There are few experiences that capture the beauty of Napa Valley quite like drifting above the vineyards at sunrise. We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Napa Valley Aloft, offering balloon ride passengers a complimentary wine tasting for two at Jessup Cellars—the perfect way to toast your aerial adventure.
The Magic of Napa Valley Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air ballooning in Napa Valley offers a perspective you won’t find anywhere else. As you ascend with Napa Valley Aloft, the patchwork of vineyards unfolds beneath you, revealing the intricate patterns of the valley’s legendary wine country. Morning flights take advantage of calm winds and soft light, creating ideal conditions for both flight and photography.
Under the expert guidance of Chief Pilot Pierre “Pete” Brunner, who brings over 5,300 hours of flight experience and two decades of ballooning expertise, passengers enjoy a safe and memorable journey. Pete’s passion for flight and deep knowledge of the region transforms each ride into an educational experience, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories about Napa Valley’s wine heritage from a truly unique vantage point.
How a Napa Valley Balloon Ride Works
Napa Valley Aloft flights begin early—often around sunrise when conditions are most favorable. After meeting at the launch site, you’ll watch the crew inflate the massive balloon, a process that’s fascinating in itself. Once airborne, flights typically last about an hour, covering several miles as you drift with the wind currents.
The experience is remarkably peaceful. Unlike other aircraft, hot air balloons move with the air around them, so there’s no sensation of wind or turbulence. It’s just you, your fellow passengers, and the spectacular views of Napa Valley’s rolling hills and geometric vineyard rows.
After landing, many balloon companies celebrate with a traditional champagne toast—a custom dating back to the earliest days of ballooning in France. But we think there’s an even better way to continue your celebration.
From Sky to Sip: Your Jessup Cellars Experience
After your flight with Napa Valley Aloft, head just a short distance to our Tasting Gallery in the heart of Yountville. Aloft passengers receive a complimentary flight of three wines for two people—a perfect transition from your aerial flight to a sensory flight through our handcrafted Napa Valley wines.
Our gallery offers the same warm hospitality we’re known for, with the added benefit of curated artwork that makes every visit a multi-sensory experience. Whether you choose to taste at our bar or relax on the patio, you’ll discover why we’ve earned the reputation as one of the friendliest tasting rooms in wine country.
The wines you’ll sample represent our commitment to small-production, artisanal winemaking. Each pour tells a story of the Napa Valley terroir you just witnessed from above, bringing your aerial perspective back down to earth in the most delicious way possible.
Book Your Napa Valley Adventure
Ready to see Napa Valley from a whole new angle? Visit the Napa Valley Aloft website to book your balloon ride experience. When you fly with Aloft, you’ll receive your complimentary Jessup Cellars tasting voucher—just present it when you visit our Yountville gallery.
We’re open daily from 10am to 5:30pm for walk-in tastings at the bar or patio, making it easy to stop by after your morning flight. It’s the perfect pairing: the thrill of ballooning over Napa Valley, followed by the pleasure of discovering our award-winning wines in our welcoming gallery.
Come see why the sky and a great glass of wine make the perfect pairing.