Valle de Napa, Wine region in Northern California, US
Napa Valley is a wine region in Northern California that stretches through rolling hills and valleys with more than 400 wineries. The area is divided among five main towns—Calistoga, St. Helena, Yountville, Napa, and American Canyon—each with its own character and wine culture.
The valley was named after the local Native American people and developed into a major wine-growing area during the 1800s. A turning point came in 1976 when wines from here defeated French competitors in a blind tasting, bringing the region international recognition.
The name comes from the Wappo people who lived here for generations, and this connection still shapes how the region sees itself today. You can notice these roots reflected in local stories and how the place honors its past.
Plan time for travel between the different towns, as they are spread across the valley and driving is necessary. It makes sense to visit only a few wineries per day so you can explore at a relaxed pace and stay safe on the road.
One of the world's most-seen photographs captures the landscape here—taken in 2006 and later used as the default wallpaper for Windows XP. Photographer Charles O'Rear created an image that millions of people viewed daily without knowing its real location.
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