September is California Wine Month, and while Napa Valley often steals the spotlight, the Livermore …
A Wine Lover's Guide to the Tri-Valley
A Wine Lover’s Guide to the Tri-Valley
The Tri-Valley is home to the oldest wine regions in California, with the first wine grapes being planted by Spanish missionaries in the Livermore Valley in the 1760’s. In fact, this prolific region helped put California wine on the world wine map, winning America’s first international gold medal for wine in 1889 at the Paris Expedition.
Today, the Livermore Valley Wine Country is home to 50 wineries that are predominantly owned by multi-generational wine makers. Outside of this prolific wine region, the entire Tri-Valley celebrates its deep rooted viticultural history by way of unique wine experiences and amazing wine selections offered at our local restaurants. We are proud to announce the Tri-Valley is home to multiple winners of the highly coveted Wine Spectator award, recognizing the most ambitious beverage programs aiming to enhance the full dining experience — view those restaurants here. Use our wine lover’s guide below to make the most of your next trip to the Tri-Valley.
Wineries With a View
There are several Livermore Valley wineries featuring scenic backdrops and manicured estates that make for a beautiful day of wine tasting. Check out some of our favorite wineries with the best vineyard views below.
- Darcie Kent Vineyards
This gorgeous estate serves up delicious wines and Instagrammable photo ops. In addition to its iconic purple barn, Darcie Kent Vineyards complements its scenic backdrop of rolling hills and vineyards with a unique panoramic mirror on one side of its winery and a large painted mural on the other. - McGrail Vineyards
McGrail Vineyards features a gorgeous tasting room and a large front lawn that hosts a variety of fun events ranging from live concerts to glow in the dark yoga. Visitors are met with stunning panoramic views of rolling hills, vineyards, and even Mount Diablo at a distance from nearly anywhere on their gorgeous grounds. - Las Positas Vineyards
Located near the idyllic Sycamore Grove Park, Las Positas Vineyards is not only home to award-winning wines but also offer up breathtaking views of surrounding vineyards from the comfort of its spacious patio.
Top Wine Experiences & Tours
The Livermore Valley Wine Country is incredibly accessible, but there are several fun ways to explore multiple wineries in one day or to get a behind the scenes look of a particular establishment.
- Livermore Wine Trolley
Tour the Livermore Valley Wine Country in a safe and unique fashion. Board the iconic Livermore Wine Trolley and enjoy tastings at three picturesque wineries. Receive exclusive discounts on wine bottle purchases. Some tours include tasting fees and lunch. - Pedego Electric Bikes
Book a tour or rent an electric bike from Pedego in Livermore and zip your way through wine country without breaking a sweat. These stylish bikes are equipped with a throttle and a special pedal assist mode, making travel between wineries easy and fun. - Sunset Hikes at Murrieta’s Well
Soak up golden hour during the warm spring and summer months by joining guided hike of Murrieta’s Well vineyards. Enjoy picturesque views, a bottle of wine, and a charcuterie board for two. - Ruby Hill Winery Mello Cielo Bus Tour
Hop on this decked out bus to tour Ruby Hill Winery’s vineyards and production facility, getting an inside look at the transformation from grapes to bottled wine. This 90 minute experience includes a tour and tasting.
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Wineries With Picnic Areas
There are plenty of Livermore Valley Wineries that not only allow visitors to bring their own food but also have picnic areas onsite. Don’t forget to pack a snack when visiting one of the wineries below.
- Retzlaff Vineyards
This family-run winery produces award-winning wines using their estate-grown Certified Organic grapes. The Retzlaff Vineyards grounds are particularly scenic and feature a long tree tunnel entrance and a large lawn shaded by towering pepper trees. Take your pick from a variety of small and large tables. - Rios-Lovell Estate Winery
This longstanding winery sits on a 68-acre estate on a hilltop that overlooks vineyards and rolling hills. While its indoor tasting room features impressive murals that transport visitors to a charming Italian village, its beautifully landscaped gardens, patios, and shaded picnic areas are a great place to sip and snack. - Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery
Located nearby Holdener Park and Ravenswood Historic Site, this rustic-style winery is home to a secluded garden patio surrounded by lush landscaping. This hidden gem is perfect for picnics that call for an intimate setting with friends and loved ones.
Kid-Friendly Wineries
If you’re looking for wineries with a large lawn and safe space for your kids to play while you enjoy a glass of wine, take a peek at the following options below.
- Boa Ventura de Caires Winery
Located in the southeast corner of Livermore Valley Wine Country, this rustic, five acre property features a large barn tasting room, two lawn tasting areas, a tire swing, and chickens! - McGrail Vineyards and Winery
The large front lawn at McGrail Vineyards is the perfect spot for family picnics, featuring gorgeous views of surrounding vineyards, two bocce ball courts, and the green light to bring your own umbrellas, tents, and food.
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Indoor Tasting Rooms
Nearly all Livermore Valley wineries have indoor tasting rooms where visitors can find respite on hot days, but there are a few unique spaces you won’t want to miss during your visit. See some of our top picks of indoor tasting rooms below.
- Wood Family Vineyards
Located across the street from Altamont Beer Works, Wood Family Vineyards’ indoor tasting room is a bustling space that frequently hosts live bands and outdoor food trucks. - Rubino Estates Winery
This Cal-Ital winery sits on the border between Pleasanton and Livermore and features an 8,000 square foot tasting room surrounding by 150 acres of beautiful vineyards. Staying true to its roots, its indoor tasting room features an Italian-inspired deli serving up small bites and snacks. Rather sit outside? This winery is also home to an outdoor bocce court and a shaded outdoor seating area. - Longevity Wines
This Livermore Valley winery has made waves in the media over recent years, being featured by Oprah Magazine and the Today Show for its delicious varietals. However, its charming barrel room that houses a miniature barn and mismatched furniture is truly a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
Wineries That Serve Food
Don’t make the mistake of drinking on an empty stomach; combine a tasting with a delicious lunch at one of the following wineries with restaurants onsite.
- Wente Vineyards Tasting Lounge
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Livermore Valley on a historic landmark property, this chic bistro serves Californian-Mediterranean fare in a classic space with a patio. Pick from a variety of tasting experiences featuring Wente’s Certified Sustainable estate-grown wines. - Garré Vineyard & Winery
Located in the heart of Livermore Valley Wine Country and surrounded by panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills, Garré Café specializes in Mediterranean-inspired Californian cuisine using fresh vegetables and herbs from an on-site garden and an authentic wood burning oven.
Local Wine Bars
If you aren’t able to make it to the Livermore Valley Wine Country, you can still visit a nearby wine bar at one of our downtowns to taste local varietals. See some of our favorite wine lounges and wine bars below.
- The Vine & Spirits
This Downtown Danville wine bar features an extensive wine selection, a variety of spirits and house cocktails, as well as regular live musical performances. An extra perk: enjoy happy hour specials every day of the week! - Pairings Wine Bar Restaurant
Located on Downtown Pleasanton’s Main Street, this lively spot features live music, and a full-service restaurant serving up Contemporary Californian cuisine. - Locanda Wine Bar
The sister restaurant to Danville’s Locanda Ravello and Pleasanton’s Locanda Amalfi, Locanda Wine Bar offers authentic Italian fare, classic cocktails, and an impressive wine selection.
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