Written by Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association
Passing the Torch: The Next Generation of Women in Wine in the Livermore Valley
The Livermore Valley, nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, has long been renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries. In recent years, a remarkable transition has been taking place within the wine industry, with the torch being passed from the seasoned veterans to the dynamic and passionate next generation of women in wine.
To understand the significance of the shift occurring in the Livermore Valley’s landscape, one must first acknowledge the trailblazers who paved the way. Women like Concannon Vineyard’s founding matriarch, Katherine Vajda, one of the first technically trained, female winemakers who was hired by Captain Joe Concannon in the 1950s and served as Concannon’s lead winemaker, and Wente Vineyards’ Carolyn Wente, a trailblazer who broke through barriers as one of the first women to lead a commercial winery in an executive seat. Their dedication and expertise have set the stage for the emergence of a new generation.
The next generation of women winemakers, executives, and owners in the Livermore Valley is rising to prominence with an unparalleled passion for viticulture and business, and a determination to carry forward the legacy of their predecessors. While the new generation respects and cherishes the traditions that have made Livermore Valley Wines iconic, they also bring a fresh perspective to the craft. These women seamlessly blend age-old winemaking techniques with cutting-edge technology and skills, producing wines that reflect both the rich history of the region and the contemporary spirit of the new generation. With over ten winemaker’s in our valley being female that means that 30% of our winemaker’s are women, and that is twice the national average.
The collaborative and supportive environment fostered among women in the Livermore Valley Wine Community is unparalleled. This spirit of collaboration is not only a testament to the camaraderie among women in the industry but also a driving force behind the continued success of Livermore Valley wines.
As the torch is passed from one generation to the next, there is a collective commitment to preserving and expanding the legacy of women winemakers in the Livermore Valley. These impressive women understand the importance of their role in shaping the future of the industry and are dedicated to not only producing exceptional wines but also inspiring future generations of women to pursue their passion in winemaking. As glasses are raised to toast both the past and the future, it is evident that the Livermore Valley’s heritage is in capable and passionate hands.
To celebrate Women’s Month, the Women’s Wine Collective of the Livermore Valley invites you to celebrate Women’s History Month with an evening of wine tasting!
Where: Bankhead Theater. 2400 First Street, Livermore
When: Thursday March 21st, 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Participating Wineries & Vendor Participants: Rosa Fierro Cellars, Wood Family Vineyards, Omega Road Winery, Darcie Kent Estate Winery, Almost Famous Wine Company, Sakura Winery, Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery, Garre Vineyard & Winery and McGrail Vineyard & Winery
$35 for advanced tickets, $40 at the door. Includes wine tasting from all winery participants, with small bites available for purchase.