Hot in Napa

Want a wine tasting experience that’s fine-tuned for kicking back on a light-strung patio with salvaged wood furniture and a fire pit backed by a curved stone bench? There’s a hot spot for that, and it’s (gloriously) devoid of limos and bachelorettes. Brought to you by the folks behind Berkeley-based Clif Bar, Velo Vino in St. Helena combines brilliant wines, a bicycle base camp for local explorations, and a laid-back outdoor setting to sip favorites like Kit’s Killer Cab and Gary’s Improv Zinfandel (we like The Climber Pouch wine-in-a-bag, the perfect ski hut companion). Snack on organic mountain mixes, and if the weather sours, shift gears and take refuge: The tasting room takes its inspiration from Europe’s famed refugios—cozy huts enlivened by conversation and real-deal décor. Velo Vino is decked with photographs of Grand Tours. Now that’s haute.

TIP: Bring your road bike for a pre-fire-pit spin. Velo Vino’s friendly staff has the beta on routes for all skill levels.

Velo Vino is located at 709 Main St., St. Helena; (707) 968-0625. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day. Holiday hours: Monday-Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Friday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The patio at Velo Vino is dog-friendly!