Staying on Track

We are proud to announce the launch of a regular forum aimed at creating an open line of communication with our community.

Why now?

During the past six months, I have come to realize that the Napa Valley Wine Train is a special and unique institution. Upon assuming the helm, my immediate concern was maintaining a stable work environment for the Train’s 140+ employees -- many of whom have worked for the Train for 14 years or more.

I have learned that the Wine Train is quite well known. Amazingly, there are people that are not exactly sure where Napa Valley is, but have heard of the Napa Valley Wine Train.

So, who is our visitor?

There are generally three categories of visitor that come to the Wine Train.

1. The first is the visitor who is looking for an exciting way to enjoy the scenery and get an overview of the Napa Valley. What better way to see the valley than in a refurbished 1915 Pullman rail car?
2. Many visitors make the Wine Train their specific destination -- for a birthday, anniversary, wedding, corporate affair, one of our special events, or just to reconnect with someone in a relaxed environment with an ever changing view.
3. Our visitor may be looking for a culinary and tasting experience. During the three hour journey, they can enjoy our amazing cuisine, have leisurely conversations with each other, make new friends, tour a winery and generally have a great time.

It is very rewarding to see visitors from all over the world disembarking the train with rejuvenated looks on their smiling faces. It is hard to fathom the positive impact the Wine Train has had on the Napa Valley. We truly understand the responsibility we have to all our guests and the area’s residents. We are constantly making changes to enhance the visitor’s experiences while still maintaining the quality of life we all share. It is joyful to watch kids with their parents waiving as the train passes. There is something romantic about a train that invokes pleasant memories, a simpler time and a slower paced life.

Local Motivation?

Many, if not all the Napa Valley residents have heard of the Napa Valley Wine Train but a great number of you have not experienced the Train or haven’t been on the Train in years. We decided to offer a short-term promotion and give you a reason to try our exciting food and amazing new wine list. The Napa Valley Wine Train is offering a $25 OFF Train Fare promotion on a seat available basis for travel through September 30th, 2008 when you book your ticket via our online reservation form. This promotion is for selected dining experiences. Please go to Our Specials Page for more information.

Moving Ahead

In the coming weeks and months, we will be writing about a variety of topics including community opportunities with the Wine Train, congestion relief on Highway 29, how to select the perfect wine for a special occasion, the new culinary trends, and even how to steer the train.

For more comments and discussion, please join us online at On Track, the official blog of the Napa Valley Wine Train.