By now everyone who knows anything about wine, or has any interest, knows that Napa Valley is synonymous with some of the world’s best. There are plenty of award-wining wineries that offer tastings, tours, and more, and you’ll also find several luxurious inns within their midst. Here are a handful of options to inspire your palate’s desires.

Ideally located just a block away from historic Downtown Napa, Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast boasts lavish guest rooms that are aptly named after Napa Valley’s wine growing regions, which were painted on each door by a local artist. Each room reflects the sophistication and grace of this 1889 mansion, while incorporating the best of modern amenities. Every morning guests can indulge in a delectable breakfast in the sunroom or its attached veranda, which features beautiful views of the gardens. The menu includes the freshest ingredients, bought locally and organic when possible. In the evening, guests enjoy a two-hour wine and appetizer reception, which features Napa Valley and other specialty wines along with appetizers including domestic and imported cheeses – but the thrills don’t end there. “We have so many exciting new developments in Napa to look forward to this summer,” reveals innkeeper Joanna Guidotti. “After a day of wine tasting, our guests will be able to stroll up the street to the Napa Valley Opera House where Blue Note from New York will be opening a jazz dinner club.” During the day, they will also be able to attend cooking demonstrations and everything food at the newly acquired Culinary Institute of America, which has just taken over the former COPIA food and wine complex. “And, my personal favorite,” adds Joanna, “our guests will be able to walk or bicycle off-road on the newly created 12.5-mile stretch  of the Napa Valley Vine Trail as it winds from South Napa to Yountville. Eventually, the Trail will extend from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal for 47 miles to Calistoga.” Guests of Churchill Manor will have all of this within walking distance of the inn with complimentary tandem bikes also available for use.

Originally a 19th-century estate, the renovated Inn on Randolph is a special destination that seamlessly combines the best amenities of a modern Napa bed and breakfast with the property’s celebrated roots. Guests have the choice of staying in one of five luxurious guestrooms in the historic 1860’s main inn, or opt for one of five spacious private cottages complete with sumptuous in-room amenities such as air spa tubs, heated tile floors and beautiful fireplaces. The inn also features multiple beautifully landscaped gardens and hideaways, which include not only colorful floral and fauna but also ingredients that the chef uses daily for his special gourmet gluten-free breakfasts; stone paths ideal for a relaxing stroll; a revitalizing Spa Room for private treatments; and the enticing Cabernet Room for private events, a beautiful space where spa treatments take place too. No matter which accommodations you choose, personal touches and amenities abound. Most importantly, guests are just steps away from everything they came to Napa to experience including top-notch restaurants, wine tasting, outdoor adventures, the river promenade, music, and more. For those seeking local insight, the staff at Inn on Randolph is happy to share their expertise and experience about the area and wineries that you won’t want to miss. “HALL wines not only produces some of the best wines in the region, but they also provide a truly gorgeous tasting experience in their modern tasting building,” reveals manager Carlisle Engelhardt. “Other current favorites of ours include Alpha Omega and Round Pond, both of which are stunning experiences surrounded by gorgeous scenery. In downtown Napa, Vintners Collective is a must-visit to taste sumptuous small batch wines you won’t find anywhere else.”

Candlelight Inn Napa Valley rests on a tributary of the Napa River, on the border of Sonoma and Napa at the gateway to the Los Carneros wine region. This romantic rendezvous is complete within a park-like setting including swimming  pool, outdoor patios, and redwood grove . The cozy accommodations have their own eclectic style offering guests plenty of comfort. A homemade three-course gourmet breakfast starts the day in the relaxed environment of the light-filled breakfast room. In the evening, guests can return to the inn to indulge in complimentary wine and snacks, or enjoy a couples massage in the privacy of their room, before departing to explore the  local culinary scene. “The connection between wine and the table in Napa has never been as focused as it is now, with prime vineyard land sharing the spotlight with small, sustainably-farmed gardens whose produce is jettisoned directly from ground to local tables and accompanied by their pedigreed vinous counterparts,” says innkeeper Sam Neft. “Candlelight Inn Napa has always understood the relationship between the Napa Valley and its wine. We’re locally owned and over the years have developed long-standing relationships with  wineries of Napa and Sonoma. Year after year we connect guests with their ideal Napa Wine experience, whether it’s glamorous or down-to-earth, extravagant or cost-efficient. Nothing gives us greater satisfaction than knowing we’ve assisted guests in accomplishing their ideal Napa adventure, whatever that may be, it’s our pleasure to help. There’s never been more to do in Napa than now, as the number of excellent restaurants, wineries and breweries continue to multiply, all in the timeless setting of the Napa Valley.”

