Hi Donna! We like the Reserve collection at Sterling. The Merlot is very nice. I read a recent review (can't remember where) that someone had a terrible meal at the Culinary Institute of America. I don't know, I've never tried it.

I would recommend going into Calistoga to the Wappo Bar & Bistro for a wonderful meal. ***kim***

You have to go to Opus One. The wine is ok, but the building and tour is fantastic. Make a reservation and go. Just turn right at the Oakville Grocery.

Kim - I mostly drink white wine, so maybe I will give Sterling Merlot a chance. As for the culinary institute: I think lunch was prepared by the students they have in training, and even though you have to be a fairly advanced chef to attend, you are bound to get a bad meal. We have eaten there twice and both times were great. And if you sit at the "counter" you can watch them cook - great show if you like to watch experts cook - I do:-)