Larkmead Vineyards
Historic, female-led organic winery in Calistoga, known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and beautiful estate grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Larkmead Vineyards
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic, female-led organic winery in Calistoga, known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and beautiful estate grounds.
"Stunning grounds and historically rich vineyard, with wines that are great too!"
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Reservations are a must for estate tastings at this popular, small-batch winery.
🚗 Consider Transportation
Relying on Uber might work, but pre-planning your transport is wise for wine country.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Estate Tasting Experience
Main tasting room
Savor exceptional small-batch, organically grown wines, particularly their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, in a beautiful setting.
+1
Historic Estate Grounds
Throughout the property
Explore the stunning grounds, featuring a gorgeous flower garden entrance and beautiful landscaping, reflecting over 125 years of history.
Female Legacy & Leadership
Throughout the winery
Discover the story of Lillie Hitchcock Coit and the winery's current female ownership and winemaking team.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tasting in Advance
Embrace the Organic & Female-Led Vibe
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Reservations are a must for estate tastings at this popular, small-batch winery.
🚗 Consider Transportation
Relying on Uber might work, but pre-planning your transport is wise for wine country.
🌿 Appreciate Organic Farming
Larkmead is committed to organic practices; learn about their sustainable vineyard management.
🍷 Focus on Reds
Known for their complex and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varietals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tastings
Reservations are a must for estate tastings at this popular, small-batch winery.
🚗 Consider Transportation
Relying on Uber might work, but pre-planning your transport is wise for wine country.
🌿 Appreciate Organic Farming
Larkmead is committed to organic practices; learn about their sustainable vineyard management.
🍷 Focus on Reds
Known for their complex and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varietals.
🌸 Admire the Gardens
The beautiful flower garden entrance is a picturesque spot to start your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Larkmead Vineyards is praised for its beautiful historic grounds, commitment to organic farming, and exceptional, complex wines, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. However, some visitors find the experience to be formal and lacking in warmth, with a perceived focus on exclusivity over genuine hospitality.
"Women founded in late 1800’s. Women owned, women run and women vintner! Gorgeous flower garden entrance and property. Melissa helped me with the tasting. Lovely small batch winery. All grapes organically grown on their property."
Byron Sheardown
"Stunning Backdrop for a Soulless Experience
Stopped by Larkmead Vineyards today after a wonderful afternoon at a down-to-earth winery that reminded us why Napa used to be special (Venge). Sadly, Larkmead represents everything wrong with what Napa is becoming - all aesthetic, no heart.
We pulled into a nearly empty parking lot (telling), and politely asked if they were offering tastings. We were met with a stiff $90 per person price tag - no flexibility, no hospitality, just a cold transaction. My dad, who’s lived in Napa for years, asked if we could simply buy a bottle and enjoy it on the property. The response? “We’re not licensed for that.” Translation: we’re too busy clinging to an image of exclusivity to actually welcome people in.
The whole experience reeked of pretension over passion, gatekeeping over community. Stunning grounds, yes — but empty of the warmth, generosity, and authenticity that made Napa legendary in the first place.
If you want a reminder of why Napa is losing its soul, Larkmead IS NOT IT. They don’t want locals. They don’t want connection. They just want prestige.
Plenty of other wineries deserve your time, your support, and your love. Larkmead is a hard pass."
Megan Fontana
"Beautiful building and landscaping. Such a wealth of history. My only complaint is that we didn't feel the excitement and passion from our host."
Joni Lemieux
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Larkmead Vineyards is located in Calistoga, at the northern end of Napa Valley. Driving is the most common way to reach it. If you're relying on ride-sharing, it's advisable to book in advance, as availability can be spotty in wine country.
Yes, parking is available at Larkmead Vineyards. However, it's recommended to arrive on time for your reservation, as the lot can fill up, especially during peak season.
Public transportation options are very limited in Napa Valley. It's best to arrange private transportation, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service to get to Larkmead Vineyards.
For wine tasting tours in Calistoga, consider hiring a private driver or using ride-sharing services. Some visitors opt for organized wine tours that handle transportation.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the winery, the grounds are generally well-maintained. It's always a good idea to call ahead to discuss any specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, reservations are essential for wine tastings at Larkmead Vineyards. They are a small-batch winery and tastings are by appointment only to ensure a personalized experience.
