The Hess Collection

What it's like

The Hess Collection sits up Redwood Road on Mount Veeder, a winding drive away from the valley floor. It is a contemporary art collection inside a mountain winery, and the property combines historic buildings with the newer Lions Head Cellar.

One thing to know before you go: the museum galleries are closed for a refresh, and the winery has said they will stay closed through the end of the year. If the art collection is your main reason to visit, check with the winery before booking what you'll be able to see.

Who it's best for

This suits visitors who want a tasting with some context, such as a cellar visit or a walk around the property, rather than a quick stop at a bar. It also works for people who like a mountain drive and a quieter pace. Everyone in your party must be 21 or older, and pets aren't allowed except service dogs.

What to book

Reservations are recommended, though walk-ins may be available. You can book at hessperssonestates.com/visit/experiences. Options, with club pricing in parentheses:

• The Bar Tasting: $40 per person (club members complimentary). A focused flight of four wines at the tasting bar.
• The Estate Tasting: $70 per person ($56). A guided tasting across the portfolio, with a visit to the historic property and the Lions Head Cellar.
• The Reserve Estate Tasting: $110 per person ($88). A cellar visit followed by a seated tasting of four reserve-tier wines.
• ATV Vineyard Tour & Tasting: $250 per person ($200). A guided ATV tour, then a seated tasting of four reserve-tier wines.

Active Collectors Club members taste complimentary. For groups of five or more, call the winery at 707-320-9221.

How it fits into a day

The winery is open Thursday to Monday, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, and closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Last service is at 3:00 PM, so plan to arrive well before then. The seated tastings and the ATV tour take more time than a bar flight, so a late-morning or early-afternoon start leaves you room to relax.

The road up the mountain is winding, so build in extra drive time. Pick a designated driver, book a tour, or arrange a rideshare, since coverage and pickups can be slower up here. Treat it as an anchor stop for part of your day; the mountain road takes time, so leave room around your booking. Eat a proper meal before or after, and leave the rest of the schedule loose.