It presents a more leisurely side of Napa that's just as compelling as the excitement of the springtime bud break, the long, warm summer days and the intensive activity around fall harvest. It makes the valley a great destination for a preholiday getaway.
With that in mind, we offer a look at the best wineries for tasting a little bubbly and what you can expect this year at the 12 Days of Christmas at the Restaurant at Meadowood. Chef Christopher Kostow earned four stars from The Chronicle and three from Michelin, and what he cooks is always as exciting as what you'll find at the French Laundry. These restaurants are the only two in the Bay Area that have earned the top Michelin rating.
In this special section, we also look at the area's dining scene that was once centered strictly in St. Helena, but has moved south to Yountville and Napa. Yet, after a few years in the doldrums, the St. Helena restaurant outlook is on the upswing, with new places like French Blue and Farmstead.
One of the most interesting restaurants is Press, which opened a wine cellar that now houses what is thought to be the largest collection of old California wines in the state.
We'll also tell you about the latest plans to revitalize Copia, which opened with great promise in 2001 and finally struggled to a close in 2008.
