Nestled in the rolling hills of Carneros, Bouchaine Vineyards offers a unique blend of rich history, immersive hospitality, and an innovative approach to wine education, making it one of the most dynamic tasting destinations in the Napa region.
Whether you’re an experienced wine enthusiast or simply seeking a fresh experience during your next visit to wine country, be sure to set aside time for these three remarkable experiences at Bouchaine.
FALCONRY IN THE GARDEN
Bouchaine’s falconry experience offers something few wineries attempt: a chance to engage with majestic birds of prey, guided by Master Falconer Rebecca Rosen.
We learned how these birds of prey help protect the vineyards from pests and contribute to sustainable farming.
Upon arrival, we were greeted with a crisp glass of rosé as we learned about the birds before watching them take flight over the vines. We had the opportunity to get up close to the birds and even don the glove for a moment of connection with a hawk.
There’s something magical about standing in the vineyard with a glass of Pinot in hand while a falcon circles overhead. It’s peaceful, grounding, and completely unforgettable.
This experience is offered Fridays at 10 am
VINE TO VESSEL TASTING
As featured in Decanter magazine, the Vine to Vessel experience at Bouchaine is a must for anyone who is passionate about wine. During this tasting experience, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the cellar and explore the concept of how the same base wine is aged or fermented in multiple vessels—such as concrete eggs, clay amphorae, acacia barrels, and large French oak casks. This allows you to taste how each vessel influences the wine’s aroma, structure, and flavor.
Set in the heart of the working cellar, surrounded by the very vessels you’re tasting from, the setting itself adds to the experience. I loved the the wealth of knowledge I learned during this unique experience.
TERRACE TASTING
At Bouchaine’s Terrace Tasting, we were treated to an exceptional experience that combined thoughtful hospitality with breathtaking views of Carneros. Seated on the terrace, we enjoyed a stunning 270-degree panorama of the vineyards The experience includes five estate-grown and small-production wines, each offering insight into the winery’s sustainable and detail-driven approach. Bouchaine is Napa Green Certified, and that philosophy is present in the glass.
Selections on my visit included the 2022 Pommard Clone Estate Pinot Noir, with precise red fruit, soft tannins, and savory undertones; the 2022 Estate Pinot Meunier, light-bodied and gently floral; and the 2020 Hyde Vineyard Merlot, structured and plush, with dark plum and graphite. All fantastic and unique even to the Carneros region.
Each experience at Bouchaine offers a different perspective, but all reflect the same thoughtful approach to winemaking and hospitality. Whether you’re in the cellar, on the terrace, or among the vines, you’ll leave with a clearer sense of how the wines are made—and why they matter.
Reservations are required, and each experience is intentionally limited so make sure to plan ahead
BOUCHAINE VINEYARDS
1075 Buchli Station Road
Napa, CA 94559
