Schramsberg Vineyards - an aerial view of a farm with rows of trees
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Schramsberg Vineyards

4.6
·273 reviews·Calistoga, United States

Iconic Napa Valley winery renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines and historic cave tours. A must-visit for bubbly lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Schramsberg Vineyards - an aerial view of a farm with rows of trees

Schramsberg Vineyards

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Napa Valley winery renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines and historic cave tours. A must-visit for bubbly lovers.

4.6
(273 reviews)

"The cave tour was fascinating, the ambiance extraordinary, and the bubbles delicious!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Tours

Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot.

🧥 Cave Coolness

The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Caves Tour

Historic Caves Tour

Underground Cellars

Explore the historic caves where millions of bottles of sparkling wine age. A truly unique and atmospheric experience.

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Sparkling Wine Tasting

Sparkling Wine Tasting

Tasting Room or Caves

Savor Schramsberg's renowned sparkling wines, from Blanc de Blancs to Blanc de Noirs. Often paired with delicious accompaniments.

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Estate Grounds

Estate Grounds

Winery Exterior

Admire the beautifully manicured grounds and historic estate buildings, offering picturesque views of the Napa Valley landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Schramsberg Vineyards operates by appointment only. Tours and tastings, especially the popular cave tours, fill up quickly. Booking online well in advance is crucial, particularly for weekend visits or during peak Napa Valley seasons. Instagram

Cave Tour Considerations

The cave tours at Schramsberg are a highlight, but be aware of the environment. The caves are naturally cool and can be damp. While generally accessible, some narrow passages might be challenging for taller individuals. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Schramsberg Vineyards Schramsberg is considered one of the premium brands in the production of sparkling wine in California and the first U.S. wine to “match the style and quality of the best French Champagnes”. In 1972, Schramsberg’s 1969 vintage Blanc de Blancs was served at the “Toast to Peace” in Beijing, between Richard Nixon and Chou Enlai. Since that time, Schramsberg’s wines have been ser...
wine_epicurean
93 likes • 951 views

🎯 Book Ahead for Tours

Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot. InstagramReddit

🧥 Cave Coolness

The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days. Reddit

Explore the Legacy - Discover the top five reasons Schramsberg Vineyards is a must-visit wine destination. 🥂🍾 #schramsberg #familyownedwinery #napavalley #napavalleywineries #visitnapavalley #napavalleywinetasting #winetasting
schramsberg
481 likes • 7.7K views
🍾Best Bubbles in the West!🥂 Schramsberg Vineyards is one of the oldest vineyards in Napa Valley Located in the hills of Calistoga, @schramsberg caves are aging over 2 million bottles of sparkling wine. Schramsberg’s vineyards benefit from the region’s unique microclimates, ensuring each grape ripens to perfection. The winery’s dedication to traditional Champagne methods, such as hand-picking ...
bottleswithbabbitt
69 likes • 1.2K views

🥂 Sparkling Wine Focus

Schramsberg specializes in sparkling wine. Come ready to enjoy their famous bubbles! Instagram

🚗 Designated Driver

If you plan on tasting multiple wines, arrange for a designated driver or utilize ride-sharing services. Instagram

Wine tasting at it’s finest! Here is just a sample of the amazing wineries and vineyards you can explore on your Napa adventure! 🍷@faustwines 🍷@bcellars 🍷@aowinery 🍷@caymuscab 🍷@schramsberg 📷@datelistlou
embassysuitesnapavalley
141 likes • 5.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Tours

Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot. InstagramReddit

🧥 Cave Coolness

The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days. Reddit

🥂 Sparkling Wine Focus

Schramsberg specializes in sparkling wine. Come ready to enjoy their famous bubbles! Instagram

🚗 Designated Driver

If you plan on tasting multiple wines, arrange for a designated driver or utilize ride-sharing services. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moment

The estate and caves offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(273 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Schramsberg Vineyards for its exceptional sparkling wines, fascinating cave tours, and beautiful estate. The knowledgeable and engaging guides, like Jeff and Christopher, are frequently highlighted for making the experience both educational and fun. While the price point reflects the premium nature of the winery, most guests feel it's a worthwhile investment for the quality and unique atmosphere.

