Livermore Wineries: A Guide To The Bay Area Wine Region

Did you know that one of California’s most historic wine-growing regions is a stone’s throw from San Francisco? Just a short drive east of the San Francisco Bay, visiting Livermore wineries is an easy day trip that allows you to delve deep into California’s wine origin story. 

Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a new bottle to try at home, the wineries in Livermore offer something unique. This storied wine region, nestled in the Bay Area’s backyard, is known for relaxed, intimate tastings where visitors often meet the winemakers themselves.

Discover California Wines is a campaign by Wine Institute, an association of more than 1,000 California wineries and wine-related businesses. So you can trust us when discussing California wine, including Livermore wineries. 

The Livermore Valley AVA has had an outsized impact on the development of wine in California. In this article, we’ll uncover the region’s history, discuss what makes it unique and discuss its commitment to sustainability. We’ll also share a recipe for honey-roasted olives to pair with California wine!

Livermore Valley is One of California’s Old School Wine Regions 

Spanish missionaries planted the first wine grapes there in the 1700s, but Robert Livermore planted the first commercial vineyards in the 1840s. He was soon followed by industry pioneers Charles Wetmore, James Concannon and C.H. Wente.

In 1889, Wetmore’s “dry white” won the Grand Prix at the International Paris Exposition, marking the first of many international accolades for California wines. Though Prohibition slowed production in the early 20th century, a handful of winemakers in Livermore survived by producing sacramental wines. 

A few years after Prohibition ended, Wente Vineyards made history by bottling the first-ever California Chardonnay in 1936. Today, Wente and Concannon are two of the region’s original wineries that continue to thrive.

What Makes Livermore Wineries Great

Because of the region’s unique topography, Livermore wineries can craft high-quality wines. Unlike many other wine regions in California, Livermore Valley runs from east to west rather than north to south. (Yes, this is the same situation you’ll find in Santa Barbara County, too!)

This unique layout means coastal breezes and morning fog from the Pacific Ocean cool the vineyards while Central Valley heat helps ripen the grapes. In other words, Livermore has a perfect balance of warm days and cool nights. This climate allows grapes to develop rich flavors while maintaining refreshing acidity, making Livermore wines complex and well-structured.

The region is known for Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Petite Sirah. Wine lovers will also find Semillon, Merlot and a variety of warm-climate Italian, Rhône and Spanish grapes thriving in the valley. 

Defining Livermore Valley AVA

The Livermore Valley AVA is located within Alameda County, making it part of the larger Central Coast AVA, which stretches from Santa Barbara to San Francisco Bay. In 1981, the area’s winegrowers formed an association, and in 1982, the Livermore Valley AVA became one of California’s first designated wine regions.

The valley is 15 miles long and 10 miles wide, surrounded by coastal mountains and foothills. Its distinct terroir comes from its gravel-based soil, which, along with the maritime influence, contributes to the bright acidity and complexity found in Livermore wines. 

Sustainability in Livermore Vineyards

Over 90% of California wine is produced in a certified sustainable winery, making California sustainable wine a rule, not the exception. Sustainability is at the heart of Livermore Valley’s wine industry, where numerous practices are implemented, including a focus on soil health.

Healthy soil is the foundation of any sustainable vineyard, as nearly one-third of a grapevine exists underground in the form of roots. Vibrant microbial populations, worms and organic matter decomposition contribute to soil health, helping vines absorb nutrients more efficiently. 

Many vineyards plant cover crops between vine rows to enhance soil fertility while limiting erosion by controlling rainwater runoff. This commitment to sustainability ensures that California vineyards, including those in Livermore, remain productive for generations to come.

Here are a few wineries in the Livermore Valley AVA that are committed to sustainability.

Pairing Food With Livermore Valley Wine

Looking to get a taste of Livermore wine at home? Try your hand at making these Honey-Roasted Garlic Stuffed Olives and pair them with a California Sangiovese or Cabernet Franc.

Frequently Asked Questions About Livermore Valley AVA

What County Is Livermore, California In? 

Livermore is located in Alameda County, California. It is part of the San Francisco Bay Area and is recognized as one of the oldest wine regions in California, playing a pivotal role in shaping the state’s wine industry.

What makes the Livermore Valley AVA unique? 

Livermore Valley AVA is renowned for its unique geography and historical significance in the Californian wine landscape:

• Climate and Geography: Livermore Valley’s unique east-west orientation differs from many other Northern California wine regions. This orientation allows coastal fog and marine breezes from the San Francisco Bay, creating a cooler overall climate ideal for grape growing.
• Historical Significance: Established as one of the first wine regions in California, Livermore Valley has been producing wine since the mid-19th century. It was also the first area in California to plant Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Petite Sirah.

What lesser-known wine styles should visitors try while on a wine tasting in Livermore?

While Livermore Valley AVA is best known for producing Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah wines, it also offers a variety of lesser-known wine styles. Here are some to seek out:

• Tempranillo: This Spanish variety has adapted well to Livermore Valley’s climate. Local winemakers produce Tempranillo with a distinctly Californian twist, often exhibiting rich fruit flavors with spicy and earthy notes.

• Barbera: An Italian grape that thrives in Livermore’s Mediterranean-like weather, producing wines that are robust and fruity, with high acidity and lower tannins, making them excellent for pairing with a wide range of foods.

• Grenache Blanc: A lesser-known white grape gaining popularity among Livermore winemakers. It is known for producing full-bodied wines with flavors of green apple, herbs and a hint of minerality.