Beneath swaying cypress trees and Spanish tile roofs, winemakers at Las Positas Vineyards are preparing to harvest two of the fastest-growing grapes in Alameda County: cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. These two Livermore Valley varietals are taking up more space in vineyards in recent years amid a contracting wine industry, as Livermore Valley emphasizes its heritage wines like cabernet sauvignon and looks to get in on a growing trend with cabernet franc, said Las Positas head winemaker Brent Amos.
The number of acres for cabernet sauvignon has nearly doubled from 786 acres in 2017 to 1,369 acres in 2022, according to the most recent Alameda County Crop Reports available. The annual reports also show the explosive growth of cabernet franc, which has gone from 15 acres in 2017 to 60 acres in 2022.
Consumption patterns have shifted, with consumers favoring spirits like hard seltzers and kombuchas over traditional wine, making the alcohol industry increasingly competitive. Amos highlighted that all wineries are in this together, collaborating to elevate the valley: 'If the valley succeeds, then we all succeed.'
Amos emphasized the importance of classic heritage varietals for Livermore, particularly cabernet sauvignon, which remains the most popular wine. He remarked on cabernet franc's rising popularity with both consumers and growers alike.
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