Discover the cozy charm of winter in Napa Valley
Enjoy crackling fires, wine tastings, and breathtaking views
You'll find a tranquil escape in winter in Napa Valley, with fewer crowds, picturesque vineyard views, and cozy tasting room experiences.
December, January, and February see fewer crowds at the most popular wineries and restaurants.
It's the time to enjoy intimate wine tastings, scenic hot air balloon rides, and indulgent spa treatments amidst the serene beauty of the valley.
Winter Weather in Napa Valley
Winter is the rainiest and coolest time of year in Napa Valley. But keep in mind, it's still California, and it's much more comfortable than the cool climate of many other places. Average high temperatures are upper-50s to lower-60s Fahrenheit.
The Mediterranean climate of Napa Valley usually brings rainfall in the winter. The rain is variable each year, some years bringing less rain than others. When it's not raining, the sun is warm and the skies are clear.
Insider Tip: Even if it rains, you'll only need a medium-weight, waterproof jacket or an umbrella. Be sure to pack boots or comfortable shoes for winery tours.
DEC
58°F
39°F
9 days
JAN
58°F
40°F
9 days
FEB
63°F
42°F
8 days
Winter Events
in Napa Valley
What are the best wines to drink in the Winter?
Cabernet Sauvignon! Its bold and rich flavors, often accompanied by notes of dark fruits and spices, make it the perfect companion for cozy winter evenings by the fireplace or hearty winter meals.
Ultimately, though, you should drink the wine you enjoy! If you prefer a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, then sip it year-round!
Things to Do in Winter
in Napa Valley
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"Wine-d Down" at the Top Spas in Napa Valley
Spa therapy is perhaps one of the best ways to wind down and rejuvenate. Time for you…that elusive opportunity for self-care that rarely seems to happen as often as it should. The new year often provides the motivation to seek such grounding,…
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Best Scenic Drives of Napa Valley
Do you really know Napa Valley if you haven’t explored the back roads of Napa County? Spring is such a beautiful time of year in the valley to slow down and cruise the path less traveled, so pack some snacks, grab a cooler, and hop in your car…
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Calistoga's Hot Springs & Mineral Pools
One of the hidden secrets of Napa Valley is its naturally occurring mineral hot springs in Calistoga. Powered by geothermal and volcanic activity, these mineral hot springs were discovered over 8,000 years ago. The earth's heat from below the…
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Calistoga’s Unique Mud Baths
The town of Calistoga, at the north end of Napa Valley, offers some of the world's best mud bath spa experiences. The reason for their renowned reputation is the special mixture of mineral-rich mud found only in Calistoga, the long history of…
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Most Romantic Places to Stay in Napa Valley
Cozy or spacious, boutique or resort-like, Napa Valley accommodations are well-appointed, beautiful, comfortable, and oh-so-romantic. Perhaps you celebrate love with a quiet weekend for two or maybe your idea is more rooted in an indulgent time with…
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Napa Valley Holiday Gift Guide
The season of merriment and holiday gift giving is upon us. Be inspired by this curated list of online gift sets and boutique shops in Napa Valley. With an array of outstanding and unique items, experiences, goods, and services, a gift from Napa…
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Napa Valley Rainy Day Plans
Sure, wine country is beautiful in summer when the sun is shining and the sky is blue. But winter in Napa Valley is also surprisingly serene and fun, even when it’s pouring down rain. Rainy days simply nudge you to double-down on cozy and…
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Napa Valley’s Most Romantic Boutique Inns
Napa Valley is ready for romance all year round, with a natural beauty, slower pace, and focus on hospitality. And there’s nothing like an intimate boutique inn to heighten the sense of privacy and just-the-two-of-us. Here are some of Napa…
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The Best Places to Curl up by a Fireplace
Though our winters are milder than in many places, here in the Napa Valley we still love to cuddle by a fire when there’s a chill in the air (for us, that’s anywhere south of 60°). And there’s no lack of opportunity –…
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The Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is the perfect location for a romantic getaway, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. With its exquisite wine, gourmet cuisine, luxurious spas, and relaxing hotels, it provides the ideal backdrop to celebrate with your special…
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Where to Stay in Napa Valley this Holiday Season
Home away from home for the holidays. In Napa Valley, the experience can be as cozy or as luxe as you wish and, depending on your idea of the quintessential idea of the holiday season, here in Napa Valley, there is a perfect spot to call…
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Winery Cave Tours & Tastings in Napa Valley
Above-ground tasting rooms aren’t the only formal places to sip wine in Napa Valley. Many wineries also offer caves for tasting experiences. These caves serve dual purposes – they are cool and humid locations to store wine while it ages…
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Hot Air Balloons
Hot air ballooning is one of the most adventurous and inspiring ways to appreciate Napa Valley's lush, rolling hills wine country, and the breathtaking countryside
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Michelin-Rated Restaurants
A hallmark of fine-dining quality, the prestigious Michelin stars have found homes in several of our restaurants. The food here is inspired, progressive, and absolutely delicious.
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Spas & Wellness
Napa Valley offers a variety of pampering packages, from half-day treatments to full-day spa circuits, from massages to a mineral hot springs bath
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Wine Tasting Rooms
Otherwise known as urban wineries, downtown tasting rooms offer similar wine-sampling experience as a winery, just without the production facilities or vineyards onsite
Napa Valley
Inspiration
What to Pack and Wear in Napa Valley
What to Pack and Wear in Napa Valley
So you've planned the ultimate Napa Valley vacation, now you need to figure out what to pack and how to prep for days filled with world-class wines, vineyard-view hikes, and farm-fresh cuisine. Here are a few travel tips and some ideas for what you should have in your suitcase, no matter the season.
Wine Tastings $50 and Under
Wine Tastings $50 and Under
Several Napa Valley wineries offer great wine tasting introductions for a relatively approachable price. We’ve pulled together a list of wineries, tasting rooms, and wine shops with tasting fees at $50 or under to help guide you on some affordable wine tasting options. While there are many reasons