Livermore, Pleasanton, Danville, Dublin, and the California Tri-Valley Area
Table of Contents
The Tri-Valley Area
The Tri-Valley area is less than an hour east of San Francisco, and is a delightful combination of vineyards, rolling landscapes, small towns, and friendly folks. The valley is well known for its long history in the wine business – the first Chardonnay in California was grown here back in 1882 by Charles Wetmore at his Livermore vineyard.
In addition, Concannon is often credited with producing the first Cabernet Sauvignon in California, and many current producers can trace their vines to cuttings made at Concannon vineyards.
Towns in the Tri-Valley
The main cities in the Tri-Valley area include Livermore, Pleasanton, Danville, Dublin, and San Ramon. These towns are picturesque bedroom communities, and many residents drive or take the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) for jobs into San Francisco or the East Bay area.
In addition to numerous wineries, the Tri-Valley is home to the Blackhawk Museum, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, several art galleries, and museums. The Tri-Valley is also home to the largest premium outlet mall in California and some of the best restaurants in the state.
Nearby Mount Diablo, Del Valle Regional Park, and numerous golf courses provide fantastic venues for outdoor activities and fabulous views. “The Sunny Side of the Bay” is an outdoor playground, where locals and visitors can enjoy the wonderful majesty of the great outdoors throughout the year.
Phil Long's Longevity Wines
Longevity Winery in Livermore is all about love, wine, and family.
After moving to Livermore from southern California in the 1970’s, Phil and his wife, Debra, fell in love with the area. Phil, with a degree in architecture and wide experience in business and marketing, and Debra jumped into the wine business, first making wine in the garage. He and his wife worked hard and enjoyed their new venture, always trying new things. In 2018, their hard work paid off, with Longevity being named Livermore Winery of the Year.
Phil used his background and skills to design logos and bottle labels, and even built furniture and décor for the tasting room. Because of Debra’s love of all things heart shaped, Phil used this fact to design the main logo for Longevity. The logo is a made with an assortment of grapevines, grapes, flowers, and hearts.
Unfortunately, Debra developed pancreatic cancer, and Phil became her caregiver for years. She passed in 2019.
In her honor, Phil has carried on with the Longevity brand. Several new wines have been dedicated to Debra, and friends and neighbors donated a bench on the outside patio. After her death, Phil had the heart tattooed on his arm, so he would always have Debra near him. As Phil stated, Debra’s legacy will always be a large part of his life and Longevity.
One of our favorite Longevity wines is the Longevity Livermore Valley “Pink” Pinot Grigio. According to Phil, “We cold-soak the skins overnight to extract more flavor and mouthfeel, and we get the color with them.” Another is the popular Longevity California Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to rich notes of black cherry and soft tannins, Phil notes this wine uses a Helix cork, which can be screwed on and off by hand – no corkscrew needed! And, it’s 100% recyclable.
We finished our wine tasting with the lovely Longevity Livermore Valley Deb-Ru-Vee Vintner Select. As Phil relates, “I named this after my late wife; it’s short for Debra Cuvée.” This GSM blend (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) is juicy and lively, and can be enjoyed by itself or with your favorite meal.
The Association of African American Vintners
Phil is one of the few African American winemakers in the United States. As the proud President of the Association of African American Vintners (AAAV), Phil is a mentor, role model, and cheerleader for other African Americans and minorities. Many of his efforts are to open up more opportunity in the world of wine for people of color.
With his quality wines and business acumen, Phil is making massive progress in the sales and marketing of his wines. In addition to his Longevity line of wines, he recently released wines on the Phil Long label. Phil has partnered with, and is currently working on more deals, with Sam’s Club, Costco, Total Wines, and Bronco Distributing. His tireless efforts are reaping great results, and the future looks bright for Phil and Longevity.
McGrail Vineyards in Livermore
McGrail Vineyards opened in 2008 with one wine – a Cabernet Sauvignon by Jim and Ginger McGrail and their family. Today, daughter Heather McGrail is the CEO and runs the ship. Family, friends, and old fashioned manners are important at McGrail. During our visit, we saw families, couples, and groups enjoying the beautiful sunny afternoon weather. Views from the lawn, tasting room, and large porch are spectacular, and the staff make you feel like family from the start.
