Back Room Wines
Category: Food Beer, Wine & Spirits Beer, Wine & Spirits [Edit]
1000 Main Street, Shop 120Napa, CA 94559
(707) 226-1378
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sat 10 am - 7 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 12 pm - 7 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
26 reviews for Back Room Wines
Review Highlights
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26 reviews in English
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Review from Matt A.
Manhattan, NY
11/14/2011
I checked out this place while in town based on the feedback from Yelp and I was not disappointed. Broad selection and Dan was a huge help. I'm far from a wine connoisseur so I was looking for a small sampling of local wines that weren't too expensive. Dan made some great recommendations that tasted amazing. He also helped recommend a few local wineries that we could explore later on our trip.
Would definitely recommend to others. Those with little to no wine knowledge will be treated with the utmost respect and helpfulness.
Thanks Yelp .... and Dan!! -
Review from David H.
Napa, CA
12/25/2011
Dan & Chris are the best in Napa..... Hands down!!!
Helpful... Great wines and at great prices too... -
Review from Tracy A.
Oakland, CA
12/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love this place and I love the guys that work here even more! We had a wonderful wine tasting here right before dinner. I ended up buying a bottle of Gin and some very special tonic at the independent recommendation of each of the fabulous fellas that work here. If you haven't tried some North Shore Distillery Gin #11 and Fever-Tree Tonic Water, you haven't lived yet!
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Review from martin r.
Vallejo, CA
5/2/2011
What can I say? Napa NEEDS more wine shops like this one. One of my go to places to find imports... that is, if I'm not going online to get stuff the 707 doesn't carry.
I've visited all of them at one point or another, going so far as Calistoga in search for a killer Sancerre or a cool Syrah. Nobody in Napa Valley has the combination of knowledge, pricing and global selection... and believe me, I've looked. For my two cents you'd have to hit SF to get shops with a more comprehensive experience. And only just barely. The shop's laid out with California on one side, and old world stuff on the other. Ahhh. and the spirits selection!! but I digress....
So anyway my tip to wine lovers... get to know Dan (the owner's name) like you would your local butcher. He keeps an eye out and remember tastes and what you bought last time. (mas de plaignol rocked the house last week with my wife's salmon salad!)
Right before writing this, I glanced at some of the low-ball comments. People, what's your beef? This place has never been rude to me or any customer while I'm in there.. even when the shop is filled up, someone's there to help ring me up or answer questions. and i have LOTS!
now that I think about it, they does have a dry sense of humor. Hard to get sometimes, but that's your issue, not theirs. This place is not a joyride simply to get drunk at and sneer around. It's the spot to find that perfect wine to have with dinner with your special someone.
tastings on Fridays rule too! 15 bucks for a whole flight. how could I forget to mention that earlier..
Take it from someone who frequents wine stores like a handyman frequents Home Depot... this is a serious and legit gem of a shop in Napa. Wish i lived closer. -
Review from Robert S.
Calistoga, CA
8/25/2011
I live in Calistoga and it's quite easy to say that Backroom Wines is the best wine shop in the Napa Valley.
I've been shopping there for years (since their first locale) and I continue to shop there. If I have even the slightest request, Dan or Chris will come through always. I've overheard several conversations with customers in which a myriad of different styles of questions were asked and the staff helped them without fail.
I read a couple of negative reviews that were service-related and I just don't get it. I detest snobbery in all forms and that simply doesn't happen at Backroom. My only assumption from what they wrote is that these folks were douches when they walked in. Backroom Wines can't cure them of that.
There is a noticeable, AND WELCOME, lack of WA and WS scores posted. All tasting notes are written by Dan and all you need to do is read a bit about him to determine his palate credentials.
I live here so, for the most part, I don't shop at Backroom for Northern California wines. If you want them, they have them! (All varietals) The store has a strong nod toward Southern Rhone, Loire, Italy, Germany and Austria. If I can somehow muster any slight complaint, it's that I have to usually shop elsewhere for severely dry Riesling. I don't think this style is the shop's favorite but I assure you that all German/Austrian wines in the store are of the utmost quality.
In the Napa Valley, it's fairly warm in the summer. Napa wineries (one of which I work for) don't really have a penchant for making affordable summer whites. Chardonnay isn't the most likely warm-weather white and Sauvignon Blancs are now entering the $30+ range. Dan's selection of affordable (under $20) whites from all over the globe is astounding.
