Napa Valley Wine Train
Where would you like to be as you count down the final seconds to 2016?
Saying goodbye to the old and ringing in the new is sure to create mixed feelings of nostalgia and anticipation. It’s what makes New Year’s Eve such a memorable time. This year, why not make it extra special and even more unforgettable with a destination celebration?
With the help of Varinnia Colemere of Nervig Travel in downtown Panama City, we’ve hit the highlights of a few destinations near and far that have their own special ways of ringing in the New Year. [/box]
For an unforgettable, unique New Year’s Eve experience, climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. Beautifully restored vintage railcars carry passengers along a 25-mile stretch of California’s wine country and, inevitably, will transport guests back in time.
The 2015/2016 New Year’s Eve dinner on the wine train and the festivities at the station are themed “Vintage Circus.” The event begins with a sparkling wine and seafood reception at the station followed by a train ride and multiplecourse gourmet meal. Once back at the station, the circus begins with vintage acts and carnival games and ends with a midnight toast.
The Wine Train is known to offer one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive dining experiences. Its onboard wine list includes 40 wine offerings and its wine shop, located at the station, features 500 wines with focus on the smaller production wines and the boutique wineries that are often only available locally.
A trip aboard the Wine Train caters to the wine lover and history lover alike. The collection of early 20th century Pullman railcars, made of steel for safety, was originally built as firstclass coaches. The restored cars include three kitchens where top chefs prepare fine, multiple course meals for guests as they relax in plush armchairs surrounded by Honduran mahogany paneling with brass accents and etched glass partitions. It mimics the luxury rail travel of the early 1900s.
There are several hotels and bed and breakfast inns in Napa Valley, but perhaps the most special place to stay is the Auberge du Soleil. Its suites are luxurious, dining is delectable, and it features a lavish spa.
Connoisseurs of wine will want to indulge in a private tour and tasting at Domaine Chandon Vineyard, which features a 10,000-bottle wine cellar and offers tastings of wines that date back to the 1960s. Another winery to visit is Inglenook, one of the oldest operational wineries that offers tours, a museum, and tastings in its wine cave.
Travel time from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport to San Francisco, including about a 90-minute ride to the valley, is approximately eight hours. Rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive to Napa Valley.
Information on the Napa Valley Wine Train: www.winetrain.com