Sterling Vineyards
Experience Napa Valley from above with a scenic gondola ride to Sterling Vineyards, offering stunning views and exceptional wine tastings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Sterling Vineyards
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Napa Valley from above with a scenic gondola ride to Sterling Vineyards, offering stunning views and exceptional wine tastings.
"The gondola ride to the top for a wine tasting is a must-do with amazing views!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially for weekend visits, to guarantee your gondola ride and tasting experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking on the self-guided tour and around the grounds, so comfortable footwear is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aerial Gondola Ride
Entrance to the winery
Soar above the vineyards for unparalleled 360-degree views of Napa Valley. A truly unique start to your wine tasting adventure.
Hilltop Tasting Room
Top of the hill
Enjoy a curated selection of Sterling wines with stunning panoramic vistas. A perfect spot to savor the flavors and scenery.
Self-Guided Winery Tour
Throughout the winery
Explore the winemaking process at your own pace, with knowledgeable staff at each station to guide you.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gondola Ride is a Must
Book Your Tasting Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially for weekend visits, to guarantee your gondola ride and tasting experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking on the self-guided tour and around the grounds, so comfortable footwear is key.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the gondola and hilltop are breathtaking – don't forget your camera!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Option
Sterling Vineyards welcomes families, making it a great option for a day trip with children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially for weekend visits, to guarantee your gondola ride and tasting experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking on the self-guided tour and around the grounds, so comfortable footwear is key.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the gondola and hilltop are breathtaking – don't forget your camera!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Option
Sterling Vineyards welcomes families, making it a great option for a day trip with children.
🥂 Founders Experience
Consider the Founders Experience for a more intimate and exclusive tasting with food pairings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sterling Vineyards for its breathtaking views, unique gondola ride, and high-quality wine tastings. The self-guided tour and friendly staff enhance the overall experience, making it a memorable highlight for many. While the price point is noted, most feel the experience justifies the cost.
"I had an amazing experience touring this winery. Each tasting was excellent. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. The views from the winery were stunning, and the Gondola Ride to the reserve was perfect. We were able to join and become members, so now we can continue to enjoy their excellent selections! It was a memorable visit and definitely a highlight of our time in the vineyards."
Jennifer Costigan
"Had an amazing time at this vineyard. It is a fantastic location with amazing views. The wine tasting we did was self guided and I loved seeing the process at my own pace. The views of the rest of the valley are stunning as you take a gondola up to their building. Their were five different wine tastings and I loved each one. If I lived in a state that would allow wine to be shipped to me, I would have signed up for Sterling. Definitely worth the visit!"
Tim Kealamakia
"Nice gondola ride to the top for a wine tasting. It is at least $55 per person. Used Priority Wine Pass to get 2-for-1 tickets. We sampled 5 wines, one white, 3 reds and 1 sweet/dessert wine. They were all good. The hosts at each station were friendly and knowledgeable. Very nice tour. The gift shop is nice. We bought a few bottles of wine. I would recommend the tour and tasting."
Rajiv Garg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sterling Vineyards is located in Calistoga, Napa Valley. The most scenic way to arrive is via the aerial gondola from the base station. Driving is also an option, with parking available at the base.
Yes, parking is available at the base station where you catch the gondola. From there, you'll take the aerial tram up to the winery.
Public transportation options directly to Sterling Vineyards are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the base station.
Most visitors agree that the gondola ride to the hilltop tasting room is the quintessential Sterling Vineyards experience, offering stunning views.
The gondola ride and the main tasting areas are generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the winery directly for specific accessibility concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the experience chosen, starting around $55 per person for the self-guided tour and gondola ride.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to ensure you can experience the gondola ride and your preferred tasting.
A standard ticket typically includes the aerial gondola ride and a self-guided tour of the winery, often with a tasting of several wines.
While walk-in tickets may be available, it's best to book online in advance to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot.
Some visitors have mentioned using passes like the Priority Wine Pass for discounts, such as 2-for-1 tickets.
🎫 🍷 Wine Tasting & Experience
Sterling Vineyards is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Meritage blends, among other varietals. [^SEOkeywordsterlingcabernetsauvignon] [^SEOkeywordsterling_chardonnay]
The Founders Experience is a more exclusive tasting, often in a private room, with food pairings. It's a premium option for wine club members or those seeking a special occasion.
