Schramsberg Vineyards
Iconic Napa Valley winery renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines and historic cave tours. A must-visit for bubbly lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Schramsberg Vineyards
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Napa Valley winery renowned for its exquisite sparkling wines and historic cave tours. A must-visit for bubbly lovers.
"The cave tour was fascinating, the ambiance extraordinary, and the bubbles delicious!"
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Cave Coolness
The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Caves Tour
Underground Cellars
Explore the historic caves where millions of bottles of sparkling wine age. A truly unique and atmospheric experience.

Sparkling Wine Tasting
Tasting Room or Caves
Savor Schramsberg's renowned sparkling wines, from Blanc de Blancs to Blanc de Noirs. Often paired with delicious accompaniments.

Estate Grounds
Winery Exterior
Admire the beautifully manicured grounds and historic estate buildings, offering picturesque views of the Napa Valley landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Cave Tour Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Cave Coolness
The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days.
🥂 Sparkling Wine Focus
Schramsberg specializes in sparkling wine. Come ready to enjoy their famous bubbles!
🚗 Designated Driver
If you plan on tasting multiple wines, arrange for a designated driver or utilize ride-sharing services.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Tours
Appointments are essential! Book your Schramsberg tour and tasting online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Cave Coolness
The caves are cool year-round. Bring a light jacket or sweater for your cave tour, even on warm days.
🥂 Sparkling Wine Focus
Schramsberg specializes in sparkling wine. Come ready to enjoy their famous bubbles!
🚗 Designated Driver
If you plan on tasting multiple wines, arrange for a designated driver or utilize ride-sharing services.
📸 Capture the Moment
The estate and caves offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Schramsberg Vineyards for its exceptional sparkling wines, fascinating cave tours, and beautiful estate. The knowledgeable and engaging guides, like Jeff and Christopher, are frequently highlighted for making the experience both educational and fun. While the price point reflects the premium nature of the winery, most guests feel it's a worthwhile investment for the quality and unique atmosphere.
"First time visiting yesterday. We did the cave tour and tasting which was just so cool to see. The cave tour was light walking and me being short, didn't have any problems with the height but there are little corridors that may not be fun for people slightly taller... the tasting included 4 sparkling wines and 1 red with a pairing of cheeses, dried cherries and apricot to combine. Beautiful property and such friendly service. I think the shop was very reasonably priced too. I bought a bottle stopper for only $8 but they had other items too like stone coasters and logo items. Would recommend."
Samantha Parga
"This was my second visit to Schramsberg. I loved taking friends back for the tour and tasting experience. Lots of interesting info on the tour, and a tasting inside the cave! It’s so iconic and memorable. Must visit if you’re in Napa. The sparkling wines are fantastic"
Shelby Murtha
"This was our 2nd visit, and we'll likely visit Shramsberg every time we return to Napa. Really great all-around tour and tasting.
Our wine educator Jeff was equal parts knowledgeable and humorous, making a sometimes stuffy type of experience feel casual and fun, while still remaining very professional."
Ryan Chamblee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schramsberg Vineyards is located in Calistoga, Napa Valley. The best way to reach it is by car. If you're coming from San Francisco, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Consider ride-sharing services or hiring a driver if you plan to indulge in wine tasting.
Yes, there is parking available at Schramsberg Vineyards for visitors attending tours and tastings. It's generally ample, but it's always good to arrive a few minutes early.
No, Schramsberg Vineyards operates strictly by appointment only. You must book your tour and tasting in advance online. Walk-ins are not accommodated.
For visiting multiple wineries like Schramsberg, many visitors opt for a designated driver, hire a private driver, or use ride-sharing apps. This ensures safety and allows everyone to enjoy the tastings.
Public transportation options directly to Schramsberg Vineyards are very limited. It's highly recommended to arrange private transportation or a ride-share service for your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour and tasting prices vary depending on the experience. The cave tour and tasting typically includes several sparkling wines and small bites. Check the official Schramsberg website for current pricing and package details.
A typical tasting at Schramsberg includes a selection of their acclaimed sparkling wines, often accompanied by small food pairings like cheeses, dried fruits, or nuts to enhance the flavors.
Yes, you can purchase wine directly from Schramsberg Vineyards after your tasting. They also offer wine-related merchandise.
