We had a big night to get ready for, but oysters and champagne with two of my favorite people, who also happen to be amazing bloggers, Andi and Abby, were more important to me than spending time getting all dolled up. So, while others in our Trafalgar Tours group were refreshening themselves, the three of us headed over to nearby Oxbow Public Market. It is just a five minute walk away from the River Terrace Inn, which was the charming hotel we were staying at while in Napa Valley.
Founded in 1983, Hog Island Oyster Company was created by three marine biologists who all shared a common vision to raise sustainable, premium grade oysters for the San Francisco area. From their very first hand-raised bushel, they quickly became a Bay legend. Now they have expanded into Napa Valley at the Oxbow Public Market, where crustacean lovers like us can taste their sweet and succulent oysters in between wine tastings.
Unfortunately, we had less than an hour there — when we could have easily spent another two or three — although our final stop of the day was equally exciting. We were going to Nicholson Ranch, where we would be partaking in our Be My Guest Experience of the trip. Exclusive to Trafalgar Tours, Be My Guest experiences according to them, “capture the true essence of a destination as only an insider can. As the guest of a local host, you will experience their warm hospitality and enjoy a delicious meal prepared using fresh, local produce. It is a special opportunity to savor authentic food and regional wines with locals, in ways you never could if traveling on your own. You will be invited into private homes, working farms, wineries, and family-run restaurants located in picturesque settings unique to the region.” Trust me on this, Be My Guest experiences are completely unforgettable and would never happen if for not being on a Trafalgar Tours guided vacation.
Nicholson Ranch is a winery nestled in the Sonoma Valley foothills and is known for its prized-grape production. Before our dinner, we joined the gracious and gregarious owner for a personal tour with a welcoming glass of wine.
Oysters and Champagne with some of your favorite people makes for a very special evening 🙂
My thoughts exactly!!!
Skipping a trip back to the hotel for more food and wine? Ladies after my own heart!
Hahahaha I know if you had been there you would have joined us! 🙂
I have heard only good things about Hog Island Oysters! I’m pretty neutral on oysters generally, but I feel like these might be the ones to make me fall in love.
Yes, you would TOTALLY fall in love with these! Especially if you have them with some bubbly.
Truly the oysters and the fun we had at Oxbox Market was one of the highlights of the trip!
AGREE!!!!!
I didn’t know Abby was with you on this trip – how fun!! I love oysters…
She was, it was so awesome to see her!!! Love that girl!
That sounds like the ideal night for me…oysters & champagne…nom nom nom
So good right!?!
My favorite post ever!!! Such memories. 🙂 🙂
Awwwww love you!!!
The wine I can do… but the oysters are an acquired taste… and one I haven’t acquired yet 🙂
I totally agree! Thankfully, I have acquired it haha!
Another amazing trip you’re having. Those cheeses look so beautiful! I’m sort of on a cheese kick right now.
Yes, it was beyond amazing, I didn’t want it to end!!! Oh those cheeses were amaaaazing!
Some really great photos, the oysters all look amazing.
Mmmmm, looks good, looks very good and the company was excellent too!
Yes and yes!!! 🙂
Oysters and champagne are my two favourite things – lucky you!
Me tooooo! Hopefully, one day we can share some together!!!
You have the Captain drooling over here. I think I’d take care of the champagne and he would cover the oysters! Looks like you had an amazing meal.
Hahaha what a compliment if I have you drooling!!! It was SUCH an amazing meal.
My mouth is watering. I crave for brie and wine 🙂
Brie is the best!!!!