On a recent Napa Valley wine tasting trip, I visited two standout upper-valley estates that offer completely different—yet equally memorable—experiences: La Sirena in Calistoga and Stony Hill Vineyard in St. Helena. If you are mapping out a Bay Area day trip to Napa Valley, here is why both wineries belong on your itinerary.
La Sirena: Heidi Barrett’s Calistoga Wine Tasting Room
Located at 810 Foothill Boulevard in Calistoga, La Sirena is the personal winery of renowned winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett, known across Napa Valley for crafting some of the region’s most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignons. Named after the Spanish and Italian word for "mermaid" in honor of Barrett’s passion for scuba diving and the ocean, the brand embraces its playful motto: “Enchanting wines with a touch of whimsy.”
Why Visit La Sirena in Calistoga
A Vibrant, Artistic Tasting Space: Unlike traditional, formal Napa tasting rooms, La Sirena’s Calistoga location feels warm, colorful, and creative. Alongside panoramic vineyard views, the space features bold original paintings, ceramics, and jewelry handmade by Heidi Barrett.
My Favorite Pour — 2022 Napa Valley Red: Every bottle here is produced in small lots with an emphasis on purity and balance. A personal standout from my visit was the 2022 Napa Valley Red—a rich, velvety, and beautifully structured pour bursting with dark fruit complexity and a long, lingering finish. Alongside their flagship 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon and red blends, you’ll also find expressive Syrahs and whimsical labels like Moscato Azul.
Know Before You Go: La Sirena
Address: 810 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga, CA 94515
Hours: Open 10:00 AM–4:00 PM daily (11:00 AM–4:00 PM Sundays; closed Tuesdays)
Reservations: Recommended via lasirenawine.com, though walk-ins are welcomed as space allows. (Note: 21+ only; no pets other than trained service animals.)
Stony Hill Vineyard: Historic Spring Mountain Tasting in St. Helena
Just south of Calistoga on the wooded slopes of Spring Mountain sits Stony Hill Vineyard. Founded in 1951 by Fred and Eleanor McCrea and bordered by Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, this historic St. Helena estate feels like stepping into classic, old-world Napa Valley.
Why Visit Stony Hill Vineyard in St. Helena
Mid-Century Charm & Mountain Views: Perched high above the valley floor, Stony Hill offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of Highway 29. Private tastings are hosted at The Residence—the founders' preserved mid-century modern home—complete with sweeping hillside views and relaxed, personal hospitality.
My Favorite Pour — Estate Chardonnay: Stony Hill built its historic reputation on its signature Chardonnay, and it was easily my favorite pour of the afternoon. Crisp, vibrant, and refreshingly balanced with notes of green apple, citrus blossom, and wet stone minerality, it’s a standout contrast to heavier Napa styles. Alongside their acclaimed Chardonnay, tastings also showcase expressive mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.
Know Before You Go: Stony Hill Vineyard
Address: 3331 St. Helena Hwy North, St. Helena, CA 94574
Hours: Open 7 days a week by appointment only (last tasting starts at 3:00 PM)
Reservations: Required in advance at stonyhillvineyard.com.
How to Pair Both Wineries in One Napa Day Trip
Suggested Itinerary: Start your morning at 10:30 AM at La Sirena in Calistoga to enjoy vibrant art, sweeping views, and bold reds. After grabbing lunch in downtown Calistoga or St. Helena, head up Spring Mountain for a 1:30 PM appointment at Stony Hill Vineyard to unwind at The Residence with crisp Chardonnay and mountain Cabernets.
Living the Northern California Lifestyle
Exploring hidden gems in Napa Valley is just one reason so many people love calling the East Bay and Tri-Valley home. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Pleasanton, Dublin, Livermore, or the surrounding East Bay—or simply want more local Northern California recommendations—I would love to connect!
Contact Julia Murtagh | The Murtagh Team
📞 (925) 997-2411 | 🌐 murtaghrealestate.com | CA DRE# 01751854
