St. Helena is one of Napa Valley’s most charming and wine-rich destinations. With world-class vineyards, boutique tasting rooms, scenic beauty, and incredible food, it’s the perfect place to slow down and savor the best of Wine Country. If you only have one day to explore this iconic Napa town, here’s how to make every hour count.
This itinerary combines private wine tastings, exclusive Napa Valley wine experiences, and plenty of scenic views for a day that’s equal parts relaxing and unforgettable.
9:00 AM – Morning Coffee and a Vineyard Walk
Start your day with a gentle stroll through vineyard-lined roads and a locally brewed cup of coffee. Downtown St. Helena offers cozy cafés that are perfect for grabbing a latte and planning the day ahead. If you’re staying nearby, some inns even offer access to private trails overlooking the vines.
This quiet hour sets the tone for a full Napa Valley tasting experience, allowing you to soak in the scenery before the tastings begin.
10:30 AM – Private Tasting at Strala Vineyards
Begin your tasting itinerary at a Napa Valley boutique winery known for its peaceful setting, estate-grown wines, and personalized hospitality. Strala Vineyards, located in the heart of St. Helena, is a family-owned Napa winery that specializes in small production Napa wines crafted with care and intention.
Here, you can enjoy a private wine tasting in Napa hosted by knowledgeable staff in an intimate space overlooking the vines. The flight may include handcrafted Napa wines, exclusive to the estate, and the story behind each bottle adds depth to every sip.
For an even more elevated experience, ask about their Napa wine tasting with food pairing options or plan your visit through Strala Travel, their in-house concierge service that curates exclusive Napa Valley wine experiences.
12:30 PM – Lunch at a Farm-to-Table Favorite
Head to a nearby restaurant in downtown St. Helena for a relaxed, wine-friendly lunch. The town is home to several celebrated farm-to-table restaurants, many offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Some spots even offer curated wine lists that highlight St. Helena wineries and allow you to continue exploring regional flavors through thoughtful pairings.
Pro tip: If you’re planning a proposal or special celebration, this is a great time to coordinate a surprise toast or chef’s tasting menu.
2:00 PM – Scenic Ride to a Hidden Gem Winery
After lunch, continue your day with a visit to one of the many hidden gem wineries in Napa that offer boutique winery tastings away from the crowds. This is a perfect time to explore a second small producer, especially one known for a different varietal or winemaking style.
If you’ve been enjoying wine earlier in the day, this is a great opportunity to let someone else take the wheel. Consider arranging a private car service, hiring a local driver, or using a rideshare option like Uber or Lyft to get to your next tasting safely. These services are widely available in St. Helena and make it easy to explore without worrying about directions or driving under the influence.
If you prefer to drive your own vehicle, make sure to designate a sober driver in advance. Napa Valley’s scenic roads are part of the charm, but responsible planning ensures your day stays enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll enjoy a peaceful drive through vineyard-lined roads, arriving at a quiet winery where you can continue your Napa Valley tasting experience in a beautiful, intimate setting.
4:00 PM – Stroll Through Shops and Galleries
Wind down with a walk through downtown St. Helena’s boutiques, tasting rooms, and art galleries. This part of the day offers a great balance to your wine tasting itinerary. You’ll find everything from handcrafted goods and culinary souvenirs to local art inspired by Napa Valley landscapes.
This is also a good window to make a Napa Valley wine tasting reservation for a future trip, especially if you’ve discovered new wineries you’d like to explore next time.
6:00 PM – Sunset Toast and Dinner
As the sun begins to dip behind the Mayacamas Mountains, enjoy one final toast at a rooftop bar, vineyard patio, or intimate restaurant. This golden hour moment is made for connection. Whether you’re on a romantic wine tasting in Napa Valley or a relaxed getaway with friends, this is when the magic of Wine Country truly shines.
End the day with a seasonal dinner featuring Napa Valley ingredients and a glass of your favorite wine from earlier tastings. If you fell in love with a bottle, many Napa Valley boutique wineries allow same-day pickup or can ship directly to your home.
Optional Add-On: Extend Your Trip into a Wine Weekend
If you have time to stay longer, St. Helena makes an excellent base for a Napa wine tasting itinerary that spans multiple days. Add in visits to estate-grown vineyards, spa appointments, vineyard picnics, or a Napa wine tasting with food pairing experience curated by Strala Travel. With so many of the best wineries in St. Helena just a short drive away, the options are endless.
Final Sip: One Perfect Day, Countless Memories
A day in St. Helena can be as immersive, indulgent, or intimate as you want it to be. With thoughtful planning, even a single day can deliver the kind of artisanal Napa Valley wine experience that you’ll remember long after the last sip.
Reserve your tasting in Napa today at Strala Vineyards and let your perfect day in Wine Country begin.