One of the most famous wine producing areas in the United States is California's Napa Valley. Original settlements were the result of the California Gold Rush, but later wine growing was introduced to the area, with cuttings supplied by the missions at
Sonoma and
San Rafael. Many of the wineries and vineyards in the region provide tours and tasting rooms. Ballooning is very popular in the valley, with several operators providing flights across the valley that often end with wine and gourmet dining.
The major communities in Napa Valley are Napa, Calistoga, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Yountville.
