the
WINERY issue
discover the best of wine country A SPECIAL PUBLICATION BY THE PLEASANTON WEEKLY
Real Estate: It doesn’t have to be stressful. Introducing Elation Real Estate - the Tri-Valley’s new luxury boutique real estate company lead by Gina Piper, a 26-year real estate veteran and one of the area’s most recognizable and successful Realtors. Our mission is to provide a more personalized alternative to the large, faceless brands while providing all of the benefits, reach and resources of the large companies.
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CONTENTS 3 Steves Winery ........................................ 14
THE VIBRANT WINE REGION IN YOUR BACKYARD Discover award-winning wines and intimate tasting experiences in Livermore Valley
Arroyo Cellars............................................. 15 Bent Creek Winery................................... 16 Big White House Winery ....................... 17 BoaVentura de Caires ............................. 18 Cedar Mountain Winery ........................ 19 Charles R Vineyards ...............................20
L
Crooked Vine Winery ............................. 21
ivermore Valley Wine Country is home to over 50 wineries, boasting acres of vineyards amid rolling hills. It is the perfect place to find your favorite wines because the coastal climate and soil allows Livermore Valley wineries to grow a wide variety of grapes. Wineries vary in size from limited-release, 100-case boutique operations to 700,000-case industry leaders. All have welcoming tasting rooms that showcase awardwinning wines and offer year-round activities engaging the novice to the connoisseur. Visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options, whether that be a Pedego Electric bike ride through eight miles of manicured trails, the Livermore Wine Trolley or a private tour with Black Tie Transportation. One of California’s oldest wine regions, the Livermore Valley played a pivotal role in shaping California’s wine industry. In the 1840s, California pioneers, including Robert Livermore, planted vineyards to take advantage
of the optimal growing conditions of the region. Winemakers C.H. Wente, James Concannon and Charles Wetmore also recognized the area’s winegrowing potential and founded their wineries in the early 1880s.
Cuda Ridge Wines................................... 22
Livermore Valley captured America’s first international gold medal for wine in 1889 at the Paris Exposition, placing California on the world wine map. Livermore Valley also was the first to bottle varietally labeled Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Petit Sirah. Today, nearly 80% of California Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon vines trace their genetic roots to a Livermore Valley clone.
Ehrenberg Cellars ..................................... 31
In addition to the myriad of events hosted by individual wineries, the Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association hosts five consumer events annually, showcasing the talent, energy and fine wines of the region. Be sure to keep this issue as your guide to wine tasting adventures throughout Livermore Valley Wine Country.
The Lineage Collection ......................... 38
Dante Robere Vineyards ...................... 23 Darcie Kent Vineyards ........................... 24 Eagle Ridge Vineyards .......................... 26
el Sol Winery.............................................. 32 Elliston Vineyards .................................... 33 Fenestra Winery....................................... 34 Garré Vineyard & Winery ..................... 35 Las Positas Vineyards ............................ 36 Leisure Street Winery ............................ 37
Livermore Valley Pull-out Map ...........27 Longevity Wines ......................................40 McGrail Vineyards .................................... 41 Mitchell Katz Winery .............................. 42 Murrieta’s Well........................................... 43 Nella Terra Cellars....................................44
lvwine.org 925.447.9463 3585 Greenville Road, Suite 4 Livermore, CA 94550
Executive Director: Chris Chandler
pleasantonweekly.com 925.600.0840 5506 Sunol Boulevard, Suite 100 Pleasanton, CA 94566
Publisher/Editor: Gina Channell
Marketing & Events Coordinators: Sam Braudrick, Melissa Hanson Membership Director: Brandi Addington
Designer: Kristin Brown Sales representatives: Carol Cano and Karen Klein
Cover and contents images by Barry Zupan Photography. Published by the Pleasanton Weekly for the Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association. Copyright ©2020 by Pleasanton Weekly. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.
Omega Road Winery ............................. 45 Page Mill Winery ......................................46 Retzlaff Vineyards & Estate Winery............................................ 47 Rodrigue Molyneaux ..............................48 Rosa Fierro Cellars ..................................49 The Singing Winemaker .......................50 Wente Vineyards...................................... 52 Wood Family Vineyards ........................ 51
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BARREL TASTING WEEKEND | MARCH 21ST-22ND | 12-4:30 PM Join Livermore Valley wineries, meet winemakers, sample wines still in development right out of the barrel and take the opportunity to purchase futures for your very own wine cellar. Start your morning with a wine country brunch, and keep an eye out for one of the many barrels on the Painted Barrel Trail. The hills are green and vines are just beginning to bud.
WINE & WAGS | MARCH 31ST | 12-4:30 PM Livermore Valley’s dog friendly wineries host a day of fun for dogs and their owners. Bring your friendly four legged friends, and enjoy a day in beautiful Wine Country. Local animal rescues will be partnered with our wineries, promoting adoptions of their furry friends that need a home. Come with your dogs, stay for the wine, and possibly leave with a new best friend!
TASTE OUR TERROIR | JULY 23RD | 6-9 PM Every summer Livermore Valley’s premier food and wine affair takes place. Winemakers partner with Bay Area chefs to compete for honors. Taste pairings and cast your vote for the coveted People’s Choice award! Friday through Sunday, wineries across the region host food and wine events including Paella dinners, Rosé Festivals, educational seminars and more!
HARVEST WINE CELEBRATION | SEPTEMBER 6TH | 12-5 PM On Sunday of Labor Day Weekend, Livermore Valley wineries celebrate the exciting crush season at the Harvest Wine Celebration. Each winery hosts activities including wine tasting, arts, crafts, and music. Wine lovers have come from all over the Bay Area and beyond for the past 35+ years to enjoy this unique event. Don’t miss out on this wine country celebration!
HOLIDAYS IN THE VINEYARDS | DECEMBER 5th-6TH | 12-4:30 PM Join us for a Livermore Valley wine country holiday tradition. Wineries showcase their decorated tasting rooms with special wines, arts, crafts, holiday music, activities and more. Donated toys are given to the local Toys for Tots program.
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Livermore Valley Winery and Tasting Room Established in 1976 Certified Organic Vineyard since 2006
At Retzlaff we believe exceptional wine comes from exceptional grapes. The vines have been lovingly tended for over 30 years using common sense sustainable practices which eliminate the need for chemical intervention. No pesticides, no herbicides, no fertilizers, non GMO. Come for a taste and stay for a bottle. Enjoy a picnic under the shade of our majestic 100 year old pepper trees. Relax, make new friends and learn more about our unique wines. Private functions and tours are also available. We look forward to the pleasure of your visit.
LIVE MUSIC EVERY SUNDAY
1356 South Livermore Ave. Livermore Tasting room hours: Thursday-Monday 12 – 4:30 p.m. Closed Wednesdays 925.447.8941 (email is best) info@retzlaffwinery.com
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509 MAIN STREET, PLEASANTON, CA CALBRE#01964566
925.519.8226 CALL/TXT
susan@fabprop.net
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“Our wines reflect the terroir of our vineyard, the age of our vines and the character of the grapes. Our trademark is a long, elegant finish.” — Gloria Taylor
Where can you find ALL the best wines in one place?
Livermore Valley
UNCORKED April 16th, 2020 | 6–8:30 pm Casa Real at Ruby Hill | $75 per ticket For tickets or more information, please visit TriValleyConservancy.org or (925) 449-8706. Proceeds benefit Tri-Valley Conservancy’s Land Programs.
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Unlimited wine tasting — Delicious hors d’ oeuvres — Meet the winemakers and growers
Upcoming Events at Nella Terra Cellars Mother’s Day Brunch May 10th Treat mom to an elegant brunch with mimosas amongst Nella Terra’s garden and vineyards. Advance tickets required.
Yoga in the Vineyards Monthly Series 3rd Wednesday May - September Join Luna Yoga Pleasanton and Nella Terra for a relaxing evening of guided yoga and wine tasting. Advance tickets available online. Junshien Lau
5005 Sheridan Road - Sunol - 925-408-893-WINE (9463) Please visit our website for more details on our upcoming events www.nellaterra.com
Summer Tasting Room Hours June-August Enjoy our expansive views on the patio overlooking the vineyard while enjoying estate grown, award-winning wines. Extended tasting room hours this summer. Check the website as hours vary. Appointments available for groups of 10 or more.
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Coverage of Local Government Series on Ben Curry’s drowning by Ryan J. Degan, Jeremy Walsh and Gina Channell
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LIVERMORE VALLEY WINE COUNTRY PRESENTS
A QUEST FOR PAIRING EXCELLENCE
THURSDAY, JULY 23 RD | 6-9 PM
TASTE WINES & SMALL BITES FROM THE FOLLOWING TEAMS Big White House Winery & Oyo | Cuda Ridge Wines & Campo di Bocce Ehrenberg Cellars & Sauced BBQ & Spirits | Mitchell Katz Winery & Atria Nella Terra Cellars & On the Vine Catering | The Steven Kent Winery & Sabio on Main | Winemakers’ Studio & Terra Mia | Wood Family Vineyards & First Street Alehouse | Fenestra Winery & Backyard Bayou | Garré Vineyard & Winery & Garré Café | Las Positas Vineyards & Zephyr Grill & Bar | Leisure Street Winery & Frankie, Johnnie & Luigi Too | Longevity Wines & PLāYT McGrail Vineyards & Winery & Rusty’s Bar & Grill | Retzlaff Vineyards & Salt Craft | Wente Vineyards & Wente Vineyards Tasting Lounge
3 Steves Winery DON HESLER
Steve Ziganti, Steve Burman and Steve Melander (left to right) wanted to start their own wine label, and the name was obvious.
T
3 FRIENDS S TRIVING TO MAKE THE PERFECT WINE
he idea for 3 Steves was born over three friends sitting around having a glass of wine and talking about starting our own winery. We all owned part of a small boutique winery where we learned the art, science, and business aspects of the wine industry. We made a lot of wine together, and our customers gave us some great feedback. Before long we realized we wanted to start our own label from the ground up, and thought it was obvious to name our new project the 3 Steves Winery. Although we had made wine for years together, we received our license in early 2010. For several years we made our wine in a custom-crush facility which worked well, but we had a dream of owning our own winery and vineyard one day. Then in late 2012 we found the ideal location, and in July of 2013 we opened our doors for the first time at 5700 Greenville Road in Livermore! The location has beautiful 360-degree vistas of the entire Livermore Valley, and we are surrounded by incredible wineries on Greenville Road. A must-stop when out wine tasting. We’re proud of our wines and the awards we’ve won, and plan to be here for years to come. Livermore is an incredible wine region. The other winemakers have been so helpful and extended their hands, experience, and resources to us. In this type of wine community, you can’t help but make quality wine.
