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MYT, Wente Family Vineyards, Bay Area Girls Take Wine Country, Murrieta’s Well, Livermore, CA | Nov 8, 2025

Wente Vineyards is a landmark in California wine history. It is the country’s oldest, continuously operated family-owned winery. The Wente family has been making wine for over $135$ years. They are pioneers of the Livermore Valley. The estate is a destination for wine, food, and golf.

A Legacy of Five Generations

The Wente story is the story of California wine.

The Founding Pioneer

C.H. Wente founded the winery in $1883$ . He was a German immigrant and learned winemaking from Charles Krug in Napa Valley. He recognized the potential of the Livermore Valley.

Second Generation Innovation

His sons, Ernest and Herman, took the winery to new heights. They were instrumental in making Chardonnay a premier California varietal. They imported Chardonnay cuttings from France in $1912$ . These cuttings are the genetic source of most California Chardonnay today.

The Third Generation

Karl L. Wente led the winery through Prohibition. He shifted to selling sacramental and medicinal wine. He also cultivated grape juice and nursery stock. This ensured the winery’s survival.

Modern Leadership

The fourth and fifth generations run the winery today. They have expanded the brand globally. They remain committed to sustainable farming and quality.

The Livermore Valley Terroir

The land is central to the Wente story.

Unique Growing Conditions

The Livermore Valley has a unique microclimate. Cool fog and breezes roll in from the San Francisco Bay. This moderates the daytime heat. The result is a long, slow growing season. Grapes develop complex flavors while retaining acidity.

Gravelly Soils

Gravelly soils cover the valley floor. These soils are ideal for viticulture. They provide excellent drainage for the vines. This forces the roots to dig deep for water and nutrients.

Estate Vineyards

Wente Vineyards farms over $3,000$ acres of estate vineyards. Their vineyards sit in the Livermore Valley and the Arroyo Seco Monterey appellation. This allows them to grow a diverse range of varietals.

The Wente Vineyards Experience

A visit to Wente is a multi-faceted experience.

The Estate Tasting Room

The main tasting room is warm and inviting. It sits at the historic Livermore estate. You sample a wide range of current release wines. Knowledgeable staff guide you through the flight.

The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards

This is a critically acclaimed restaurant. An award-winning culinary team leads it. The menu features California cuisine. It emphasizes local and estate-grown ingredients. The wine list is extensive. The dining experience is elegant and memorable.

The Course at Wente Vineyards

This is an $18$ -hole championship golf course. Greg Norman designed the course. The course winds through the estate vineyards and rolling hills. It offers stunning views. It is a premier golf destination.

Summer Concerts

The winery hosts a famous summer concert series. Big-name artists perform in an outdoor amphitheater. The setting, nestled in the vineyards, is magical. It is a major Bay Area entertainment venue.

Iconic Wines and Innovations

Wente Vineyards is known for several key contributions.

The Wente Chardonnay Clone

This is their most significant legacy. The Wente Clone of Chardonnay is planted throughout California. It also is used in vineyards around the world. It is known for producing wines with rich flavor and balanced acidity.

Award-Winning Wines

The winery produces a full portfolio of wines. Their small-lot, Nth Degree wines are particularly acclaimed. Key varietals include:

Chardonnay: Their signature wine, ranging from crisp to rich.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Structured and age-worthy from the Livermore Valley.
Pinot Noir: Elegant and aromatic from their cool-climate Arroyo Seco vineyards.
Sauvignon Blanc: A refreshing and zesty white wine.

Sustainable Leadership

Wente Vineyards is a leader in sustainable winegrowing. They were a founding member of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. They practice water conservation and habitat preservation.

A Must-Visit

This is more than just a winery. It is a piece of California history.

Taste Living History

You drink wine from a family that helped shape an industry. The connection to the past is tangible.

A World-Class Destination

The combination of wine, food, golf, and music is unmatched. You easily spend an entire day on the property.

Consistent Quality

Five generations of expertise ensure a high-quality experience. From the wine to the service, excellence is the standard.

A Toast to Family and Tradition

Visiting Wente Vineyards

Location and Hours

Wente Vineyards sits at $5565$ Tesla Road in Livermore, California.
The estate is open seven days a week.
Tasting room, restaurant, and golf course hours vary. Check their website for detailed schedules.

Tasting Fees and Reservations

Tasting fees apply, and they often vary based on the wine flight you select.
Reservations are highly recommended for general visits.
They are essential for the restaurant, golf course, and concerts.

What to Do Nearby

The Livermore Valley has over $50$ wineries; you visit other historic estates like Concannon Vineyard.
Downtown Livermore offers shopping and additional dining.

Wente Vineyards is a testament to vision and perseverance. It is a family business that has thrived for over a century. They have shaped the very landscape of California wine.

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Phone: (925) 456-2300
Website: wentevineyards.com
Address: Wente Family Vineyards, 5050 Arroyo Rd, Livermore, CA 94550
Location Map: