Yountville is the first town north of Napa, and where the famous vineyards begin to spread right across the valley and into the hills. I remember the way it was in my college days, just an unpretentious farm town with a few wineries nearby. The old town is hard to spot now, overwhelmed by tasteful new buildings, elegant restorations, and landscaping. It is a very attractive town, crafted specifically for upscale tourism. The main highway bypasses it (unlike Saint Helena), making it pleasant to stroll the two main streets.

The historic Groezinger winery bulding a block off Washington Street has been converted to an indoor mall, "Vintage 1870", with shops, galleries and restaurants. A block further north is the fabled French Laundry Restaurant, known for its Michelin three-star rating and nearly impossible-to-get reservations.