We look forward to seeing you at the winery soon. Please give our wines a try. We think you’ll enjoy them and look forward to earning your patronage! — Steve Burman, Steve Melander & Steve Ziganti 14 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
TASTING ROOM 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday
VARIETALS Barbera, Bordeaux Blends, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Gris /Pinot Grigio, Port, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wine, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic/Outdoor Seating, Special Events, Weddings, Dog Friendly, Weekend Food Trucks, Live Music on Sundays
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Our philosophy is to grow the best grapes we can on our vineyard, and to purchase the grapes we don’t grow from Livermore and other regions where particular varietals grow best. Then we bring the fruit back to our winery and turn it into wine. We have established strong relationships with award-winning vineyards, which will allow us to obtain excellent fruit as we continue refining our wine making skills as humble students of the art. Our tag line is “3 Friends Striving to Make the Perfect Wine,” and we’ll continue to do that in hopes more awards are in our future. But more importantly in hopes you really enjoy our wines and perceive value in your purchase of our product.
5700 Greenville Road, Livermore 925.364.4889 3steveswinery.com
Arroyo Cellars 2270 Research Drive, Livermore 925.292.9157 arroyocellars.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. ARROYO CELLARS
Arroyo Cellars is a winemaking habitat for gathering with friends and enjoying wine.
A
Saturday and Sunday or by appointment
AMENITIES Wine Tasting, Dog Friendly, Small Special Events Facility
NEW WINERY WITH OLD ROOTS rroyo Cellars is a new winery with old roots in the Livermore Valley. It was founded based on over 20 years of friendship, 30 years of winemaking, and 50 years as part of the Livermore Valley wine industry.
We have spent the last 20 years together over weekend dinners and dominos, holidays, family events, winemaking, and enjoying wine together and decided it was time to start our own winery. Using knowledge we have gained from working for other wineries and our day-to-day jobs, we approach winemaking and winery ownership with an open mind. We realize you are never too old to learn something new. To us, Arroyo Cellars is not a job or a business, but a way of life. The winery is a small and simple operation, with minimal equipment and a hands-on approach to winemaking. Each owner brings their own unique outlook on wine to the operation, which helps to drive the winery’s diverse wine line-up. The wines are not driven by trends, but rather by each owner’s taste. Those tastes translate into how we approach winemaking and into our final wines. Current wines include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel. Future wines will include Petite Sirah, Barbera, Pinot Noir, and whatever other unique and whimsical varietals catch our fancy.
Please come visit our habitat; we’d enjoy sharing our wines and friendship with you.
ARROYO CELLARS
Arroyo Cellars is a winemaking habitat where friends gather to share their passion for wine and winemaking. Like an arroyo, it provides shelter and relief from the elements (our daily jobs) and a place to gather and share friendship. We are open weekends from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and tastings will be conducted by one of the inhabitants (owners).
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 15
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Carol and Rich Howell and Pat Heineman stand ready to greet visitors to Bent Creek Winery. The three work together on every aspect of the winery’s operation.
L
GOOD TIMES S TART AT THE END OF THE ROAD… ocated on 12 acres in the rolling hills of southeast Livermore, Bent Creek Winery offers a variety of handcrafted red wines, white wines, and Ports. Tucked against an oak-dotted ridge and surrounded by vineyard, the winery enjoys spectacular views of the valley.
When Pat and Tom Heineman purchased the property in 1980, opening a winery was not in their plans. They wanted to own some land “out in the country.” They chose the location for its beauty and feeling of serenity. As educators in the Livermore school district, they met the couple who would later become their partners in the winery, Carol and Rich Howell. Pat and Carol were fellow elementary school principals, Tom was the Director of Curriculum and Technology for the district, and Rich was a physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. During the 1990s, when Wente Winery planted vineyards adjacent to the Heinemans’ property, Pat and Tom were impressed with their beauty. By 1997, with Wente’s assistance, they planted a Syrah vineyard on their land. The vineyard thrived and now produces high-quality grapes.
Bent Creek Winery 5455 Greenville Road, Livermore 925.455.6320 bentcreekwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday
VARIETALS Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Port, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Bent Creek Winery is the result of four friends’ interest in wine, winegrowing and winemaking. The owners work together on every aspect of the winery’s operation from caring for the vines, to processing the grapes, to greeting guests in the tasting room. Between eight and nine of the original 12 acres are currently in production with 6,000 vines planted. The winery produces around 3,500 cases of wine per year. “At Bent Creek, we try to stay true to two principles. First, we focus on local grapes. Nearly all our production is from grapes grown on our estate and in the Livermore Valley,” said Rich Howell, head winemaker and co-owner. “Second, we keep to traditional, classic methods of production. We ferment in open vessels. We avoid excessive additives. And we only age in barrels chosen to provide a balance between the fruit of the grape and the additional flavor provided by the oak.”
16 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Bent Creek has a comprehensive flight of 11 awardwinning wines in a rustically beautiful setting. Visitors can relax amid the vineyards and immerse themselves in the authenticity of a working winery. Bent Creek Winery is a pet- and kid-friendly, open and inclusive destination, so the whole family is welcome to have a good time at the end of the road!
Big White House Winery RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
John Evan Marion III, winemaker at Big White House Winery, believes in balance and innovation and expanding your mind when it comes to wine.
W
FINE WINE, FAMILY, ART AND BIG FUN
hen you visit Big White House Winery and John Evan Cellars, be prepared to engage your senses with awesome wine and expand you mind with new knowledge about what you’ve tasted. Winemaker John Evan Marion has been making wine long enough that if his first wine was a person, it could legally drink, even though John was born in ‘83.
In wine, and in life, balance is the key. Big reds like Syrah and Petite Sirah need to be allowed to show their fortitude, but also need to exercise some restraint. This is how Big White House and John Evan Cellars makes wine. The team is John Evan Marion, winemaker; Jessica Carroll, assistant winemaker; John Marion “the Elder,” winemaker emeritus; and Stephanie Rebiejo, VP & club manager. Each bottle features a label painted by John Evan’s sister, Laura Marion, and the tasting room is filled with her artwork.
6800 Greenville Road, Livermore 925.449.1976 bigwhitehouse.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Fridays seasonally
VARIETALS Alicante Bouschet, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Blanc, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Port, Riesling, Sangiovese, Sparkling Wine, Syrah, Viognier, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Dog Friendly
Big White House was originally started in the backyard by John “the Elder” and a group of friends, and assisted by son John Evan, only a teen at the time. Coming from backgrounds in science and engineering, and having inquisitive minds, each wine was viewed as an experiment. After some great home winemaking successes, it became apparent that to learn more, the scale had to increase. In 1998, Big White House went commercial, although still made wine at a very small scale. This was the year that John Evan made his first wine. With the help of a supportive community, the winery grew from hobby-scale to boutique-size, producing nano-lots of premium wines with an emphasis on Syrah, Petite Sirah, and hardto-find varieties. When John Evan turned 21, he launched his reserve brand, John Evan Cellars, and began taking over winemaking and management for the original Big White House label.
Visit Big White House and John Evan Cellars at the end of Greenville Road in Livermore to engage your senses: by taste and smell from the wine; by your eyes from the paintings and excellent vineyard view; by your ears from our fun, enthusiastic, and educational stories.
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
The winery still maintains its small size, intimate atmosphere, and promotion of education and enthusiasm for wine. Priding themselves on the use of traditional methods, the winemakers use minimal intervention and yet, with methods such as co-fermentation, still practice innovation. Outside of the cofermentations, a rotating line-up of single vineyard wines is the norm. While loving the classics like Syrah, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling, what thrills the team are some of the obscure varieties such as Grenache Blanc, Teroldego, and Peloursin.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 17
O AV E N T U R A de
Caires
Winery
BoaVentura de Caires 9309 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.606.9672 boaventuravineyard.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Brett Caires realized his dream of owning a winery in 1999 when he and his wife, Monique, purchased a five-acre property perched atop a sunny ridge, which is well-suited to growing Cabernet grapes that create BoaVentura’s specialty wine.
B
SMALL PRODUCTION, HANDCRAFTED WINES
rett Caires, a self-made Realtor, chef, and winemaker, hails from the stock of wine connoisseurs. BoaVentura Baptiste de Caires, Brett’s grandfather and the winery’s namesake, handed down a passion for relishing good wine. According to family legend, Brett’s great grandfather, Antonio Caires, was deported during Prohibition for winemaking after he brought his family to America. A devotion to his family heritage was a natural inspiration for Brett to cultivate his own knowledge of winemaking.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Friday and the first and third Saturday and Sunday of every month (Additional dates on website)
VARIETALS Albariño, Bordeaux Blends, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Port, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Through the influence of family, friends, and fellow winemakers, including Karl Wente, Noah Taylor, and Bob Taylor, Brett learned about the art of making wine. On a trip with Karl to Europe in 1997 — through France, Greece, Portugal, and England — he sampled regional wines, amassing knowledge that would later help him produce his first Cabernet, made available to the public in 2002. On April 29, 1999, Brett realized his dream of owning a winery when he and his wife, Monique, purchased a five-acre property perched atop a sunny ridge in the southeast corner of Livermore, California. The Caires estate includes three microclimates and a diverse terroir, ranging from a low, cold creek bed to a rocky hillside slope — replete with an interesting clay and static soil makeup — contribute layers of complexity and depth to BoaVentura wines.
Yet, as Caires notes, he also “fell in love with the Vino Verde white wines while traveling through Spain and Portugal,” both of which are made from the Alvarinho grape — the same grape he used to create BoaVentura’s soon to be released white wine. 18 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Since the land is well-suited to growing Cabernet grapes, BoaVentura Winery specializes in Cabernets.
ARTISTRY IN WINE, SCULPTURE, PAINTING AND CUISINE
A
rtistry typifies Cedar Mountain, where owners Earl and Linda Ault show their creative talent not only in their awardwinning wines, but also in their sculptures, paintings and cuisine.
Cedar Mountain Winery & Port Works 10843 Reuss Road, Livermore 925.373.6636 cedarmountainwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
The winery combines the creative interests of Linda and Earl — wine, food, and art. Earl is the winemaker and he is also an accomplished sculptor, watercolorist, and large-format photographer. Linda has been a recognized amateur chef for over 30 years. She studied at the Great Chefs at Robert Mondavi program, (also attended by Julia Child, Mark Miller, Martha Stewart and Alice Waters, to name a few) and attended the California Culinary Academy. Linda was featured in “Diablo Magazine” as one of the five Best Amateur Chefs in the East Bay Area of San Francisco.