Tastings at Larkmead Vineyards are typically around $90 per person, reflecting the premium, small-batch nature of their offerings.
The estate tasting typically features a selection of their organically grown wines, often focusing on their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, and provides an opportunity to learn about the winery's history and practices.
Operating hours can vary, but generally, Larkmead Vineyards is open for tastings by appointment during typical business hours. It's best to check their official website or call for the most current information.
Yes, you can purchase wine directly from Larkmead Vineyards. However, they are not licensed for on-site consumption of purchased bottles outside of a scheduled tasting experience.
🎫 🍷 Wine & Tasting
Larkmead Vineyards is celebrated for its high-quality, small-batch red wines, particularly its estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. They also produce other Bordeaux varietals.
Yes, Larkmead Vineyards is committed to organic farming practices for all the grapes grown on their estate.
The winemaking philosophy at Larkmead focuses on expressing the unique terroir of their estate vineyards, with a commitment to organic farming and a legacy of female leadership.
Typically, food is not served during standard tastings, but some special events might include pairings. It's advisable to have a meal before or after your tasting.
Larkmead's Cabernet Sauvignon is highly regarded for its complexity, elegance, and ability to reflect the unique character of their historic Calistoga vineyards.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Yes, photos are generally allowed at Larkmead Vineyards. The property is quite picturesque, especially the flower gardens and vineyard views, making it a great spot for photography.
The atmosphere can be described as elegant and historic, with a focus on quality and a strong female legacy. While some find it stunning, others have noted a lack of warmth, describing it as more formal.
With its beautiful grounds and high-quality wines, Larkmead can be a lovely setting for a special occasion, though some reviews suggest it may feel less personal than other wineries.
Founded over 125 years ago by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, Larkmead is one of Napa Valley's oldest family-owned estates, carrying a rich history and a legacy of female leadership. +1
No, Larkmead Vineyards operates by appointment only for tastings. You cannot simply walk in to taste wine or purchase a bottle for on-site consumption without a reservation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are traveling with children, it's best to confirm directly with Larkmead if they can accommodate younger visitors during your scheduled tasting time. Some reviews suggest that the experience might feel more formal and less geared towards children, with one reviewer noting that they don't want locals or connection, implying a less casual atmosphere.
💰 Budget Travelers
For travelers seeking more affordable wine experiences in Napa Valley, exploring wineries with lower tasting fees or looking for special offers might be a better fit. Larkmead's value lies in its historic estate, organic practices, and the quality of its small-batch wines, which come at a premium price point.
🥂 Couples & Wine Enthusiasts
+2The historic estate grounds provide a beautiful and romantic setting for a tasting. While some reviews mention a more formal atmosphere, the stunning backdrop and the opportunity to savor complex, contemplative wines can make for a memorable experience. Booking an advance reservation is crucial to ensure a spot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Female Leadership
+2This emphasis on female leadership is not just a historical footnote but a core part of Larkmead's identity. Visitors often appreciate learning about this unique aspect of the winery, which sets it apart in the often male-dominated wine industry. The current proprietor, Kate Solari Baker, also shares her personal artistic works throughout the winery, adding another layer of personal expression to the estate.
The wines themselves, particularly the Cabernet Sauvignon, are crafted with a dedication that reflects this heritage. The commitment to organic farming and small-batch production further underscores the thoughtful and deliberate approach taken by the women at the helm.
+1Organic Farming and Vineyard Management
+1Visitors might witness or learn about practices like mowing between the vines. This technique serves a dual purpose: it improves air circulation within the vineyard, which is crucial for grape health, and the tilled grass enriches the soil with organic matter and oxygen. This attention to detail in vineyard management directly contributes to the unique character and complexity of their wines.
The winemaker, Avery Heeland, has been making subtle tweaks to vineyard management since taking over, focusing on aspects like managing canopy sprawl in parcels that receive abundant sun. This meticulous approach to viticulture is key to producing the top-tier juice that Larkmead is known for.
The Larkmead Wine Experience
While the wines are consistently praised for their quality and depth, visitor experiences regarding hospitality can vary. Some guests report an amazing hospitality and an outstanding wine experience, highlighting the staff's accommodation.
Despite differing perspectives on the hospitality, the stunning grounds, beautiful landscaping, and the wealth of history at Larkmead are universally appreciated. The property itself, with its gorgeous flower garden entrance, provides a picturesque backdrop for any visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit