As the golden days of fall approach, there’s something special in the air in Lamorinda—something more than just the crisp, cool breeze and the sound of leaves crunching underfoot. It’s the time of year when grape growers across our beautiful region gear up for the most exciting part of their year: the grape harvest.
The Lamorinda Wine Growers Association (LWGA) represents the heart of this small but passionate wine-producing community. If you’ve ever wandered through the hills and valleys of Lafayette, Moraga, or Orinda, you’ve likely noticed the lush vineyards tucked between homes and scenic trails. These local vineyards contribute to the growing wine culture in Lamorinda, a hidden gem of wine country right in our backyard.
All these beautiful vineyards and award-winning wines enhance the charm of the Lamorinda area, making it an even more desirable place to live and keeping real estate in high demand.
The Charm of Small-Scale Winemaking
Unlike the vast vineyards of Napa or Sonoma, Lamorinda’s vineyards tend to be smaller, family-owned operations, which gives our local wine scene a unique charm. These winemakers pour their passion and dedication into every bottle, and their wines often reflect the diversity and distinct character of our area’s microclimates.
This intimate approach to winemaking is what makes the Lamorinda AVA (American Viticultural Area) so special. Approved as an official AVA in 2016 (Vlatka is one of the founders of this AVA), it highlights the quality and potential of our region’s wines. From rich Cabernet Sauvignons to elegant Chardonnays, the variety is impressive for such a relatively small area.
Harvest Season in Lamorinda
For the winegrowers of Lamorinda, harvest season is the culmination of a year’s worth of work. It typically happens between late August and early October, depending on weather conditions and the type of grape. Winemakers eagerly await the perfect moment when the grapes have reached their optimal ripeness—measuring sugar levels, acidity, and tannin development with precision.
During this time, vineyards come alive with activity. Grapes are handpicked early in the morning to preserve their delicate flavors, then quickly transported to local wineries for sorting, pressing, and fermentation. The goal is to capture the essence of the region, allowing the grapes’ natural characteristics to shine through in each bottle.
Join the Harvest Celebration!
Though Lamorinda’s wine scene is more low-key than some of the larger California wine regions, there’s still plenty of excitement during harvest season. Many vineyards offer tours, tastings, and even opportunities to participate in the harvest yourself—an experience that truly connects you to the land and the winemaking process.
If you’re a wine lover, fall is the perfect time to explore local wineries. You can enjoy tasting some of the latest vintages, often poured directly by the winemakers themselves, who are always happy to share their stories and passion for the craft.
Support Local Winemakers
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Lamorinda wines or just discovering this hidden gem of a wine region, supporting local vineyards is a fantastic way to enjoy high-quality wine while contributing to the community. Buying local not only means enjoying delicious, handcrafted wines but also ensuring that Lamorinda’s winemaking traditions continue to thrive.
So, next time you sip a glass of Lamorinda wine, take a moment to appreciate the hard work, dedication, and love that went into creating it—especially as the grape harvest comes to an end for another year.
Raise a glass to the Lamorinda Wine Growers Association, and cheers to the harvest season 2024!
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For more information on the Lamorinda Wine Growers Association and upcoming wine events, visit their official website or follow them on social media for the latest updates. And don’t forget to check out local wine shops and tasting rooms to sample the best our region has to offer!
Contact Vlatka for information on how to get Lamorinda wines
