Chouinard Vineyard and Winery in Castro Valley is Closed
Chouinard Vineyard and Winery
Nestled in scenic Palomares Canyon in Castro Valley, Chouinard Winery was a family-operated gem that embodied the intimate charm of small-batch winemaking. Situated on a steeply sloping former cattle ranch at about 1,000 feet elevation, the 10-acre property featured terraced vineyards carved into the hillside, offering cooler microclimates with foggy nights and sunny days ideal for premium varietals. The winery housed its production in a historic redwood barn, surrounded by well-landscaped grounds, ancient oak trees, and panoramic views of rolling hills and canyons.
Known for its laid-back, welcoming vibe, Chouinard specialized in a diverse portfolio of award-winning wines, including flagship Zinfandels and Chenin Blancs from Livermore Valley grapes, alongside Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec, Barbera (including Rosé), Cabernet Sauvignon, Ports, and even Ice Wine and sparkling options. Tastings were casual and picnic-friendly, often enhanced by live music, outdoor seating under century-old oaks, and a family-like atmosphere that encouraged visitors to linger. Beyond wine, the site doubled as a versatile venue for weddings and private celebrations, blending the passion of the Chouinard family with the natural beauty of the San Francisco Bay appellation.
Chouinard Vineyard and Winery History
In 1978 architect George Chouinard and his wife Caroline purchased the steeply sloped cattle ranch at 33853 Palomares Road, envisioning a winery that captured the site's unique terroir. The location offered seclusion and ideal growing conditions—cooler than much of the Central Coast due to elevation and bay fog. The couple began small-scale planting, sourcing grapes from nearby Livermore Valley, as well as Lodi, Mendocino, Monterey, and Paso Robles. During this time the barn was converted into a production facility.
In a bold move dubbed the "Egyptian project," George hand-cut terraces into the 35% hillside slopes to plant Cabernet Sauvignon, leveraging the lean soils, air circulation, and sun exposure for distinctive, concentrated flavors. This labor-intensive effort marked the birth of their estate vineyards, starting with Cabernet and expanding to other varietals. Around this time, their son Damian, fresh from a degree in Enology and Viticulture at California State University, Fresno, joined as winemaker. After a brief apprenticeship in France's Champagne district, Damian infused the wines with his expertise, crafting a full lineup of reds, whites, dessert wines, and sparklings that quickly garnered medals and acclaim. Under Damian's guidance, Chouinard flourished as a boutique producer, emphasizing quality over quantity with handcrafted wines that reflected the family's style—eclectic, approachable, and true to California's diverse appellations.
The winery opened to the public, drawing crowds for weekend tastings and picnics. It became a staple for live music and horror film screenings under the stars, fostering a sense of extended family among visitors. Sustainability and local sourcing were hallmarks, with grapes from the estate and Livermore contributing to robust Zinfandels and crisp Chenin Blancs. Chouinard earned a loyal following, with its wines available locally and online, and the property's canyon setting was celebrated as a "secret jewel" of the East Bay. On March 6, 2022, after over four decades of operation, Chouinard Winery closed its doors permanently. The Chouinard family expressed deep gratitude to supporters, marking the end of an era for this family-run icon.
Since its closure the former Chouinard property has transitioned into public hands as a landbank site managed by the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD). Acquired to expand recreational access, the site holds potential for future amenities like trailheads, picnic spots, and educational displays highlighting its Ohlone, ranching, and winemaking history. The terraced vineyards and redwood barn remain, evoking the Chouinard legacy amid ongoing efforts to integrate into the Bay Area's network of open spaces.
See the Garin-to-Pleasanton Ridge Regional Trail Public Access Project
Chouinard Vineyard and Winery Photo Gallery
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| Chouinard Vineyard and Winery Photo Courtesy of weirdcombinations |
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| Chouinard Vineyard and Winery Photo Courtesy of weirdcombinations |
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| Chouinard Vineyard and Winery Photo Courtesy of weirdcombinations |
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| Chouinard Vineyard and Winery Photo Courtesy of weirdcombinations |
The Wine Seeker's Guide to Livermore Valley
by Thomas C. Wilmer
The Wine Seeker's Guide to Livermore Valley by Thomas C. Wilmer
Featuring Chouinard Vineyard and Winery (page 21)
Dawn Coburn Live at Chouinard Vineyard and Winery
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