In
January things tend to slow down in the Wine Country and this month
is an excellent time of the year to visit the Napa Valley. The
traffic is usually light, the crowds have largely disappeared,
and while you can expect some rain, the weather is often dry and
sunny for extended periods. At the wineries, you are more likely
to receive personal attention, and sometimes the owners themselves
will be on hand to give you an extra special tour or invite you
to sample that rare vintage stashed in the back of the cellar.
In January, the average temperature in Calistoga is 46 degrees, the average high is 56, and the average low is 35 degrees. The average rainfall in Calistoga for January is 8 inches. These figures reflect a close approximation to those in St. Helena, just eight miles south of Calistoga. While January can be rainy, the weather can often be quire beautiful. In 2007, January was just fantastic, with less than a half inch of rain.
In the town of Napa, the average temperature in January is 47 degrees, while the average high is 56 degrees and the average low temperature is 37 degrees. The average rainfall for January is 5.4 inches. Temperatures and rainfall in Yountville and Oakville, several miles north of Napa, would be roughly the same as in Napa.
If you are planning a trip to the Napa Valley in January, these weather conditions would suggest that you should pack a raincoat and a wool sweater. If you are coming from the East or Midwest, you will be envious of our mild winter conditions, and will be amused when you hear locals complaining about how cold it is—on a January day when the temperature hits 55 degrees and the daffodils are beginning to bloom.
If you happen to hit a rainy period in January, you will have yet another reason to enjoy the gastronomical possibilities in the Wine Country. Calistoga alone has a vast array of promising eateries. Italian, Mexican, California cuisine and even Sushi. More some Calistoga dining suggestions, click here.
Whatever the weather, come on up. We’re waiting for you!
| NAPA VALLEY WEATHER | ||
Photo Credit: The pictures on this page are by Lisa Moore. www.studioponderosa.com