Last week I brought you an itinerary for a day of wine tasting in the Livermore Valley.
I gave you the wineries in order and in the later stops I recommended what wines to buy by the bottle. In the story, I also promised a story this week on another trip with different wineries.
And since I am a man of my word, here it is!
Once again, the stops are in a recommended order, with the last couple of stops featuring select wines to purchase and sit around with your group enjoying a certain wine.
As mentioned last week, it’s always best to have a designated driver as it allows you to fully embrace the day.
1) Darcie Kent: This place checks all the boxes – great wine, great vibe, great service, and great views. Enjoy the entire tasting menu and do so by taking in the views from outside if possible. Take some time to read the history of the winery as they have helped shape the Livermore Valley.
2) 3 Steves: A great second stop. A vast number of wines to taste and they are served by an amazing, fun-loving staff. Among the best vibes you will find in the Livermore Valley. I remember the depth of the tasting menu – it was impressive! Two wines I recently enjoyed that were sensational. The 2022 Townsend Ranch Sangiovese and the 2023 Townsend Ranch Barbera were exceptional.
3) BoaVentura de Caires: For our money, the most relaxing, outdoor vibe in the Livermore Valley. Outside tables that are comfortable, with sperate seating areas for adults and one set aside for families, something we have done on both sides and enjoyed the day. I think the first time we went, we hit up the tasting bar but every time since we have reserved outside seating and bought a few bottles to share. It also allows for outside food, so this is where you stock up on munchies. For me, it starts and ends with the Maroon, Blue, Black, and Green Label Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Maroon Label is on top of the food chain, but I enjoyed all four wines. I can tell you how relaxing and enjoyable the day is here but it’s something you must experience to fully grasp.
4) Wood Family: Hands down the best place to end your day. They are open until 7 p.m. on Saturday’s and sometimes there is live music as well. There is live music every Friday with the tasting room open until 8 p.m. The tasting room is located off Vasco Road in an industrial area but once you walk in the front door, you feel the party right away. It’s like a frat party for adults. If you get there before the live music starts, the classic rock pumping through the speakers is incredible. My go-to-wines are the Cab Franc and the GSM blend, but don’t sleep on winemaker/owner Rhonda Wood’s personal wines. A former airline pilot for USAirways, Wood produces wines called The Runway, The Takeoff, and The Captain. All three were highly enjoyable and they feed into the vibe of the place.
By Dennis Miller