th, 2016

We take pride on keeping up on what’s new and exciting in Napa Valley. We must visit all wineries before we recommend them to our clients. Here is a brief summary of what we recently discovered:

Joseph Phelps Vineyards reinvented the wine tasting experience – check out the digs. They now offer a lunch option and, of course, their wines are excellent!

First time for us at Ehlers Estate – a must stop if you love Cabernet Franc! These folks also offer a Sunday pastry and wine experience.

Looking for a behind the scenes education on how sparkling wine is produced? Check out Schramsberg Vineyards for a great tour paired with great wines.

First time for us tasting Jean Edwards Cellars wines. Stop by the Pure Cru tasting room in downtown Napa (you’ll be glad you did)!

It’s been a while since we visited Freemark Abbey Winery and the wines were still very good! The big story is the remodel to be completed mid year. Stay tuned!

 

One of our long time favorites is David Arthur Vineyards. As always, we were impressed with their wines and the views atop Pritchard Hill.

We had the privilege of tasting excellent Merlot with owner/winemaker Mike Anderson of MTGA Wines. Tastings are in the cave, standing over a barrel and barrel tasting a sample of the 2014. No question – I bought some!

Ever heard of Brilliant Mistake Wines? Contact us for this one – excellent wines, by appointment only!

Watch for our March newsletter to be published soon! Learn about our experiences with the places we stayed, places we ate, and more about wine tasting and Napa Valley news. Sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter by clicking here.

Cheers!

Ed Pollard
Tour Vin
Napa Valley Concierge