Wente Family Vineyards

Wente Family Vineyards produces a portfolio of California wines featuring classic varieties crafted to express their vineyards and region.

The lineup includes Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, with Chardonnay serving as a long-standing signature. Selections range from approachable daily bottlings to limited reserve releases, offering different styles and tiers for varied occasions.

Across the range, the focus is on clarity of fruit, varietal character, and a sense of place shaped by their home sites. Each bottle reflects careful farming and measured winemaking designed to let the grapes speak.

In essence, Wente wines represent a cohesive collection of California wines that balance tradition, site expression, and thoughtful craft across both red and white varietals.

Wente wines are popular for their innovation, consistent quality, and engaging visitor experiences.

• Innovation in Winemaking — Wente set a new standard with the first varietally labeled wine in 1935, influencing modern labeling practices.
• Diverse Offerings — From everyday wines to limited releases, the lineup caters to various tastes and occasions, focusing on varietal character and site expression.
• Unique Experiences — The Livermore estate attracts visitors with its tasting room and dining, enhancing its appeal.

• What is the history behind Wente Vineyards?

  Founded in 1883 by Carl Heinrich Wente, Wente Vineyards is America's oldest continuously family-owned and operated winery. Based in California's Livermore Valley and run by the fifth generation, Wente pioneered California Chardonnay (notably the widely planted “Wente clone”) and produced the first American varietally labeled wine, a 1935 Sauvignon Blanc.

• What types of wines does Wente produce?

  Wente offers Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. Chardonnay is particularly notable. The portfolio spans everyday-friendly bottlings to limited reserve releases, emphasizing clarity of fruit, varietal character, and site expression.

• Is Wente committed to sustainable practices?

  Yes. Wente is a leader in sustainable winegrowing and was among the first in California to be certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

• Can visitors tour Wente Vineyards?

  Yes. The Livermore Valley estate welcomes visitors for wine tastings, vineyard tours, and dining.

• Where can I buy Wente wines?

  Wente wines are distributed in all 50 U.S. states and in 70+ countries, and are available via retailers, restaurants, and the winery.

• What is the “Wente clone” of Chardonnay?

  The “Wente clone” refers to selections originating from Wente’s historic vineyards that became foundational to California Chardonnay plantings. These selections, propagated widely by growers, are prized for concentration, expressive fruit, and balanced acidity.