Grape Moments in History

By S.C.

Livermore broke into the wine business before California was a state. First, Spanish missionaries planted wine grapes in the late 18th century. Then, in the 1840s, Robert Livermore saw the valley’s rich, gravelly soil as perfect for a commercial vineyard. In establishing one, he founded a wine region that today draws more than half a million visitors each year.

2,000 Acres of grapevines planted by Wente Vineyards today, compared with the 47 acres the winery started with 125 years ago.

30 Number of varietals made in Livermore, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Merlot.

6 Number of Livermore wineries operating in the 1960s.

43 Number of Livermore wineries producing today.

8 Millions of pounds of grapes turned into wine each year by Concannon Vineyard.

This article appears in the May 2008 issue of Diablo Magazine

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