The Napa Valley Wine Train
When visiting Napa Valley an attraction that should not be missed is the Napa Valley Wine Train. This approximately three hour train ride features luxury dining and an incredible chance to see the valley in style.
There are three choices of dining cars to select. The menu on each car is different and with very different designs all three styles of cars offer a unique experience.
The largest capacity is held by the Gourmet Express which can accommodate 264 passengers. With two dining cars combined with three lounge cars the gourmet express offers a luxurious ride with mahogany paneling accented with brass fixtures and etched glass partitions. The seats feature brocade and velveteen fabric making them both elegant and comfortable.
The Champagne Vista Dome can carry up to 56 passengers and can be booked for large parties. With its own specialized kitchen, gourmet luncheons and dinners are offered to the passengers through the ride. Several special events are held in the Champagne Vista Dome including the weekly Vintners Luncheon Series, the monthly Appellations Dinners and when the weather is just right the Moonlight Escapades.
The third dining option is the Silverado Railcar. With a capacity of 50 diners the Silverado Railcar offers a lighter “a la carte” menu. Influenced by the Frontier history of California the décor features movie stars from old western movies.
It is possible to purchase a ticket that features a stop at one of two well-known wineries for a wine tasting. These tickets are offered as a part of the luncheon voyage.
While wine is included during the special events, usually all beverages must be ordered separately. The Wine Train does offer a wine tasting before departure and will allow passengers to bring their own wine for a modest corkage fee. Of course there are plenty of varieties of wine available on board the train, over 100 in fact, so there is no need to be concerned about a lack of selection. Indeed there is an entire car dedicated to wine tasting.
Another interesting feature is the “Chef de Cuisine” kitchen car. This unique car allows visitors to observe the chefs as they work to create the delicious meals that are served on board the train. A mahogany paneled passageway with observation windows keeps passengers safe and out of the way while allowing them to enjoy watching the cooks.
Other special events available include a “Murder on the Wine Train Express”, and seasonal events for holidays such as Valentines Day and Independence Day. Children are welcome, but bear in mind that three hours is a long time for an active youngster to sit still and for safety reasons children are not allowed to wander in the aisles.
The unique experience of riding in the beautifully refurbished train cars while enjoying delicious meals and savoring wine is likely one of the most memorable parts of visiting Napa Valley. Be sure to book well ahead as the trips fill up quickly.
