Brian Arden Wines — Attraction in Calistoga

Brian Arden Winery promises a charming family-run experience with high-quality wines. This family-operated winery boasts a dedicated team, producing a limited number of cases each year. We thought it would be a great option for a more intimate experience, but unfortunately, our visit fell a bit short.

The good:

Free Tastings (with purchase): Their $55 tasting fee is waived with the purchase of two bottles, making it a budget-friendly option compared to some Napa wineries.

Snack Attack: The highlight of our visit was the small bites selection. The carrot and caramel popcorn was delicious, disappearing quickly.

Room for improvement:

Setting: The indoor tasting room felt a bit plain compared to the stunning settings some Napa wineries offer. The limited outdoor seating faces the calistoga hills, but it might not be ideal on hot days.

Wine Quality: Unfortunately, the wines themselves were a letdown. Across most of the tasting, we found them thin, lacking complexity, and with an unpleasant aftertaste. The pungent aroma wasn't very inviting either. Only the dessert wine managed to impress.

Sommelier Knowledge: Our sommelier, while friendly, seemed a bit inexperienced and couldn't answer some of our questions about the wines. The whole conversation felt more scripted than fluid. It also appeared that they were understaffed because our sommelier had to cut our conversation short because she had to attend to another party.

Brian Arden has the potential to be a delightful winery experience. However, based on the wines we tasted, it falls short for the price point (thankfully, our wine tasting was complimentary because we had the...

My wife and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Chef Experience at Brian Arden Winery, masterfully curated by Chef Mitchel Gray, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that we were in for a culinary journey that would surpass even the finest Michelin-starred restaurant nearby.

Chef Gray’s skill and creativity were on full display with each meticulously crafted course. Every dish was a testament to his expertise, seamlessly pairing with Brian Arden’s exquisite wines. The highlight was their Sangiovese, aptly nicknamed “It’s just too good,” which perfectly complemented the flavors on our plates.

The atmosphere was both welcoming and sophisticated, Madeline was one of the best wine guides we have ever had. She told wonderful stories and invited us to truly savor each bite and sip.

Chef Gray’s ability to harmonize the bold and nuanced flavors of the wine with his inventive dishes left a lasting impression. Each pairing was a delightful surprise, elevating our dining experience to an unparalleled level.

For anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary and wine adventure, the Chef Experience at Brian Arden Winery is a must. Come hungry and prepare to be amazed, because this experience truly redefines excellence in food and...

This small family owned winery is a hidden gem! We participated in the Chef Experience Wine Tasting this past weekend for my wife’s birthday. It was beyond words! Our host Madison was AMAZING! She made us feel so welcome and allowed us to ask all the questions as she shared so much knowledge/history with us. Chef Ben was extremely talented and answered all of our millions of questions while he was busy preparing our next tasting. Brian took time out of his busy day to check on us multiple times, wishing my wife a happy birthday each time he excused himself. This place is all about passion and pride while keeping family at the forefront of everything they do. It is evident from the moment you enter the grounds to the time you leave, how above and beyond this tiny slice of heaven is all about the details and craftsmanship of their wine and food. The atmosphere was warm, loving and appreciative. We all walked away knowing this was a once in a lifetime experience we will treasure...