There’s something magical about California wine country, it’s hard to explain. A combination of excitement, happiness and relaxation, all at the same time. A visit to Davis Estates evokes all of those emotions.

We booked the Terrace Food and Wine Pairing, pictured above. Imagine, sitting on a beautiful terrace that looks out onto a huge patio with hanging sofas begging you to come sit and swing, while a chef creates the most delicious bites for you to sample with some amazing wine. I could not ask for a more perfect afternoon .

We arrived a little early and greeted with a friendly smile from our host and a glass of sauvignon blanc. We were welcomed inside and seated at a table set with multiple wine glasses and a menu of what to expect for our tasting.

The chef prepared four small food plates for us to taste while enjoying the Davis Estates collection of current release wines. We started with creamy spring leek bisque that had just a hint of dill, paired with a 2014 Chardonnay. This soup was so delicious that we asked if we could have the recipe. The chef kindly shared it, you can find it here.

Our second tasting was “Banh Mi” crostini, pork rillete and pickled carrot, paired with 2015 Merlot. I’m a Merlot fan, I know not everyone is, but give this one a try. It is very good.

Next we tasted the most delicious mushroom risotto made with Maitake / Hen of the woods mushrooms that were roasted in olive oil, salt and pepper. This was perfectly paired with the 2016 Cabernet Franc.

Our last dish, prime beef tenderloin, sautéed and served with black truffle demi-glace. We took our time and enjoyed this slowly with their 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, excellent.

Note: When making our appointment, we mentioned that one member of our party did not eat meat. It was not a problem, the chef graciously prepared vegetarian samples including home-made pasta. As a courtesy, be sure to call ahead and notify them of any dietary restrictions.

The winery is family owned and operated by the Davis family, who purchased the property in 2011. They created an estate with the perfect combination of rustic Napa charm and modern aesthetics and technology.

Let’s start with the rustic Napa charm. The historic property, located in Calistoga, Napa Valley, features a refurbished barn, vintage John Deere tractor and jukebox.

It’s just the place to relax and enjoy some of the Davis Estate flagship wines. This space can be rented out for family gatherings or corporate events.

As we continued our tour, we were guided underground, where there is 11,000 feet of caves. We had the special treat of tasting wine directly from the barrel.

Among the wine barrels and long corridors, the Davis family showcases their extensive art collection.

Here, modern technology and aesthetics are embraced. Fermentation tanks are controlled with i-Pads and the highlight of the tour, the Phase V cave with metal doors opened with an inferred palm scanner.

Inside the caves, is a private room called the Library. For a truly exceptional tasting, book the Library Cellar experience. This is where you get to taste the premier Davis Cabernets, by winemaker Cary Gott and the exclusive Phase V wines crafted by Philipe Melka.

Our visit to Davis Estates concluded with a final walk around the estate taking photos and drinking more fabulous wine. We loved it so much we joined their wine club and look forward to enjoying the many perks that come with membership.

If you are planning a trip to Napa, we highly recommend Davis Estates. Call in advance to secure one of their fabulous tasting experiences and plan additional time to spend lounging on the patio taking in the view.

Tell them SippnSunshine sent you.

Winery: Davis Estates

Address: 4060 Silverado Trail, Calistoga CA 94515

Phone: (707) 942-0700

Visiting Hours: 10am - 4pm

Reservations: Required, must call in advance.

Tasting Fee: $60 - $225 per person

Duration: 45 minutes - 120 minutes

Website: davisestates.com

Cancellation Policy: 48 hours in advance

Our Experience: Terrace Wine & Food Pairing

You can view and purchase Davis Estates wines here.

Please drink responsibly.

Check out our Beginners Guide to Napa.

You can find more Wine Wednesday posts here.

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