Far Niente
A fairytale estate in Napa Valley, Far Niente offers breathtaking gardens, historic architecture, and world-class wines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Far Niente
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fairytale estate in Napa Valley, Far Niente offers breathtaking gardens, historic architecture, and world-class wines.
"The grounds are breathtaking, the wines are exceptional, and the hospitality is world-class."
Book Your Tasting Early! 🗓️
Appointments are essential for Far Niente. Book weeks or months in advance to secure your spot at this popular winery.
Allow Time for Gardens 🌸
Don't rush your visit! The stunning gardens are a major highlight. Take time to stroll and enjoy the scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enchanting Gardens
Winery Grounds
Wander through meticulously manicured gardens with diverse flora, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Historic Caves
Underground Cellars
Explore ancient caves that feel straight out of a fairytale, housing aging wines and offering a unique ambiance.
Iconic Architecture
Main Winery Building
Admire the stunning, historic architecture of the winery, reminiscent of Italian villas and a classic movie set.
Exceptional Wine Tasting
Tasting Room
Savor world-class wines, including their renowned Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, guided by knowledgeable staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Exclusive Access
Embrace the 'Dolce Far Niente'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Your Tasting Early! 🗓️
Appointments are essential for Far Niente. Book weeks or months in advance to secure your spot at this popular winery.
Allow Time for Gardens 🌸
Don't rush your visit! The stunning gardens are a major highlight. Take time to stroll and enjoy the scenery. +1
Ask About Post & Beam 🍷
If you love Far Niente but want a more accessible option, ask about their Post & Beam Cabernet.
Dress for the Occasion 👗
Many visitors dress up for a sophisticated experience. Think smart casual or slightly more elevated.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Your Tasting Early! 🗓️
Appointments are essential for Far Niente. Book weeks or months in advance to secure your spot at this popular winery.
Allow Time for Gardens 🌸
Don't rush your visit! The stunning gardens are a major highlight. Take time to stroll and enjoy the scenery. +1
Ask About Post & Beam 🍷
If you love Far Niente but want a more accessible option, ask about their Post & Beam Cabernet.
Dress for the Occasion 👗
Many visitors dress up for a sophisticated experience. Think smart casual or slightly more elevated.
Consider a Private Tour 🌟
For a more intimate experience, inquire about private tours or special tasting options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Far Niente for its breathtakingly beautiful grounds and architecture, often describing the experience as fairytale-like and enchanting. The exceptional quality of their wines, particularly Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, is frequently highlighted, along with knowledgeable and personable staff who enhance the tasting. However, some guests have found the tasting experience to be less personal than expected and have noted high pricing for certain wines.
"Gorgeous property and luscious wines. My experience could not have been better. I joined a small group for a tour and tasting, and was immediately greeted and made to feel welcome by our "guide" Cort. He was personable, knowledgeable, and fun. He timed our tasting beautifully and shared a great deal of information ensuring all of us learned something new about wine no matter what our current level of expertise was. The property is well worth setting aside some extra time to linger on. The owners were originally in the nursery business, and hence there are 2,000 different types of plants creating a stunning and relaxing atmosphere. I left with a box of wine and beautiful memories. Thank you!"
Bee Gorman
"The winery grounds were beautiful but we were very disappointed with our tasting. Not very personal, no tour provided and they charged quite a bit for this. The biggest shock was the pricing. They offered their Dessert wine for $110 for a 375ml bottle. When asked, they made it clear their estate wines and dessert wine were not distributed in stores but after checking we found their $110 dessert wine at Total Wine for $69! Not impressed with much here other than to say their grounds were beautiful"
Stu Schulman
"Very nice grounds, always a pleasure. The Coombsville Chardonnay is one of my favourites. Rare to try a wine by them I don’t enjoy. Out tasting attendant, Jackie, was knowledgeable and attentive. We had a great experience with her."
Theodore Fletcher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Far Niente is located in Oakville, Napa Valley. The best way to reach it is by car, as public transportation is limited in the region. Many visitors use ride-sharing services or hire a driver for wine tasting days. Parking is available on-site. +1
Public transportation options are very limited in Napa Valley. It's highly recommended to drive, use a ride-sharing service, or arrange for a private car service to get to Far Niente.