"First time visiting yesterday. We did the cave tour and tasting which was just so cool to see. The cave tour was light walking and me being short, didn't have any problems with the height but there are little corridors that may not be fun for people slightly taller... the tasting included 4 sparkling wines and 1 red with a pairing of cheeses, dried cherries and apricot to combine. Beautiful property and such friendly service. I think the shop was very reasonably priced too. I bought a bottle stopper for only $8 but they had other items too like stone coasters and logo items. Would recommend."

Samantha Parga

"This was my second visit to Schramsberg. I loved taking friends back for the tour and tasting experience. Lots of interesting info on the tour, and a tasting inside the cave! It’s so iconic and memorable. Must visit if you’re in Napa. The sparkling wines are fantastic"

Shelby Murtha

"This was our 2nd visit, and we'll likely visit Shramsberg every time we return to Napa. Really great all-around tour and tasting.

Our wine educator Jeff was equal parts knowledgeable and humorous, making a sometimes stuffy type of experience feel casual and fun, while still remaining very professional."

Ryan Chamblee

What People Like

Fascinating cave tours
Exceptional sparkling wines
Knowledgeable & engaging guides

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Schramsberg Vineyards is located in Calistoga, Napa Valley. The best way to reach it is by car. If you're coming from San Francisco, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Consider ride-sharing services or hiring a driver if you plan to indulge in wine tasting. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Schramsberg Vineyards for visitors attending tours and tastings. It's generally ample, but it's always good to arrive a few minutes early. Instagram

No, Schramsberg Vineyards operates strictly by appointment only. You must book your tour and tasting in advance online. Walk-ins are not accommodated. Instagram

For visiting multiple wineries like Schramsberg, many visitors opt for a designated driver, hire a private driver, or use ride-sharing apps. This ensures safety and allows everyone to enjoy the tastings. InstagramReddit

Public transportation options directly to Schramsberg Vineyards are very limited. It's highly recommended to arrange private transportation or a ride-share service for your visit. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour and tasting prices vary depending on the experience. The cave tour and tasting typically includes several sparkling wines and small bites. Check the official Schramsberg website for current pricing and package details. Reddit

A typical tasting at Schramsberg includes a selection of their acclaimed sparkling wines, often accompanied by small food pairings like cheeses, dried fruits, or nuts to enhance the flavors. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase wine directly from Schramsberg Vineyards after your tasting. They also offer wine-related merchandise. Reddit

Schramsberg Vineyards is open for tours and tastings by appointment. Hours typically run from morning to late afternoon, but it's essential to check their website for specific daily availability and booking times. Instagram

There is no strict dress code, but smart casual attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, especially for the cave tour. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The cave tour at Schramsberg takes you through their historic, hand-dug caves where millions of bottles of sparkling wine are aged. It's an educational and atmospheric journey into the winemaking process. InstagramReddit

The cave tour involves some walking and can have narrow passages. While generally manageable, individuals with significant mobility issues might find it challenging. It's advisable to contact the winery directly if you have concerns. Reddit

A typical tour and tasting experience at Schramsberg lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for the tour, tasting, and any questions you may have. Reddit

Schramsberg is primarily an adult-oriented wine destination. While children may accompany adults on tours, they cannot participate in tastings. It's best suited for adults who appreciate wine. Reddit

Schramsberg is famous for its diverse range of sparkling wines. Popular choices include the Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and their J. Schram Reserve. The best one for you will depend on your personal preference! InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Schramsberg often includes small food pairings with their tastings, such as cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts, designed to complement their sparkling wines. Reddit

Yes, Calistoga and the surrounding Napa Valley area offer numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Many wineries also host winemaker dinners. Instagram

Outside food is generally not permitted during tours and tastings at Schramsberg, as they provide curated pairings. It's best to enjoy the food offered or dine at a nearby restaurant before or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed at Schramsberg Vineyards, especially on the estate grounds. However, be mindful of other guests and follow any specific guidelines provided by your tour guide, particularly inside the caves. Instagram

The manicured gardens, the historic winery buildings, and the unique ambiance of the caves offer excellent photo opportunities. The vineyard views are also picturesque. Instagram