With expansive views of the vineyards and rolling hills, McGrail has some choice property in the Tri-Valley. Julie and I enjoyed a delightful conversation with Heather, talking about the wines, our families, and life while enjoying the wonderful wines and views. Earlier that afternoon, a live band was cranking out rock and roll favorites while visitors took part in the party atmosphere. Now, it was peaceful and tranquil, the best of northern California scenery, weather, and wine.
The Importance of Family at McGrail
Heather is a very personable lady, a mother who is proud to carry on the long family tradition of fine wines started by her father. The family theme is prevalent everywhere you look. In fact, the Lucky Eight vineyards viewed from the large porch are named for eight grandchildren, whose names grace the labels of many new releases. Names like Austin James Cabernet, Shamus Patrick Red Blend, Kylie Ryan, and Charlie Rae Chardonnay remind us that McGrail is a family affair.
Extending beyond blood family, many “family” mentors in the Livermore Valley were instrumental in helping the McGrails, who were new to the wine business. Mark Clarin, now the head winemaker, Wente family and staff, and other members of the Livermore family provided crucial support in the early days.
Cabernet Sauvignon is the heart and soul of McGrail Winery. However, even though Cabernet Sauvignon and other reds are the main draw, McGrail also had some refreshing whites and roses. The Patriot Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in new American Oak, is a special production showing tribute to the native American wooden barrels used. In fact, the Patriot was the first McGrail bottle of wine we opened when we got back to Texas. It was a wonderful pairing with some good Texas Barbeque and sautéed brussels sprouts.
Wine and Food lovers should check out the wonderful McGrail Vineyards blog. The blog is chock full of great information, including tasty recipes and wine pairing suggestions.
Livermore Wine Trolley
We caught the Livermore Wine Trolley at Las Positas in Livermore. During our four hour trolley tour, we visited three wineries: Las Positas, Concannon, and Garre. At each winery we were treated to a unique wine tasting and food pairing. Fernando, our friendly bus driver, kept us entertained and safe during our wine adventure.
When the speakers began blasting Abbas’s Fernando, he coyly looked at us and announced that “someone must have hacked my computer.” With Fernando and several groups of young ladies, my wife and I had an wonderful afternoon visiting among the Livermore vineyards.
Las Positas Winery
Las Positas Vineyards is the award winning winery located in the central Livermore Valley area. Among other accocolades, Las Positas was the winner of the San Francisco Chronicle Competition’s Best Red Wine Sweepstakes in 2019.
We loved the spiral wine rack that held the five wine glasses for our tasting. Starting at the top with a Sauvignon Blanc and a Chardonnay, the wrought iron frame swirled to the bottom with three reds.
Among our favorites at Las Positas were the light and crisp Petite Verdelho and the full flavored Tempranillo, with notes of blackberry, cherry, white pepper, and tobacco.
In preparation for Halloween, we were greeted by a ghastly old man, a ghoul with a pumpkin as a head, and other seasonal decor. We even saw a party of over twenty guests dressed in Halloween costumes for a celebration on the outdoor patio.
Concannon Winery
Concannon Winery is recognized as America’s oldest, ongoing winery under the same family label and stewardship. It all started over 130 years ago when James Concannon immigrated to America. He was one of the first to craft Bordeaux-style wines in California. In fact, an estimated 80% of California Cabernet Sauvignon produced today can trace their lineage to a single “Mother Vine” imported by Concannon from Bordeaux back in 1893.
More wine history was made by Concannon when they released the first Petite Sirah as a standalone varietal wine in 1961. In the 1920s and 30s, Concannon managed to stay in business by making sacramental wines during Prohibition. Throughout its history, Concannon has been a pioneer and head cheerleader for the California wine industry.
The tasting room and outdoor picnic areas are ideal for sipping wine under gorgeous California skies. We especially enjoyed a 2017 Reserve Grenache that was generously soft and enticing with red fruit flavors of cranberry and raspberry, with a subtle smokiness that adds complexity to the palate. No matter which award-winning wines you are drinking, you are sure to appreciate the wonderful legacy of Concannon.