Wine Spectator is one of the wine industry’s most respected publications, and restaurants that receive its coveted Award of Excellence and Best of Award of Excellence are properties that offer top-notch culinary experiences. The Award of Excellence recognizes wine lists with unique selections that are appropriate to their cuisine and enticing to a vast range of wine lovers. At least 90 wines are required for consideration. Lists are reviewed for accuracy; must include vintages and appellations; and be impressive in overall presentation. The Best of Award of Excellence was designed to give special recognition to restaurants that push the envelope even further. These lists typically offer 350 wines or more. Along with exceptional presentation, they also display either vintage depth, with numerous vertical offerings of top wines, or distinct breadth across several regions. Here are three inns who made the cut in 2015, and some insight into what makes them so special.

The spirit of Provence surrounds guests stateside at the lavish L’Auberge Provencale Bed & Breakfast in White Post, VA. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, this quintessential French Country inn is just an hour from the DC beltway, but staying here feels as though you have been transplanted to a fabulous French countryside escape. The authentic Provençale-style experience combines gracious service coupled with refined, well-appointed rooms and suites with modern luxury amenities. The essence of Provence is apparent throughout the property from the food, gardens, and decor, to the pastoral countryside views and surroundings. Framed by the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, the inn offers guests plenty of opportunities to relax with wine in hand or enjoy area activities including antiquing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, golfing, canoeing or ballooning. In the morning, guests savor the signature gourmet breakfast served in the sunny peach dining room. While in the evenings, they indulge in the award-winning cuisine and wine list at La Table Provencale, a farm-to-table restaurant that features an innovate menu with the freshest seasonal ingredients. There are more than 1,100 different selections, with a heavy emphasis on French and American wines. There is also a smaller selection of fine, well sought-after wines from Italy, Spain, New Zealand, Australia, Portugal, Austria, Lebanon, Argentina and Germany. The inn is also active in promoting Virginia wines and has its own sommelier onsite. The cellar encompasses more than 7,000 bottles and continues to expand daily, and the restaurant hosts monthly wine dinners with top Virginia producers and winemakers from around the globe. For the past 10 years, L’Auberge Provencale has received the Best of Award of Excellence for its wine strengths in Burgundy, and California selections, which are paired at the restaurant with Modern French cuisine.

Nestled in the spectacular Adirondacks Mountains overlooking a small pristine lake, the exquisite Friends Lake Inn in Chestertown, NY  is a boutique hotel that seamlessly unites luxurious accommodations in an idyllic, bucolic country setting. Its location is central to the best of the Empire State, conveniently situated just 30 minutes north of Lake George, 1 ½ hours north of Albany, 3 ½ hours north of New York City, and 1 hour south of Lake Placid. This historic inn was constructed in the 1860s and has relished a 100-year tradition of fine cuisine and exceptional hospitality. Known as a popular retreat for relaxation and tranquility, Friends Lake Inn has been restored to maintain its original beauty and peaceful refinement. There are 17 guestrooms onsite, many featuring king-size beds with luxury linens, Jacuzzi tubs, lake views, wood-burning fireplaces, private bathrooms, entrances and porches. Guests revel in the breathtaking waterside surroundings of the property where they can swim, canoe, kayak or fish. They can also opt to lounge at the outdoor heated pool in warmer months and take advantage of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the inn’s trails at its own Snowshoe Center when it gets colder. Nearby area attractions include downhill skiing, cross country-skiing, whitewater rafting, golfing, hiking, antiquing and much more. Friends Lake Inn’s highly acclaimed, award-winning restaurant of DiRoNA distinction, tantalizes wine lovers with innovative New American cuisine complemented by a superior wine collection, served in the rustic sophistication and warmth of its 19th-century dining room. There is also an in-house sommelier onsite. Friends Lake Inn received the Best of Award of Excellence for its wine strengths in France, Italy, and California selections, which are paired at the restaurant with New American cuisine.

Located in Middleburg, VA, the gorgeous Goodstone Inn & Restaurant  is a lavish 18th-century country estate and award-winning gourmet restaurant conveniently nestled in the heart of the Old Dominion’s wine and hunt country. Situated on 265 sprawling acres of rolling hills and breathtaking surroundings, guests enjoy luxurious accommodations coupled with top-notch dining and service. This historic property includes five-star quality lodging in six unique structures: The Carriage House (main building), The Dutch Cottage, The French Farm Cottage, The Spring House, The Manor House and The Bull Barn. The candlelit Wine Cellar Dining Room is lined with more than 1,500 bottles of fine wine hailing from around the globe. Guests to Goodstone also enjoy a full-service bar, an elegant spa, a unique outdoor pool, walking and hiking trails, stables for boarding guests’ horses, mountain biking, canoeing and excellent shopping in the quaint town of Middleburg. The Restaurant at Goodstone features state-of-the-art, seasonally-inspired cuisine with a farm-to-table focus. The menu offers French Country cuisine and showcases the freshest of vegetables, herbs, micro greens, eggs and lamb from the Farm at Goodstone as well as other local farms. There is a sommelier onsite, and special wine dinners are often held here, designed to highlight a particular wine region or producer. An impressive series of courses are created to complement the featured wines. The wine list encompasses approximately 400 selections from a dozen countries, in addition to more than 30 selections from local Virginia wineries. All of the wines on the wine list are available for purchase through the Goodstone Retail Wine Club and may be picked up onsite. Goodstone Inn & Restaurant received the Award of Excellence for its wine strengths in international, Bordeaux, Burgundy, and California selections, which are paired with Classic French cuisine.

