Monday Musings: A Napa Winter Getaway Reset
After the glitter, the gift wrap, and the sheer “December-ness” of life, we did what any sensible family does once the holidays wind down…we escaped. My husband, daughter, and I headed north to Napa for a quick reset. Even though we’ve lived in California for years, we’re guilty of treating Napa like a “someday” destination simply because it’s always there. This time, someday finally arrived, offering three days of new scenery and the rare luxury of a blank to-do list.
We stayed at a resort that…how shall I put this kindly…was not exactly charming. Think massive concrete compound meets Wine Country Disneyland. Would we rush back? Probably not. But it was affordable, central, and we weren’t there to critique architecture. We were there to relax. And relax, we did.
Our first night, we headed to the RH Tasting Lounge in Yountville, which is every bit as gorgeous as you’d expect with soaring ceilings, enormous chandeliers, and a dreamy terrace with a fireplace that makes you want to move in permanently.
MOISSANITE EARRINGS / EYEGLASS FRAMES / VEST FROM MY WARDROBE ARCHIVE
I wore my faux-leather pants, a cozy black turtleneck, comfortable retro sneakers, and my old-as-the-hills, faux shearling vest. I layered on a few necklaces and called it done. When your feet hurt, you do what you can to not slip on wet pavement and look your best.
We shared three flights…white, red, and Cabernet…because moderation looks a little different for us now than it did years ago. We loved our sommelier.
He was knowledgeable, relaxed, and incredibly generous with his expertise. He helped us map out our itinerary for the next few days, which was a lifesaver, given we’d booked almost everything last-minute. Sometimes, it really does pay to just ask the person who knows what they’re talking about.
Dinner that night was at Bottega, and I am still thinking about the shaved Brussels sprout appetizer. I may or may not attempt to recreate it at home. Results are firmly TBD.
The next morning was devoted entirely to the spa. We all opted for hot stone massages, and my husband even braved his very first facial, aptly named the “Caveman Facial.” I’ll say nothing more, except that he emerged looking refreshed and slightly confused, which felt exactly right.
We settled on two tastings per day, which turned out to be our “sweet spot.” Over the last few years, we’ve significantly cut back on wine for the sake of health and sleep, but the ritual of tasting is still a joy…especially when the wine is world-class, and the Napa scenery is doing its thing in the background.
Before heading into Napa proper, we detoured to downtown Healdsburg for lunch and a little retail therapy. The boutiques there are dangerous, but I’m calling my find a win. The sale rack was swarming with shoppers, but I managed to snag a pretty little Celine wallet for 50% off… note the smile above.
SHEARLING LINED BIRKENSTOCK CLOGS / SIMILAR HAT / SIMILAR PANTS
Our tasting journey took us from the beautiful boutique grounds of Ehlers Estate to the Mayacamas tasting room in downtown Napa. We capped the night at Waterfront Seafood Grill for an early dinner. We are now firmly in our “back at the hotel by 9:00 PM” era, and honestly? We love it here.
Day two began at Matthiasson, an organic, rustic winery that felt wonderfully grounded. We sat on the terrace overlooking the vineyards, listening to birds while we sipped. They have birdhouses—and even an owl house—scattered across the property; their focus on integrating local flora and fauna was a lovely reminder that wine, at its heart, is simply agriculture.
From there, we transitioned to the striking architecture of Cuvaison. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlooking rolling green hills, it was the perfect backdrop for a few of our favorite Chardonnays. It was a flawless final tasting before our last dinner in town—all via cab, of course, because we are nothing if not responsible.
Napa reminded me that you don’t need a week-long itinerary—or even a perfect hotel—to feel refreshed. Sometimes you just need a pause, a change of scenery, and time with the people you love. (Preferably with a world-class Brussels sprout appetizer thrown in.)
We often wait for the “perfect” time to rest, but if I learned anything this week, it’s that the reset happens in the pause, not the planning. I hope you find your own version of a blank to-do list this week, even if it’s just for an afternoon. We all need a little more “someday” in our right now.
The Napa Reset: A Quick Reference
- The Vibe: Relaxed, intentional, and schedule-free.
- Where to Sip: * RH Tasting Lounge (Yountville): For high-end design and incredible fireplaces.
- Ehlers Estate: Beautiful boutique experience.
- Matthiasson: Organic, grounded, and perfect for bird-watching while you sip.
- Cuvaison: Stunning glass architecture and rolling green hills.
- Where to Eat: * Bottega: Order the shaved Brussels sprout appetizer (trust me).
- Waterfront Seafood Grill: Great for an early, high-quality dinner.
- Pro Tip: If you’ve been putting off a local trip, stop waiting. The best time for a reset is usually right now.
The trip looks great and very relaxing. But if I have one thing to say to everyone…don’t put things off! My husband had a major cardiac arrest just before Christmas and sadly never recovered. He was only 76. He passed away just 5 days before our 43rd anniversary. So enjoy your loved ones and don’t take time with them for granted!
Oh no Andrea! I’m so terribly sorry to hear about your husband.Sending prayers and best wishes to you. xox
Love your posts. You are living life to the fullest – so jealous. Your posts give me hope and inspiration
That sounds like the perfect trip. Sometimes a little time away can reset everything. Makes me really want to go to the Napa Valley.
