Just outside of town, turn in through the rock-walled entry that leads to a blacktopped road bordered by Cabernet Sauvignon grapevines capped with a rose bush at the end of each row. A wide, generous lawn and a vine-covered pergola front the ivy-covered walls of the old Concannon Winery. The site, once out in the hinterlands of Livermore, is now being encroached upon by the surrounding development. Even so, the place has an atmosphere of unrushed grace, history, and permanence.

James Concannon was the first commercial Irish winemaker to the New World, and he brought with him grapes from Europe that included the little-known grape called Durif. It was planted here in 1911 and became known as Petite Sirah; it has since served as the flagship wine of Concannon. This was one of the few wineries that were formally allowed to remain in operation during Prohibition to produce sacramental wines; therefore, it is one of the oldest continuously operating wineries in the country.

Inside the large wood-sided and brick-walled tasting room is an extensive gift shop with a lively atmosphere. Two long wine-tasting bars are able to host numerous visitors, with a wide selection of wines to sample. In 2008, a new tasting room and barrel room are planned for construction, which will allow for more events and tasting-room functions. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and a white blend are available, along with Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, and a number of Petite Sirah’s.