Darioush

Beautiful setting, but our least favorite winery of the day. Our final stop of the afternoon and the most visually striking. Driving through the gates felt like entering a grand Persian estate. We later learned the Iranian owner lives on the property, which explained the refined design and upscale vibe. The covered patio where we were seated felt private and peaceful, and the initial pour of Chardonnay came with seasoned olives and salted pistachios. But the experience was a bit underwhelming overall. The host’s explanations were difficult to follow, and the overall tasting felt more scripted than personal. The wine selection leaned heavily into bold, peppery varietals like Shiraz, which didn’t quite suit our preferences. Our favorite ended up being the Dual Blend—ironically, not part of the official tasting flight but offered upon request.

Had a wonderful time celebrating Nowruz with my Persian friend at the winery doing the signature mezze. We were greeted warmly in front of the entrance by Tina. We were delighted to receive a cup of rose mint tea to start. Our host Christina went beyond and above explaining the wines info and history, the food plates ingredients and pairing, helping us taking memorable photos. The new year food options were delicious and authentic according to my Persian friend. The pistachio soup was beautifully crafted. Thank you chef for the attention to details using homemade recipes. The special small cookies gift and yummy pistachios were very nice. We hope to return next year to join the picnic lunch. Wines were delicious and excellent quality. Lots of changing characters in each sip.

My husband and I just left Darioush Winery, and while the vineyard itself is absolutely breathtaking, the real standout of our visit was Antonella, our incredible sommelier. We came in knowing virtually nothing about wine—just a general appreciation—and left with a deep understanding and genuine excitement, all thanks to her. Antonella didn’t just pour wine; she guided us through a thoughtful, in-depth tasting experience that felt more like a master class than a typical visit. She explained each wine’s character, the winemaking process, and most importantly, the best pairings to truly bring each glass to life. What really set her apart was how approachable and passionate she was. Never once did we feel intimidated or overwhelmed—Antonella made learning about wine feel natural and exciting. Her ability to translate complex concepts into something relatable and fun is a true gift. We've never had a sommelier spend this much time and care explaining the nuances of wine, and it completely changed how we experience it. Antonella is an absolute gem, and we’re so grateful for the unforgettable experience she gave us. If you're visiting Darioush, do yourself a favor and ask for Antonella. You'll walk away not only with amazing wine, but with a whole new appreciation for it.

Wine tasting at Darioush is next-level. This is Persian opulence at its finest, with everything from the historical stone to the imported pistachios to the house-made Earl Grey hand soap carefully crafted. Not to mention, of course, the WINE! The tasting here was thoughtfully paired with some delicious bites, from lamb chops to pistachio soup to traditional bread. My Persian boyfriend was delighted to have a taste of home. We walked around the grounds afterwards but hope next time to take a glance at the basement (our tasting table had a glass top where we could peer down a floor to see the barrels, but we want to get a little closer next time!). We’ll definitely be back again soon to enjoy the excellent wine and unique atmosphere of Darioush.

The Member’s Mezze Experience at Darioush Winery is an inspired celebration of Persian culinary heritage thoughtfully paired with their signature wines. Set against the elegant backdrop of Napa Valley, this curated tasting is both elevated and deeply rooted in tradition. The experience begins with Persian roasted pistachios, a delicate yet flavorful introduction that sets the tone—each bite is a nod to Darioush’s cultural roots and attention to detail. This is followed by wood-fired Barbari bread, served warm and fragrant, perfect for savoring with the winery’s own olive oil—smooth, vibrant, and a true expression of craftsmanship. The pistachio soup is a standout: rich and velvety with a surprising depth, its nutty character beautifully enhanced by the 2023 Signature Chardonnay. The wine’s crisp acidity and subtle oak complement the soup’s creamy texture with finesse. Kuku Sabzi, layered with crushed pistachios and served with a bright preserved lemon yogurt, brings a refreshing herbaceousness to the palate. Paired with the 2022 Signature Shiraz, the earthy spice of the dish is elevated, while the wine’s dark fruit and soft tannins create a harmonious balance. The centerpiece of the experience is the mesquite-grilled lamb chop, impeccably cooked and resting on a bed of smoked eggplant purée. The smokiness of the eggplant and the bold, savory flavors of the lamb are seamlessly complemented by the 2022 Signature Cabernet Franc, whose structure and aromatic profile accentuate the dish’s richness. To conclude, the 2022 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon is poured—a classic and commanding finish that lingers gracefully, echoing the depth of the entire tasting. Its layered complexity makes it the perfect finale to a thoughtfully orchestrated culinary experience. The Mezze Experience at Darioush is not simply a wine tasting—it is an immersive narrative, telling a story through each course and pour. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, enriching the journey with context and warmth. A true standout in Napa Valley’s tasting landscape.