Whisked Away

Lifestyle journeys from my kitchen to the world.

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Hey there! I’m Kayla—living the Napa Valley life, where wine flows freely and snacks are sacred. I’m a registered dietitian with a serious love for cozy spaces, crave-worthy food, and beautiful aesthetics. By day, I’m diving into nutrition and recipe development; by heart, I’m a hobby baker, home chef, wanderlust-fueled traveler, photographer, and unapologetic snack snob. You’ll usually find me chasing golden hour with my camera in one hand and my dog in the other, always on the hunt for the next dreamy view or delicious bite. This blog is my creative home—a space where food, lifestyle, and adventure meet. From my kitchen to the world, I’m sharing stories, snapshots, and flavors that inspire a beautiful, well-fed life. So glad you’re here—let’s roam, taste, and create something amazing together.
  • Bella Union Winery: Palm Springs Style Meets Napa Soul

    Bella Union Winery: Palm Springs Style Meets Napa Soul

    Location: St. Helena, California

    Tucked among the rolling vines of St. Helena, California, Bella Union Winery brings a bold flavor to Napa Valley—one that blends relaxed luxury with high-design charm. After a head-turning renovation, the tasting room is now a curated dreamscape of arched doorways, golden accents, warm woods, and playful textures that feel both elevated and inviting.

    From the moment you step onto the property, you’re immersed in a rich blend of tones and textures. Blonde oak floors meet soft yellow velvet booths, while natural light spills through transom windows, highlighting every intentional detail—from sleek mirrored accents to clean geometric lines. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to slow down, sip mindfully, and take it all in.

    The vibe continues outdoors, where the real transformation shines. Their revamped patio channels pure Palm Springs energy—sunny and chic, but never too precious. Bar seating and low-slung lounge chairs surround soft-lit fire pits, while fountains add a gentle soundtrack to the experience. The color palette? Serene greens meet cool blues and wicker accents, a subtle nod to vintage desert glam.

    Wine in hand (and yes, it’s that perfect pour), you’ll feel like you’ve been swept away to a boutique retreat—one where the ambiance is just as memorable as the wine itself.

    Their whites sip like a warm breeze—light, citrus-kissed, with whispers of peach. Meanwhile, the bold reds bring structure and depth, effortlessly elegant but never overpowering. Bella Union’s collection is curated with intention, perfectly aligned with the space: rich in detail, but relaxed in spirit.

    Whether you’re a seasoned Napa explorer or visiting for the first time, Bella Union’s new look (and feel) is worth the stop. Come for the wine. Stay for the sunshine, design, and those unmistakable vacation-in-a-glass vibes.

  • Sparkle & Stroll: A Signature Experience at Chandon Winery

    Sparkle & Stroll: A Signature Experience at Chandon Winery

    Yountville, California

    There’s something instantly magical about Chandon Winery. Maybe it’s the bubbles, maybe it’s the design—but most likely, it’s the way this Yountville gem combines bold Napa Valley hospitality with effortless French-inspired elegance. I recently had the pleasure of enjoying their Signature Tasting, and spoiler alert: I didn’t want to leave.

    The tasting itself was a dream—90 minutes of carefully curated pours showcasing Chandon’s iconic sparkling wines. Each glass was full of intention, from the crisp, refreshing Chandon Brut to the show-stopping étoile Rosé, with its whisper of cocoa and tart raspberry finish. The wines are a testament to time, terroir, and craftsmanship. But what made the experience unforgettable was everything around the wine.

    Chandon’s tasting room feels like a Pinterest board come to life—earthy textures, clean lines, curated ceramics, and warm wood tones that make you want to slow down and stay a while. The decor throughout the property strikes that rare balance of elevated but cozy. It’s tasteful without trying too hard, and every corner invites a photo—or at the very least, a lingering moment.

    After the tasting, we wandered the grounds, glass in hand. The landscaping is serene and artfully designed, with sweeping views and tucked-away spots to sit and soak it all in. Don’t skip a stroll—it’s one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the estate and extend your visit beyond the tasting room.

    And then, of course, there’s the food. Do not leave without ordering the pimento cheese dip. Creamy, sharp, and perfectly paired with the house-made chips—it was the unexpected hero of the afternoon. Snack snobs (like me) will swoon.

    Before wrapping up, we popped into the boutique-style shop on site, filled with curated wine accessories, gifts, and a few exclusive bottle finds you won’t see in your neighborhood wine aisle. It’s stylish, inviting, and worth a browse.

    Whether you’re local or planning your next Napa escape, Chandon’s Signature Tasting delivers more than just a flight—it’s a full sensory experience. Sparkling wine, thoughtful design, crave-worthy bites, and vineyard views that beg you to linger just a little longer.

  • Al Fresco Feasting at Farmstead: Sunshine, Spritzes & Seasonal Bites

    Al Fresco Feasting at Farmstead: Sunshine, Spritzes & Seasonal Bites

    St. Helena, California

    Nestled in the heart of St. Helena, Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch offers a quintessential Napa Valley experience, seamlessly blending rustic charm with refined flavors. On a sun-drenched afternoon, with temperatures hovering around a perfect 70 degrees, we found ourselves immersed in a delightful al fresco lunch that celebrated both the land and the season.

    The ambiance was electric, heightened by the festive attire of guests celebrating the Kentucky Derby weekend. Wide-brimmed hats, vibrant dresses, and spirited conversations set the tone for an afternoon of indulgence. Sipping on a refreshing Aperol Spritz, we settled into the outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush gardens and the gentle hum of nature.

    Farmstead’s commitment to farm-to-table dining is evident in every bite. The menu, crafted with ingredients sourced directly from Long Meadow Ranch’s organic gardens and grass-fed livestock, showcases the best of what the land has to offer.

    Our meal began with a trio of appetizers that set the stage for the flavors to come:

    • Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs: Creamy, tangy, and topped with crispy ham, these bites were a delightful twist on a classic.
    • Mini Ham Sandwiches: Served on cheddar biscuits with a hint of fresno pepper jelly, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
    • Crispy Lima Beans: Lightly battered and accompanied by a chipotle aioli, these “healthy fries” were both indulgent and satisfying.

    For our mains, the Brick Cooked Chicken stood out with its crispy skin and tender meat, complemented by braised cannellini beans and greens. The Lacinato Kale Salad, dressed with chile pequin and lemon, offered a refreshing counterpoint, while the Salad of Garden Greens highlighted the freshness of the farm’s produce. The Grass-Fed Steak Frites, sourced from Long Meadow Ranch’s own cattle, was cooked to perfection and paired with creamy dijon, epitomizing the restaurant’s dedication to quality and sustainability.

    After our meal, we took a leisurely stroll through the property. The grounds are a testament to thoughtful design, featuring a charming farm shop stocked with artisanal goods, a vibrant garden showcasing the season’s bounty, and cozy seating areas perfect for relaxation. The atmosphere is both welcoming and serene, inviting guests to linger and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

    Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Napa Valley’s culinary and agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal here promises not only exceptional food but also a deep connection to the land and the community that nurtures it.