While Mum was in town and available to watch our kids, my husband and I took the opportunity to leave town for a trip we had bid on and “won” at a local fundraiser. Once we had decided on a date, the entire reservation process was extremely well organized and seamlessly accomplished, resulting in a very pleasant experience – and the flights and our accommodations at the Meritage Resort and Spa were wonderful.

We were famished following the stately although sluggish drive from the airport in San Fransisco, and immediately headed to Goose and Gander, a restaurant in St Helena that came highly recommended by a friend. We savored a delicious and very welcome lunch, which included Crispy Olives with Pistachios and a salad of Summer Cucumber and Greens accompanied by a delicious glass of rose. We then walked the charming streets before setting out for our hotel, stopping for a glass of celebratory sparkling wine on the way, at the Domaine Chandon, where we strolled around the beautiful grounds while enjoying the Classic Tasting, and the people watching at this busy winery.

one of the gorgeous views from our hotel

After relaxing by the pool surrounded by picturesque views of the vineyards, we sought dinner in the pretty downtown of Napa, beginning with a cocktail and appetizers at Angele, seated overlooking the Napa River, before moving on to another course at another restaurant.

the crispy veal sweetbreads, summer squash, figs, lentils

We ended our evening at Basalt, a modern looking restaurant with a rustic vibe, that was new since our last visit. We sampled several small plates, the most surprising and delicious was the Dungeness Crab Salad with Avocado, Roasted Jalapeño, Spiced Almonds, Tortilla Chips

the beautiful Dungeness Crab from Basalt