Yes, you can typically take photos during the wine tasting, but it's polite to be discreet and not disrupt the experience for others. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Schramsberg Vineyards is primarily an adult-focused wine destination, and children cannot participate in tastings. However, if you are visiting with family, children are generally permitted to accompany adults on tours. The cave tour can be an interesting experience for older children who can appreciate the history and unique environment. Reddit

It's advisable to consider the length of the tour and the potential for narrow passages in the caves. If your children are very young or have short attention spans, you might want to arrange for one adult to wait outside with them while the other takes the tour, or consider wineries with more dedicated family-friendly activities. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Schramsberg is a premium winery, visiting can be managed on a budget by focusing on the core experience. The cave tour and tasting is the most popular option and offers excellent value for the quality of wine and the unique experience. Reddit

To save money, consider visiting on a weekday when tours might be less expensive or less crowded. Also, if you're traveling with a group, sharing the cost of a ride-share or hiring a driver can be more economical than individual taxi fares. Bringing your own water and snacks for before or after your visit can also help manage overall expenses in the pricey Napa Valley region. Reddit

🥂 Couples & Wine Enthusiasts

Schramsberg Vineyards offers a romantic and sophisticated experience perfect for couples and serious wine lovers. The historic caves provide an intimate and unique setting for a tasting, and the acclaimed sparkling wines are ideal for a celebratory outing. Instagram

Consider booking a later afternoon tour to enjoy the sunset views over the estate. Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable and engaging guides, like Jeff and Christopher, who enhance the experience with their passion and humor. Reddit This is an excellent destination for those looking to delve deep into the art of American sparkling wine and enjoy a memorable tasting. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Schramsberg Sparkling Wine

Schramsberg Vineyards holds a significant place in American wine history, particularly for its pioneering role in sparkling wine production. Founded in 1965 by Jack and Jamie Davies, it was one of the first wineries in Napa Valley to focus exclusively on crafting high-quality sparkling wines in the traditional method, aiming to rival French Champagne. Instagram+1

This dedication to excellence led to a pivotal moment in 1972 when Schramsberg's 1969 vintage Blanc de Blancs was served at a state dinner in Beijing during President Nixon's historic visit to China. This event, known as the "Toast to Peace," brought international recognition to American winemaking and cemented Schramsberg's reputation. Instagram The winery remains family-owned and operated, continuing its commitment to quality and tradition. Instagram

Visitors can learn more about this rich history during the cave tours, which delve into the winemaking process and the estate's storied past. The underground cellars, hand-dug and expansive, are a testament to the winery's enduring legacy and house millions of bottles aging to perfection. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Schramsberg Caves

The Schramsberg caves are a highlight for many visitors, offering a unique and atmospheric wine tasting experience. These historic cellars, carved by hand, provide the ideal cool and humid environment for aging sparkling wine. Millions of bottles rest here, undergoing their secondary fermentation and developing complex flavors. InstagramReddit

During the tour, you'll walk through these fascinating tunnels, learning about the meticulous process of méthode champenoise (traditional method) winemaking. Guides often share engaging stories about the winery's history and the art of creating their renowned bubbles. The ambiance is truly special, making it a memorable part of any Napa Valley visit. Instagram

It's important to note that the caves are naturally cool, so bringing a light jacket is recommended, even on warmer days. While the tours are generally accessible, some passages can be narrow, which is something to consider if you have mobility concerns. Reddit

The Art of Schramsberg Sparkling Wine

Schramsberg Vineyards is synonymous with premium California sparkling wine. Their philosophy centers on producing wines that are elegant, complex, and age-worthy, using the traditional method where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle. This meticulous process is key to achieving the fine bubbles and rich texture that define their wines. Instagram+1

The winery offers a diverse portfolio, with popular selections including the Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay), the Blanc de Noirs (made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), and their flagship J. Schram Reserve. Each wine reflects the unique microclimates of their vineyards and the skill of their winemakers. Instagram

Visitors can experience these exceptional wines firsthand through guided tastings, often accompanied by carefully selected food pairings that enhance the tasting notes. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to sparkling wines, a tasting at Schramsberg provides a delightful introduction to the quality and craftsmanship of American bubbly. Reddit

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