I spend time in all wine shops in the valley and Backroom has set the standard. You can attend themed tastings on some Thursdays and all Fridays, you can buy a bottle at the shop, relax and enjoy it there with a friend, you can find Napa's elite "boutique" wines as well as a $25 Gigondas that will make you question why you wanted the boutique wine in the first place.
Whether or not you like a wine shop is usually a matter of opinion, but if you don't like Backroom wines, you're simply incorrect. -
Review from Susan G.
Nashville, TN
8/18/2011
Found them our first night in Napa and a great way to get introduced to a variety of regional wines not sold retail elsewhere. Knowledgeable, super friendly staff who love what they do. Besides tastings and the store,
there is a small bar where one can purchase a glass of wine and visit. -
Review from Patricia L.
Napa, CA
8/8/2011
This place is the best. Dan, the owner, and Chris are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Not only can you buy a great bottle of wine at the price point your looking for, you can enjoy a flight of wines they've organized. I've always learned something at their wine tastings. They have terrific palates. They offer a variety of wines in a flight that expands your knowledge and experience. They also offer a limited, but terrific selection of cheese and other wine-friendly snacks to accompany the wine. It is more than a wine shop. It's a place to enjoy a glass, or flight of wine, and to spend some time in a very friendly atmosphere.
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Review from Stephen S.
San Francisco, CA
6/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
One might not think to head into a wine shop when the tasting rooms of downtown Napa are calling your name. Overlooking Back Room Wines would be a huge mistake. Unless tasting rooms, which are just going to offer you whatever the winery is producing at that time, Chris puts a lot of care into creating a tasting that accentuates the best of what's being sold in Napa at the time. I've had a couple wine tasting experiences where I end up just not liking a particular winery but no worries here where you'll taste offerings from different wineries. I'd definitely recommend stopping by Back Room Wines if you're in the area.
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Review from Rogel E.
San Jose, CA
5/23/2011
My wife and I came into Back Room Wines wanting to do a wine tasting. We didn't know much about wine except for we liked red wines but we walked away knowing so much more after our flight at Back Room Wines. We even bought a couple of the wines we tasted. The store looks kind of overwhelming due to the thousands of wines they had but it was definitely a fun experience overall.
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Review from Arissa C.
San Francisco, CA
8/14/2009
I love wine tasting- especially when its only $15 dollars/tasting and to top it off- all wines are 10% off for the evening!
This Wine store not only excels in California wine selections but also carry international labels as well. We stumbled to this place meandering through the streets of Napa- and with the festive atmosphere inside- one could not hesitate to see what the offerings was inside. Brace yourself- its Italian wine night in Napa! Having been tasting California wine the whole afternoon- it was a pleasant surprise to change into the Mediterranean coast of Italy where its flavors in the white and reds bring new palate pleasing wines to a new level!
The Selections were:
MASTROBERARDINO Fiano di Avellino 2007
PIEROPAN Soave Classico 2007
JERMANN RIbolla Gialla "Vinnae" 2007
GIACOMO MORI Chianti 2005
BADIALI Lacrima di Morro d"Alba 2006
PARUSSO Barbera d'Alba 2006
LIBRANDI Vino Passito "Le Passule" 2005
The wine tasting can include the smorgasbord of cheese and sausages (chicken) and soppressata I believe it was a $10 additional fee. I have to add that the wine glasses were filled most generously :-)
PS- Mr. Dawson and his staff are knowledgeable and informative to without the stuffiness. Highly recommend and will surely be back again :-) -
Review from Powell Y.
Costa Mesa, CA
12/28/2007
I don't walk into wine stores much, as most of my wine purchases are sourced via allocated mailing list from the winery, http://winebid.com (my work), or Novato Costco.
However, when I need something quick, usually old world wines (especially Champagne), this is where I go in Napa. Dan is very helpful and knowledgeable with unfamiliar selections.
They also have a weekly tasting every Friday evening, good chance to sample some interesting stuff for a nominal cost. in fact, heading there after work for a taste of Spain. -
Review from Marc W.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 8/4/2008 2 Check-ins Here
Another trip to Napa and my special lady friend (SLF) and I just had to go back to Backroom Wines. The new location is much larger than the old one. I think someone there mentioned it's more than twice the square footage.
They were having a special event the day we went. It was their Sixth Annual Hot Dog & Wine Weekend. I don't think I've ever had hot dogs paired with wine and it sounded like a fun event.
