Founded in 1972 by French-born John Goelethires Bernard Portet, the Clos du Val winery is infused with Bordeaux influences. From the ivy-covered building to the red roses that mark the end of each grapevine row, this place is filled with French country charm.
There is so much to love here. Clos du Val offers refreshingly down-to-earth wine tastings and tours. And, you have so much to experience... reserve a private cabana, have a picnic in the vineyard, and savor the gorgeous views.
With 150 acres of vineyards in Stags Leap District and 180 acres in Carneros, this winery produces a good variety of wines, most notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir.
Best known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Clos du Val gets high ratings for this dependably rich, elegant and complex wine. Wine Enthusiast magazine calls it "A joy to drink," and I agree. Give it a whirl in the wonderfully rustic tasting room (formerly a fermentation chamber, it has soaring ceilings). Or try a wine-and-cheese pairing under a private cabana with a few friends.
Here's a recent review for this stellar Cab:
You have lots of tour and tasting options here. Wine tastings can be customized to please your palate. Want a romantic wine tasting for just the two of you? Call to reserve a table for two in the vineyard and get ready to wow that special someone with wine, cheese, chocolate and roses. C'est magnifique.
Clos du Val winery offers refreshingly down-to-earth wine tastings and tours. Reserve a private cabana, have a picnic in the vineyard, and explore this charming ivy-covered winery.
You have several options for your visit (this is just a small sampling). Check the website for current offerings and to book your reservation.
Get up close and personal. Clos du Val is small, offering an intimate look at a real working winery. It's friendly, too. You'll be warmly welcomed here and -- if you choose -- you can tour the beautifully landscaped grounds and even walk right into one of the vineyards with your guide.
Play pétanque, the French version of bocce ball on the property's own court in front of the winery. It's anybody's game. If you have your heart set on playing, it's a good idea to reserve the court ahead of time.
Rent a cabana by the hour for up to 8 guests. Take your favorite vintage outdoors and enjoy it from your own private cabana. You'll relax while sipping and savoring the picturesque views of the Stags Leap vineyards.
Have a picnic. Clos du Val is one of the few wineries in Napa Valley that will allow guests to bring their own lunches onto its grounds. Don't bring your own bottle though -- picnics are for customers only. Tables and chairs fill up fast, especially on the weekends, so call ahead to reserve your spot.
Open daily 10am - 5pm. The winery is closed for the big holidays. Check the winery's website for the latest schedule. Make reservations for all tours and tastings.