Livermore Valley Climate (Back to overview)
Livermore Valley is situated east-west rather than the typical north-south of most valleys in California. This affects the local climate because it allows cool winds from the San Francisco Bay to moderate the AVA's naturally warm and sunny temperatures.
The Effect of Climate on Livermore Valley Grape Growing
During the growing season, the climate of Livermore Valley is warm during the day and cooled by evening maritime winds. Grapes are able to ripen and develop specific varietal characteristics during the regular sunny days of the growing season. Significantly lower overnight temperatures retain acidity in the fruit. The results are wines with balanced tannins and acidity.
Because it is located near the San Francisco Bay, winters are quite warm compared to more inland locations. This moderating body of water not only cools the region during summer, it also warms temperatures during winter. Spring frost is rarely an issue for grape growers in Livermore. Rainfall ranges from about 10 to 20 inches a year and is at the higher end in the west.
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Chardonnay all do very well in Livermore Valley. Although the region has historically been known for white varietals, red varietals have recently been gaining popularity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel are now extensively planted as well.
Livermore Valley and other Bay Area Wineries
jking7433 said:
Many San Francisco Bay area locals are unaware or unfamiliar with the Livermore valley. Most of the winieries are located off of 580 just past Pleasanton. If you ever feel like taking a wine tasting trip and don't feel like dealing with the traffic and tourist (and in my opinion many elitist tasting room staff) of Napa and Sonoma, try out the Livermore valley. Concannon and Wente are the two oldest and most well known of the area, but there are also over 70 other small wineries in the area. Every time I go I find a new winery to try. My favorites (as of right now) are Thomas Coyne, Big White House, Charles R, Bent Creek, Deer Ridge, and Les Chenes.
Posted 68 days ago.