My SLF and I both chose to have a classic dog with the suggested Clif Bar Wines "The Climber" Red Blend 2004. Yes, the people that make Clif Bars have a winery. That was a new one for me. They also had a kraut dog and chili dog paired with two other wines. The dogs were described as "all beef hot dogs" with "delicious 'designer' hot dog buns." They did taste "fancy" and better than your average hot dog. They also had all the fixings including shredded cheese, onions, relish, tomatoes, and hot peppers. Each plate also came with some potato chips.
The staff was friendly and helpful like last time. I'm sure it's not every day they make hot dogs for customers but they did a great job.Listed in: Would you like some cheese…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/26/2008
My special lady friend (SLF) and I decided to have an early dinner in downtown Napa just so we could… Read more »
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Review from JP P.
Napa, CA
5/13/2011
I agree with Martin and the other 5 star reviewers here, Napa needs more wine shops like this; unpretentious, easy to navigate (see those descriptive tags *EVERYWHERE*), and a price that fits every budget.
I'd like to note that Yelp requires you choose a dollar sign for the shop, not a range. This business has a range - 70% or more maybe, moderately priced great wines. That's not to say I haven't seen a bottle of Screaming Eagle floating around, other rare bottles, mags, double mags., etc.
BRW puts out a weekly newsletter with deals and suggestions for wine to buy now (aka: "Money Wine", eat your heart out Robert Parker). The tasting area allows many options; Patrons can sit or stand, gab with the proprietor or nibble on cheese plates that are designed to compliment the wine. You can buy a bottle and sip it there, enjoy a whole glass, or enjoy a flight of wine that changes daily.
BRW is divided in half, so that one half of the shop is California wines, and the other is international wines. For locals who are both exposed to and in the wine industry, the French, Italian, German, and South American wines are a great balance. Does anyone else in Napa carry 25+ labels from Chateauneuf de Pape? That's what I call access and selection! The California wine choices encompass a stellar assortment of blends and varietals. Dan has also found room on the wall for fortified wines, liquor, and magnums. Did you walk into BRW and not see something you were looking for? There's a chance they can get it. Do you want a mixed case made and mailed to you? Yes, they do that too.
As for the one and two star reviewers; I wonder if you wanted, or expected, more attention than you were getting? There's a lot of bad attitude in your reviews... I recommend you try the shop again, this time, talking to or with the person behind the counter as though they were your friend.
I highly recommend Backroom Wines. Today I live in Napa but before I did, I was s tourist here, and would still stand by that recommendation. -
Review from Andy Z.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2006
Daniel is very knowledgable about wine. Plus, he offers samples of gems that were great values every time I've visited.
But, the most important thing; He likes his job. Damn wouldn't you... getting to taste the best wineries have to offer, decide what to select, and steer people towards?
P.S. Dr Mark says CL wine's pinot rocks! -
Review from Gloria V.
Napa, CA
12/1/2010
Roland your not alone!! My husband went in and the guy was a jerk. I went in and he ignored me. Then a friend of mine that sells wine went in and he was so rude to her. I don't know how this guy is still open!!! I wouldn't recomend this place at all. GOOD LUCK BACK ROOM WINES..
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Review from Kris C.
Napa, CA
7/31/2011
Chris and Dan definitely know their stuff. Many wine shops in Napa have a limited international selection, but they have a great mix of old world and new world. All the wines are great you wont find a dog here. We are happy to have this nugget of a place available.
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Review from C. J.
Yountville, CA
5/5/2011
Over the past few months I have become a regular here. I go every Friday night for their tastings (although they do tastings other nights of the week too) and they are wonderful! Each Friday has a different theme - tour of Italy, tour of France, Pinot Noirs, Sparkling wines, Roses from around the world, Rhone valley wines, and many many more. The experience is always a great one! I learn a ton and expand my wine knowledge further with each visit. I highly recommend stopping here - the wine selection is great!
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Review from Barb L.
San Rafael, CA
5/29/2011
Dan was a great host to us yesterday. He spent alot of time with us telling us about the wines, the winemakers and their vineyards. We of course couldn't stop ourselves from sauntering thru his well stocked wine shop for some other treasures. Dan was very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. We'll go back for sure!
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Review from Kenny R.
Napa, CA
8/8/2008 3 photos
Everyone from all walks of Napa life were at Friday's tasting: wine makers, friends, tourists, cyclists, loafers, curious street walkers, revisionist theorists, the gal that works at that one place, her boyfriend that is too good for you, window shoppers, divorcees, Peter Fonda, chauffeurs, the VP of livestock waste management, baristas, barristers, and Kevin from Dayton - Everyone was treated with equal importance. Nary a matter of what you are or what you do - Here you can be who you are - You can be yourself.
