A satisfying afternoon combined garden touring and tasting fine wines at Raymond Vineyards ~ ruby red Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. I awoke with a smile on my face the next morning, still savoring the aftereffects of a heady joie de vivre that characterizes a visit to this St. Helena winery.
Theater of Nature © Alice Joyce
The spirited ambiance emerging throughout the Raymond property is colored by the elegance and humor of CEO Jean-Charles Boisset of Boisset Family Estates, the driving force behind the Vineyard’s insightful use of solar power, its commitment to organic farming methods, and a lavish aesthetic sensibility. Receiving kudos for Cabernet Sauvignons distinguished by a silky depth, Raymond Vineyards recently garnered the Wine Enthusiast ‘2012 American Winery of the Year’ award.
Unique tasting opportunities at this Napa Valley destination are designed to excite all the senses: Consider reserving an unparalleled offering ~ Raymond’s velvet draped, Baccarat embellished Red Room.
Raymond Vineyards ‘Frenchie’ detail © Alice Joyce
Stroll through the extensive biodynamic gardens and you’ll come upon a “shady dog suite’ … aka Domaine Frenchie!
A perfect place to park your pooch.
‘Frenchie Winery’ © Alice Joyce
Take a self-guided tour of the lovely Theater of Nature gardens – no reservation required – to learn about distinctive elements of the organic and biodynamic guiding principles. Among the topics you’ll learn about: Building soil, nurturing goats, chickens and sheep, and planting to attract beneficial insects.
Theater of Nature – Courtesy Raymond Vineyards
RAYMOND Flow Fountain © Alice Joyce
Flow fountains like the one pictured are an integral aspect of biodynamic gardens, designed to move water in a vortex motion that replicates the infinity symbol.
Raymond Exterior Courtesy Raymond Vineyards
Winery displays celebrate the multifaceted sensory pleasures of wine. Below: An array of aromas to increase awareness of the complexity you might experience in a fine glass of wine; floral and spicy, fruity, earthy and spicy.
Aroma Display Photo Courtesy Raymond Vineyards
The Crystal Experience is one of the sparkling spaces at Raymond Vineyards. The glittery decor casts an enticing, theatrical spell; icing on the cake, so to speak, as you enjoy a tasting while learning about the art of decanting wine.
Raymond Crystal Cellar ~ Courtesy Raymond Vineyards
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