Yes, Sterling Vineyards offers a self-guided tour where you can sample wines at different stations at your own pace.
Absolutely! The self-guided tour and knowledgeable staff make it an approachable and enjoyable experience for those new to wine tasting.
The Sterling Stroll refers to the self-guided tour experience, allowing visitors to wander through the winery and enjoy tastings at their leisure.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The aerial gondola ride offers incredible panoramic shots, and the hilltop tasting room provides stunning views of the valley.
Yes, the gondola ride is a prime spot for capturing sweeping views of the vineyards and the surrounding Napa landscape.
Expect breathtaking, panoramic views of the rolling hills, vineyards, and the expansive Napa Valley from the winery's elevated position.
The romantic setting and stunning views make Sterling Vineyards a picturesque location for special occasion photos.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas, but it's always good to be mindful of other guests and ask staff if unsure.
♿ 👨👩👧 Family & Accessibility
Yes, Sterling Vineyards is known to be family-friendly, with activities and spaces that children can enjoy.
Children are welcome at Sterling Vineyards, making it a suitable destination for family outings in Napa Valley.
While primarily a winery, the unique gondola ride and open spaces can be engaging for younger visitors.
The main pathways and tasting areas are generally accessible for strollers, but it's best to confirm specific routes with the winery.
As with all wineries, visitors must be 21 years or older to participate in wine tastings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The self-guided tour allows families to explore the winery at their own pace, and the open spaces provide room for children to move around. While wine tasting is for adults 21+, the overall experience is engaging enough to keep younger visitors entertained. Parents often appreciate that the winery doesn't feel overly stuffy or exclusive, making it a more relaxed outing for those with children. It's a great way to introduce the family to the beauty of wine country without compromising on a quality experience for the adults. Remember to book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
The panoramic vistas provide a beautiful backdrop for shared moments and memorable photos. Consider booking a seated tasting experience or the Founders Experience for an extra touch of intimacy and luxury. The combination of exquisite wines, breathtaking scenery, and a sophisticated ambiance creates an unforgettable experience for couples looking to celebrate or simply enjoy each other's company in a beautiful setting.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs
The Founders Experience is particularly recommended for connoisseurs seeking a more exclusive and in-depth tasting, often featuring premium wines and food pairings. Wine club members can also enjoy special access and benefits, making repeat visits highly rewarding. The winery's commitment to quality across its diverse collections ensures a sophisticated tasting journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Gondola Ride
+1Many visitors describe the gondola ride as a 'Carnival ride to the fortress,' highlighting its fun and memorable nature. The journey offers a unique perspective, allowing you to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the wine region before you even arrive at the tasting rooms. It’s a moment that consistently garners praise and is often cited as a highlight of the visit.
Given its popularity, it's essential to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or during peak season. The gondola ride is typically included in most tasting packages, making it an integral part of the Sterling Vineyards experience.
Sterling Vineyards Wine Selection
Beyond Cabernet, Sterling also produces exceptional Chardonnay, known for its balance and elegance, and robust Merlot. The winery offers a range of collections, including the Vintner's Collection and Heritage Collection, each showcasing different styles and vineyard expressions. This variety ensures there's something to please every palate, from those who prefer bold reds to those who enjoy crisp whites. [^SEOkeywordsterlingchardonnay] [^SEOkeywordsterlingmerlot]
Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the quality across all wine styles, including whites they might not typically choose. The self-guided tasting format allows guests to explore these different wines at their own pace, with knowledgeable staff at each station providing insights into the flavor profiles and winemaking process. This approach makes the tasting experience both educational and enjoyable.
The Sterling Experience: Beyond the Wine
The hilltop tasting room is designed to complement the wine with stunning views. Many packages include seated tastings, often paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, elevating the sensory experience. The staff are consistently described as friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming, contributing significantly to the positive atmosphere.
For those seeking an even more exclusive outing, the Founders Experience offers a private tasting in a dedicated room, providing a more intimate and personalized encounter with Sterling's wines. This option is particularly recommended for special occasions or for wine enthusiasts looking for a deeper dive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit