Sterling Vineyards Gondola Ride & Sip and Stroll: Napa Valley’s Must-Do Wine Experience
Written by: Lauren Strojny, Napa Valley, CA
Looking for a wine tasting experience that’s as breathtaking as it is delicious? The Sterling Vineyards Gondola Ride & Sip & Stroll Experience is back and better than ever after its highly anticipated reopening. Nestled in Calistoga, Napa Valley, Sterling is the only winery in the region with a gondola, making it a truly one-of-a-kind adventure for wine lovers and sightseers alike.
Honestly, as a local, I was a little hesitant going into this “out of the box” experience. Not only did this tasting exceed all expectations, it truly dazzled me. The Gondola ride up was just the cherry on top of an incredibly well thought out experience in the wine world. Sterling Vineyards is a must-visit. Here’s why this bucket-list-worthy attraction should be at the top of your list.
The Featured Experience
Winery: Sterling Vineyards, Located in Calistoga - the Northern part of the Napa Valley, CA
The Experience: Book their Sip & Stroll Tasting to ride the Gondola, walk the property, while enjoying 5 wines
Overview: Take an 5-minute gondola ride to the top of Napa Valley, sip on exceptional wines as you explore Sterling’s self-guided tour, and enjoy panoramic views from their stunning hilltop estate.
What Makes Sterling’s Gondola Ride & Sip & Stroll Experience 6-stars?
The Only Gondola Ride at a Napa Winery
Sterling offers an 5-minute scenic gondola ride, providing unparalleled aerial views of Napa Valley. Glide above the vineyards and take in the rolling hills, lush grapevines, and stunning mountain backdrops before arriving at the hilltop winery.
A Seamless, Well-Designed Wine Journey
The Sip & Stroll Experience is thoughtfully curated to let you explore the estate at your own pace. After a seamless check-in, you’ll receive a glass of wine and a map before embarking on a self-guided tasting tour through the historic property.
Five Unique Wine Stops Along the Way
As you stroll through the estate, you’ll stop at five different wine stations, each designed to showcase a distinct part of Sterling’s winemaking process.
Stop 1: Welcomed with a view– Start with their Chardonnay while learning about Sterlings origins
Stop 2 & 3: The Crush Pad & Tank Room – Discover how the wines are made & aged while sipping 2 Bordeaux reds
Stop 3: The Hilltop Patio – Take in stunning panoramic views of Napa Valley while enjoying another delicious pour
Stop 5: The Gift Shop & Final Pour – Finish with a last tasting inside the gift shop, where you can browse exclusive wines and souvenirs.
A Perfect Group Activity
This effortless, self-guided tour makes it an ideal activity for groups, couples, or solo travelers. Whether you’re planning a bachelorette party, girls’ getaway, or just fun few days in Napa, the Sterling Vineyards experience is stress-free, fun, and Instagram-worthy.
Why You Should Visit Sterling Vineyards in 2025
Newly Reopened After the 2020 Glass Fire – A fresh take on a Napa Valley icon.
One-of-a-Kind Gondola Ride – The only winery in Napa Valley offering an aerial tram experience.
Breathtaking 360° Views – Unrivaled hilltop panoramas of Calistoga and beyond.
Interactive & Educational Wine Tasting – Learn about winemaking while sipping at your own pace.
Perfect for Locals & Visitors Alike – A bucket-list destination that never gets old.
Where to Book
What to Book: Gondola Ride & Sip & Stroll Experience
Price: $65 per person
When: Daily, by reservation
Book Here: Sterling Vineyards Tasting Reservations
For an insider look at the Sterling Gondola Ride & Wine Tasting Experience, check out my reel on Instagram @wine.with.lauren and stay tuned for more Six Star Wine Experiences! 🍷✨