6 Best Shopping in Napa and Sonoma, California

For breakfasts, sandwiches, bread, cheeses, and picnic supplies, stop by the general store, established in 1881 and still a popular spot for locals to hang out on the porch or in the bar. Beer and wine are also for sale, along with artisanal sodas, ciders, and juices.

"Try this one!" are the three favorite words of Omar Mueller, this shop's sociable monger of quality cheeses from Sonoma, nearby counties, and a few places beyond. Omar also sells gourmet food and kitchen items and makes crepes (the one with Nutella is a hit with kids and adults alike).

Gary Fisch owns four New Jersey stores selling gourmet groceries and international wines but has such a soft spot for the Napa Valley that when the Dean & DeLuca chain abandoned this location, he swooped in and set up shop. The wine selection is as good as ever, and the prepared foods and deli items will ensure you'll picnic in style.

"There's a crazy little shack beyond the tracks," the song goes, but in this case the 1870s barn east of the railroad tracks sells tickle-your-taste-buds olive oils and vinegars, along with cheeses, meats, breads, and other delectables to take on the road or enjoy at picnic tables outside. This is no-frills old Napa with a shout-out to old Italy.

The Healdsburg branch of this Napa-based store is filled with wine, condiments, and deli items, and sells sandwiches and picnic fixings. A terrace with ample seating makes a good place for an impromptu meal, but you should lunch early or late to avoid the crowds. The Oakville Wine Merchant next door has 40 wines on tap, including many from Sonoma County.

The owners of the award-winning SingleThread Farms Restaurant opened a fancy stand at the 24-acre farm that supplies much of the produce for their same-named dining spot. In addition to mindfully tended fruits, vegetables, and herbs grown, the store sells sauces, flowers, kitchen supplies, and wine. Weekend workshops cover farming and other topics. This place is so ag au courant it's worth checking out even if you're not interested in buying anything.