Yountville is known for its strollable streets, unparalleled cuisine, and fantastic wine, but did you also know that it has an impressive cocktail scene? Many of the Yountville restaurants have a splendid bar scene and excellent craft cocktails. Scroll down to learn about my favorite cocktails throughout Yountville and go beyond Yountville tasting rooms.
If you are feeling a little adventurous head over to Bistro Jeanty, a favorite among Yountville restaurants, to try one the six french Absinthes that they import from France. Served in the traditional way (with a flame and sugar cube) it is sure to be an experience you won’t soon forget!
Bottega works to use local fresh products and is always looking to use new and innovative processes that make their cocktails stand out. While the seasonal selections rotate, the Italian Gin and Tonic is a staple that you do not want to miss. The perfect palate cleanser after a long day of wine tasting, the Italian Gin and Tonic is a mix of Meletti Limoncello, Nolets Gin and house-made Tonic. Garnished with juniper berries, Meyer lemon, grapes, and a rosemary sprig nothing says cocktail hour quite like it!
Hotel Villagio recently underwent a full remodel which included adding The Bar, an open to the public, bar in the lobby. The decor is fresh and modern which is mirrored in the cocktails. My current two favorite cocktails to sip on are the Hibiscus Paloma and The Gardener. The Hibiscus Paloma has a nice and fresh taste with just a hint of sweetness from the hibiscus. The Gardener is the best drink for anyone who loves gin. A simple combination of Hendrick’s Gin, dill cucumber, lime and St. Germaine. The Gardener is what you will want to be drinking this spring.
La Calenda: Avion de Papel cocktail
Yountville has a new nighttime hot spot in town and its name is La Calenda! While the margaritas are delicious (try the La Calenda Margarita with its fresh pineapple juice for something a little different) my current favorite is the Avion de Papel. A Mexican twist on the Italian Spritz, the Avion de Papel is made with anejo tequila, aperol, amaro nonino and fresh lemon. This is the drink for those looking to explore the exciting side of tequila. Make sure to come here when strolling Yountville restaurants.
The Don Torres is an impeccable combination of smoky mezcal, fresh lemon juice, brandy, blood orange and muddled pineapple with mint. This intoxicating concoction is the best way to start or finish a day in wine country. Not only is this drink delicious, but you can enjoy it during Happy Hour Monday – Thursday from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.!
There are few things better than sitting outside on the R+D Kitchen patio, relaxing in an adirondack chair, and sipping a margarita. Made with their own special sweet & sour mix this is a “common cocktail done uncommonly well”. Pair the cocktail with the dip duo and you are in for an excellent Yountville treat!