The Ultimate Wine Weekend in Livermore, Tri-Valley

Tri-Valley is a hidden gem with many surprises among California’s wine countries. Located just 30 miles east of San Francisco, Tri-Valley, home to the oldest wine regions in the state, has a rich history of winemaking dating back to the 1760s and an almost perfect terrain for cultivating a wide variety of wines. In 1889, Wetmore's Livermore Valley dry white wine put California on the world wine map by winning the Grand Prix at the International Paris Exposition. Today, the Livermore Valley Wine Country is home to 50 wineries owned by multi-generational wine makers. Outside of this prolific wine region, the entire Tri-Valley celebrates its deep-rooted viticultural history at local restaurants across its cities of Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, and Danville. Perfect for a weekend trip, read on to choose the best wine tastings and experiences that Tri-Valley has to offer.

There are several Livermore Valley wineries featuring scenic backdrops and manicured estates that make for a beautiful day of wine tasting. The gorgeous estate of Darcie Kent Vineyards 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.

Wente Family Vineyards, founded in 1868, is the state’s oldest continuously operating winery. This family-run estate offers award-winning wines, a tasting lounge with food pairings, and diverse tasting experiences. The property features historic wine caves, once used to hide sacramental wine during Prohibition, now repurposed for tastings and events. It also includes The Course at Wente, a public 18-hole golf course with vineyard views inviting you to spend an morning of golf followed by wine tasting and brunch.

Livermore Wine Trolley tours are a one-of-a-kind experience that is perfect for couples, friends, and families who want to taste what the Livermore Valley Wine Country has to offer and soak in the picturesque views of the Tri-Valley. The tours usually last 4-5 hours and include tastings at three local wineries and a delicious made-to-order lunch in the vineyards.

There are plenty of Livermore Valley Wineries that not only allow visitors to bring their own food but also have picnic areas on-site. Do not forget to pack a snack when visiting one. The longstanding Rios-Lovell Estate 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.

If you are looking for wineries with a large lawn and safe space for your kids to play while you enjoy a glass of wine, head to McGrail Vineyards. The large front lawn 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. Other kid-friendly options include Retzlaff for tasting, as well as a picnic on the beautiful grounds of the vineyards.

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 will not want to miss during your visit. Longevity Wines 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.

Combine a tasting with a delicious lunch at one of the following wineries with restaurants on-site. The café at Garré Vineyard & Winery, located in the heart of Livermore Valley Wine Country and surrounded by panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills, specialises in Mediterranean-inspired Californian cuisine using fresh vegetables and herbs from an on-site garden and an authentic wood-burning oven.