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A Feast for the Senses

Writer's picture: Alexis KosoveAlexis Kosove


Progeny Winery, Napa, California


I plan itineraries all over the world, but am lucky enough to have some of the most beautiful and highly sought after locations right at my fingertips. Just a mere hour north of San Francisco, the Napa Valley transforms you barns and rolling vineyards, mountain ranges and sixteen appellations. It's a rarity to get so quickly from a large, bustling city to the serenity and nature of Northern California's wine country- one of the reasons it is one of the most popular destinations in the world.


Having lived in the Bay Area for over twenty five years, I've seen the transformation of wine country and been lucky to experience a range of experiences from: amazing restaurants to weekends in private homes, wine tastings, celebrations with friends and romantic getaways. Far from undiscovered, Napa Valley has perhaps become too well known for my liking. I have witnessed the quaint town of Headlsburg turn into a swanky version of "the Beverly Hills of wine country". No less charming than it once was, Healdsburg does not fall short in terms of impressive, world renowed cuisine, wineries and hotels. However, sometimes I yearn to get away from the crowds. I can remember the days when I used to pull up to Bouchon Bakery in cute, downtown Yountville, without teams of tourists lining up to take selfies on the most concentrated street of Michelin starred restaurants on earth. There are aspects of wine country that feel like Disneyland for wine lovers with overpriced tasting experiences, too many people and businesses making money "hand over fist."


Alas, the good news is that there are hundreds of wineries in the valley, smaller properties and restaurant gems which remain lesser known. There are still plenty of opportunies and ways to visit this beautiful area and feel as though you're are a million miles away, pampered and able to enjoy what makes it so special. We have teamed up with the best private car service in the valley. Not only will they safely drive you around while you imbibe and enjoy as much wine as you can handle, but they have the connections our clients need to have access to these hidden gems of Napa/ Sonoma wine country.


In January, I did a tasting at the Progeny Winery, hosted by the lovely Karissa. She made us feel special and at home as we entered the extraordinary property. Sadly, we were fogged in that day, but we could make out enough of the spectacular scenery and rolling vineyards as we approached the top of the property. Prodigy was a labor of love for Betty and Paul, hence the fitting name. The property had been owned by the same family since 1885, when the Woolls purchased it in 2006. The number of people who can taste and visit the winery is quite limited as the experience is meant to be intimate... just like their first date on this very property. As a lover of design and all things related to the senses, I appreciated every detail. A lover and connoisseur of art and design, Betty oversaw the property's gorgeous landscaping and modern architecture which marries the in and outdoors with massive panels of seamless glass as to not obstruct the views. The serene infinity fountain, Miro tapestries and exquisite custom furniture is also a testament to her impeccable taste.


Both the red and white wines are complex, unique and divine. Being a lover of quality, not quantity, these are wines I want to sip slowly, sniff and savor as I gaze into the surroundings and swirl in my beautifully shaped glass. At Progeny they offer a variety of experiences from a classic tasting to a cheese and wine pairing, an outdoor picnic or a full wine and food experience that allows guests to watch the chef and native Texan, John Gerber, at work and taste his dishes which reflect a delicious nod to his Southern roots.


We would love to share this multi layered sensory experience with our clients and the team at Progeny are your consummate hosts.



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