Sterling Vineyards
Wine Tasting & Tours in Napa Valley
1111 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
Sterling Vineyards is a winery in Napa Valley, known for its exceptional wines and tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings in a relaxed setting with expert commentary. It is featured on LocalTastingTours' Napa Valley wine tasting experiences.
About Sterling Vineyards
Sterling Vineyards is one of Napa Valley's most visually distinctive estates — a white Mediterranean-style winery perched atop a 300-foot volcanic knoll in Calistoga, accessible by an aerial tram that lifts visitors above the valley floor with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. The approach alone is unlike anything else in Napa Valley, and the hilltop setting provides a perspective on the region that no ground-level winery can match.
The winery was founded in 1964 by Peter Newton, an English-born paper magnate who was drawn to the Calistoga area's volcanic soils and warm microclimate. The estate has been producing wine for over 60 years, with particular strength in Cabernet Sauvignon from the warm northern end of the valley. The Platinum and Iridium Cabernet Sauvignons represent the top of the range — concentrated, structured wines that benefit from the intense Calistoga sun and well-drained volcanic soils.
Sterling underwent a significant renovation and reimagining in recent years, updating the visitor experience while preserving the iconic architecture and aerial tram that have made it a Napa Valley landmark. The self-guided tasting experience takes visitors through the winemaking process from crush to bottle, with tasting stations positioned throughout the facility. The combination of the tram ride, hilltop views, and walk-through format makes Sterling one of the most experiential winery visits in the valley.
What to Expect
The Sterling experience begins with the aerial tram ride — a five-minute gondola ascent that provides sweeping views of the Calistoga vineyards and the Palisades mountain range. At the top, visitors follow a self-paced tour through the winery, stopping at tasting stations where they sample wines paired with information about the winemaking process. The format is relaxed and self-directed, allowing guests to move at their own pace and spend more time at the stations that interest them most.
The hilltop terraces offer some of the most expansive views in Napa Valley — on a clear day, the panorama stretches across the entire valley floor to the Mayacamas Mountains. The Mediterranean architecture, with its white walls and bell towers, creates an atmosphere that feels more Greek island than California wine country. Premium seated tastings are available by reservation for guests who prefer a guided, more in-depth experience with the estate's top-tier wines.
Wines to Try
Visitor Tips
The aerial tram is the signature feature and should not be missed — it is the only winery tram in Napa Valley and the views alone justify the visit. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the tram can develop queues by midday. The Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon is the standout wine; the Malvasia Bianca is an unexpected gem worth trying. Sterling is located at the northern end of the valley in Calistoga, making it a natural pairing with Castello di Amorosa nearby. Allow 60-90 minutes for the full tram-and-tasting experience.
Visit Sterling Vineyards on a Guided Wine Tasting Tour
See Sterling Vineyards with an expert local guide as part of our curated Napa Valley wine tasting experience. Small groups of max 6 guests only.
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