From Ranch-Style Farmstays to Revamped Historic Hotels, These Are the Places to Stay on Your Next Wine Tasting Getaway
These new properties are redefining wine country style.
When you take a trip to wine country—whether we’re talking Napa, Temecula, Willamette, or Baja—of course, you’d think the main event would be the wine tasting itself. Talking to winemakers, finding new varieties you love, and taking some home with you are all things to look forward to. But the fun doesn’t have to stop there. You probably need somewhere to stay, so make it somewhere that’s stylish and unique. These new hotels truly fit the bill.
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection in Napa Valley, California
Gently rolling hills undulate near the banks of the Napa River leading you to the historic Stanly Ranch. This ultra luxurious property on the southern edge of Napa Valley is the latest destination hotel from Auberge, a brand known for its white-glove service and impeccable design. While the entire property is breathtaking, the real showpiece is the spa, which boasts all the latest in treatments including an oxygen chamber, tepidarium, salt room, and sauna with vineyard views.
Tributary Hotel in Willamette Valley, Oregon
Built within the historic Taylor Dale building in McMinnville, the newly opened Tributary Hotel was fastidiously restored while keeping its original rustic charm in mind. Each of the eight rooms is named after a distinct riverway in the Willamette Valley and features dramatic fireplaces, exposed brick walls, oak beams, and amenities crafted by Pacific Northwest artists. At the inn’s restaurant ōkta, chef/partner Matthew Lightner, formerly of the two Michelin-star Atera, offers a progressive tasting menu inspired by the region’s microseasons and what’s available at the property’s farm. Lightner also offers an incredible in-room breakfast experience reminiscent of Europe’s high-end B&Bs, perfect to ready yourself for a day of tasting in the Valley.
The Vine House in Temecula, California
It’s hard to believe that this charming Cape Cod-style bed and breakfast was once a barn without plumbing or electricity. Now, hosts Lacey and Rob Britton, who live on the property with their children (and their gaggle of resident chickens), make a daily gourmet breakfast from farm-fresh eggs and local produce. This hidden gem is located within walking distance of several wineries, making it the perfect SoCal wine-country stay.
The Madrona in Healdsburg, California
Originally built as a gabled private residence in 1881 and recently redesigned by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers, this new Sonoma Valley property is conveniently located just one mile from downtown Healdsburg. The crowning jewel is a restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Jesse Mallgren, making the property a destination in and of itself. With 24 stylish accommodations spread over six buildings, eight acres of lush grounds and stunning wine country views, and thoughtful amenities to surprise and delight guests at every turn, there’s plenty of privacy for a quiet wine country retreat.
Banyan Tree Valle de Guadalupe in Guadalupe Valley, Mexico
Slated to open its doors during the festive harvest season of 2023, this hotel group plans to bring the bespoke luxury for which it gained a reputation to Mexican wine country. The property will be situated among olive groves and grapevines, and will utilize indigenous plants like hoja santa and white sage from the on-site biodynamic garden in both its spa treatments and restaurant menus. The hotel will also house the brand’s first winery, including an aging room and underground cellar.
Dream Hotel in Guadalupe Valley, Mexico
While many still refer to the Valle as an emerging wine region, it’s safe to say it’s already arrived. With both the Dream Hotel and Banyan Tree opening properties in the area in 2023, it’s becoming as cosmopolitan as it can get. For Dream, renowned Mexican architect Tatiana Bilbao has been brought on board, and renderings offer promise of a cosmopolitan design that still nods to the area’s distinct desertscapes.
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