Garre Vineyard Restaurant & Event Center
Garre Vineyard & Winery offers a fabulous venue with panoramic views of the vineyards and surrounding rolling hills of Livermore Valley. Visitors to Garre can enjoy the tasting room, the cafe, and special celebrations at this unique venue. Whether it’s a small intimate get together or a large cocktail party for up to 700 people, Garre Vineyard Restaurant & Event Center will take good care of you.
The genesis of Garre started with family in Genoa, Italy, and carried over to the new world. Relatives and friends brought their knowledge and experience from the old country to the new world. After making wines for family in San Francisco from purchased grapes for years, operations were established in Livermore.
From cool crisp whites to fruity, flavorful reds, Garre has a wide choice of great wines. One of our favorites was the Petite Sirah, described as “a dark purple, and rich with aromas of cherry, pomegranate, fig, raisin, black current, vanilla and a touch of brown spice.” We also enjoyed the Tempranillo, a Spanish varietal bursting with deep fruit flavors including cherry, plum, pomegranate, and vanilla.
AC Hotel by Marriott in Pleasanton
AC Hotel by Marriott Pleasanton is a modern, contemporary hotel with a touch of European elegance. Conveniently located near a major shopping center, main highways, and a BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) station, AC Hotel is the ideal location for a visit to the Tri-Valley area.
The room was immaculate, and the comfortable pillow top bed and spa type shower were a welcome sight after being on the road for a week. The room had plenty of workspace, and the hardwood floors, free wi-fi, and modern decor made for a lovely stay.
We especially enjoyed the freshly baked croissants, coffee, fruit, and made to order breakfast sandwiches during our stay. The staff was very friendly and professional, and shared helpful advice about the area.
Uncle Yu's at the Vineyard in Pleasanton
For some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the Tri-Valley, Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard is a top choice. This upscale, but casual, restaurant in Pleasanton has proudly been serving locals and visitors since 2006. Uncle Yu’s is the winner of Diablo’s Best of the East Bay Award as well as the Best of Award of Excellence.
Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard delivers Asian cuisine with a few innovative twists. The creative Asian menu made with quality ingredients is offered along with a Wine Spectator Award winning wine list. With an attentive, friendly staff, and a modern, elegant atmosphere, Uncle Yu’s provided a wonderful dining experience.
The Filet of Sea Bass, marinated in miso, was delicious. Tender and moist, the subtle seasoning and the mixed veggies were outstanding. The Kung Po Three Combo was a tantalizing combination of Wagyu beef, chicken, and prawns in a tangy Szechuan sauce. To complement these meat dishes, the crab fried rice and the green beans were the perfect side dishes.
For a fantastic dining experience, head to Uncle Yu’s in Livermore.
Side Track Cafe in Pleasanton
Side Track Cafe owner Todd Utikal has created a wonderful eatery in Pleasanton, a family affair that includes Todd’s wife and children. The extensive menu features a nice selection of small bites, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and other mouth watering dishes.
My wife was pleased with her Seared Salmon Salad, fresh salmon served over arugula tossed with chilled couscous, black currants, roasted pepitas, fresh corn, shaved parmesan, with a pesto buttermilk dressing. I loved the Kentucky Cobb Salad, with warm fried chicken, bacon, Pt. Reyes blue cheese, tomato, avocado, crumbled egg, Romaine lettuce, red wine vinaigrette, and creamy ranch dressing.
There were so many great looking menu items, I had trouble deciding. Next time, I’ll have to try the Tulancingo Tacos, Avocado Eggrolls, Fish and Chips, or maybe the Doozzi Scoozzi.
Danville Brewing in Danville
If you are hungering for incredible food complimented with a great craft beer, Danville Brewing Company in downtown Danville is the place to go. Part of the popular Tri-Valley Beer Trail, Danville Brewing Co. is one of 19 great stops on the trail.
Julie tried the flavorful Roasted Beet Summer Salad with red and golden roasted beets, strawberries, raspberries, goat cheese, spring mix, spicy pecans, and a strawberry vinaigrette. I had the Fuji Burger. This Schmitz Ranch Black Angus patty with a delicious combination of sliced Fuji apple, balsamic glaze, bacon, gouda, and arugula was the perfect pairing with our flight.
