So without question, the official “Holidays in the Vineyards” was amazing. Fun extra attractions in every tasting room, amazing holiday bling, plus lot of happy people. But for wine tasters in the know, the weekend before Christmas is the very best time to go wine tasting. Same holiday discounts, same beautifully decorated tasting rooms, but without the crowds. Ever the savvy tasters, we didn’t let this opportunity go to waste!

Holidays in the Vineyards is a central part of our lead-up to Christmas. This year we started our tasting at John Evan / Big White House and Charles R. Both were a lot of fun, but we felt that we had enough energy for more, so we maintained our focus and said goodbye to to […]

One of our family’s favorite ways to kick off the Christmas season is Livermore’s Holidays in the Vineyards. This annual event brings together over 30 local wineries to celebrate the season, showcase their latest wines, and offer their visitors a little something extra in their tasting experience. We visited a number of our favorite wineries, and even met Santa!

A mild fall Sunday afternoon was upon us and our husbands were ready to cheer on their teams (Fantasy, Raiders and 49ers). However, after a successful paint night (more on that later – #paintwithpurpose) taught by my best friend, Megan at my house, we were feeling antsy and thought a trip to a winery would be just the ticket.

There are good problems and bad problems. My favorite good problem is having so many wine club release parties coming up that I lose track of who’s up next. This is prime season for wine release parties, so we happily bounce from party to party, tasting the new releases and snacking on some tasty treats. One of our favorite parties was just a week ago: the Darcie Kent Vineyards Fall Release Party. Here’s how it went!

Some things never get old! Among my favorite repeating events: wine club parties. What a great excuse for a party: wine, friends and good food. And don’t forget those lovely party favors; the box full of newly-released wines! This past weekend we got to revisit one of our favorites, the Eagle Ridge Vineyard club party. […]

Can a winery founded in the 1880’s still be fresh and new? Concannon Vineyard claims the title “America’s Oldest, Ongoing Winery Under the Same Family Label and Stewardship.” That brings to mind an ivy-covered edifice full of dusty bottles and hidebound tasting rooms. Our recent visit showed us that nothing could be further from the truth.

Two wineries in one tasting room? Yes, it’s as great as it sounds! Crooked Vine and Stony Ridge Wineries bring twice the wine tasting fun in a single tasting experience. Positioned conveniently at the start of the Livermore wine trail, these wineries are a great start for so many reasons. On this sunny afternoon, we […]

Page Mill Winery is a great choice if you’re visiting the Livermore Valley or playing tour guide for out-of-town friends. They encapsulate the best aspects of tasting in a small working winery: scenery, architecture, staff, and of course, amazing wine. Only have time to visit one winery? Why not give Page Mill a try! It […]

Cedar Mountain Winery is both old and new at the same time, taking advantage of the best of each. After a not-too-brief hiatus, their tasting room has reopened in a new location. We couldn’t wait to experience again a perennial favorite at the winery: the wine and Halloween candy pairing. Yes, that’s right, Halloween candy! […]