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Sterling Vineyards: Napa Valley Icon

Experience Napa Valley from above: Sterling Vineyards offers iconic wines, stunning views, and a unique gondola ride.

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Ascend to Sterling Vineyards via a unique aerial gondola offering panoramic Napa Valley views. Modeled after Mykonos, Greece, this architectural icon provides self-guided tours, wine tastings, and gourmet food pairings. Founded in 1964, it's a must-visit for wine enthusiasts seeking stunning scenery and exceptional wines.

A brief summary to Sterling Vineyards

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tasting experience in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid potential wait times.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit; the gondola may be temporarily closed due to high winds or extreme temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the self-guided tour, as it involves walking and standing.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Take advantage of the photo opportunities; the views from the winery are breathtaking.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Sterling Vineyards is located at 1111 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga. From downtown Calistoga, head south on CA-29/Lincoln Ave. Turn right onto Dunaweal Lane. The winery will be on your left. Parking is available at the base of the gondola. Expect higher traffic during peak tourist season. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The Calistoga Shuttle provides on-demand service within Calistoga city limits and connects with Vine Transit Route 10. From the Calistoga Lincoln Bridge, use the Calistoga Shuttle to Sterling Vineyards for a nominal fee of $1 per trip. The shuttle operates throughout the week with varying hours. Alternatively, Napa Valley Vine Transit Route 10 connects Calistoga to other parts of Napa County. Exact fare is required on all buses.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Calistoga. From central Calistoga, a taxi to Sterling Vineyards will be a short ride. Expect to pay around $15-$25, depending on demand and surge pricing. Always confirm the fare before you start your trip.

Unlock the Best of Sterling Vineyards

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Discover more about Sterling Vineyards

Sterling Vineyards, established in 1964 by Peter Newton, offers a unique Napa Valley wine experience, distinguished by its stunning architecture and aerial gondola. Inspired by the white stucco houses of Mykonos, Greece, the winery is perched atop a 300-foot volcanic knoll, providing unparalleled panoramic views of the valley. The adventure begins with a ride on Napa's only winery aerial tram, transporting visitors from the valley floor to the hilltop winery. The gondola ride itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. Upon arrival, guests can embark on a self-guided tour of the winemaking facilities, observing the process from grape to glass. Walkways, balconies, and digital monitors enhance the educational experience. Sterling Vineyards is known for its Bordeaux-inspired wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Visitors can indulge in various tasting experiences, from casual strolls with wine in hand to seated tastings with gourmet food pairings. The winery also boasts an impressive collection of art. Originally founded by Peter Newton and Michael Stone, Sterling Vineyards quickly gained recognition for its high-quality wines and innovative approach to winemaking. Newton, inspired by his fondness for Bordeaux varietals, recognized the potential of Napa Valley for growing excellent Merlot, and in 1969, Sterling bottled the first single-varietal Merlot. The winery has changed hands several times since its founding, but it has remained committed to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley. After being closed for renovations due to damage sustained in the Glass Fire in 2020, Sterling Vineyards reopened in October 2023 with updated gondolas and a remodeled visitor center.

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