McGrail Vineyards & Winery prides itself on being a boutique winery that is centered on family, friends, and fellow wine lovers. They focus on creating the finest Cabernet Sauvignon for you to enjoy through our small lot production. Enjoy the, award-winning wine, and breathtaking views of the Livermore valley from the tasting room.

The property is situated on a hilltop above Greenfield Road. It is one of the main thoroughfares for Livermore wine, with an Instagram-ready view of the valley.

History

In 1990 When Heather’s parents, Jim and Ginger, first planted a cabernet vineyard in their home’s backyard, they never intended to make wine. Jim is a retired law enforcement officer who now practices law. Ginger is a real estate agent. Instead of a lawn, they had grapes.

At first, the McGrails sold all the grapes to Livermore’s Steven Kent Winery. But in 2003, they decided to make one barrel of wine because, as Heather says, “they wanted something to drink.” I’ve seen it time and time again, people plant a vineyard and before you know it the wine bug hits hard. So with the help of fellow Livermore winemaker Rhonda Wood of Wood Family Vineyards, the McGrails made wine for themselves.

One barrel became five. Then 1,000 cases.

The family then realized it was time to start a winery. In 2008, when the McGrail tasting room opened, the only wine they sold was that one cabernet sauvignon, sourced from their home vineyard.

The winery was and is a family affair. Heather’s sister Shannon manages the tasting room. Her sister-in-law is the compliance specialist, managing the winery’s compliance with alcohol laws and regulations in all 50 states. Ginger does the books, and Jim stops by to help out when he can. And in 2009, longtime McGrail winemaking consultant Mark Clarin (Wente, Bonny Doon, Picazo) joined the winery full time.
But in 2012, everything changed for the then-little known winery, when the McGrail 2008 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($39), an inky purple cab with intense black fruit and a peppery nose, took top honors — the Red Sweepstakes Award — at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Wine

McGrail Vineyards and Winery have won many awards for their delightful wines including the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2020. This time Gold medal winner with 94 points is McGrail Vineyards Shamus Patrick Red Blend 2017.

Deep purple-garnet in color and opens with dark berry fruit, lavender, and tobacco. Additional aromas of vanilla, milk chocolate, and violet open up after a short time. A bold red with good acidity and dry tannins.

Online Order: Distributors or wine buyers can call +1 925-215-0717.

Or reach out to the team on info@mcgrailvineyards.com.