Come to the Del Dotto winery for an experience you won't forget. Historic wine caves, truly entertaining and knowledgeable guides, barrel tastings and many more delights will have you wanting to come back...soon.
This Italian-style estate winery is family-owned -- think small production/high quality. Although you'll find several varietals here, including cabernet franc, merlot, sangiovese, petit sirah and zinfandel, this winery is best known for cabernet sauvignon, grown in the Rutherford Estate Vineyards.
Three locations beckon visitors, so you have a choice to make.
Though often bustling with visitors on the weekends, the Del Dotto winery is nevertheless a must-do on your trip to Napa Valley.
Don't even think about visiting without taking the cave tour. You'll surrender to the intoxicating spell as you stroll through candlelit caves with piped-in opera music. It's a one-of-a-kind experience you'll tell your friends about.
Barrels line each side of the cave, which seems more like a long hallway. You'll get to sample several wines straight from the barrels -- with plenty of breadsticks along the way. You'll learn ... uh, I mean taste the difference between French oak barrels and American oak. Spoiler alert: French oak lends a smoother, silkier finish.
Friendly tour guides are super-knowledgeable and just plain fun to be around. Go ahead and ask questions -- the guides here are more than delighted to help you choose your favorite wines. You'll find the pours here to be generous, giving this winery the affectionate nickname Del Blotto.
Napa Historic Winery & Caves 1055 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, California 94558
St. Helena Venetian Estate Winery & Caves 1445 St. Helena Hwy. South, St. Helena, California 94574
Make a reservation for either winery: 707-963-2134
Tours and tastings are offered daily, by appointment only. You'll find driving directions on the winery's website www.deldottovineyards.com