Imagine going to a bar and putting four or five drinks on the tab and the bartender saying, 'if you buy a few bottles of liquor from our stock, the tab's on us'. If you're like me, hitting the liquor store on the way home was already in the plans anyway. At Backroom Wines, they set down in front of you a flight of eight glasses of wine. Then, if you buy three bottles from their show room, the tasting is free. So, you get to try some nice hand-selected wines and also get to go home with what you liked.. or something perhaps that caught your eye that you've never tried. It's a fun learning adventure at a cheerful and relaxing wine shop. The staff are gracious.. very helpful.. eager to greet and get you started on a tasting.. or maybe you are in a bit of a rush. They are happy to suggest some nice bottles to take with you. I'm going back to grab some more bottles from the 'Under $12' list, especially the Zin blend from Four Vines known as The Maverick - Like the Back Room Wines experience, it's delicious, affordable, and fun.Listed in: You got that right!, Yelp's Grand Slams
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Review from Ms. R.
Chandler, AZ
8/1/2009
Well, there hasn't been a recent review of BRW (Back Room Wines) so let me update the listing. I popped over here after a nice meal at 'Bounty Hunter'. Not only do they have free wireless for their wine tasting/buying patrons but a most comfy couch. Dan was in house doing the pouring and directed me to their 3 possible options for tasting. I chose a fabulous red, a 2007 called 'The Bookmaker' from Ramian Estate in Napa Valley. I was in the mood for a jammy zin or heartly cab and this one fit the bill very nicely (3 glasses of and then I might as well buy the bottle nicely as a matter of fact!). This is a 60% Cab Sauv, 40% Petite Sirah and Zin. Yummy! Who need dessert! However, I am at the moment craving a bit of dark chocolate to see how it goes with the wine. All in all, BRW is a great place to discover a new fav and/or find an old one. They also have a great selection of hard to find liquors such Murray McDavid scotch.
I will definitely be back. I recommend you stop by and check out Back Room Wines. -
Review from Jayne D.
Oakland Gardens, NY
9/29/2008
I came here after a sour tasting experience at Ceja because I refused to leave my bed and breakfast without a few great bottles to show for my short stay in downtown Napa. The clerk/pourer was knowledgeable and friendly but not overbearing. I tried five really interesting wines (a chardonnay, two cabs, a syrah, and a viognier), and ended up buying three bottles. I really liked this place, and will return in the future, for sure.
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Review from Wendy W.
Livermore, CA
6/5/2011
We went to the Southern Rhone tasting on Friday night and LOVED it! I love the insights from the staff, the tasting notes, and so far everything that these guys have recommended. There was a nice crowd, but still room to sit and taste. The wines were good, and they were affordable. It's always nice to take a bottle home and have great tasting notes & food pairing ideas.
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Review from Terry P.
Calistoga, CA
6/3/2011
I do not go to Dan's new place as much as I used to go to the little place he used to have on a side street. It was a great place. His new place has much more wine and I have found that he is as friendly as ever and is as helpful. He has become more knowledgable as time passes as you would expect but he still has fun with his place. A must see for visitors to the valley. A great way to get a quick survey on various wines on a Friday afternoon. I am glad he is there.
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Review from Bob M.
American Canyon, CA
8/20/2009
I've been going to this wine shop for many years, and I love it. My favorite wine shop in Napa. They have a broad range of lesser-known wines from Napa as well as the rest of the world in a broad range of prices. The owner, Dan, is always very helpful and knowledgeable. They host a special tasting on Friday nights featuring some sort of theme, but they always have a few bottles on hand for tasting by the glass.
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Review from Dana M.
Fairfield, CA
6/16/2010
Superb selection of retail wines, superb wine flights at a remarkable value, great atmosphere and superbly knowledgeable staff. Not sure how to emphasize the above, this is a great wine shop with a great wine bar in the back, offering bar seating and couch seating, personal service and excellent, eclectic selections, all well-priced. Snacks are offered as well, though anyone truly hungry for a full meal might start across the street at Bounty Hunter and won't have to move their car.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Adam H.
Napa, CA
12/2/2010
Backroom wines has always been the locals "go to" place to find delicious interesting wines at a great price. They always have something new and interesting in the store. Whether you are looking for something local or something international their selection is the best. On top of that they have great wines that you can try right in the store and amazing events that showcase some of the world's best wineries and winemakers. The owner and staff are very knowledgeable and always point me in the right direction!
