Castello di Amorosa, Napa

Castello di Amorosa, located near Calistoga, is a one-of-a-kind medieval Tuscan-style castle and winery that transports visitors back to 14th-century Italy. Built by fourth-generation vintner Dario Sattui, the castle opened to the public in April 2007, after a 15-year construction project that cost over $40 million. Inspired by Sattui’s passion for European castles and old-world winemaking traditions, the estate spans 171 acres and features an authentically designed fortress, complete with a moat, drawbridge, defensive towers, a great hall, a chapel, and even a torture chamber.

The handcrafted stone masonry, ironwork, and woodwork used throughout the structure were created using traditional medieval techniques, incorporating materials such as 8,000 tons of locally quarried stone, 850,000 imported bricks, and terra cotta roofing tiles. The castle also boasts a 900-foot labyrinth of wine caves, which extend deep into the hillside, leading to its two-acre underground barrel cellar and tasting rooms.

Beyond its striking architecture, Castello di Amorosa is renowned for its premium Napa Valley wines, which are exclusively available at the winery or through its wine club. Visitors can sample a curated selection of these wines in the ornate tasting rooms beneath the castle, enjoying an experience unlike any other in Napa Valley.

The Great Hall, one of the most remarkable spaces in the castle, features hand-painted frescoes by Italian artists, a 500-year-old fireplace, and a coffered ceiling reminiscent of grand European banquet halls. Despite its authentic medieval setting, the winery itself is highly modern, producing exceptional varietals from Napa’s most prized vineyards, including its renowned Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese.

As one of California’s most visited wineries, Castello di Amorosa has become a must-see attraction in Napa Valley, often described as an "adult Disneyland" for wine lovers. The winery offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its 107 rooms, underground tunnels, and hidden passages, immersing themselves in a truly medieval atmosphere. Even those without time for a full tour can still wander the grounds, marvel at the castle’s grandeur, and enjoy a tasting experience in a setting unlike any other in the region.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, Castello di Amorosa is an iconic Napa Valley destination that combines Old World charm with world-class winemaking.