BY JAMIE KNEE | AUGUST 29, 2023
With summer in full swing, my husband, our chihuahua and I set off from Santa Barbara on a Tri-Valley California wine travel escape. Just 35 miles east of San Francisco, the Tri-Valley blends historic vineyards, charming downtowns and rolling hills into one unforgettable California wine country adventure.
Tri-Valley California Wine Travel at a Glance- A Scenic Road Trip Into California Wine Country
Shaped by three valleys and home to the cities of Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin and the town of Danville, this destination blends historic character with modern flair. From vibrant downtowns to vineyard-covered hills, the Tri-Valley proved to be an unforgettable mix of wine, cuisine, outdoor beauty, and pet-friendly warmth.
A Historic Region With Deep California Roots
Our first stop was Livermore Valley Wine Country, one of California’s oldest wine-producing regions. Winemaking here began in the 1760s, when Spanish missionaries planted the region’s earliest vines. Today, Livermore’s microclimates and diverse soils create ideal growing conditions for a wide range of grape varieties.
Rolling hills, storied cellars and boutique tasting rooms greeted us at every turn, setting the tone for a weekend infused with discovery.
Italian Heritage at Garré Vineyard & Winery
We began our wine exploration at Garré Vineyard and Winery, a warm expression of Italian heritage in the heart of Livermore. Owned by the Molinaro family, the winery showcases handcrafted California wines made in the Italian tradition. Their welcoming hospitality and award-winning vintages made this a memorable first stop.
Wood Family Vineyards: A Female Winemaker Leading the Way
Next, we visited Wood Family Vineyards, a family-run urban winery located in Livermore’s East End. Winemaker Rhonda Wood, one of the few female winemakers in the region, guided us through a range of standout wines. We were even treated to library selections, including a beautifully aged 2014 Cabernet Franc, poured by Executive Vice President Harrison Wood.
Old World Craftsmanship at Las Positas Vineyards
Our Tri-Valley adventure continued at Las Positas Vineyards, where Old World craftsmanship meets innovative California winemaking. Overlooking vineyard-draped hills, we enjoyed small-lot handcrafted wines paired with thoughtful bites prepared by Chef Curt Pipes, a Santa Barbara City College Culinary Academy graduate. Each pairing highlighted the harmony between food, A Legacy of California Winemaking at Steven Kent Winery
No visit to Livermore would be complete without Steven Kent Winery, established in 1996 with a mission to elevate Cabernet Sauvignon in the region. Winemakers Steven K. Mirassou and Beth Mirassou continue one of America’s oldest winemaking legacies, dating back to their family’s pioneering vineyards in San Jose.
Their passion for Cabernet Franc inspired the celebrated annual event CabFranc-a-Palooza, which champions this underappreciated varietal in Livermore Valley.
Downtown Pleasanton: Charm, History and Hidden Tales
Beyond the wine, downtown Pleasanton captivated us with its boutique shops, eclectic eateries and rich local history. As we wandered its picture-perfect streets, we learned about secret tunnels, racehorse lore, notorious bandits and whispered tales of ghostly encounters. The town’s carefully preserved architecture felt like stepping into a California storybook.
Livermore’s Arts, Culture and Pet-Friendly Spirit
Livermore itself offers much more than wine. Its thriving arts scene, highlighted by the Bankhead Theater, features plays, concerts, ballet and community performances that bring culture to the region.
Even better, Tri-Valley is exceptionally pet friendly. With our chihuahua in tow, we enjoyed tastings, outdoor patios and downtown strolls without missing a moment. Many wineries and restaurants welcomed pets with open arms, adding even more warmth to the experience.
Dinner at Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard
To end the day deliciously, we dined at Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard, a family-owned restaurant known for its sustainably sourced ingredients and contemporary take on Asian cuisine. Their Champagne flight was the perfect pairing for the bold, fragrant dishes, and the dog-friendly patio made the meal even more special.
A Hidden Gem Worth the Journey
As the final evening sun dipped behind the Tri-Valley hills, we reflected on a weekend filled with California wine heritage, culinary pleasures and countless discoveries. From Livermore’s historic vineyards to Pleasanton’s charming streets and Livermore’s lively cultural scene, the region revealed itself as a haven for wine lovers, food enthusiasts and pet-friendly travelers alike.
If you are dreaming of your next Tri-Valley California wine travel adventure, this hidden gem is ready to welcome you with open arms and a full glass. https://visittrivalley.com/