Cedar Mountain winery combines the creative interests of owners Linda and Earl Ault — wine, food, and art.
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Rosé, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Duet (a Cabernet/ Merlot blend), Port
AMENITIES Food Sales, Picnic Facilities, Dog Friendly
Together, Earl and Linda manage and operate the winery, which features Livermore grown and produced wines and Ports. Trained as a physicist, Dr. Earl Ault became interested in the wine industry when he lived in Eastern Washington State in the mid-1970s. Linda’s formal college training is in physics and computer science, but her avocation was for wine and food. Earl and Linda moved back to California in 1981, settling in the Livermore Valley for both professional career and viticultural reasons. The couple purchased their first property at 7000 Tesla Road in 1988 and Cedar Mountain was established in 1990. In 2012, they moved to a smaller property without a vineyard on Reuss Road to focus on handcrafted, small-lot table wines and Ports. The smaller winery gives Earl more time to practice his skills as an accomplished artist and Linda has more time to create gourmet meals for Earl. They specialize primarily in Livermore grown and produced wines. In 1988, the entire vineyard was Chenin Blanc vines. In 1989, they grafted the Chenin Blanc vineyard to a mixture of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. The first CMW release was the 1990 Estate Chardonnay. The same year they made a small lot of Cabernet Sauvignon, which was rreleased in 1993. In 2005, they grafted some of the Chardonnay to Sauvignon Blanc and released their first estate Sauvignon Blanc in early 2007. RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
The Aults believe that quality wines begin with the grapes in tthe vineyard. They produce Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Rosé, Merlot, Zinfandel, Petite S Sirah, and Duet (a Cabernet/ Merlot blend), as well as S nationally recognized Port wines. Cedar Mountain wines are n available in fine restaurants, wine shops, directly from the winery tasting room or by phone order.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 19
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Find Charles R’s tranquil tasting room down an old mining road, nestled among oak trees. The wine selection includes award-winning white and red varietals.
BEYOND THE END, WHERE THE WINE E XPERIENCE BEGINS
C
harles R Winery & Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery committed to making fine wines. The Bartlett Family has called the Livermore Valley home for more than three decades and started producing wines in 2002. With 100 percent of all grapes sourced from the Livermore Valley and Tracy Hills, the wine selection includes award-winning white and red varietals, including a popular dessert wine, Port.
12 to 4:30 p.m.
Briefly travel the old mining road to find a tranquil tasting room nestled among oak trees. Photos and artifacts tell the history of the mining area and the transformation to today’s winery. The patio, built in 2006, is the perfect place to have a picnic and enjoy your favorite wine or host an intimate private celebration or corporate event. If you don’t hear live music, you will enjoy the sounds of nature’s beauty. We invite you to find your special spot in our tranquil patio garden setting and welcome you to bring your favorite delicious snacks, enjoy our wine and relax. The atmosphere is warm, friendly and casual. Members of the Miners Wine Club visit regularly to explore new offerings and converse with other guests, members of the Bartlett family and the tasting room team. RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
20 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
8195 Crane Ridge Road, Livermore 925.337.3081 charlesrvineyards.com
TASTING ROOM
Charles Richard (Dick) Bartlett is the operations manager and supervises the wine cellar. Bonnie is the office manager and ensures everything runs smoothly and efficiently. You can meet both in the tasting room on a regular basis. Considered the core of Charles R, knowledgeable associates staff the tasting room, assist with winemaking and provide many other valuable services. The Charles R family is excited about the experience and enthusiasm that new winemaker Lisa Lee brings to the winery. Her superb creativity, passion, and understanding of wine will help us reach greater heights in the wine we offer our guests.
The wonderful back patio is a perfect place to relax, enjoy the scenic Livermore views and sip a glass of wine. We offer wine by the glass or share a bottle with a group of friends. You are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. Check our website events page for scheduled entertainment.
Charles R Vineyards
Friday through Sunday
VARIETALS Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Port, Primitivo, Rosé, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Touriga Nacional, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events
Crooked Vine Winery 4948 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.449.0458 crookedvine.com
TASTING ROOM 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m Monday through Saturday 12 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday (Winter: Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
VARIETALS RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Crooked Vine Stony Ridge Winery boasts beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning views of the vineyards, as well as a newly-remodeled tasting room.
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Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Malvasia
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Barrel Room
ESTATE-GROWN PREMIUM WINES
rooked Vine Stony Ridge Winery is a family-owned and operated winery and vineyard located in the beautiful Livermore Valley Wine Country. At Crooked Vine Stony Ridge Winery, our unique setting features beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning views of the vineyards, which makes it a perfect place for an afternoon of tasting for two or a special event for 100. Check out our events calendar on our website.
LIVERMORE VALLEY WINE COUNTRY
Our wines are all produced from the Del Arroyo and Ghielmetti Vineyards. Del Arroyo is located at the end of Greenville Road and 200 feet above the valley floor. The Ghielmetti Vineyard is home to 65 acres of some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals in the valley. Our newly remodeled tasting room and outside patio offer an inviting atmosphere to taste our award-winning wines. Our educated staff is here to serve you and inform you about our wines and varietals.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 21
Cuda Ridge Wines 2400 Arroyo Road, Livermore 510.304.0914 cudaridgewines.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Margie and Larry Dino’s Cuda Ridge Wines are produced with old-world character and inspired by their Plum Crazy 1970 Barracuda muscle car.
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HANDCRAFTED, SMALL L OT, BORDEAUX-S TYLE WINES
ounded by Larry & Margie Dino, Cuda Ridge Wines produces award-winning, Bordeaux-style wines that bring out the wonderful terroir of Livermore Valley. Cuda Ridge Wines is inspired by the Dinos’ Plum Crazy 1970 Barracuda muscle car. The label is purple, and if you look closely you might see the subliminal image of the car.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
The Cuda Ridge winery and Tasting Room is located at 2400 Arroyo Road in Livermore. Cuda Ridge’s current production is 2,400 cases. When asked what is unique about Cuda Ridge wines, winemaker Larry Dino said, “We strive to produce wines with the old-world character. Our wines are designed to have layers of complexity and not overwhelm the palate with fruit or oak. “This balance allows are wines to pair nicely with foods and they will age nicely for 10 to 12 years,” he added. “Of course, you don’t have to wait that long.” The signature varietal is Cabernet Franc, which does very well in the competitions, including earning the 91-point rating from “Wine Enthusiast.” Also, don’t sleep on the Petit Verdot! Cuda Ridge Wines also produces the following Bordeaux varietals: Semillion, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec. From time to time, Larry will produce non-Bordeaux style wines which are designated under the Black label. These wines include Sangiovese, New World-style Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and our S&M blend. Each of our varietals produced are small lots ranging from 100 to 450 cases.
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RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
“Cuda Ridge is a truly family- and friends-run winery. When you visit our winery, don’t be surprised to see members of the Dino family and their friends helping with the winemaking or pouring a glass of wine. When you are at the winery, be sure to ask about the inspiration of the car. The answer you get will depend on who you are talking to. We are sure that once you have sampled our distinctive blends and enjoyed our hospitality, you will become a part of our new family! We look forward to having you visit and taste wine with us!” — Larry & Margie Dino
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Bob (Robere) Bossi, left, and Dan (Dante) Rosenberg, friends for more than 30 years, started making wine at home in 2007. They since have built a new winery from the ground up, with a spacious, welcoming tasting room they designed together.
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FROM VINES TO WINE, HANDCRAFTED WITH A C OMMITMENT TO Q UALITY
an Rosenberg and Bob Bossi have been friends for more than 30 years. Bob had already enjoyed drinking and learning about fine wines for many years when Dan moved to Livermore in 2003 and got the “wine bug” too. Then the future of “Dante Robere” started to take shape. Their passion for quality wine sent them on trips to most of the finest wine regions in California, always visiting their preferred smaller family-run wineries.
The experiences of meeting and talking with winemakers, having fun with family and friends in the intimate tasting rooms, and enjoying quality wines, inspired a dream of theirs to be standing behind their own counter and pouring their own wines. In 2007, they planted a small Zinfandel vineyard in Dan’s backyard and began making wine at home. This was no easy task for an ex-accountant and former insurance agent, but the challenge didn’t stop them. They volunteered their time assisting various Livermore Valley winemakers in an effort to learn the winemaking processes while dreaming of turning their hobby and passion for wine and winemaking into a second career. The thought of developing a winery and a tangible business that their children could become a part of, and someday embrace, was a powerful motivator.
Dante Robere Vineyards 1200 Wetmore Road, Livermore 925.245.0172 danterobere.com
TASTING ROOM 1 to 5 p.m. Friday 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
VARIETALS Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Barbera, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Unique Blends & Port Style Wine
AMENITIES Picnic Facilities, Outdoor Patios, Evening Events with Food Sales & Live Music, Seated Tastings in Private Tasting Room, Private Event Facilities, Dog Friendly
In 2012, the families officially decided to build a new winery from the ground up. They found the perfect property across the street from Sycamore Grove Park on Wetmore Road and purchased the adjoining six-acre Syrah vineyard. In July 2015, Dante Robere Vineyards opened its doors at 1200 Wetmore Road. The spacious contemporary tasting room with a rustic touch was personally designed by Dan and Bob to have ample room for visitors to enjoy their tasting experience. Outdoor patios with rural and vineyard views enhance the wine tasting experience, and provide a beautiful spot for picnicking. Dan and Bob’s goal is to make wine from Livermore Valley wine grapes when possible, but also to procure quality grapes from other wine growing regions that are well suited to certain unique varietals. Wines are produced in small batches. Grapes are hand-sorted before entering the de-stemmer and fermented in small hand-tended vessels. The resulting wine is then aged in French, Hungarian or American oak. Once ready for bottling, the wines are sampled and carefully blended to extract the best possible flavors and structure. RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Their estate-grown Syrah, blended wines featuring the estate Syrah, and other Rhone varietals such as Grenache and Mourvèdre are their acclaimed signature wines. But they also produce the stalwart varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Chardonnay, as well as more unique wines such as Tempranillo, Touriga, Carignane and Barbera. Popular blends include Dante’s Inferno (GSM), Roberitage (Cab / Syrah), Purgatorio (Cab / Petite Sirah), Paradiso (Tempranillo / Carignane / Touriga), Element 116 (Cab / Petit Verdot / Cab Franc) and the fun Two Cellar Rats. Whatever the varietal or blend, they are passionate about making the best wines possible, earning over 25 “90+ point” ratings from “Wine Enthusiast” magazine since 2016.