Schramsberg Vineyards is open for tours and tastings by appointment. Hours typically run from morning to late afternoon, but it's essential to check their website for specific daily availability and booking times.
There is no strict dress code, but smart casual attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are a good idea, especially for the cave tour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cave tour at Schramsberg takes you through their historic, hand-dug caves where millions of bottles of sparkling wine are aged. It's an educational and atmospheric journey into the winemaking process.
The cave tour involves some walking and can have narrow passages. While generally manageable, individuals with significant mobility issues might find it challenging. It's advisable to contact the winery directly if you have concerns.
A typical tour and tasting experience at Schramsberg lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for the tour, tasting, and any questions you may have.
Schramsberg is primarily an adult-oriented wine destination. While children may accompany adults on tours, they cannot participate in tastings. It's best suited for adults who appreciate wine.
Schramsberg is famous for its diverse range of sparkling wines. Popular choices include the Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and their J. Schram Reserve. The best one for you will depend on your personal preference!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Schramsberg often includes small food pairings with their tastings, such as cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts, designed to complement their sparkling wines.
Yes, Calistoga and the surrounding Napa Valley area offer numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Many wineries also host winemaker dinners.
Outside food is generally not permitted during tours and tastings at Schramsberg, as they provide curated pairings. It's best to enjoy the food offered or dine at a nearby restaurant before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed at Schramsberg Vineyards, especially on the estate grounds. However, be mindful of other guests and follow any specific guidelines provided by your tour guide, particularly inside the caves.
The manicured gardens, the historic winery buildings, and the unique ambiance of the caves offer excellent photo opportunities. The vineyard views are also picturesque.
Yes, you can typically take photos during the wine tasting, but it's polite to be discreet and not disrupt the experience for others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to consider the length of the tour and the potential for narrow passages in the caves. If your children are very young or have short attention spans, you might want to arrange for one adult to wait outside with them while the other takes the tour, or consider wineries with more dedicated family-friendly activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider visiting on a weekday when tours might be less expensive or less crowded. Also, if you're traveling with a group, sharing the cost of a ride-share or hiring a driver can be more economical than individual taxi fares. Bringing your own water and snacks for before or after your visit can also help manage overall expenses in the pricey Napa Valley region.
🥂 Couples & Wine Enthusiasts
Consider booking a later afternoon tour to enjoy the sunset views over the estate. Many visitors rave about the knowledgeable and engaging guides, like Jeff and Christopher, who enhance the experience with their passion and humor. This is an excellent destination for those looking to delve deep into the art of American sparkling wine and enjoy a memorable tasting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Schramsberg Sparkling Wine
This dedication to excellence led to a pivotal moment in 1972 when Schramsberg's 1969 vintage Blanc de Blancs was served at a state dinner in Beijing during President Nixon's historic visit to China. This event, known as the "Toast to Peace," brought international recognition to American winemaking and cemented Schramsberg's reputation. The winery remains family-owned and operated, continuing its commitment to quality and tradition.
Visitors can learn more about this rich history during the cave tours, which delve into the winemaking process and the estate's storied past. The underground cellars, hand-dug and expansive, are a testament to the winery's enduring legacy and house millions of bottles aging to perfection.
Experiencing the Schramsberg Caves
During the tour, you'll walk through these fascinating tunnels, learning about the meticulous process of méthode champenoise (traditional method) winemaking. Guides often share engaging stories about the winery's history and the art of creating their renowned bubbles. The ambiance is truly special, making it a memorable part of any Napa Valley visit.
It's important to note that the caves are naturally cool, so bringing a light jacket is recommended, even on warmer days. While the tours are generally accessible, some passages can be narrow, which is something to consider if you have mobility concerns.
The Art of Schramsberg Sparkling Wine
The winery offers a diverse portfolio, with popular selections including the Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay), the Blanc de Noirs (made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier), and their flagship J. Schram Reserve. Each wine reflects the unique microclimates of their vineyards and the skill of their winemakers.
Visitors can experience these exceptional wines firsthand through guided tastings, often accompanied by carefully selected food pairings that enhance the tasting notes. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to sparkling wines, a tasting at Schramsberg provides a delightful introduction to the quality and craftsmanship of American bubbly.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit