Visitation FAQ
Our Tastings & Experiences
Can I just buy a ticket for the gondola ride?
No. Sterling does not sell gondola only tickets, an experience must be purchased to ride or accompanying a guest who has purchased an experience.
Does the gondola run in high winds?
No. The Gondola will shut down when winds reach 34 mph for safety, but this is very uncommon. The winery will remain open during wind events. Guests may take the luxury shuttles to the winery for their experiences.
Is there food available for purchase?
No. Food is not sold ala carte at the winery. However, the gift shop offers small snacks, chips, candy, etc. No individual meals or picnic food is permitted on site or sold.
Is the Gondola Included on all tasting experiences?
Yes. The Gondola ride is included with all experiences. After guests arrive and check in at Sterling, they will ride the Gondola to our winery atop the hill.
How many people can be seated at once?
Up to 8 guests can ride the Gondola at once, with one party per cabin at a time.
Is it ADA compliant?
Yes. every gondola cabin is ADA complaint.
Is there a weight limit?
1800 lb | 815 kg.
How long does the Gondola trip last?
The round-trip ride is approximately 5 minutes.
Does it run in the rain?
Yes. The Gondola is covered and runs during rain events.
Does it run in high heat?
No. In temperatures above 100° F (37° C), guests will be directed to our luxury shuttles where they will be escorted to the hilltop winery.
Can I bring my walker?
Yes. If you have a walking aid, we encourage you to bring it to Sterling.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes. Each cabin is large enough to fit a stroller.
What if I do not want to ride?
We have shuttles that can transport guests to the top and back down to the bottom.
What happens during a power outage?
The Gondola runs on electricity. In the event of a power outage, Sterling Winery is equipped with backup power able to run the Gondola until every rider can exit safely. In the event of a power outage, the winery will close.
Can I bring my infant?
Yes. Infants can be brought to the Sterling Stroll Experience, and the Tour and Terrace Experience. Any experiences in the Hilltop areas (Club, Hilltop, Founders) are strictly 21+ no babies or children allowed.
Can I bring my dog?
Service dogs only, please.
Can we walk around after our tasting?
Yes. Sterling has many pathways available for guests to explore after their tasting and experience a behind the scenes look at winemaking while soaking up some of the best views in the Napa Valley.
Can we order wine by the glass or bottle to enjoy after our tasting?
No. We do not offer wine by the glass or bottle to be consumed on site but have a great selection of local restaurants that we are happy to recommend..