October is Texas Wine Month, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a bounty of luxurious B&B’s located in wine country. With over 45 wineries in the Lone Star state, scattered across the expanse of some spectacular scenery, wine lovers will encounter varying terroir and winemaking styles throughout the region. And because everything is bigger in Texas, the industry is steadfastly becoming bolder, which means the wine is only getting better!

Located in beautiful Brownwood, TX on two wine trails – the Way Out Wineries and Texas Hill Country – Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast offers wine lovers access to all of the action. The inn’s spacious and private cottages make for a comfortable environment in this idyllic setting, which is conveniently situated near the peaceful and secluded Lake Brownwood. Here guests can appreciate the native wildlife and breathtaking landscapes that encompass the property. Each cottage is uniquely appointed and features its own bath, Wi-Fi, small refrigerator, candles, and outdoor hot tubs. Select accommodations also include soaking tubs. A delicious hot breakfast is delivered every morning and can be savored before exploring the region’s numerous activities and attractions. Among the local wineries innkeeper Debbie Morelock recommends include Wedding Oak Winery in San Saba (the Harmony Ridge red is favorite, and the Albariño took home Best Double Gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition!); and the award-winning Brennan Vineyard in Comanche, which brought home two Double Golds from the San Francisco International Wine Competition for their Mourvèdre Rosé and Tempranillo. They are the first ever Texas winery to achieve that, providing further proof that Texas wine is on the move.

Situated on the edge of Texas Hill Country, Morning Glory House B&B in Christoval, TX provides guests with a perfect riverside escape for wine lovers in its serene and secluded lodging. Constructed in 2002, this two-story cottage resides right above the South Concho River’s edge and sleeps up to four people. (Additional lodging is available in the Bunk House for up to six people.) Amenities range from plush, cozy decor and air conditioning to Wi-Fi, satellite TV, VCR/DVD, and BBQ grills. Foodies favor a bounty of breakfast delights to enjoy on your own schedule including country fresh eggs, sausage, seasonal fruit, cheeses, bagels, sweetbreads, and assorted beverages. There is also a plentiful supply of dry cereals, oatmeal, sweet rolls, and snack bars. From the wrap-around porch and outdoor seating areas, visitors take in spectacular views of the river along with exquisite surroundings where wildlife abounds. In warmer months, they also enjoy canoeing, fishing, and tubing. Just 15 miles south of San Angelo, short trips can be taken year-round to nearby attractions along the Texas Forts Trail and more. Christoval Winery, the inn’s next-door neighbor, is celebrated for its Tempranillo, Vermentino, Riesling, and Mourvèdre. This year the winery won a gold medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition in New York for its Angelo Red blend. A favorite of the innkeeper is their Almond Champagne!

Nestled between San Antonio and Austin, Kuebler Waldrip Haus Bed and Breakfast in New Braunfels, TX lies on 43 tranquil acres a few minutes from the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers and numerous popular restaurants, shopping, and attractions in the region. The property features three elegantly restored buildings, a cottage, an 1847 German rock homestead, and a 1863 schoolhouse. There are nine rooms and one suite. All accommodations feature a king- or queen-size bed, heat, AC, TV, private baths (four Jacuzzi tubs), coffee pot, refrigerator, and a porch or access to a patio area. In the morning guests relish a decadent, large hot breakfast that features egg dishes, fresh fruit, meat (bacon, ham or sausage), homemade breads, potato dishes, homemade tamales, cereal, and various beverages. Fun fact! The Historic Kuebler Waldrip Haus property was first owned by Francois Guilbeau, a French-born wine merchant, credited with saving the diseased French vineyards (in 1850’s) with mustang grapevine cuttings that came from the Comal County region. Today wine lovers can discover area wineries including Dry Comal Creek Winery, which produces whites such as French Colombard; reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon; plus Demi-Sweet and Dry Sparkling. They can also enjoy live music at River Road Icehouse and Gruene Hall. Other great attractions just 20 minutes from the inn include the Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. There are many year-round festivals including a gourd show, a quilt show, Wurstfest, and more.

