I’ve been to a few wineries in my time, not as many as Dandy of course, but enough to feel like I sort of know what I’m doing when I walk into one. Well nothing prepared for me for Raymond. What a fascinating place! It’s definitely the right winery to feature as our “experience” portion of the Rutherford AVA.
So you walk in, and the first thing you notice is a HUGE crystal chandelier. It’s big and shiny, and lord knows I like things that sparkle. I was already a fan. However, we were just getting started.
The first room we visited was the Red Room, and words can’t even begin to describe this place-go check it out! I will tell you this; it’s red, and plush, and velvety. There are lounge chairs, and deep chairs, and couches that seem like beds. There are mirrors, and art, mannequins dressed in nothing but jewels, and a huge bar for tasting wines. Private events can be held here, and I imagine people have some stories to tell! If you have a hankering for Moulin Rouge, this place will soothe your soul.
Here’s the coolest thing about Raymond though (and that says a lot, I could’ve strolled around for hours), they have a “Winemaker for a Day” experience, and you get to blend your own red wine from various Napa appellations, bottle it, and take it home! It costs $125 per person, but the experience and memories are priceless. The room is large enough for groups, and we think it would be an excellent event for a company to bond over. Hmm…I wonder if my boss would go for that…?
If you’re feeling a little heady, or overwhelmed by the sparkle and velvet, just take a stroll outside. A complete 180, the exterior is a lovely oasis with chickens and goats, and even a resident cat to bring you back down to earth. A breath of fresh air, quite literally. I would definitely recommend this winery to anyone who thinks they’ve seen it all! – Lea Gourley
