Oakville and Rutherford are two small towns along Highway 29 and are a must stop destination for any wine enthusiast. Both of these hidden gems are considered the top wine regions for Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley.

ABOUT OAKVILLE AND RUTHERFORD

Oakville was founded in 1864 by pioneer and entrepreneur, Samuel Brannan. This town began as a water stop for the Napa Valley Railroad and even carried passengers from ferry boats in Vallejo to Brannan’s resort in Calistoga.

Rutherford was founded on the Mexican land grant, Rancho Caymus, which was deeded to early settler George C. Yount from General Mariano Vallejo in 1838. Yount gave a small portion of the grant as a wedding present to his granddaughter, Elizabeth, when she married Thomas Rutherford in 1864.

WINE AND DINE

Oakville and Rutherford are home to nearly 60 wineries, from small boutique wineries to some of the big names in the industry. Enjoy larger wineries like Robert Mondavi, Cakebread Cellars, Opus One, and Silver Oak Cellars. Or enjoy an intimate experience at a boutique winery like, Martin Estate, Heitz Cellars and Elizabeth Spencer Wines.

Although these towns are best known for their Cabernet, they also offer places to stop and grab a bite between wine tasting. Stop by Oakville Grocery for gourmet sandwiches, artisan cheeses, picnic supplies, and fresh-made coffee drinks. A must stop for dinner is Rutherford Grill – a locals favorite, right on Highway 29, serving classic American comfort food.

OAKVILLE AND RUTHERFORD NAPA VALLEY

In these small towns there are only two places that offer overnight accommodations, Rancho Caymus Inn and Auberge du Soleil. Rancho Caymus is a boutique, hacienda-style hotel that is located in Rutherford. For luxury accommodations Auberge du Soleil is one of the most exquisite properties in the valley, with bungalows perched on a hillside overlooking vineyards in Rutherford.