Napa Valley turns into a landscape of lushness during the "crush" when wine makers wake up before the crack of dawn to check whether the grapes have ripened enough for picking. Take it from one who's not only been there, she's done that!
Yes my husband Richard and I once "worked the crush" in Napa for an article for Los Angeles Magazine we collaborated on. Save for having to be on the alert for that early morning phone call to rush out with the crew to check on the grapes, it was an experience we'll always remember.
We "worked" for vintners Dan Duckhorn (Duckhorn) and Nancy Andrus (Pine Ridge), sorting the grapes and "topping" off the tanks. Wish I still have the photos to show us toiling.
While chances are you won't get to work the crush, you will be able to visit Napa during the season with this special deal at St. Helena’s Harvest Inn:
Visitors can enjoy Crush Season and the spectacular 360 degree views of the Napa Valley with the ‘View from the Top Package,’ an expertly balanced and blended three-night stay with breathtaking beauty. The authentic Napa Valley experience includes dramatic views of the Valley’s ready-to-harvest grapes from a hot air balloon ride, and an exclusive winemaker-for-the-day wine blending and tasting. Everything in between is a breeze with blissful relaxation and pampering courtesy of the Inn’s personal concierge.Napa Valley Crush Season depends on the weather, but is typically underway from August through October.
The Inn’s picturesque setting in the heart of the Napa Valley provides an extraordinary connection to the land with eight acres of fragrant gardens, a backyard of ripening grapes and views of the Mayacamas Mountains.Relaxation begins in a luxurious vineyard view room, where guests unwind and uncork with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and rich chocolate truffles. Wrapped in monogrammed signature Harvest Inn robes, a delightful reminder of your stay, enjoy two one-hour massagesal fresco in the Redwood Grove outdoor massage cabana or in the privacy of the Inn’s Rose Section guest wing with its bordering gardens.
As dawn breaks over the Valley, take flight in an exhilerating wicker basket balloon ride. The gentle winds and breezes carry you for an hour-long tour from above of California’s famous grape growing region. Back on terra firma, toast the perfect day with Champagne brunch. Shuttled back to the Inn, guests are invited to stroll the vineyards adjacent trail or simply relax by the heated swimming pools and spas.
Then take a private five-hour wine country tour in a luxury sedan, and an exclusive personal wine tasting tour with winemakers of two of Harvest Inn preferred wine estates.
The three-night ‘View from the Top’ package price starts at $2,430, not including taxes and gratuities.
Reservations: toll-free at 1-800-950-8466 or at www.harvestinn.com.
About the Harvest Inn
The Harvest Inn is a AAA Four Diamond country-style estate located in St. Helena, surrounded by premium wineries and fine dining. Charming brick and wood cottages, guest rooms and suites are spread over eight acres of gorgeously landscaped gardens, making the Innan ideal setting for a well-deserved, relaxing vacation getaway or intimate honeymoon. The Inn also features two heated swimming pools, well-equipped Fitness Center and massage treatment rooms tucked into the gardens and Redwoods.
All accommodations include breakfast daily, amenities such as aromatherapy personal care items, large flat screen televisions with DVD players, refrigerator with complimentary waters and juices and coffee/tea maker, high-speed Internet access and more. Most include fireplaces. With stunning vineyard views and the Mayacamas Mountains just beyond, guests long to linger in the warm atmosphere with hand-crafted fireplaces, intricate woodwork and country estate ambience.
The gracious Main Lodge features a warm obby with singular 20-foot ceilings and custom carved woodwork throughout. Just beyond the lobby is the Inn’s spacious Great Room where guests enjoy fireside wine tastings beside the massive cobblestone hearth. The cozy wine bar is open daily until 11 PM with tastings of local vintages. Complimentary guided wine and cheese tastings from local producers are offered on Friday and Saturday nights in The Great Room.
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