The site of California’s second oldest train station will get new life when the Calistoga Depot opens on April 25 in Calistoga. The Depot’s incredible array of offerings includes nine completely unique experiences—including a distillery—and four distinct menus that offer something for everyone on one of the most iconic properties in the Napa Valley.
Calistoga Depot was first built in 1868 by Samuel Brannan, the 19th century entrepreneur who famously became the first millionaire of California during the Gold Rush of 1849. Brannan built the Depot to welcome guests to Calistoga’s unique splendors. Proprietor and vintner Jean-Charles Boisset purchased the property and started renovations in 2021 alongside Michael Madden with a goal of creating a world-class destination that would honor the fascinating history and character of the building, and of the town of Calistoga.
“We are thrilled to finally unveil the complete vision for the Calistoga Depot,” expressed Jean-Charles Boisset. “We feel a deep responsibility towards history and American heritage, and thus we are honored to share this unique landmark destination and to continue the story that Sam Brannan first wrote.”
“My team and I welcome one and all to take the trip of a lifetime at the Calistoga Depot!” added Michael Madden, the Depot’s operator and director of fun. “All aboard!”
In the center of the Depot, guests will be able to gather around the Calistoga Depot Distillery Bar to experience a range of fine spirits in the heart of wine country through spirits tastings, barrel tastings and craft cocktails. The Calistoga Depot Distillery portfolio boasts locally-distilled artisan spirits, including fine brandy, to pay homage to the brandy Brannan distilled himself, whiskeys, gin, and more that celebrate Brannan’s colorful life and contributions to California. The ultra-premium, barrel-aged and wine-cask finished spirits portfolio has already garnered 34 awards including a Double Gold and Gold from The Fifty Best and a Master Medal, reserved for truly outstanding spirits, from The Spirits Business’ American Whiskey Masters.
The Calistoga Depot Provisions will reopen as the Calistoga Depot Provisions by Nova Terra Kitchen & Creamery, featuring a curated selection of thoughtfully sourced local artisanal producers, organic and environmentally conscious offerings, as well as a full menu of plant-based comfort food available for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Depot’s well appointed, themed train cars will also be unveiled for the first time on April 25. Each train car offers a unique food and beverage experience, beginning with the JCB Parlor Car featuring Champagne, oysters, and caviar that will transport guests to the luxury of the sea. A second train car highlights Boisset Collection’s new tequila Casa Obsidiana, and will serve gourmet Mexican cuisine as guests are surrounded by unique Oaxacan art. The First Millionaire’s Saloon pays homage to the saloons that Brannan would have visited in the 19th century and features the whiskeys, bourbons, and brandies of the Calistoga Depot Distillery spirits portfolio. The Calistoga Depot Wine Merchant will sell and serve a curated collection of wines from producers in Calistoga, the Napa Valley and beyond, and fine spirits from both noted craft and global distillers. Lastly, the Earth & Sky Chocolates car will be open for retail sales of its well-regarded chocolate creations.
In the backyard of the Depot, a bustling beer garden will feature local craft breweries andthe menu offerings from each of the train cars while the Historical Wine Tasting Room pays homage to every AVA of the Napa Valley and the foundation of Napa Valley’s community. Guests can curate their wine journey through the Valley by the taste, glass or flight.
The Vine Trail, a 47-mile walking, biking and trail system connecting the entire NapaValley from Vallejo to Calistoga has its ultimate stop at the Calistoga Depot, including a bike shelter sponsored by Boisset. It follows much of the path that Sam Brannan helped envision when he built the Napa Valley Railroad in 1868.
Planned hours are as follows:
● Calistoga Depot Provisions
○ Thursday to Monday: 7 AM to 10 PM
○ Tuesday-Wednesday: Closed
● Calistoga Depot Distillery, Train Cars, and Backyard
○ Monday, Thursday, and Sunday: 11 AM to 8 PM
○ Friday and Saturday: 11 AM to 10 PM
○ Tuesday-Wednesday: Closed
Calistoga Depot is located at 1458 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga. To learn more about the Calistoga Depot, visit calistogadepot.com or follow at @calistogadepot.