The Rutherford American Viticultural Area (AVA) is nestled in the heart of the Napa Valley and is known for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, among other grape varieties.

Begin your day at Honig Vineyard & Winery. This small, family-owned winery focuses on just two varieties: Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy a tasting on their beautiful, shaded patio, or take the Eco Tour into the vineyard to learn about their sustainable farming practices.

Then go west toward the Mayacamas Mountains to find Tres Sabores (meaning “three flavors”), nestled into the Rutherford Bench. As you arrive, you'll likely be greeted by the three resident golden retrievers. Tres Sabores has some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in the Napa Valley. All are dry farmed, as are their Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah grapes.

In the afternoon, travel north from St. Helena for a seated, guided tasting at Ehlers Estate. Enjoy the ambiance of this historic, pre-prohibition winery while trying the lineup of organic estate wines, including their opulent “1886” Cabernet Sauvignon (and no, its vintage wasn’t actually in 1886!). After tasting, soak in the vineyard and mountain views while playing a round of bocce ball. If you want to switch things up and start your day at Ehlers, they offer a 9:30 a.m. tasting for early birds, with a property and cellar tour and freshly baked croissants.

All wineries on this itinerary are certified Napa Green because of their dedication to sustainable practices in their winery and/or vineyards. Read more about their environmental and sustainability efforts at napagreen.org.