Forgo Napa on your next visit to the Bay Area and spend your time in Sonoma Valley, a 17-mile stretch that is comprised of a charming downtown square, expansive vineyards, quaint farms and 13,000 acres of parkland. Sonoma, the home of California’s original Wine Country and recognized as the state’s happiest county, is a destination for new and returning travelers to experience a community that has maintained its original charm and pastoral beauty throughout the years.

Kunde Winery – Photograph by Jamie Gall

At the heart of the valley is the Sonoma Plaza with winding alleyways, timeworn adobe storefronts, and historic landmarks thriving with an eclectic mix of tasting rooms, restaurants, hotels, cafes, and galleries—even a vintage movie house. The square boasts vast stretches of lawn that creates a lush setting for picnics, cultural activities and weekly farmers markets.

Sonoma Film Festival, Sonomawood – Photograph by Jamie Gall

Just a short distance away, nature lovers have access to wildflower hikes, hilltop vistas and an extensive array of fine wine vineyards and wineries. Whether visitors seek a small-town holiday or rural getaway, Sonoma Valley offers memorable experiences for all. Below are some of the hidden Sonoma gems for travelers interested in an out-of-the-box vacation:

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  Sonoma – Photograph by Jamie Gall

  Jack London State Historic Park opens new trail: The East Slope Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail, which has been in development for nearly two decades, opened to the public in March 2015. Hikers, cyclists, and equestrians have access to this Bay Area Ridge Trail extension at the top of Sonoma Mountain, allowing never-before-seen views of San Francisco Bay.

• Prohibition Spirits & HelloCello Distillery: Tired of drinking wine or have a craving for spirits? Sonoma Valley’s only distillery offers tastings by appointment of its small batch of crafted spirits, including whiskey, rum and vodka. Get a tour of the facility to learn about the fermenting, distilling and aging of these local liquors.
• Quarryhill Botanical Garden: This botanical garden features one of the largest collections of wild-collected Asian plants in the world. Wander freely or embark on a docent-led tour of the Asian Woodland Garden or Chinese Heritage Rose Garden.
• Ramekins Culinary School: Learn about local cuisine with group demonstrations and workshops or book your own private lesson. Even the most amateur chef will acquire the skills to make a meal from scratch and then enjoy the fruits of their labor!
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  Kendall Jackson Winery – Photograph by Jamie Gall

  Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: Overwhelmed by the selection of wineries, tasting rooms, vineyards, restaurants, cafes and culinary choices? This food and beverage tour will plan a guided walking excursion around Sonoma Plaza, including the girl & the fig, El Dorado Kitchen, BV Whisky Bar & Grille, La Bodega,Sonoma Cheese Factory, Figone’s Olive Oil Company, and more.

• Sonoma Raceway: Car aficionados get the chance to hit the track with Go-Kart racing along the 2.52-mile raceway or drag racing on the quarter-mile drag strip. Sonoma Raceway also provides a full schedule of amateur or professional SCCA road races, AMA and AFM motorcycle racing, sports car events, and NASCAR, INDYCAR and NHRA drag races.
• Sonoma Stompers Baseball Club: We bet you didn’t know Sonoma has its own professional baseball team! With tickets starting at just $4, a visit to the ballpark during the summers is an affordable adventure for the entire family.
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  Benziger Family Winery – Photograph by Jamie Gall

  Studio 35: What better place to capture Sonoma’s beauty than at the neighborhood art gallery, which conveniently offers workshops to enhance your artistic abilities! A mentoring artist will assist patrons in learning to draw or paint, while viewing works by local artisans.

• Vin deLuxe Tours: High-end unique experiences are the forte of Vin deLuxe tours. From exclusive winery visits and flights in Travel Air biplanes to gourmet picnic lunches and cooking classes, travelers can pick from curated packages or create their own!
• Williams-Sonoma: The new store is housed in the original shop and residence where Chuck Williams worked and lived in 1956 when he founded Williams-Sonoma. Features of the new store include a cooking school, museum exhibit of Chuck’s original and iconic “finds” from Europe, Williams-Sonoma Home showroom with a design studio where customers can receive a free decorating consultation, and an open-air garden featuring a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen and pizza oven.
• Wine Country Cyclery: Ditch the car keys and traverse Sonoma Valley with a rented bicycle. Ride to a nearby winery or take the bike on the trails winding throughout the region.

For more information on the history of Sonoma Valley or local businesses, visit www.sonomavalley.com.

Photo Credit – Jamie Gall of mngirlinla.com – A Minnesota Girl, born and raised, who now resides in Wine Country.  You’ll find her on Minnesota Girl in the World talking Food, Wine and Travel.