When does the harvest start?
 

When does the grape harvest start in the Napa Valley? When would be the best week to go to visit different wine festivals? Thanks (We are not wine experts)

The harvest starts in August. I would guess Mid September would be best time to visit wineries during the harvest. You should contact individual wineries though to see when/if they allow visitors.........

some of the wineries have some fun, exclusive events for "members only" or their wine clubs. it might include getting the 1st taste of a new wine, or taking off your shoes and stomping some grapes during harvest.

In some cases, a membership is only $50 or $100, so could be worth the price of admission for a fun experience.

I think that you would likely also get a year's worth of discounted wines through your membership.

Most wineries don't "charge" you to become a member--but you are obligated to receive shipments of wine. Be sure your state allows shipment of wine!

The crush is usually the beginning of October or late September. Make your reservations ASAP. The valley fills up. BTW~August in the valley is HOT. October is beautiful.

Try visiting Sonoma County, instead of Napa...its beautiful, lots of wineries..not as hot as Napa.... there is the town of Sonoma, and also Healdsburg...but do make reservations quickly. For some different places to stay that might not be booked yet, try www.HealdsburgRentals.com ... Have fun.

Thanks for all of the help. We will have to get busy and make some plans.

I live in Napa for 4 years on a overlooking Vineyard. Absolutely beautiful.
During Harvest time August, Mondavi has weekly concerts on their vineyard. Prices depending on who are performing.www.mondaviwinery.com
If you want free wine tasting, good place to go Satoui. Also don't skip on Sterling Vineyard, make sure you ride gondola =)