Must-See Mustard Marvels

When planning a dream vacation to Napa Valley, many consider time of year in deciding when to visit.  While we sincerely believe every season makes for a great trip, a little-known Napa secret is to come during mustard season (from February through March), when wild mustard flowers entice with their vibrant yellow blooms and springtime vibes.

Winegrape growers plant mustard between rows of vines as a cover crop to protect the soil and replenish it with vital nutrients. The yellow petals of the mustard flower also attract beneficial insects to the grapevines. This symbiotic relationship means a successful mustard season often heralds a successful harvest!

For the ultimate mustard tour around Napa Valley, start in American Canyon at the Newell Open Space Preserve, where the expansive bloom transcends your favorite screensaver. Then work your way up through Washington St. in Yountville just south of Joan of Arc Church for countless queues of mustard and vines. Next head to Silverado Trail and drive along the Napa River for a different perspective and find a bench on the Oat Hill Main Trailhead in Calistoga to truly soak in the scenery. Be sure to pack your wide-angle lens; a full list of photo ops and more information can be found on the Visit Napa Valley website.

If you are a California local and want to come see Napa Valley Mustard Season, make Silverado Resort and Spa your homebase. Present your California resident ID and save up to 25% on our best available rate.