Home · Napa Valley wineries · Charles Krug
Charles Krug is an excellent stop for visitors who want Napa history to be part of the day. Founded in 1861, the estate is associated with the beginnings of commercial winemaking in Napa Valley and later became part of the Mondavi family's story. The historic Redwood Cellar and large St. Helena property give the visit a sense of continuity that newer tasting-room destinations cannot easily reproduce.
The standard Estate Tasting introduces current wines in a relatively accessible format, while Cabernet-focused and tour experiences go deeper into the estate's history and production. Specialty options add chocolate or caviar pairings, and the winery's wood-fired pizza program on select days makes it possible to combine a tasting with a casual meal. Private cabanas create a longer, more social format for small groups. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are important parts of the portfolio, along with other classic Napa varieties.
Charles Krug works particularly well for first-time Napa visitors who want a historical reference point before visiting more modern estates. It can also be a practical St. Helena lunch stop when pizza service is operating. Because the property itself is worth seeing, leave some time beyond the tasting to appreciate the historic buildings and grounds.
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Visit snapshot
- Address
- 2800 Main St, St Helena, CA 94574
- Phone
- 707-967-2229
- Reservations required
- Yes — reserve/prepay tasting experiences; wine-by-glass/bottle may be available for shorter visits
- Tasting price
- $50–$150
- Typical visit time
- 60–90 min; private cabana 2 hr
- Wine focus
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and classic Napa varietals; small-lot and Bordeaux-style Generations
- Discount available
- Priority Wine Pass
- Picnic
- No — outside food and picnicking not permitted
- Food
- Yes — cheese/charcuterie, wood-fired pizza Thu–Sun, chocolate and caviar pairings
- Group tasting
- Yes — cabanas up to 12; private/group experiences available
- Distance from St. Helena
- 1.1 miles
- Distance from SFO
- 78.7 miles
Tasting options and prices
- Estate Tasting $50
- Cabernet Connoisseur $75 / 60 min
- Tour & Tasting $90 / 90 min
- Chocolate & Wine $90 / 60 min
- Caviar & Wine $150
- private cabanas 2 hr with minimum spend.
Tasting fees and formats change. Confirm current options with the winery before you book.
Discount available
Charles Krug is listed with Priority Wine Pass. Confirm dates and blackout rules on Napa tasting discounts and with the winery before you go.
Planning a day around Charles Krug
Use Charles Krug as a St. Helena anchor. On Thursday–Sunday, check whether pizza service can cover lunch; if booking the 90-minute tour, stay nearby afterward rather than crossing the valley.
Other wineries near Charles Krug
- Beringer Vineyards
- HALL St. Helena
- Duckhorn Vineyards
- V. Sattui Winery
Use the Napa winery map to compare drive miles and reservation windows.
Information last verified: September 2026. Visitor details (hours, tasting prices, reservations) are sourced from the official winery website. Confirm before you visit. How we maintain listings.