Photo by Visit Napa Valley
High on many bucket lists is a trip to Napa Valley, the much-heralded Mecca of the premium US wine production industry. Even after deciding to make this trip, there are a myriad of choices that make the planning a daunting task. When to go, where to stay, where to eat and sip the fruits of the vine. With well over 400 wineries and new restaurants opening a la minute, the possibilities seem endless and overwhelming.
There are a few sure fire ways to address the quandary and get the essence of Napa. One solution is to plan a visit to coincide with FLAVOR! Napa Valley.
This annual five day celebration, benefiting Culinary Institute of America, CIA—held at the end of March– is designed to celebrate all things Napa. You can buy the weekend package to FLAVOR! NAPA VALLE! or pick and choose those events and activities that speak to your dollars and senses. There are two taste-around events that give you maximum exposure to a wide range of the food and beverage possibilities that Napa offers.

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One event, called ?First Taste Napa,? is held on opening night at the newly opened Copia campus of the CIA. Many of the local restaurants that you would love to experience are all there–waiting to tempt you with tasty morsels that represent their culinary style. At the ready are some of the very wineries you hope to visit offering up samples of varietals planned to pair with your nibbles.
At the CIA Copia Campus you are in an ...