HotelChatter

Fink already had success in swanky Carmel-by-the-Sea with Bouchee, a now closed wine-driven bistro, as well as L’Auberge Carmel, an intimate 20-room Relais & Châteaux member property with 12 highly coveted table restaurant, Aubergine. But it was Cantinetta Luca that breathed much needed life into the sleepy seaside town, serving casual Italian fare late and creating a convivial vibe that appealed to all ages.

In more than four years on the Peninsula, we never encountered a more astute businessman, and although Fink had (and surely still has) plenty of critics, he knows better than anyone how to create a quality hotel and restaurant experience.

That why we're just burning, doin' the neutron dance that Fink is branching out to one our fave wine country destinations, Yountville, California, where this fall, his Mirabel Hotel & Restaurant Group will open a 20-room boutique property named, Hotel Luca.

Here’s the official description:

From its villa-like stone tower to its arched walkways and European lime plaster, Hotel Luca will combine the best of contemporary design and old-world architectural passion. Designed to be alive, flowing and spontaneous, the entire property is being built to embrace the beautiful light of the Napa Valley. Outdoor terraces and intimate seating areas for hotel guests will abound. Guests at the restaurant will be able to enjoy al fresco dining ringed by olive trees overlooking a courtyard with sparkling fountain. And at the sun-drenched pool a landscaped oasis is being created for comfort and relaxation.

Like its Carmel counterpart, Hotel Luca will have its own restaurant, Cantinetta Piero, inspired by and named in honor of famed winemaker Piero Antinori. Expect a pizza bar and wood-burning oven and the open kitchen which will feature a salumi curing room.

We also love that the hotel will also have a spa, The Luca Spa, and a Zen Garden. Nothing completes (or frankly, starts) a day of wine tasting like a reflective moment and a rejuvenating massage. Except for maybe a really good meal and another glass of wine. I’m guessing all that will be a given at Hotel Luca.

Introductory rates at Hotel Luca will range from $295-$650 per night and include breakfast for two.