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24 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
Darcie Kent Vineyards RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Like her great grandfather before her, Darcie Kent uses her original art for her wine labels, striving to capture the unique spirit of each vineyard and its owner. More than 20 Darcie Kent wines have scored 90+ points in the “Wine Enthusiast” magazine.
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CELEBRATING THE UNION OF WINE, ART AND THE NATURAL WORLD
stablished in 1996, Darcie Kent Vineyards is a 100% women-owned winery in the San Francisco Bay’s Livermore Valley region of the Mt. Diablo Highlands. Fifth generation vintner/artist Darcie Kent and Hungarian-born winemaker Julian Halasz work in unison to handcraft small lot, single vineyard wines from sustainably farmed, family-owned vineyards along the Central Coast. Darcie and her daughters, Kailyn and Amanda, proudly carry on their family tradition. Like her great grandfather before her, Darcie uses her original art for her wine labels and strives to capture the unique spirit of each vineyard and its owner in her breathtakingly beautiful labels that grace each bottle.
7000 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.243.9040 darciekentvineyards.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Daily
VARIETALS Bordeaux Blends, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Pinot Noir, Port, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Dog Friendly, Reservable Event Pavilion, Guided Tasting Flights
In early 2013, Darcie and her two daughters acquired the current Estate Winery on Tesla Road and began a state-of-the-art renovation. Since that time, more than 20 of their estate grown Livermore Valley wines have scored 90+ points in the “Wine Enthusiast” magazine, placing Darcie Kent among the top three wineries in the region. Of particular note are the Firepit Red Wine, Old Vine Merlot, Field Blend Zin, Stone Patch Cab Franc, Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon and our flagship wine, Choreography. Darcie Kent also specializes in white wines, such as the acclaimed DeMayo Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner (both sparkling and still), aromatic Sauvignon Blanc, unoaked Pistachio Chardonnay and Victories Rosé of Malbec. Prices range from $25 to $75 per bottle with a 20% discount for club members. A rotating selection of “give-back” wines, with all proceeds dedicated to the charity featured on custom labels, is also available for purchase. Beneficiaries include Axis Community Health, Valley Humane Society, the Livermore Rodeo Stockmen’s Association and the Thunderbird Tahoe Preservation Society.
Please visit Darcie Kent at 7000 Tesla Road in the scenic Livermore Valley. Look for the century-old purple barn between Vasco and Greenville.
COURTESY DARCIE KENT VINEYARDS
Darcie Kent is a fully self-sufficient winery with sustainable grape growing, fermentation, barrel aging, bottling and cellar door sales all on site. Picnics are welcome on the grassy lawns set among the vineyards. The winery is dog-friendly (leashes please). Inside the tasting room visitors will find an art gallery displaying Darcie’s original artwork, which visitors can peruse as they taste a flight of six current release wines. On a recently remodeled sundeck, a conducted tasting experience of the highest-scoring reserve wines is available by reservation.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 25
Eagle Ridge Vineyards 10017 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.447.4328 eagleridgevineyard.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Jim and Cheryl Perry and their granddaughters can often be found working in the tasting room. The granddaughters have even contributed parts of their own names to Eagle Ridge’s Port, “MadLyn” and “MadCait.”
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FAMILY O WNED...L IVERMORE GROWN
n 2001, Jim and Cheryl Perry purchased a three-acre site on South Livermore Avenue to have country space to garden and leave the neighborhood confines behind. There, they planted two acres of their favorite varietal, Petite Sirah, with a vague plan of becoming a small lot provider. Thus “Eagle Ridge Vineyard” was born, named after the Eagles that had returned to the Livermore Valley in 1996.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m Saturday and Sunday
VARIETALS Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Limited Release Rosé, Malbec Petite Sirah, Pinot Gris /Pinot Grigio, Port, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Dog friendly
The plan stared out as growing enough grapes to add a little income to the family pot or to make a little wine for friends and businesses. Handtended, sometimes by flashlight, this small vineyard flourished beyond their dreams. Their first harvest in 2004 was over three tons. From that moment, they jumped into winemaking with both feet and UC Davis and Las Positas College found them consistently on their wine-making rosters. In 2004, they moved and expanded to a 10-acre site in the low foothills off Tesla Road. This expansion has allowed them to include their signature Petite Sirah, but also Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Grigio. Eagle Ridge Vineyard prides themselves in being very family oriented and have several areas appropriate for younger guests. On any weekend you will find at least one of the owners, plus children, “in-laws” or granddaughters helping out in the tasting room. The granddaughters have even contributed parts of their own names to Eagle Ridge’s wonderful Port “MadLyn” and “MadCait.” They are actually quite adept at hitting up visitors to contribute to their favorite animal rescue cause, donating more than $1,000 by selling lavender items in 2011.
What seemed to be a hobby in the 1980s and only a passing thought in 2001 is now a reality for Jim and Cheryl Perry of Eagle Ridge Vineyard. 26 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Eagle Ridge specializes in using only Livermore grown grapes to showcase what great fruit and wine can be crafted here in the Livermore Valley. Since 2011, most of the wines you find in the tasting room are estate-grown. The couple remains committed to their primary goal of creating small lots of exceptional Livermore wines.
Visit us at Lvwine.org to stay up to date with all events going on in Livermore Valley Wine Country
LIVE VAL
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ERMORE WINE LEY COUNTRY
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Downtown Livermore Pairs Perfectly With Your Livermore Valley Wine Country Experience
• DINING • Bruno’s Italian Cuisine, 2133 First Street Casa Orozco Mexican Restaurant & Bar, 325 South L Street First Street Alehouse, 2106 First Street Hop & Sessions, 2339 First Street Livermore Big Apple Pizza, 184 S. K street Pura Vida Cocina Latina & Sangria Bar, 2241 First Street Rebel Kitchen & Libation, 2369 First Street Rusty’s Bar & Grill, 2327 First Street Sauced BBQ & Spirits, 2300 First Street Ste 120 Simply Fondue, 2300 First Street Ste 110 Strizzi’s Restaurants, 2205 First Street The Last Word, 2470 First Street Unit 100 Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard, 39 S. Livermore Ave Zephyr Grill & Bar, 1736 First Street
Brunoslivermore.com Casaorozco.com Firststreetalehouse.com Hopsandsessions.com Livermorebigapplepizza.com Puravidalivermore.com RebelKL.com Rustysbargrill.com Saucedbbqandspirits.com Simplyfonduelivermore.com Strizzis.com Lastwordbar.com Uncleyusvineyard.com Zephyrgrill.com
• SHOPPING • Baughman’s Western Outfitters, 2029 First Street Caratti Jewelers, 2056 First Street Fortune Emporium, 2222 Second Street #3 Murphy’s Paw, 2044 First Street Mozart, Einstein & Me, 2156 First Street Olive Oil Pantry and Tasting Room, 2053 First Street Sunrise Mountain Sports, 2184 First Street Therapy Stores Inc, 2200 First Street Towne Center Books, 2375 Railroad Ave #100 Up Town Girls Boutique & Salon, 2145 First Street
Baughmans.com Carattijewelers.com Fortuneemporium.com Murphyspaw.com Mozarteinsteinandme.com Ourolivepantry.com Sunrisemountainsports.com Therapystores.com Townecenterbooks.com Instagram.com/utglivermore
• RELAX & PLAY • Affinity for Beauty & Wellness Spa, 152 S. K Street CK Skin, 153 S. L Street Ashtanga Yoga Livermore, 171 S. J Street Conscious Core Pilates, 2222 Second Street #12 Dragonfly Yoga & Wellness, 171 S. J Street Joya Yoga, 1923 Second Street Pinot’s Palette, 153 S. L Street Livermore Wine Trolley/Blue Brew Bus Umigo Indoor Kart Racing/Pedego Encore Players Livermore Heritage Guild Livermore Shakespeare Festival Livermore Stockmens Rodeo Assoc. Livermore Valley Opera Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
Affinitydayspa.com Ckskin.com Ashtangayogalivermore.com Consciouscorepilates.com Dragonflyyogawellness.com Joyayoga.com Pinotspalette.com Livermorewinetrolley.com Umigoracing.com Encoreplayers.net Livermorehistory.com Livermoreshakes.com Livermorerodeo.com Livemorevalleyopera.com Bankheadtheater.com
Livermore Downtown Inc.
154 S. J Street Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 373-1795
livermoredowntown.com
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Chris Ehrenberg’s dedication to creating fine wines goes back to his European roots and sipping wine with family at dinner when he was a boy.
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FOR THE L OVE OF THE DRINK
Ehrenberg Cellars 346 Earhart Way, Livermore Winery: 925.292.9641 Events: 925.548.3635 ehrenbergcellars.com
hrenberg Cellars offers award-winning wines from premier wine grapes in California. A number of varietals are offered, including Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Barbera, Petite Verdot and much more. Ehrenberg Cellars is known in the Livermore Valley as “The Zin King” since it serves and specializes in many Zinfandels. Their Sparkling Brut has just won “Best of Show” at the Alameda County Fairgrounds and has captured the hearts of all visitors.
TASTING ROOM
In 2008, they started in Alameda at Rock Wall Winery and Rosenblum Cellars, creating signature wines and venture for the love of the drink.
VARIETALS
The experience of being an urban winery has been great over the years, which has allowed them to grow into their current home in the wine region of Livermore Valley. “We feel this is truly where we want to be, close to the Bay Area yet in ‘Wine Country!’ Not just any wine country, but the very first wine region of California,” said Chris Ehrenberg. “My appreciation (of wine) goes back to my European roots and as a young boy sipping wine with my family at dinner,” he continued. “This inspired a dedication in me to create fine wines. Rich, full-bodied, deep in character with a nice oak finish that is intense in flavor and special; this tradition lives on today with the award-winning wines of Ehrenberg Cellars.”
Wednesday and Friday 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday noon to 8 p.m.; Sunday noon to 6 p.m.; or by appointment
Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignane / Cariñena, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot Gris / Pinot Grigio, Rosé, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly, Food Sales
Among the awards collected by Ehrenberg are two Double Gold, Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. “Sign up for our ‘Whine Club’ and enjoy what our friends and family have been enjoying for years,” Ehrenberg said. “Take a sip of Ehrenberg Cellars. Then relax, drop your shoulders just a bit, and you will find yourself saying ‘Aaah, life is good!’”
