Spring Arrival in Napa Valley
The first signs of spring come early in California’s Napa Valley. From late January through March, wild mustard flowers bloom, blanketing the rolling hills of the vineyards with bright yellow flowers— and the peak time to see them is right now in February.
Instagram-Worthy Spots
While visitors are bound to encounter the pops of color throughout the region, Visit Napa Valley has curated a map featuring the most picturesque spots for capturing the beauty of these blooms. Locations include:
- Calistoga’s Oat Hill Mine Trailhead
- Oakville’s Oakville Grade Road
- Yountville’s Washington Street
- Napa’s Orchard Avenue and Dry Creek Road
- Parts of the Silverado Trail parallel to Yountville
Additionally, various wineries showcasing vibrant vineyards can be found along the way, such as Bennett Lane Winery and Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena, among others.
Wine Experiences and Events
For a more leisurely immersion into the mustard flower experience, the Napa Valley Wine Train provides stunning views of these bright yellow flowers as it gracefully winds through wine country’s picturesque vineyards. This three-hour round-trip ride travels from downtown Napa to St. Helena, offering a unique way to appreciate the scenery.
Furthermore, attendees can partake in the Napa Valley Mustard Celebration kick-off event at Napa’s Jessel Gallery and Bougetz Cellars on February 19 and 20, immersing themselves fully in the festive atmosphere.
Why is this wine region adorned with such colorful blooms? The mustard is auspiciously planted between vineyard rows as a cover crop. This practice protects the soil, enriches it with nutrients, attracts beneficial insects, prevents erosion, and deters grapevine pests, thus contributing to sustainable viticulture.
If you visit soon and share your experiences online, you could even stand a chance to win a return trip. Participants are encouraged to share their mustard bloom photos on social media with the hashtag #WildMustardDaysContest. One lucky individual will be awarded a two-night stay for two at Carneros Resort & Spa, alongside a Laces & Limos vineyard tour and a $200 gift card to Mustard’s Grill.
