54 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM tour & taste castellodiamorosa.com {due west} PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF VERN NELSON / COURTESY OF CASTELLO DI AMOROSA - JIM SULLIVAN drop for Italian-style wines, the Castello’s Main Tasting Room features a Roman cross-vaulted brick ceiling and Tuscan-inspired murals. The small lots you’ll sample—from an extensive list of white, rosé, red and sweet wines, along with muscat non-alcoholic grape juice—are only sold here or through the winery’s website. In addition to your selected tastings, you can also add on extras like a cheese and charcuterie pairing or Belgian chocolates. Now in his early 80s, Dario still enjoys standing on the drawbridge, taking in the animated chatter as visitors depart. It’s one thing to dream. Another to fully realize one’s passion. “I get a lot of personal satisfaction knowing that most people really love the castle,” he reflects. “In the United States, there’s nothing that’s comparable, and I’m proud of that.” Armory, which features centuriesold suits of armor and weapons. Adhering to authenticity, there’s even a gruesome torture chamber. “To my knowledge, all medieval castles had prisons and many of them had torture chambers,” shares Dario. “The whole idea of torture wasn’t a quick death. It was slow prolonged pain.” In addition to displaying replicas—such as a stretching rack, cranium crusher and chain whips—the chamber also showcases an authentic Iron Maiden. As you explore the castle, you’ll also be treated to views of the surrounding 30-acre estate vineyard, one of nearly 15 vineyards bearing fruit for Castello di Amorosa. Providing the perfect backextend your stay CASTELLO VICTORIAN INN - Historic luxury Calistoga inn owned by Dario Sattui. castellovictorian.com HARVEST INN - Enchanting Napa Valley getaway in nearby St. Helena. harvestinn.com MOUNT VIEW HOTEL & SPA - Art Deco-style luxury on Calistoga’s Lincoln Avenue. mountviewhotel.com
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