You look so relaxed! The break was obviously good for you.
Welcome to our neck of the woods. Next time you go to Healdsburg may I make some suggestions. Appellation has just opened and the food and rooms are wonderful. On the square for shopping Susan Graff’s bring $$$ but she has beautiful clothing for men and women. I recently snagged a pair of her famous Bogner slacks usually $450.00 for $100.00 off the sale rack! The Matheson Roof Top is one of our favorite spots for lunch or dinner. Try the chefs choice menu. For wineries on the square Hartford has hands down the best wine and hospitality. Off the square for more views try some of the Wilson wineries ( membership in one gives you access to all 13!) We like to get sandwiches and drive out to one depending on the weather just to get out of the house. Cheers!
Your suggestions sound perfect!! Healdsburg is so gorgeous. You are a very lucky lady.
We honeymooned in Northern California 40 years ago and visited Napa. It was very low-key then and beautifully rustic. We also saw the location where the then-TV show “Falcon Crest” was being filmed! Much smaller scale in real-life.
Jennifer, you look so stylish in your hats! Can you give us some tips on hats? Finding the right style, how to deal with bangs when wearing a hat, and matching the color of the hat with your wardrobe would all be welcome advice. I shy away from the one hat I own because I know it’s a wear all day necessity once I plop in on and flatten my hair out. Happy New Year!
Hat’s are a commitment once you put them on, but over the years, I’ve also learned to accept flat hair if I need to remove it. I generally try to match it to one thing I’m wearing but most important is to choose a style that reflects the formality level of what you’re wearing.
Thanks for the Napa wineries and restaurant suggestions. Planning a trip in the fall to Napa, a place I’ve always wanted to visit. Was hoping for a Charleston reset since we live on the East coast, but we unfortunately didn’t have a true “pause”.
Always ready your posts and appreciate your insights.
We did a wine tour of Napa and Sonoma in 2018 during our California trip when we stayed two weeks before Christmas. We had a fabulous time. Visited a lot of wineries. Since My hubby does not drink, I picked wineries that specialize in white wines especially Chardonnay. I picked some wineries just because of the building such as a castle or a art gallery. We had a fabulous time! We also had started the trip in San Fransisco which we loved, drove up to the Redwood Forest, Napa and Sonoma, visited Point Reyes, and then drove the Lost Coast on the winding road. Drove as far south as Carmel. It was a trip of a lifetime!
It does sound wonderful.
What a wonderful description of your trip! You all look chic and relaxed. Glad you had this time together and hope you got a little knitting in.
Yes, I brought knitting! I always do.
Glad you expanded your trip to include a Sonoma County jewel, Healdsburg. Here in Sonoma County we like to think we are more laid back, dust on your boots type of place. Maybe next escape you can further delve into Sonoma County. The redwoods, spectacular beaches and of course world class wine country.
We are so lucky to live in Northern California with its diversity of landscapes. From the Sierras and Lake Tahoe to the windswept bluffs of Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.
It looks like the weather cooperated for your trip! Yay!
All the best,
Annie
We got so lucky. I poured for days before our trip and started raining the day we got back. It felt like a bit of a miracle. You’re so fortunate to live there Annie.
A local vacationette! Great idea. I wish Napa was in my back yard…it looks like you thoroughly enjoyed it. Best part for this reader is the enjoyment you and your daughter get from each other. What a gift!
Yes!!
Sounds positively perfect.
Thanks for the travelogue and timely reminder! It looks like a wonderful break. And that Talbots turtleneck just made it in to my “must have” list.
No one rocks a hat as good as you!! So glad you got away. My niece was married the end of June at Silverado. Never tire of Napa trips. Happy New Year!
You were in my old stomping grounds. I was born & raised in St Helena. It was a sleepy 7th Day Adventist town until 1976 with the bottle of Napa Valley wine win in France. Everything changed. The area is still beautiful.
It’s a gorgeous spot! How fun you grew up there.
My husband and I love Napa. We were there last year for just a few days. Even though we drink almost no alcohol now, there are still many great places to visit. Downtown is very walkable. The area is also full of fun things to do. We had hoped to visit the CIA, but it was closed for a student break that week, though their small museum was open.
Regarding Brussel sprouts, most people overcook them. Try using coconut oil, it takes away most of the bitterness, and I like seasoning them with 5-spice powder.
I never thought of coconut oil! Great tip.
I loved your outfits that you were wearing……great “capsule” outfits for a great get away week end (shoes too).
I am happy you, husband and daughter got to go away. The pictures look amazing. I am one to go away and go to a spa. You just feel so good. I had a facial after Christmas. It was nice to just relax and get pampered.
Lovely post – great pix!!!
Happy New Year.
Cheers to you and your family 🍷
We spent a week in Healdsburg several years ago. Got a wine trail map and everyday we spent the day touring. I had to cut back on my wine intake due to diagnosis of A-fib but I still get to enjoy good wine.
Enjoy the week🥂
Happy Monday Pat!