Written by Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association
Introducing Livermore Valley’s Signature Varietals!
Nestled just east of the San Francisco Bay, the Livermore Valley Wine Community has long been a cornerstone of California’s rich viticultural heritage. In a significant move to honor this legacy and chart a course for the future, our region has officially designated Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc as our signature varietals. This decision not only pays homage to our valley’s historical roots but also positions us at the forefront of contemporary winemaking trends.
A Historical Tapestry Woven with Vines
The Livermore Valley Wine region’s journey began in the 19th century, with pioneers like Charles Wetmore leading the charge. In 1882, Wetmore planted cuttings of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon from Chateau d’Yquem in his Cresta Blanca Vineyard. This bold endeavor bore fruit when, in 1889, a dry white wine from Cresta Blanca clinched the Grand Prize at the Paris Exposition, marking a monumental achievement for American wines on the global stage. This victory not only elevated the region’s status but also solidified its commitment to producing world-class wines.
Parallel to this, the valley saw the introduction of Cabernet Franc in the 1880s at the Olivina Estate. The grape thrived in the region’s unique terroir, leading early 20th-century wine merchant Theodore Gier to proclaim Livermore Valley as the producer of some of the finest Cabernet Franc globally. These foundational moments underscore the deep-seated relationship between the valley and these two varietals.
Embracing Signature Varietals: A Strategic Vision
In February 2025, the Livermore Valley Wine Community took a decisive step by officially recognizing Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc as the region’s signature varietals. This proclamation, was the culmination of extensive discussions among local vintners, historians, and industry stakeholders. The decision was influenced by two primary factors: the historical significance of these grapes in the valley and their rising popularity among modern wine enthusiasts.
Brandi Lombardi, Executive Director of the Livermore Valley Wine Community, articulated the rationale behind this choice: “While our region excels in cultivating a diverse range of grape varietals, it became imperative to highlight those that truly embody our heritage and showcase our potential.” This strategic focus aims to distinguish Livermore Valley in a competitive market, offering consumers a clear and compelling narrative about the region’s unique offerings.
Cabernet Franc: The Unsung Hero
Often overshadowed by its more robust offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc is now stepping into the limelight, thanks in part to regions like Livermore Valley. Known for its elegance and versatility, this varietal produces wines with a harmonious balance of fruit and spice, complemented by subtle herbal undertones. The valley’s warm days and cool nights create an ideal environment for Cabernet Franc, allowing it to develop its characteristic complexity and depth.
Local winemakers have been experimenting with various expressions of Cabernet Franc, from single-varietal bottlings that highlight its purity to blends that benefit from its aromatic contributions. This renewed focus has not only elevated the grape’s status but also enriched the region’s wine portfolio, offering consumers a diverse array of high-quality options.
Sauvignon Blanc: A Legacy of Excellence
Sauvignon Blanc’s roots in Livermore Valley run deep, with a legacy that dates back to the 19th century. The grape’s adaptability to the valley’s terroir results in wines that are both vibrant and nuanced. Typically, Livermore’s Sauvignon Blancs exhibit a delightful interplay of citrus and tropical fruit flavors, underscored by a crisp acidity that makes them both refreshing and food-friendly.
The region’s commitment to this varietal is evident in the meticulous vineyard management practices and innovative winemaking techniques employed. From stainless steel fermentation that preserves its fresh character to barrel aging that adds complexity, Livermore’s vintners are dedicated to showcasing the full potential of Sauvignon Blanc.
Looking Ahead: A Unified Commitment
The official designation of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc as signature varietals is more than a nod to tradition; it’s a forward-thinking strategy designed to unify the region’s winemaking community and amplify its voice in the global wine arena. By concentrating efforts on these two grapes, the Livermore Valley aims to carve out a distinct identity, attracting both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts seeking authentic and exceptional wine experiences.
As the Livermore Valley Wine Community embarks on this exciting chapter, visitors and locals alike are invited to explore and savor the fruits of this rich viticultural heritage. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or new to the world of wine, Livermore Valley’s tasting rooms and vineyards offer a welcoming environment to discover the stories and flavors that define Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, Livermore Valley’s signature varietals.