To host an event, contact the sales and marketing manager at Kristin@thetipsyvine. com or 925.548.3635 or ehrenbergevents@ gmail.com. Cheers!
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Ehrenberg Cellars also hosts private events, custom crushing and bottling, catering and monthly events open to the public, from wine/ cheese pairing, line dancing lessons, sip and paint, sensory classes, winemaker dinners and much more.
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el Sol Winery 8626 Lupin Way, Livermore 925.606.1827 elsolwine.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
In addition to great wine, el Sol Winery showcases beekeeping and honey production. Hal Liske, el Sol’s winemaker, even hosts beekeeping classes regularly.
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WINES MADE WITH SKILL, PASSION AND THE SPIRIT OF EL S OL
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
VARIETALS Sangiovese, Barbera, Charbono, Grenache, Pinotage, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Viognier and Rosé
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
n 2002, el Sol Winery joined the new age of quality vintners in the Livermore Valley Wine Country. They currently offer at least seven small lot wines produced using traditional practices. Some of their constants include Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Syrah and a traditional Port. Their tasting list is not restricted to just reds, however, as they always include a crowd favorite, the Grand Cuvee Sparkling Wine. They often have a Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay for those less inclined toward the reds, and often list unusual varieties such as Sangiovese, Barbera, Charbono, Grenache, Pinotage, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Viognier and Rosé of Pinot Grigio among others. Stop by and see what they have on the current menu. Maybe you can even convince the winemaker, Hal Liske, to taste something out of the barrel. You are invited to taste their wine in barrel and bottle. In addition to great wines, you will enjoy sitting at small tables with friends and enjoying a panoramic view of the Altamont Pass and the rolling hills dotted with slowly revolving windmills, livestock and wildlife. el Sol produces engaging, affordable wines, which reflect their true varietal character.
Another beautiful art that is showcased on this property is beekeeping and honey production. Keep an eye on the event calendar because Hal even hosts his own beekeeping classes the first and third Saturday of each month. 32 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
While el Sol is known for great wine and good people, they also offer more than just bottles in their tasting room. Kathy Liske and her partner, Ginny Heald, create handmade jewelry, “Sol Sisters Jewelry,” always one-of-a-kind and something you truly can’t find anywhere else.
Elliston Vineyards
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Elliston, a stately 17-room, three story, neo-Romanesque mansion, was built between 1885 and 1890 by Henry Hiram Ellis and features graceful stone arches and 32-inch-thick walls of blue sandstone quarried in nearby Niles Canyon.
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COME TASTE THE HISTORY. ESTABLISHED 1890.
he Elliston Vineyards estate was built by Henry Hiram Ellis, who arrived in California in July 1849 at the age of 20 in hopes of striking it rich during the Gold Rush. In 1875, Henry became the last elected Chief of Police in San Francisco, serving from 1875 to 1877. Ellis Street in San Francisco was named after Henry Hiram Ellis for his years of service. During this time, Henry and his wife Elizabeth settled into San Francisco and made a home.
463 Kilkare Road, Sunol 925.862.2377 elliston.com
TASTING ROOM 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
VARIETALS Bordeaux Blends, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Grig/Grigio, Sparkling Wine
AMENITIES Special Events
In 1885 Ellis, contemplating retirement, bought a lovely oak-studded property in the agricultural district of Sunol. Here, between 1885 and 1890, he built Elliston, a stately 17-room, three-story, neo-Romanesque mansion featuring graceful stone arches and 32-inch-thick walls of blue sandstone quarried in nearby Niles Canyon. During this same time, Henry’s son Robert Ellis constructed a building on the corner of St. Johns and Main Street in Pleasanton and opened the Ellis Grocery Store. The location of the Ellis Bros store is now the home of the Rose Hotel. The last few years of Captain Ellis’ life were spent quietly working on his memoirs and managing his estate. In 1890, Ellis planted three acres of vineyards on his estate, and it is known that wine was produced here. This acreage was included when the Sunol Viticulture District was named in the 1898 report to the State Board of Viticulture to consist of 14 vineyards totaling 148.5 acres and total cooperage of 25,000 gallons. He died on December 15, 1920, at the age of 91.
The original carriage house was converted into the event center where we now hosts over 100 weddings and events a year. We invite you to come experience history and tradition at Elliston Vineyards today.
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
In 1977, Sunol’s grape growing tradition was revived by the planting of 55 acres of premium grape varietals in San Francisco Water Company land. In 1984, the Awtreys obtained rights to the Sunol Valley Vineyards and replanted the Elliston vineyards at the estate with three acres of Chardonnay. In 1991, Elliston purchased a 23-acre winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains, complete with a state-of-the-art 4,000 square foot building equipped to handle 20,000 cases a year.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 33
Fenestra Winery 83 Vallecitos Road, Livermore 925.447.5246 fenestrawinery.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Fenestra Winery, Livermore Valley’s first family-owned boutique winery, offers classically blended, award-winning wines away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
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ocated in a beautiful secluded setting surrounded by lawns, vineyards and trees, Fenestra is an historic winery built in 1889. Fenestra Winery is Livermore Valley’s first family owned boutique winery, specializing in classically balanced, award winning wines from primarily Livermore Valley grapes. Our winery offers an easy escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. We invite you to open the window to world class wines.
VARIETALS
Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
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Friday through Sunday
AMENITIES
Fenestra Winery was established by the Replogle family on the historic Ruby Hill property in Pleasanton in 1976 and in 1980 occupied the centuryold George True Winery building on Vallecitos Road in Livermore. The old building had been badly neglected, and the Replogles hauled away tons of trash, and installed a new roof and strengthened the building.
Livermore Valley’s first boutique winery, Fenestra Winery has celebrated many years of fine wines.
12 to 5 p.m.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Graciano, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Port, Riesling, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional, Zinfandel, Several Blends
THE WINDOW TO WORLD-CLASS WINES SINCE 1976
The winery building was refurbished in 1997 and vineyards have been planted around the winery.
TASTING ROOM
Garré Vineyard RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Garré Winery is all about family, where family matriarch Nonna Rosa’s influence is felt from the event center to the Cafe and knowledge and experience was shared from the Old Country of Italy to the New Country.
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A GLASS FROM THE PAST, A TOAST TO THE FUTURE
istorians trace viticulture activity in the Livermore Valley back to 1832. The Molinaro family can also trace their family winemaking history back to the early 19th century as well, to a small village outside of Genoa, Italy. Nonna Rosa came to the United States and settled in San Francisco where she raised her family of two girls and three boys. “My dad is Bob Molinaro, the owner of Garré Winery. He tells the story of his dad and uncles getting together every year to make their wine for the family,” said Gina Molinaro-Cardera. “A truck would bring red grapes from Napa to San Francisco, where the families lived. The grapes would be crushed and fermented, and the wine would be made. My uncles learned from their uncles who brought their knowledge and experience from the Old Country to the New World.” Garré Winery is all about their family. The event center is named Bella Rosa, named after Nonna Rosa. Bella Rosa hosts a number of weddings, meetings and other social events. Nonna’s influence is also in the Cafe, with her pasta gravy recipe on the menu. Nonna’s Pasta is a hearty meat sauce with dried porcini mushrooms and herbs from the chef ’s garden.
7986 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.371.8200 garrewinery.com
TASTING ROOM Thursday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
CAFÉ HOURS Monday to Thursday lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Thursday dinner 5 to 8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
VARIETALS Bodeaux Blends, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Sangiovese, Sparkling Wine, Syrah, Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional
AMENITIES Food Sales, Special Events, Dog Friendly
“We are fortunate to have the growing climate in the Livermore Valley that allows us to grow many varietals,” Molinaro-Cardera said. Two of the family’s favorites grown on the Garré Estate are Sangiovese and Primitivo, along with eight other varietals. Rosato di Sangiovese, the Rosé from the Sangiovese grape, is one of their award-winning wines and a summer favorite.
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“Family traditions and a deeply rooted heritage are the backbone of Garré Vineyard and a Winery, welcoming visitors as family to enjoy the experience f of o old Italy” said MolinaroCardera. “Visit us to share C in i our toast of ‘a glass from the past, a toast to the future. ’” f
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 35
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Award-winning winemaker Brent Amos and owner Lisa Maier are passionate about wine and the vibrant Livermore wine region.
PERFECTING THE ART AND L ABOR OF FINE WINEMAKING
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as Positas Vineyards is dedicated to the marriage of Old World craftsmanship and New World pioneer spirit in the production of world class wines from our estate in California’s historic Livermore Valley. We offer small lots of handcrafted wines that epitomize our commitment to the earth and her fruit. Our family venture began when Lisa and Lothar Maier purchased a 20-acre vineyard located on Kalthoff Commons in the southwest corner of the Livermore Valley in January 2006. We decided that the existing vineyard was not up to our standards. That year, we pulled the existing vines and tilled the soil so as to break the hardpan barrier that resides below the surface of this region. We then planted small parcels in different clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo, Barbera, Petite Sirah and Chardonnay. Our labor of love began in earnest. With our passion and efforts devoted to the vines, we believed that the name of our winery and vineyard needed to be true to the rich heritage of the Livermore Valley. Thus, we began to search through local history books and maps to find the perfect inspirational name for our endeavor. In our research, we learned that Robert Livermore named his original 40,000-acre property Rancho Las Positas because of the many streams and watering holes that coursed through the land. Today, Las Positas Vineyards is a family winery that produces small lots of estate grown wines with unique character and exceptional quality. Visit us and enjoy our wines and spectacular vineyard views.
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Las Positas Vineyards 1828 Wetmore Road, Livermore 925.449.9463 laspositasvineyards.com
TASTING ROOM 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday
VARIETALS Albariño, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Graciano, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Port, Rhone Blend, Rosé, Roussanne, Sangiovese, Syrah, Tempranillo, Verdelho
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Leisure Street Winery 8953 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.337.5463 leisurestreetwinery.com RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Kelly and Rick Volpatti, shown below, opened Leisure Street Winery in 2016, with a lot of help and advice from friends in the winemaking industry. There is space available for parties of up to 150 guests.
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JUST K EEPING IT REAL eisure Street Winery is a family-owned winery with a beautiful new tasting room, a nice open patio and a lot of space to enjoy delicious wine.
