Concannon Conservancy Wines

Concannon's Conservancy wines are sourced exclusively from grapes grown in their Livermore Valley vineyards.

These vineyards are part of a permanent conservation easement created to protect this premium winemaking region from urban development.

Recognizing the threat that rapid urbanization posed to the area, Concannon was the first winery to place their land in a legal conservation trust back in 1996.

Following their lead, a number of other wineries have since done the same, thus ensuring that the austere, rocky soil and unique climate of Livermore remains untouched.

Concannon's Conservancy collection of wines includes Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. We've had an opportunity to sample both the Chardonnay and Petite Sirah and have some pairing notes to share.

Concannon was the first American vineyard to produce Petite Sirah, and 2011 marks its fifty-year anniversary. The 2008 Conservancy Petite Sirah is a complex and beautifully balanced wine with a silky finish, rich aromas of fresh berries, flavors of blackberry, plum and chocolate and subtle oak.

The vintner recommends serving it with lamb, so we paired it with our Guinness-Thyme Marinated Lamb and, despite the stout-based marinade, found it to be a perfect match. It would also be a nice choice with duck, barbecued chicken and pork or a simple grilled filet mignon.

Concannon's 2009 Conservancy Chardonnay features aromas and flavors of both ripe peach and pear, with a subtle hint of lemon on the palate and a creamy, smooth finish. We recommend pairing it with rich dishes like a pasta Alfredo, quiche, or even a grilled cheese sandwich!

Concannon Conservancy wines are available nationwide and have a suggested retail of $15 per bottle, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

Editors' Note: We received a free sample of this product for review - click here to read our policy.

Photos courtesy Concannon Vineyards