Livermore Wine- Wente
the Overview
Why go? If you want a taste of Livermore wine, want a BOMB patio, and want to picnic.
How to do it
Coffee at Panama Red
Picnic items from Trader Joe's or the Farmer's Market
Wine Tasting & Picnic @ Wente / Maybe Walk out with a Pinot Noir
Dinner @ Amakara Sushi on the way home
the Details
I haven't had much experience with wine in Livermore. I would always write it off, and I'd go to Napa & Sonoma. Realizing I was being an ignorant snob, I decided to give Livermore a go, and it was worth it. First off, Livermore is closer, and not as packed. The people at the winery are able to give you the time of day. Another perk is that Livermore wine tasting is less expensive than tasting in Napa.
the venue.
Wente Vineyards has a great property. They have two tasting rooms: one for normal tasting and one for wineducation. They also have an outdoor area, and have a pizza food truck. If you don't like pizza, you can picnic in their courtyard. Wente has plenty of seating areas, so you don't have to fight the masses for a spot. If it's burning hot this summer, you can seek reprieve from the sun inside.
the wine,
The wine is characterized by hot days and cool, foggy nights. Wente is known for their Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright, and easy drinking. However, I preferred their reds. In fact, I purchased the Cab Syrah blend (2013 Sonata), and the 2014 Riva Ranch Pinot Noir.
If you have deep pockets, their Nth degree wine is unreal. Their wines are unique, distinct, and complex. The Pinot was bright and fruity (like Pinots are), but had a underlying smokiness. The Cab Syrah was complex and fruity with a long finish.
Would I recommend? Yes, Wente is fantastic. You should book tastings here.
For additional wine shenanigans:
