Salutations from the Gold Rush town of Calistoga, a delightful small city located in Napa Valley renowned for its hot springs, mud therapies, and vineyards (of course). The surrounding area boasts more than 500 wineries, numerous of which have produced award-winning wines not only on their own but also by blending the unique characteristics of their grapes with those from the region. In addition to its remarkable terroir, the locale’s hot springs invite visitors to indulge in the mineral-rich pools.
The historic center of the town features the Calistoga Depot, built by Sam Brannan in 1868 and revitalized by Jean-Charles Boisset starting in 2021, the visionary for Calistoga’s future this century. Designed to provide a communal space for locals to enjoy wines, spirits, cuisine, and an exceptional shopping experience, this landmark houses California’s second-oldest train station and now includes the Calistoga Depot Distillery, a beer garden, a historical wine tasting room, themed train cars, and a selection of four varied menus.
Decorated with images from the past and a modern replica of the original still, the Calistoga Depot Distillery Bar welcomes guests to enjoy a tasting of regionally made spirits and wines. The spirits honor Sam Brannan’s vibrant legacy (reflected in names such as The First Millionaire, Prosperous & Penniless, The Calistoga Star, and Fame & Misfortune, along with the creative design of their labels and unique bottles) featuring Jean-Charles Boisset’s method for their final aging in wine barrels. These tequilas, bourbons, whiskeys, and brandies are all crafted in small lots in cooperation with master distillers. After savoring your time tasting one or more spirits, it’s time for dinner.
Inside the Depot, five train cars have been transformed into unique dining adventures. If your cravings tonight lean toward oysters and caviar, the JCB Parlor car is adorned to make you feel like you are feasting beneath the sea. The walls are embellished with fish, painted in oceanic hues, and the ceiling sparkles like the ocean’s depths. The First Millionaire’s Saloon pays homage to Sam Brannan, California’s first millionaire, where you’ll find seating on bar stools with saddle-style seats. The Casa Obsidiana train car exhibits authentic Mayan and Oaxaca artwork, traditional furnishings, and ceramic tiles. Delight in the genuine cuisine from that region alongside tequila, a partnership between the Beckmann Gonzalez family and Jean-Charles Boisset. The fourth train car features artisanal chocolates from The Earth and Sky, while the final car, The Calistoga Wine Merchant, offers wines and spirits for purchase.
As if the experience at one of the most historic train stations wasn’t sufficient, the Oakville Grocery (founded in 1881) is the oldest grocery store in California. It now includes a Wine Shop stocking over 200 local wines. Knowledgeable staff members are available to guide you in selecting by menu, flavor, and price range. Be sure to explore the grocery store adjacent to the wine shop, as it features exquisite cheeses (which are beautifully packaged for travel), spices, baked goods, pastas, and beans. After all that shopping, it’s time to relish a glass of wine and pizza, cooked in their outdoor oven and served on their charming patio.
Merely 20 minutes from the Depot lies Raymond Vineyard, one of the oldest wineries in Napa Valley. This vineyard is positioned next to fields where fruits and vegetables are grown organically alongside livestock. Jean-Charles prides himself on knowing which other crops and irrigation techniques promote growth without the use of pesticides and chemicals. Walking into any of the tasting rooms reveals a harmonious blend of luxury and sophistication. The Baccarat Chandeliers and mirrors capture attention in the “red room.” Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a novice, the team at Raymond can provide a memorable experience that will enhance your appreciation for wine.
The picturesque outdoor setting combined with an award-winning chef creates the perfect atmosphere for corporate retreats, lifecycle events, and weddings. A guesthouse is also available on the premises. Another winery steeped in history is Buena Vista Winery, California’s first premium winery established in 1857. The historic location has undergone significant renovations while preserving many aspects of the original structure. Some of the magnificent caves were refurbished, while others sustained such catastrophic damage that they needed to be entirely rebuilt. The wine barrels remain intact, and walking through the facility evokes an authentic feeling of returning to this winery’s golden era.
For a remarkable opportunity to see numerous vineyards, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a nostalgic excursion to sip wines sourced from the vineyards you’re about to explore. This experience might include a delightful lunch paired with the served wines. Sam Brannan founded this town, and Jean-Charles Boisset, the visionary for its future, has elegantly revitalized Calistoga, respecting its rich heritage. He provides visitors with an extraordinary experience by showcasing sites as authentic pieces of history, restored with the same dignity and beauty they once held. Your journey in Calistoga will be filled with exquisite wine, delightful cuisine, and relaxation for both the mind and body. You will leave with a new-found admiration for the historical significance of this enchanting area.
Image Source: NapaValley.com
