Wine Wednesday - Napa Valley Wine Train
We’ve been to Napa a handful of times now that my mom has been living in California for the last 5 years. Every time we’ve visited, it is hard to miss the large vintage train that runs up and down the streets of Napa. The Napa Valley Wine Train is of course, a big tourist attraction, and one you shouldn’t miss.
We signed up for the Ambassador Tour, a three course dining experience with two stops at select wineries. The train itself was spectacular, restored 20th century cars, all vintage. The brass accents, mahogany paneling and the elegant interiors that they have completely restored to reimagine and hold onto that railcar feel.
We weren’t sure what we would be in store for during our train food experience, but it was nothing short of fabulous with a seasonal menu and all locally grown!
Our first course was a mixed green salad with goat cheese (my all time favorite) and roasted grapes. The other option was a delicious French onion soup with a toasted baguette. Naturally, we wanted to take it all in, so we ordered both and shared!
For the second course, we both ordered the special selection. A grilled salmon entree with fig, sweet corn, and macadamia nuts.
For the third course they moved us to the “Dessert Car” where we were treated to coffee and two delicious dessert options, lemon pound cake and a chocolate mousse with caramel drizzle.
After our gourmet meal, we got off the train and were shuttled to our first winery, Charles Krug Winery. Charles Krug was home to the first wine tasting room, as it is the oldest winery in Napa. The outdoor space was very welcoming with picnic tables and a Monday-Thursday pizza kitchen. The winery itself has been named a historical landmark and they have kept all of its special characteristics.
The second winery we went to was Raymond Vineyards. It is whimsical, has very eccentric decor and a flamboyant flare. We started the tour in their biodynamic garden with their 2017 Estate Collection Chardonnay, which led to a purchase of two bottles.
Next, we moved onto an area that had my dog-mom heart beating fast, a kennel designed after his beloved French Bulldog, Frenchie. The next wine had artwork of Frenchie on the label, named Frenchie Coronation. The artwork didn’t stop on just the label, but covered the kennel area and throughout the winery.
After, we moved into the tank room with neon chandeliers, mannequin women dressed in leather with feathery boas hanging from the ceiling, tons of mirrors and cheetah print!
At the end of our experience a private shuttle brought us back to the station in beautiful downtown Napa. In walking distance to lots of restaurants and shops, including Oxbow Market. We can’t stop talking about this incredible experience and definitely recommend the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Website: www.winetrain.com
Address: 1275 Mckinstry Street, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: 800.427.4124 / 707.253.2111
Reservations: Book online or by phone
Duration: Several options ranging from 2 hours to 6 hours
Fees: Vary by experience $199 - $450 per person
Cancellation Policy: 72 hour advance notice
Have you taken the Napa Valley Wine Train? Please comment below and share your experience!
If you are planning a trip to Napa and would like information on where to stay, eat, and sip wine, check out our Napa Valley Guide, 6 Steps to Planning a Trip to Napa Valley.
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