The winery was born when Rick and Kelly Volpatti went to dinner with Mark Clarin, the winemaker at McGrail Winery, who talked with the couple about making wine. Clarin and many other winemakers from the Livermore Valley helped the Volpattis over the years. Leisure Street Winery opened in March 2016.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Thursday and Friday by appointment
VARIETALS Bordeaux Blends, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Dog Friendly
“We owe a great deal to our friends in the industry,” the couple states on the Leisure Street Winery website. “They are responsible for us doing 20 tons of fruit for 2016 and spending a ton of money. Thanks! Kidding.” Their varietals include Bordeaux blends, chardonnay, merlot, syrah, zinfandels and cabernet sauvignon, with names such as The Godfather, My Mia, Tall Dark & Handsome, Zincenzio and Left Bank. In addition to a welcoming and comfortable tasting room, there is a lot of space and open areas for gathering. And dogs are welcome to join in the fun. The winery is available for parties up to 150 guests. Leisure Street Winery also hosts many events, from dinners to live music to line dancing.
LEISURE STREET WINERY
“Really it’s a great ride to be on,” they said, “and we are looking forward to making great wines and representing Livermore.”
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 37
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Lineage Tasting Salon, Livermore Valley’s first luxury tasting venue, was created as “an antidote to the ordinary, everyday tasting room.” It will be the center of comparative wine tastings and high-end dining opportunities and members will have an opportunity to rent it.
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HOME TO L INEAGE WINE, S TEVEN K ENT WINERY, MIA NIPOTE WINES & R AGBAG WINEWORKS
ur winemaker and proprietor, Steven Kent Mirassou, is a member of the sixth generation of America’s oldest winemaking family. Six years before Abraham Lincoln was president, the Mirassou family was growing grapes and making wine in San Jose. After graduate school on the East Coast, Mirassou came back to California to start an eponymous brand, The Steven Kent Winery, with his father. They began their brand with one single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and one mission, to make a Cabernet that would equal in quality those made anywhere in California. He chose the Livermore Valley as the place to achieve his goal. It has been known for over 150 years that Livermore Valley is one of the finest wine-growing regions in the world. The first international gold-medal ever given to a California wine was for a Livermore Valley blend in 1889. Our Valley has given California 80% of its Chardonnay (Wente clone) and Cabernet Sauvignon (Concannon clone). We produced the first varietally-labeled Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Petite Sirah, and we had more acreage planted to the classic Bordeaux varieties than Napa even through the 1960s.
The Lineage Collection 5443 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.243.6442 Lineagewine.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday
VARIETALS Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah
AMENITIES Picnic Area
It is indisputable, given the viticultural gifts of elevation, east-west orientation, a myriad of soil types and microclimates, and a felicitous relationship with San Francisco Bay that provides for great balance of sugar and acid in our fruit, that we in the Tri-Valley are centered in a world-class growing area capable of producing Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and any number of Rhône and Italian varietals as well as any other place. After having made a string of Cabernets that achieved high notice among wine writers, restaurants, and consumers, Mirassou focused his second act of winemaking on wringing even more from his spectacular growing area. He said, “When you have world-class vineyards, you have a moral responsibility to make wine equal to the place you’re in.” He then launched the Lineage Wine Company to make one Bordeaux blend that would reflect the iconic quality of place, and winemaking philosophy that would set his wine in the pantheon of the best in the world. Lineage was born in 2007, and 10 vintages later, The Lineage Collection, a newly created venue that is the one indispensable place for those who yearn for unparalleled hospitality, is the home of the Lineage Tasting Salon, Livermore Valley’s first luxury tasting venue.
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LVWA - STEVEN KENT WINERY
In a gorgeous, second-story room offering breathtaking views of their estate vineyard, the Lineage Wine Company offers intimate, wine and food experiences that feature several vintages of Lineage paired with amazing food from the best chefs in Pleasanton and Livermore. The Lineage Tasting Salon was designed by Nancy Castro, the Lineage Brand Manager, as an antidote to the ordinary, everyday tasting room. Beautifully appointed and wonderfully intimate, the Salon will be the center of comparative wine tastings and high-end dining opportunities. The Salon, now open Saturdays and Sundays by appointment only, will be available to its members to rent for movies, business presentations, Super Bowl and a host of other activities. Reservations can be made via www.thelineagecollection.com or call 925-243-6445.
livermore valley's first luxury tasting salon.
Experience Lineage Wine paired with hearty bites from Sabio on Main, seated in a luxurious salon overlooking the home ranch vineyard. •••
open saturday & sunday 11 am to 6 pm By Appointment Only.
••• exploretock.com/thelineagecollection 925.243.6445 | 5443 tesla road, livermore, ca 94550
Longevity Winery
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Everyone who visits Longevity Winery’s tasting room is treated like family.
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L IVE L ONG AND L OVE L ONGEVITY WINES
inemaker/Founder Phil Long of Longevity Wines began his journey making wine in his garage with his wife, Debra. Today, with almost two decades of winemaking experience and a list of awards too long to print, Winemaker Phil Sr. and Assistant Winemaker Phil Jr. continue the journey with the constant of always improving in place.
2271 South Vasco Road, Livermore 925.443.WINE (9463) longevitywines.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday
VARIETALS Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris/Grigio, Port, Rosé, Tempranillo
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Dog Friendly
“In the business of winemaking, the minute you think you know it all, it’s time to get out,” said Phil Sr., who also serves as president of the Association of African American Vintners. He began making wine in the Livermore Valley in 2006 under the Longevity label, using other wineries’ facilities. It was only a matter of time before production was moved to Longevity’s own facility in Livermore. Yearly production gradually ramped from 500 cases per year to the current production of 3,000. All of Longevity’s black label wines are produced in small lots to maintain a hands-on approach to quality control. “We handle everything from bin to bottle,” said Phil Jr. “The Longevity Phil-osophy (pun intended) is to focus on the experience of enjoying quality wine: the food you had with it, the place you enjoyed it and the friends you shared the wine with. It’s those pairings that makes great memories,” said Phil Sr. “Everyone who visits the tasting room is treated like family, and they always bring back friends to share the experience.”
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Father and son enjoy the challenge that making multiple varietals brings and approach each one with the same dedication. Favorites in the barrels will always include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Debruvee (the signature Rhone-style blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Petite Sirah), Philosophy (Bordeaux-style blend) and Chardonnay among others.
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Heather McGrail, Rachel McGrail, Mark Clarin and Ginger McGrail are part of McGrail’s team of wine fanatics and educators eager to have visitors taste the award-winning wines and enjoy the view from the tasting room.
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GREAT MEMORIES ARE MADE WITH GOOD WINE AND FRIENDS
cGrail Vineyards & Winery prides itself on being in a boutique winery that is centered on family, friends and fellow wine-lovers. We focus on creating the finest Cabernet Sauvignon for you to enjoy through our small lot production. Enjoy bocce, award-winning wine, and breathtaking views of the Livermore Valley from our tasting room. Ascend the rolling hills of the Livermore Valley until you reach McGrail Vineyards, perched atop Greenville Road. This is the ultimate California wine country destination, complete with palm trees, Tuscan-inspired architecture, and unobstructed panoramic views of Mount Diablo and the Livermore Valley.
McGrail Vineyards & Winery 5600 Greenville Road, Livermore 925.215.0717 mcgrailvineyards.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc
AMENITIES Picnic Amenities, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Inside the tasting room, you will find a vibrant and experienced team of McGrail wine fanatics and educators eager to have you taste their award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons, like the Reserve Cab which won the San Francisco Chronicle Red Sweepstakes in 2012. If uncorking a bottle for a lazy afternoon suits you best, grab a lounge chair on the covered patio and get comfortable amidst the sweeping views of the Valley. If the mood strikes, you can play a game of bocce or go on an educational tour with the winemaker.
No matter your idea of a perfect day in the Livermore Valley, it can happen at McGrail Vineyards.
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Feel like a picnic while sipping? Snag a table on the sprawling front lawn or vineyard patio or relax in McGrail’s exclusive Member Lounge with the Holy McGrail family for a seated tasting.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 41
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Mitchell Katz Winery 2915 S Vasco Rd., Livermore (after May 1, 2020) 925.454.9463 mitchellkatzwinery.com
Mitchell “Mitch” Katz built his winery in memory of his grandfather. Now, after 20 years, the winery is moving to Shadow Hills Vineyard and will be nestled within 10 acres of grapevines.
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HOMEGROWN AND HANDCRAFTED IN L IVERMORE VALLEY WINE COUNTRY
itchell Katz Winery has been a family affair from the beginning. The winery was started in 1998 in memory of owner Mitchell Katz’s grandfather who passed at the age of 96. Mitch also named two of his creations, both blended red wines, after his sons Jackson and Wesley. Mitch considers this venture to be a living memorial to the man who devoted more than a half century to home winemaking. The Livermore Valley, one of California’s oldest wine regions, has provided fertile ground for Mitch to harvest his dream of hand making affordable, quality wines. The seeds of his vision were planted as a young teen when Mitchell spent summers helping his grandfather, Reginald Lord, make hand-crafted wines. Inspired to carry on the family heritage, Mitch produced a bounty of award-winning wines. He prides himself on using only the most pristine Livermore Valley grapes.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Daily
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Port, Sangiovese, Sparkling Wine, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Now over 20 years later, the winery is embarking on an incredible transition, having purchased an exceptional property in the heart of Livermore Valley. Shadow Hills Vineyard, on the corner of Tesla and Vasco roads, will be the new home for Mitchell Katz Winery. The winery will be nestled within 10 acres of grapevines. Mitch will begin producing an estategrown Chardonnay right away, and in time he will add other varietals as well.
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This special location is an inspiration to Mitch as he creates the legacy he has long desired for the winery and his family, paying homage to his Mum Lucy, for whom this venture would not be possible without her tireless love and support of Mitch and the boys.
Murrieta’s Well
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Murrieta’s Well’s tasting room is located in the gravity-flow winery built in the late-1800s by Louis Mel. Descendants of the original vines planted by Mel still grow on the estate.
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ESCAPE THE ORDINARY
urrieta’s Well is one of California’s original wine estates and has been growing grapes since the 1800s. In 1884, Louis Mel fell in love with the estate and purchased the land for himself and his wife. He built a gravity-flow winery into the hillside and planted a vineyard from cuttings from famed French Chateau d’Yquem and Chateau Margaux wineries. Mel sold the property to his friend, Ernest Wente, in 1940, and the property has been part of the Wente family’s estate ever since. In 1990, Philip Wente and Sergio Traverso partnered together to revive the winery. They named it “Murrieta’s Well,” paying homage to Joaquin Murrieta, who first discovered the estate’s artesian well in the mid-1800s. Today, descendants of those original vines planted by Mel still grow on the estate and the tasting room is located in the original gravity-flow winery building. Winemaker Robbie Meyer artfully handcrafts the finest small-batch blends to create wines that inspire people to think about where the grapes are grown.