For a safe and enjoyable wine tasting experience, consider hiring a private driver or using ride-sharing services. This allows you to focus on the wine and scenery without worrying about driving.
Far Niente Winery is situated in Oakville, within the renowned Napa Valley, California. +1
While some wineries are clustered, Far Niente is in Oakville, and walking between it and wineries in other towns like Yountville or St. Helena is not practical due to distance. A car or hired transport is necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Far Niente is an appointment-only winery. You must book your tasting experience in advance, often weeks or months ahead, especially for popular times.
Tasting fees can vary and are typically on the higher end for Napa Valley due to the exclusive experience. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing for tours and tastings.
Tastings usually include a selection of their estate wines, often accompanied by a brief tour of the grounds or cellars. The experience is designed to be educational and immersive.
No, reservations are strictly required for all visits to Far Niente. Walk-ins are generally not accommodated.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official Far Niente website for their current hours of operation when booking your appointment.
🎫 🍷 Wine & Tasting
Far Niente is most famous for its exceptional Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also produce other acclaimed wines. +1
Far Niente wines are considered premium and are priced accordingly. Their estate wines are exclusive and reflect the quality and reputation of the winery.
Yes, you can purchase wine directly from Far Niente, especially if you've participated in a tasting. However, some of their most sought-after wines may be allocated to wine club members.
While 'Dolce Far Niente' is the winery's motto meaning 'the sweetness of doing nothing,' they do not produce a specific wine by that name. The phrase embodies the relaxed, enjoyable experience they offer.
Post & Beam is a more accessible Cabernet Sauvignon produced by Far Niente, offering a taste of their winemaking style at a lower price point than their estate Cabernet.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Absolutely! Far Niente is incredibly photogenic with its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and picturesque vineyard views. It's a photographer's dream. +2
The atmosphere is one of serene elegance and fairytale charm. Visitors often describe it as enchanting, relaxing, and luxurious, embodying the 'dolce far niente' spirit. +2
Yes, guided tours are typically part of the tasting experience, often including a walk through the gardens and historic caves, providing insights into the winery's history and winemaking process.
Far Niente stands out for its breathtakingly beautiful grounds, historic architecture, exceptional wines, and the overall immersive, tranquil experience it offers, truly embodying 'the sweetness of doing nothing.' +1
While children are generally permitted on the grounds, the tasting experience is geared towards adults. It's best to check with the winery directly regarding their specific policies for younger visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Far Niente's Grounds
Beyond the flora, the historic architecture of the winery itself is a major draw. The main building evokes a sense of old-world charm and elegance, often compared to Italian villas. This, combined with the meticulously maintained vineyards, creates a visually stunning backdrop that makes Far Niente a photographer's paradise.
Many visitors recommend allocating extra time to simply wander and soak in the atmosphere. It’s this commitment to aesthetics and the creation of a serene environment that truly sets Far Niente apart, allowing guests to embrace the 'dolce far niente' – the sweetness of doing nothing.
Understanding Far Niente's Wine Portfolio
For those seeking a more accessible entry into the Far Niente family of wines, Post & Beam Cabernet is a highly recommended option. As highlighted by some visitors, it offers a taste of the winery's quality winemaking at a more approachable price point, making it a great alternative for enjoying their style.
When visiting, expect a tasting experience that emphasizes the quality and craftsmanship of each wine. Knowledgeable staff will guide you through the nuances, history, and tasting notes, enhancing your appreciation for these celebrated Napa Valley wines.
The Far Niente Experience: Beyond the Tasting
Visitors often highlight the exceptional hospitality, with staff described as knowledgeable, personable, and passionate. Guides like David and Ta'rod have been specifically praised for elevating the tasting experience with their warmth and deep understanding of the wines and the estate.
While the grounds and wine are paramount, the overall ambiance contributes significantly to the unforgettable nature of a Far Niente visit. It’s a place where meticulous attention to detail creates a sense of luxury and tranquility, making it a must-visit for many Napa Valley travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit