Are you looking for a unique and magical experience in Napa Valley? Look no further than La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa, a 13th-century inspired Tuscan castle that will transport you to the heart of Italy. This stunning winery and castle, built by Dario Sattui, is one of the top attractions in the region and a must-visit destination for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
History of La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa
La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa was built over a span of 15 years, from 1994 to 2007, by Dario Sattui, the great-grandson of Vittorio Sattui who founded the original Sattui winery in San Francisco in 1885. Dario Sattui was inspired to build a medieval castle after a trip to Italy in the 1970s and spent years researching and sourcing materials to make his vision a reality.
The castle is a faithful reproduction of a 13th-century Tuscan castle, complete with a drawbridge, moat, defensive walls, and a great hall. It was built using traditional methods and materials, including hand-chiseled stone, hand-forged iron, and ancient bricks from Italy.
Wine Tasting at La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa
La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa is not just a castle, but also a winery that produces some of the best Italian-style wines in Napa Valley. The castle has a total of 107 rooms, including 95 rooms dedicated to wine storage and aging. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the castle and its underground wine cellars, which are dug into the hillside and span over 40,000 square feet.
After the tour, visitors can indulge in a wine tasting experience like no other. La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa offers a variety of wine tasting options, including guided tastings, reserve tastings, and food and wine pairings. The castle has a total of 18 tasting rooms, each with its own unique ambiance and decor.
Castle Tour at La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa
The castle tour at La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa is a fascinating journey back in time. Visitors can explore every corner of the castle, from the great hall and chapel to the torture chamber and armory. The castle is filled with authentic medieval artifacts and antiques, including suits of armor, tapestries, and frescoes.
One of the highlights of the tour is the grand barrel room, which houses over 1,000 oak barrels of wine. The room is also home to a stunning fresco of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, painted by Italian artist Gianni Cirelli.
Events and Venues at La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa
La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa is not just a winery and castle, but also a popular venue for weddings, private events, and corporate functions. The castle has several event spaces, including the great hall, courtyard, and barrel room, that can accommodate up to 200 guests.
The castle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the annual Harvest Party, which features live music, food, and wine tasting. Check the castle's website for a calendar of upcoming events and activities.
How to Visit La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa
La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa is located in Calistoga, at the northern end of Napa Valley. The castle is open to visitors daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, with the last entry at 5:00 pm. Guided tours are available every day and reservations are recommended.
The castle offers several wine tasting packages, starting at $35 per person. Visitors can also purchase wine by the bottle or case at the castle's gift shop. Don't forget to bring a camera and comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in the castle tour.
Experience the magic and charm of La Fantasia Castello di Amorosa, a unique and unforgettable destination in Napa Valley. Whether you are a wine lover or history buff, this castle winery is sure to delight and inspire you.
