Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Tamber Bey is more than just a winery; it's an experience that beautifully connects the art of winemaking with the serene beauty of an equestrian ranch. As I drove up the driveway, lined with paddocks, the first sight of Tamber Bey took my breath away—a rustic stable-style building with the majestic Mount St. Helena standing proudly in the backdrop. This was not just a visit; it was a journey into a world where fine wine and the grace of horses coexist in perfect harmony.
Upon arrival, I was greeted warmly, a personal touch that set the tone for the day. Two wine glasses, etched with my name on a small wooden board, were waiting at the bar, ready to be filled with the vineyard's finest. This small but meaningful gesture instantly made me feel welcome, turning a simple wine tasting into a personalised experience.
Our glasses were soon filled with Tamber Bey's exquisite wine, and we were treated to a private tour of the facility. As luck would have it, our visit coincided with a bottling day. Tamber Bey uses a mobile wine bottling system, where an external company handles everything from filling the bottles to corking and labelling them, all in one seamless operation. Watching this process in action was fascinating, a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the final steps of winemaking that few get to witness.
As we wandered through the winemaking facility, we passed towering wine barrels, each filled with the liquid treasures that Tamber Bey is known for. Crates of ripe grapes awaited their transformation, a reminder of the meticulous process that begins in the vineyard and ends in your glass.
When it came time for the tasting, we were seated at the cosiest table, ready to explore the diverse offerings of Tamber Bey. With multiple wine flight options available, we opted for two different flights, allowing us to sample a broader variety. Each pour was accompanied by a detailed explanation, and I was intrigued to learn that many of the wines are named after the colours and patterns of horses—another nod to the vineyard's unique equestrian setting.
Our host was attentive, guiding us through each wine while giving us the space to enjoy the experience at our own pace. Between sips, I couldn't resist visiting the beautiful horses that lined the seating area, adding to the tranquil ambiance of the day.
To cap off our visit, we selected our favourite wine and indulged in a pre-arranged picnic lunch, delivered by Sam’s General Store in Calistoga. The picnic, served in an adorable basket, included a choice of salad or sandwich, chips, a cookie, and of course, a glass of wine from Tamber Bey's Vineyard Series. It was the perfect ending to a perfect experience.
As we wrapped up our picnic and tasting, we had the pleasure of meeting Barry and Jennifer, the passionate owners of Tamber Bey. Their dedication to creating a space where wine, horses, and friendship come together is evident in every aspect of the experience. The authenticity and warmth of this winery make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Napa Valley.
Cost and Time: Tamber Bey offers a range of tasting experiences to suit different preferences and budgets. Tastings typically range from $50 to $75 per person, with the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional fee of $40 per person. Plan to spend at least two to three hours at the winery to fully enjoy the tasting, tour, and the serene surroundings. It's an experience worth savouring—one that will leave you with fond memories and perhaps a bottle or two to take home.
Travel Time from Napa: Tamber Bey is conveniently located just a short 30-minute drive from downtown Napa. The scenic route takes you through the heart of wine country, offering picturesque views of vineyards and rolling hills along the way. Make sure you stop at the “Welcome to Napa Valley” sign located on the way.
Suzy
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