Eugene is to Portland as Oakland is to San Francisco. It’s less populated, less polished, but rapidly shedding its former bad-boy rap and gaining notoriety as the cooler little brother.

You could say that the wine world nearly missed out on Heidi Barrett and her elegant, expertly-balanced cult cabernets.

After the 6.0 earthquake hit Napa on Aug. 24, 2014 at 3:20 a.m., the photo seen around the world was of Trefethen’s historic 1886 winery building leaning four feet to the west and looking like it was going to collapse any minute.

“Absolutely no swirling,” said Paul Martin, brand ambassador for Napa Valley Distillery.

Ridiculous views are just one perk of wine tasting atop Napa Valley's iconic mountain appellations. These wineries promise big, complex wines that benefit from volcanic and sedimentary soils, elevation, and extra vitamin D—and many of them get better with age. Just plan ahead, as all of these tastings are by appointment. (Hint: No crowds.)

Once you finally reach the top, you’re greeted with unparalleled panoramic views of the agricultural valley below, a patchwork quilt made up of the earth-toned hues of growing produce.