Where to Stay: Napa Valley

There are a plethora of wonderful places to stay in the Napa Valley. Here are my completely subjective selections of where I would stay (and thus, where I recommend that you stay).

The Wine Country Inn

Country charm with a dash of splash. The Wine Country Inn is located two miles north of St. Helena. It's definitely quiet and off-the-beaten path, with beautiful grounds, a garden, and a vineyard as a next door neighbor. The Inn has about 25 rooms and five luxury cottages. Complimentary goodies included with your stay include a gourmet breakfast, afternoon wine tasting, and an evening restaurant shuttle service to and from St. Helena restaurants. The Innkeeper, Jim Smith, is a good friend of mine and frequently pours wine at the wine tastings, so if he's there, be sure to introduce yourself and say "hi". (And here's an insider's tip: When you call to book your reservation, ask for Deniese, and ask for the "Every Meal A Feast" discount. She'll probably pretend that she's never heard of this, but that's O.K.; press her just a bit, let her know you're "value" shopping, and there might just be a discount in it for you.)

The Wine Country Inn

1152 Lodi Lane

St. Helena, CA 94574

(707) 963-7077

Enjoy...