View from the Vineyard: Rutherford

This is the fifth post in the View from the Vineyard series - talking about a fun and somewhat off-the-beaten path in wine country. One short day among the vineyards can be active, adventurous and delicious!

Rutherford is a small town nestled in between Yountville and St. Helena. Its activities spread from the valley in the west to the hills in the east, providing plenty of fun for an afternoon.

The Adventure: Lake Hennessey Hike
Lake Hennessey is a hidden hiking spot in Napa. A lake known more for boating and fishing, its trails aren't immediately accessible and take persistence to get to. The main hiking trail is tucked six miles back from the Silverado Trail off Howell Mountain/Conn Valley Road (accurate directions here). Don't follow the signs to the lake and turn on Sage Canyon Road - that leads you to the boat launch and you will soon find yourself trail-less.

Parking for the trail is on the side of the dirt road. A cattle fence marks the start of the trail and it winds around the northern end of the lake. The grassy meadows, wild mustard plants and serenity of the lake provide a calming backdrop to this easy stroll. The hike is a short few miles out and back with hardly any elevation change. A very leisurely and relaxing way to start your day.

Lake Hennessey hiking trail

The Winery: Round Pound Estate
Heading back south on the Silverado Trail, you quickly come to Conn Creek Road. Turn right and follow this idyllic vineyard road to Round Pound Estate. You can't miss this winery. The massive driveway lined with towering palm trees leads directly to the winery and tasting room. Round Pound Estate is perfectly manicured and the decor could be in a Pottery Barn catalog. The Estate Tastings are appointment only and allows visitors to soak in the vineyard views from their sunny terrace.

Patio at Round Pound Estate

In addition to the standard Rutherford varietals of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, Round Pound also dabbles in Italian varietals. The Rosato Di Sangiovese was a refreshing start to tasting on a warm day. Call ahead for an appointment (and do so a few days in advance on weekends).

The After Party: Oxbow Market
A good day in Napa always leads downtown to the Oxbow Public Market. For a crowd who can't decide what to eat or drink, this is the place. In the mood for oysters? Hog Island, check. Craving wood fired pizza? No problem, Ca' Momi. Just need a shot of espresso to keep you up on the drive home? Sure thing, Ritual Coffee Roasters at your service. It's unpretentious, lively and the food options are endless.

When you go

• Bring your patience. Getting to the trail at Lake Hennessey requires it.
• If you have more time to taste, check out other great wineries on Conn Creek Road - Frog's Leap and Caymus - reservations recommended at both.

If you're in Napa for a few days, check out another great wine country day in Calistoga!