Livermore Valley represent one of California’s earliest viticultural traditions, with roots stretching back to the 1840s in this historic region just east of San Francisco. While these wines have long earned acclaim for their exceptional quality, a renewed focus on the valley’s heritage has led to an important declaration: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc are emerging as Livermore Valley’s signature grape varieties.
A Community of Winegrowers
When I visited the region in spring 2023, there was a heartwarming camaraderie among the winemaking community. Despite sometimes vastly different portfolio focuses, producers celebrated each other’s specialties. This revelry of diversity led to the creation of the Livermore Valley Vintners’ Collective (LVVC) in 2017, an annual red blend project that allows producers to showcase how different terroirs and techniques shape their wines.
The core of Livermore’s wine community lies in its mosaic of small, independent vineyards. Of the 125 vineyards that make up the region’s grape supply, 104 are under 20 acres, collectively accounting for 878 acres or about 32 percent of all vineyard acreage. This diversity of small producers has long contributed to the region’s dynamic character.
During my visit, conversations often turned to one pressing question: Why didn’t Livermore have a flagship variety? Unlike Napa’s Cabernet Sauvignon or Sonoma’s Pinot Noir, Livermore’s identity has felt more fluid. That question, one that’s lingered within the region for decades, fueled a movement that culminated in the announcement of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc as the region’s signature grape varieties.
Past Triumphs, Future Promise
Livermore Valley wines have played a significant role in shaping California’s wine industry. In 1882, Charles Wetmore planted cuttings of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon from Château d’Yquem in his Cresta Blanca Vineyard. A few years later, wine from these grapes won the Grand Prize at the 1889 Paris Expo, marking the first time an American wine received international recognition. Around the same time, Cabernet Franc was introduced to the valley, and by the early 1900s, winemaker Theodore Gier considered Livermore’s Cabernet Franc among the finest in the world.
As the region evolved, Livermore continued to build upon its historic strengths while embracing innovation. This blend of tradition and adaptation set the stage for a strategic shift that would redefine its identity in the modern era.
Livermore’s Bold New Direction
The recent announcement of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc as the valley’s signature grapes is more than a nod to history — it’s a forward-looking decision. A 2022 UC Davis report highlighted these varieties as particularly well-suited to Livermore’s terroir. With its warm days, cool nights, and gravelly soils, the valley provides optimal conditions for both grapes.
“The Livermore Valley played a pivotal role in shaping California’s wine industry, and this announcement further commits the region to being a driving force in the future of California wine,” says Brandi Lombardi, Executive Director of the Livermore Valley Wine Community. “We anticipate that wine lovers across the country and visitors to the region will come to recognize Livermore Valley for its outstanding Cabernet Francs and Sauvignon Blancs — and stay for all of the other award-winning varieties that we have to offer.”
Weathering the Future
Climate change has been a growing concern for California’s wine industry, and Livermore winemakers are taking proactive steps to ensure the region’s viability.
“Climate change is a real thing in wine country. Over the last 10 years, temperatures have consistently risen in California, and the wine landscape as we know it today may be radically different twenty to thirty years from now,” says Steven Mirassou, sixth-generation winemaker and proprietor at The Steven Kent Winery. “These grape varieties are well-suited to withstand the effects of climate change. This really sets up the region for significant success in the years to come.”
Beyond climate considerations, market demand also plays a key role. Sauvignon Blanc continues to grow in popularity among American consumers, while Cabernet Franc is gaining recognition for its elegance and food-friendly nature. This shift allows Livermore Valley wines to align its offerings with current consumer preferences while preserving its historical roots.
How Livermore’s Vineyards Are Evolving
The adoption of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc isn’t just happening in isolated vineyards — it’s a community-wide effort. The Tri-Valley Conservancy has launched a replanting program to support these varieties, offering low-interest financing to growers. Additionally, Lemmons Family Vineyards and Darcie Kent Vineyards have committed to increasing plantings of these grapes.
“With our recent acquisition of Concannon Vineyard, we are committed to replanting the vineyards to Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc,” says David Kent, CEO of Darcie Kent Vineyards and Almost Famous Wine Company. “We’re excited about the future of the region and believe putting a stake in the ground for these two grapes is an exciting development for Livermore Valley.”
What’s Next for Livermore Valley Wines?
By rallying around Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, the region is making a bold statement about its identity and future direction. As more wineries invest in these grapes, Livermore Valley wines are poised to step confidently into the spotlight. With its rich history, strong community, and commitment to the future, the region is well on its way to solidifying its reputation as a premier player in California wine.