3005 Mines Road, Livermore 925.456.2395 murrietaswell.com @murrietaswell
TASTING ROOM Winter Hours: Wednesday and Thursday Noon-5 p.m.; Friday to Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Summer Hours: Monday to Thursday Noon to 5 p.m.; Friday to Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Reservations required.
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Orange Muscat, Bordeaux-inspired blends.
AMENITIES Unique Wine-led Experiences, Special Events, Food Pairings for Purchase, Seated Tasting Experiences, Dog Friendly (patio only)
“Making wine is a beautiful experience,” Meyer said. “There is nothing quite like growing fruit in the vineyard, caring for it in the winery and crafting it into something people can enjoy in many ways. I believe in creating wines that are exceptionally pleasing and intriguing at the same time.”
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The wines are sourced exclusively from the estate, farmed from the vineyard where grape varieties are planted according to the various microclimates on the property, which creates the winemaking palette for blending exceptional wines that truly showcase the unique characteristics of the estate’s terroir.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 43
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Kendall and Griffin Beemiller are part owners of Nella Terra and run the day-to-day operations of the wine business.
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INTO THE E ARTH
Nella Terra Cellars 5005 Sheridan Road, Sunol 408.893.9463 nellaterra.com
TASTING ROOM
e believe producing great wines starts with being stewards of the Earth. Nella Terra means “Into the Earth” in Italian. We are focused on the land and soil, studying the ritual of the vines to create quality estate-grown fruit. Nella Terra is a multi-generational family-owned and operated boutique winery producing just over 500 cases a year.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Saturday and Sunday of each month
Nella Terra sits above Livermore Valley in the Sunol Highlands at 1,100 feet, getting a maritime breeze off of the San Francisco Bay, creating a generally cooler climate than the rest of the Livermore Valley. Many areas of the property offer Bay views and on a clear day you can catch a glimpse of San Francisco!
or by appointment for groups of 10 or more
The unique microclimate of Nella Terra’s valley provides an ideal environment for growing high quality and uniquely expressive grapes. Our vines are grown with a combination of sustainable and organic practices. On our hillside vineyards, we grow varietals that are well suited for Sunol: Viognier, Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Albariño and Syrah. With our prime conditions and terroir, these varietals produce rich and complex flavors when artfully fermented into wine.
Albariño, Bordeaux Blends, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Primitivo, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Syrah, Viognier
We love meeting the adventure seekers and fellow wine lovers that take the road less traveled to visit us. Bring a picnic to enjoy amongst our gardens or host a friendly competition of bocce ball at our two side-by-side courts.
Picnic Area, Special Events
VARIETALS
AMENITIES
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44 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
Omega Road Winery RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Father-daughter duo winemaker-owners Ken Henkelman and Alexandra Henkelman (middle) want Omega Road Winery to be a place to enjoy great wine and build friendships. Here they are joined by Nicky Henkelman, wife, mom and business partner.
2127 S Vasco Road, Unit C, Livermore 925.290.8616 omegaroadwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 4 to 7 p.m. first Friday of the month
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GREAT WINE BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
ather-daughter duo Ken and Alexandra Henkelman love wine, particularly beautifully balanced and interesting wine, and especially when enjoyed with family and friends. As winemakers at Omega Road Winery, they strive to maintain varietal characteristics while building complex flavors. As owners, they want Omega Road Winery to be more than a place to enjoy great wine, but truly a place to build friendships.
VARIETALS Alicante Bouschet, Barbera, Petit Verdot, Port, Rosé, Syrah, Viognier
AMENITIES Small Private Events, Dog Friendly
Ken’s love of wine started upon completing his service in the Army and returning to his hometown of Napa in the late 1960s. He worked for the renowned Robert Mondavi Winery and under the direction of esteemed winemaker Michael Grgich learning the behind-the-scenes work necessary to craft amazing wines. While life took him in a different direction, Ken’s love of wine was always present, and he returned to the craft nearly 15 years ago as a home winemaker. After honing his craft and expanding his knowledge, he joined forces with his daughter to shift their efforts from a hobby to building Omega Road Winery. Alexandra has always had an interest in wine. Upon returning to the Bay Area after college, she explored the world of winemaking with her dad and immediately found a new passion. After spending years with her dad making wine at home, Alexandra and Ken decided to make a go of the wine business and began transforming their vision into reality. Combining his knowledge and her enthusiasm, Omega Road Winery was born. After several years spent crafting their own wines, Ken and Alexandra opened the doors to the tasting room of Omega Road in May 2017.
The tasting room at Omega Road Winery is open every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. and the first Friday of the month from 4 to 7 p.m. In addition to regular tasting room hours, the Winery is the perfect venue to host small, private events up to 50 guests.
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Both winemaker-owners can usually be found in the tasting room on weekends — pouring wine, chatting about new projects, and sharing stories. Their love of crafting unique varietals and blends is clear to anyone who walks in the doors of Omega Road Winery.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 45
Page Mill Winery 1960 S. Livermore Ave., Livermore 925.456.7676 pagemillwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 8 p.m. Thursday (Twilight Tastings) 12 to 4:30 p.m. Friday through Monday
VARIETALS RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
After his parents’ retirement, Dane Stark took over operation of Page Mill Winery and moved to the Livermore Valley in 2004.
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Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Port, Red Blend, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wine, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
PEACE THROUGH WINE, ONE GLASS AT A TIME
age Mill Winery began in 1976 when Dick Stark was tiring of the travel associated with corporate America. While exploring Rheingau wine region in Germany on a business trip, he discovered his answer...he would start a winery! He and his wife, Ome, dug a hole under the family’s Los Altos Hills home. He selected grapes from specific appellations, bringing the fruit back to the winery for production, and a winery was born! Son, Dane, went away to school to study math and spent his junior year in Bordeaux, France. There, he fell in love with the wine industry and, upon his return, joined the family business for his first professional harvest in 1989. After Dick and Ome’s retirement in 1996, Dane ran the winery until 2004 when it became apparent that the location would no longer support the growth of the business. After looking in multiple appellations for a home, the winery was moved to the Livermore Valley.
Page Mill Winery is the home of many fun events year-round such as B.Y.O.B — Bring Your Own Bottle. On the third Sunday of each month, visitors can bring empty wine bottles and fill them with a red blend. There are also events based around music, like Music on the Patio, and community events like the Twilight Tastings. 46 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
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With an eye to sustainability, Page Mill Winery is creating award-winning wines while supporting the community and the environment.
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Retzlaff’s tasting room staff is ready to welcome visitors to the winery, which is part of a historic Victorian estate surrounded by beautiful grape vines, magnificent old trees and organic gardens.
FINE WINES M ADE FROM CERTIFIED ORGANIC GRAPES
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t Retzlaff Vineyards and Estate Winery, we believe exceptional wine can only be made from exceptional grapes. Our family-owned operation has been producing both from our own lovingly tended vines for over 40 years using common sense and sustainable practices which eliminate the need for chemical intervention. In fact, Retzlaff is among the oldest certified organic vineyards in California. Located in the heart of the historic Livermore Valley Wine Region, Retzlaff has continually produced award-winning wines which highlight the character of the valley’s unique climate and soil conditions. Our very first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon won the Double Gold medal at the California State Fair. Each subsequent vintage of our cherished Merlot, Cabernet, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay varietals have won prestigious awards.
Retzlaff Estate Winery 1356 South Livermore Ave., Livermore 925.447.8941 retzlaffwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Our wines are clean and fresh, fruit forward and balanced. The oak overtones are subtle, allowing the true character of the varietal and terroir to shine through. Except for our Port, all Retzlaff wines are dry table wines. They are approachable enough to be enjoyed on their own but have the elegance and complexity to be savored with a special meal shared with loved ones. Naturally, we believe that is what wine and Retzlaff is all about. Retzlaff Vineyards and Estate Winery is a spectacular destination. Off the beaten path down a country lane, we are part of a historic Victorian estate surrounded by beautiful grape vines, magnificent old trees and organic gardens. It is a place where time slows down. People gather to relax and savor a glass of fine wine while enjoying the company of friends in a beautiful and peaceful setting. Bob and Gloria Taylor purchased the neglected 14-acre sheep ranch in 1975 when there were only five other wineries in the valley. Bob’s background as a research chemist has provided him with a good foundation as a winemaker, although he believes nature plays the most important role. His knowledge and understanding of chemical inputs have always governed Retzlaff ’s farming practices. Even before organic farming became more widely appreciated, Bob rejected the common practice of applying harmful herbicides and pesticides to crops. Although Gloria passed away 10 years ago, her presence can still be felt in every corner of the winery that bears her maiden name. Today the family tradition continues. On most days you can find her sons, Aaron and Noah, and long-time vineyard manager Jose Hernandez, tending the wines and vines, setting up for bottling, preparing for an event or maintaining the grounds and equipment. Gloria’s daughter-in-law Salomé has been instrumental in bringing the operation into the modern winery era.
We put passion into our wines from start to finish, and value sharing those wines and our sustainable practices with you. It is part of our duty to educate, conserve, and sustain the future. Come for a visit. Bring a picnic. Listen to the bees in the trees. Bring your dog.
COURTESY RETZLAFF WINERY
The entire family is dedicated to living a sustainable lifestyle at Retzlaff and to continue the vision of healthy, balanced land and community. It is common to see neighbors and employees picking vegetables from the garden or community members working hard with the family during the busy harvest season.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 47
Rodrigue Molyneaux RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Visitors who wander a mile drive down a country road to Rodrigue Molyneaux are welcomed by a serene and shady oasis where they can admire a garden with a view of Mount Diablo.
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S TAY FOR A WHILE
3053 Marina Avenue, Livermore 925.443.1998 rmwinery.com
TASTING ROOM 12:30 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
his is a real find” are four words that we hear again and again from visitors in the tasting room. What they find, wandering a mile drive down a country road, is a serene and shady oasis. They choose one of our many secluded tables, head to the rustic tasting room for a bottle of our esteemed Italian or Bordeaux wine, bring out the picnic faire and escape to our exclusive gardens. That is the ambiance enveloping this working winery and vineyard that will delight your family and friends.
VARIETALS
The winery’s journey began over 20 years ago when the owners planted the vineyard. Historically, a vineyard grew on this land in the late 19th century, inspiring the Rodrigues to build on that tradition. Since their philosophy is that great wine starts in the vineyard, they farm with a “handson” approach, including lots of sweat and tears. It is their passion and intent to farm grapes only from their own vineyard and within the Livermore Valley appellation. This unique region has one of the best wine growing areas in the world, and our grapes thrive in that terroir. Cooling breezes flow over the hills from the Bay in the summer evenings and balance the hot sun-drenched days.
