In Napa, your journey begins aboard a beautifully restored 1915 Pullman Standard train that travels through California wine country and Diablo Valley. The Napa Valley Wine Train features elegant furnishings—brass accents, etched glass partitions, velveteen armchairs and mahogany paneling—that evoke the glamour of a bygone era. The Cabernet Sauvignon Lounge retains its original red glass windows and includes a private observation deck; the lounge even displays the Northern Pacific yin-yang logo from the train’s first owner. Comfortable armchairs face the windows so guests can relax and enjoy the passing vineyard-strewn landscape.
Executive chef Kelly Macdonald creates bespoke menus for each journey, focusing on local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Dining Journeys offer multi-course lunches and dinners and can be paired with stops for curated vineyard experiences. Popular options include the Valley First Winery Tour at Raymond Vineyards, the Ambassador Winery Tour featuring Charles Krug and Raymond vineyards, and the Castle Winery Tour at Castello di Amorosa. These tours provide a deeper look at winemaking, cellar operations and tasting techniques while complementing the onboard culinary program.
Also consider a visit to Grgich Hills Estate, which is available as part of daytime and evening itineraries. Founder Miljenko “Mike” Grgich earned international recognition after his 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay helped win the famous 1976 Paris Tasting, a moment that put California wines on the global map. A tour at Grgich Hills offers context about that legacy alongside modern winemaking practices.
The combination of historic rail travel, refined dining and curated winery stops makes the Napa Valley Wine Train an immersive way to experience the region. Whether you choose a leisurely lunch, an intimate dinner or a full-day excursion with vineyard tours, the trip highlights Napa’s scenic beauty, culinary talent and winemaking heritage while providing a comfortable, stylish setting for tasting and discovery.