Turn the Pages of Our Story
While the Napa Valley Railroad began operations in 1864, the Wine Train’s story starts in the early ‘80s with Vince DeDomenico. He had the vision of reviving the Napa Valley Railroad and the golden age of travel in Napa with curated antique railcars for a quintessential Napa Valley experience. He created an elegant and luxurious way to travel through Napa’s picturesque scenery and historic vineyards.
It was a route that once took visitors to a spa resort in Calistoga, creating the Napa tourism industry in the process. Today, it takes international guests on a 36-mile round trip, from our train station near Downtown Napa at the Oxbow Commons to St. Helena and back, stopping at celebrated Napa Valley wineries. With every ride it takes, the Wine Train continues to preserve a piece of Napa Valley history and proudly continues railroading traditions that once defined the American landscape.
Vince DeDomenico’s Vision
Born and raised in San Francisco, Vince DeDomenico was a devoted husband and industrious businessman. He saw the potential in what others viewed as a declining railroad, and he possessed the ambition to turn it into something much more. A mission-driven innovator, DeDomenico went to great lengths to bring the Wine Train vision to life.
Noble House Hotels & Resorts
Every one-of-a-kind Noble House property is part of an expansive portfolio of boutique hotels, resorts, and experiences. Since 1989, only two families have owned the Wine Train, Vince DeDomenico and the Colees with Noble House. Today’s current ownership extends a long tradition of family values in everything they do.
Napa Valley Wine Train Memorial
The Napa Valley Wine Train is as unique as the many characters who played instrumental roles in its existence. Here, a plaque and individual commemorative spikes pay tribute to those who gave a lifetime of service to the Wine Train. These spikes are found on our platform West trail track, where they hold together the tie and rail.