AMENITIES
Barbera, Bordeaux Blends, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Petit Verdot, Pinot Blanc, Port, Sangiovese
Picnic Area
The hands-on pattern continues in the RM Winery’s winemaking. The entire vineyard is hand-picked and harvested at peak ripeness and the grapes are crushed and pressed on site. We emphasize small lot fermentation followed by patient aging in oak barrels. Our winemaker carefully tends the barrels, adjusting the wine as needed, and selecting the final blends. The result is superior wine that expresses our grapes and embodies the essence of our appellation’s terroir.
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So, with a glass in hand of our estate Italian Barbara or perhaps an estate French Petit Verdot, gather yourself and guests at an outdoor table, admire the California-centric garden and take in the vista of mist shrouded Mount Diablo in the distance. Then stay for a while — a life well-lived.
Rosa Fierro Cellars 346 Earhart Way, Livermore 925.963.1406 rosafierrocellars.com
TASTING ROOM ROSA FIERRO CELLARS
Rosa Fierro learned the art of winemaking from some of Livermore Valley’s greatest winemakers. She opened her own winery in 2014, where family and friends help her.
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BIG, BOLD, BEAUTIFUL WINES FOR BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE osa Fierro Cellars is a 100 percent woman-owned winery that specializes in making handcrafted, limited production, award-winning wines from Livermore and Napa Valleys.
Winemaker Rosa Fierro first fell in love with wine in 2009 while working in a tasting room in Livermore where she assisted the winemaker with harvesting grapes and making Port in the garage. She was totally hooked and soon began making her own wines at a production facility in Livermore, where she was lucky enough to work side-by-side with some of the greatest winemakers in Livermore Valley. They became her mentors, teaching and encouraging her to make the highest quality wines possible. In 2014, she opened Rosa Fierro Cellars where her friends and family enjoy helping her with everything winery related.
4 to 8 p.m. Friday 12 to 8 p.m. Saturday 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday Private group tastings by appointment
VARIETALS Bordeaux Blend, Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec, Primitivo, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Food Sales, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Our wines are made from small vineyards of 12 acres or less with a limited production of 50 to 200 cases each, and are handcrafted at our production facility in Livermore Valley. Our winemaking begins in the vineyard, where we choose and hand-harvest only the best quality fruit. Our yearly production is approximately 500 cases. The urban winery and tasting room are located on the west end of Livermore in the same facility with two other wineries, with a brewery right next door. ROSA FIERRO CELLARS
The tasting room is open late; tastings are $10 and offer combo tastings with the other two wineries onsite. You can almost always find Rosa Fierro onsite in the tasting room waiting to meet you, where her winemaking photographs adorn the walls.
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 49
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Steve and Karen Powell own and operate Tesla Vintners, and Steve is ‘The Singing Winemaker.’ Being a born performer, Steve can often be found serenading the crowd in the tasting room.
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TRUTH, BEAUTY AND GOODNESS THROUGH WINE, MUSIC AND ART aren and Steve Powell are the proprietors of Tesla Vintners, and Steve is “The Singing Winemaker.”
The couple, along with their staff, are all a part of the Tesla Vintners family and they are “here to help you enjoy your best-ever-wine-tasting experience.” The Singing Winemaker and other talented musicians are always friendly and provide passionate performances — up close and personal. As visitors enjoy the beautiful surroundings, friendly staff, great wine, great music and lovely art, they too will feel the love and can become a part of the Tesla Vintners family. Although Steve’s signature wines are his red varietals he believes in providing wine for all palates, so there is something in the tasting room for everyone; in addition to the reds, The Singing Winemaker invites visitors to try the sparkling, white, and Port-style wines.
The Singing Winemaker 5143 Tesla Road, Livermore 925.606.9463 thesingingwinemaker.com
TASTING ROOM 12 to 5 p.m. Friday and Sunday 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday
VARIETALS Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Muscat, Petite Sirah, Port, Primitivo, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wine, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly, Family Friendly
They offer a variety of sparkling wines. The California Brut is a great start to any party — crispy with a hint of fruit, plenty of sparkles to excite your tongue. The bubbles of the Peach Sparkling tickle your tongue with the sweet taste of a fresh picked peach. Smile as it glides down, feeling fuzzy all the way down. Their Raspberry Sparkling is a great anytime celebration wine, a reason to get friends together just because and enjoy the fresh fruity taste of raspberry. When you taste Almond Sparkling, Amaretto may come to mind. This light, nutty, and very refreshing sparkling wine is great any time. Scherzando, a Singing Winemaker white wine, brings out the fun in hot summer evenings on the patio listening to great tunes. Scherzando is a musical term meaning “playful.” This Symphony-grape based wine with just a hint of Muscat, is an ever-so-slightly off-dry palate pleaser. This year’s Harmony is a blend of Cabernet, Syrah, and Old Vine Zinfandel with great berry notes and a hint of soft spice.
Finally, calling all chocolate lovers: The Chocolate Port, a non-traditional dessert-lovers delight, is rich and smooth with a punch. The Singing Winemaker warns: Don’t try this! Your chocolate desire may never be satisfied again! 50 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
Karen’s Kisses is a smooth and tender tawny port that allows one to imagine the sweet, tender kisses of Mrs. Singing Winemaker!
Wood Family Vineyards 2407 Research Drive, Livermore 925.606.7411 woodfamilyvineyards.com
WOOD FAMILY VINEYARDS
Rhonda Wood (front, left) and Harrison Wood (front, right) pose with their team team in the barrel room.
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IT’S A LL GOOD AT WOOD parks flew in Yosemite during the spring of 1984. Michael Wood’s eyes captured Rhonda’s across a crowded room at the Lodge. Over glasses of wine, conversations were shared, addresses exchanged, and a relationship ensued.
Their first home in Fremont overlooked Weibel Vineyards where they dreamed of one day owning their own vineyard. At their second home, also in Fremont, they planted 18 vines. Before these vines reached maturity, they discovered Crane Ridge Vineyards in Livermore Valley. Rhonda and Michael’s passion for wine and belief that winemaking begins in the vineyard led them to the Livermore Valley. They are tireless champions about the quality of Livermore Valley soils and their commitment to Livermore Valley-grown grapes. They are known for their bold reds and a big Chardonnay.
TASTING ROOM 12 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 12 to 8 p.m. Friday 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday Acoustic Music Wednesdays Happy Hour Thursdays Full Bands on Fun Fridays
VARIETALS Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
They purchased property with 14 acres of vines and built their dream home. Wood Family Vineyards winery shortly followed. Rhonda took a leave from her career as an airline pilot to handle the winemaking. Michael, a CFO, helps out where he can and enjoys the fruit of their labor, especially the award-winning Chardonnay — his favorite.
WOOD FAMILY VINEYARDS
The winery operations have been moved to their current location and the tasting room opened in June 2017. Their oldest son, Harrison, has taken on the role of Executive VP. They have a strong commitment to each other and to the celebration of life, family and friends. This same commitment carries over into making luscious handcrafted wines. Many visitors have said that they also feel like “extended family” when visiting the winery and tasting room, which is a testament to the wonderful atmosphere at Wood Family Vineyards. Don’t forget to bring along your dog, as Wood Family is dog friendly!
Livermore Valley Winery Issue | 51
COURTESY WENTE VINEYARDS
Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the country’s longest, continuously operated familyowned winery. Now led by the fifth generation, Wente is known for its award-winning fine wines and is recognized as one of the state’s premier wine country destinations.
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TASTING ROOMS Tasting Lounge: 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore Wine & Food Experiences 12 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday 925.456.2450
ente Vineyards is the country’s longest, continuously operated family-owned winery, founded in 1883 when German immigrant Carl H. Wente purchased 48 acres of vineyard land in the Livermore Valley.
Blending traditional and innovative winemaking practices, today’s winery draw from the estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley and Arroyo Seco, and Monterey appellations to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines.
Estate Tasting Room: 5565 Tesla Road, Livermore 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily (Check website for seasonal hours of operation) 925.456.2305
Most notable within the historical Wente family history is the Chardonnay clone that was brought to California in 1912 from a vine nursery at Montpellier University in France. Planted in what is now a heritage vineyard, along with cuttings from the historical Gier Vineyard in Pleasanton, the Wente clone today comprises a majority of all Chardonnay plantings in California. 2012 marked the 100th anniversary of the Wente family bringing Chardonnay cuttings to California. Wente wines are distributed in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide. In 2010, Wente Vineyards was among the first wineries to receive the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing designation, and one of the only wineries to certify every aspect of its business. In 2011, Wente Family Estates was named American Winery of the Year by “Wine Enthusiast” magazine. Wente is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations featuring wine tasting, dining, concert experiences, championship golf and more.
VARIETALS Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Counoise, Merlot, Orange Muscat, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Port, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Sparkling Wine, Syrah, Viognier, Zinfandel
AMENITIES Food Sales, Picnic Area, Special Events, Dog Friendly
Wente has two tasting rooms — the Estate Winery & Tasting Room at the Tesla Road location and the Vineyard Tasting Room about six miles away on Arroyo Road at the estate property, which features the golf course, live music and fine dining at The Restaurant. RON ESSEX PHOTOGRAPHY
52 | Livermore Valley Winery Issue
wentevineyards.com
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Daily
FOR THE L OVE OF THE JOURNEY
“Every single day, we strive to be better than the day before,” said fifth-generation winegrower Karl Wente. “That’s what my family instilled in me. For five generations, we’ve worked relentlessly to grow and produce great California Chardonnays. We don’t do it because we have to, we do it because we love to.”
Wente Vineyards
FAMILY OWNED ESTATE GROWN CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE
LESS THAN
4%
OF ALL CALIFORNIA WINERIES ARE CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE Copyright© 2020 Wente Vineyards. All Rights Reserved.
Let’s Work Together Toward Your 2020 Vision!
AVAILABLE $2,699,999 2949 Marina Ave, Livermore
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608 Main St. Ste G, Pleasanton
William Doerlich
Lynne@LynneAncien.com | www.rogtoday.com | 925.786.3765
DRE #02090890
Top Producer DRE# 01418699
Broker/CEO
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Representing Buyers and Sellers Beyond their Expectations
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925.519.9080 kris@moxleyrealestate.com
moxleyrealestate.com
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