Other tempting menu items include Ale Battered Fish and Chips, BBQ Salmon, and a 10 oz Hanger Steak with garlic mashed potatoes.
For our flight, we tried a nice variety of craft beers. Our flight included 925 Blonde, Oktoberspas, Hartzenwiezen, Sea of Glory, Cerveza Vaquero, and Oatmeal Raisin. Each was unique and flavorful. My favorite was the Sea of Glory, a Hazy Pale Ale with Simcoe and Mosaic. The Oatmeal Raisin Cookie was like drinking dessert – a wonderful slightly sweet, spiced amber ale aged in an Elijah Craig barrel.
Danville Brewing Company is doing it right, pairing great eats with great drinks.
Meadowlark Dairy
Meadowlark Dairy in Pleasanton drive-through offering milk, cheese, ice cream & other dairy products. After dinner one night, we had that urge for an old fashioned ice cream cone. Walking the short distance from our restaurant, we directed ourselves to Meadowlark Dairy. We took advantage of their walk-up service, but they also have an efficient drive through.
The staff of mostly young adults were very accommodating and friendly. We ordered a vanilla and chocolate twist (you can get a twist with vanilla and any other flavor). Among the many fun flavors they make are pumpkin, pineapple, orange, and peppermint. Some are seasonal, so check for current selections.
Other products include milk, butter, whipping cream, and a small selection of other grocery products. The cold refreshing ice cream and the fresh, crisp cone were the perfect ending to a fun night in Pleasanton.
The Press Cafe in Pleasanton
With convenient locations in Pleasanton and Livermore, The Press Cafe serves great coffee, breakfast, and lunch. This artisan cafe, whose passion and motto is “we are what we eat,” is always a good choice to start your day. The Press Cafe is committed to using only the freshest local, seasonal, natural and organic ingredients.
Their commitment is apparent in the smiles and friendly service from all staff members and the flavorful, nutritious food and drinks. The unique Press Avocado and Orange toast was very fresh and tasty. We also ordered the Breakfast Sammie, with organic eggs and applewood bacon on fresh ciabatta bread. To tickle our sweet tooth, we finished with a wonderful cranberry scone.
Menu items include a wonderful assortment of sandwiches, paninis, toastinis, coffees, teas, and a nice selection of baked goods.
Del Valle Regional Park
Del Valle Regional Park is a part of the East Bay Regional Park District about 10 miles south of the city of Livermore. The five mile long lake and park area offer a wide variety of recreation options. Visitors can picnic, fish, hike, camp, swim, windsurf, boat, ride horses, and study nature. Tri-Valley locals and visitors are lucky to have the beautiful Del Valle Lake and the scenic 4,395 acres of beautiful rolling hills close by.
Mount Diablo, Highest Point in the Tri-Valley
As the highest point in the East Bay area at 3,849 feet, Mount Diablo offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see almost 200 miles, including 40 of the 58 California counties. There are numerous winding roads and trails throughout Mount Diablo State Park. Hikers, bikers, campers, and picnickers can choose from simple, easy trails to longer, more difficult trails.
The Visitor Center at the summit was built in the late 1930s from locally quarried sandstone blocks. The center highlights the cultural and natural history of the park. There are also restrooms and a small gift shop in the Visitor Center. At every turn, Mount Diablo offers incredible views of the beauty of the East Bay area.
Scott Kendall is the Founder, Editor, and frequent contributor to PlayStayEat. He is a former Navy Officer, teacher and tennis coach who is an avid traveler and writer. Scott has traveled extensively throughout the United States and overseas to Italy, France, England, Croatia, Slovenia, and others. In addition to his contributions to PlayStayEat, much of his published work can be seen at scottkendalltravels.com.
Thanks to our gracious hosts who made this trip possible: Visit Tri-Valley, Livermore Trolley, Las Positas Winery, Concannon Winery, Garre Winery, Longevity Winery, McGrail Winery, Uncle Yu’s at the Vineyard, Sidetrack Cafe, The Press Cafe, AC Hotel by Marriott Pleasanton, and Meadowlark Dairy. All opinions are the author’s own.