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The process of replanting nearly 50 acres of vines at Concannon Vineyard with the Livermore Valley’s signature varietals is underway thanks in part to a loan from local land trust Tri-Valley Conservancy.
This work comes as part of a multi-year plan by owner Lemmons Family Vineyards to replant 150 acres of vine at Concannon, representing over half of the historic estate.
Recently named the sole proprietor of Concannon, the Lemmons also introduced a new collection of venues on the property this month in what officials called an “exciting new chapter” in a message to wine club members.
“We want to bring Concannon back to the original glory, and then some. And we’re willing to do whatever it takes to restore and preserve the property,” owner Tom Lemmons said in a statement by TVC announcing the distribution. “A lot of people in the loan industry talk a big game… hats off to TVC for delivering on their promise and helping make this project possible.”
Prior to receipt of the loan, Lemmons Family Vineyards purchased Concannon vineyards and facilities from The Wine Group in November 2024, and also sold to Darcie Kent Winery the Concannon brand, inventory and business.
Tom Lemmons and his wife Paige Lemmons assumed full ownership of Concannon and were introduced to wine club members this month.
The initial round of replanting at Concannon includes approximately 48 acres: 28 acres of Cabernet Franc clones and 20 acres of Sauvignon Blanc. These signature varietals are recognized by the Livermore Valley Wine Community as being well-suited for the area’s terroir. It is also starting to transition some of the blocks to organic farming practices.
Ahead of putting vines in the ground, Concannon is laying irrigation lines, marking vine rows and preparing the soil near Tesla Road.
The loan from TVC was granted through its Sponsored Replanting Program, which offers 15-year, low-interest loans of up to $15,000 per acre to support wine grape growers’ replanting of “strategic varietals,” according to the statement.
Concannon is the second beneficiary of a replanting loan from TVC, following the inaugural award in January to Thatcher Bay Vineyards owner Scott Burkhart.
Replanting at Concannon comes as part of a “broader restoration of the property,” according to TVC officials.
Among the changes at the property are new event spaces designed to host weddings, corporate gatherings and celebrations, officials added.
Private event spaces include a barrel room, lounge with access to a patio beside the vines, renovated ballroom with AV capabilities, a historic wine library and grape arbor, a decades-old venue.
Upcoming activities at the estate include at least three events next month.
The Sauvignon Blanc Soirée will feature live Spanish Guitar, a grazing table by The Cheese Parlor and wine tastings from Concannon, Cuda Ridge Wines, McGrail Vineyards, Wente, Wood Family Vineyards, JMC Cellars and Page Mill Winery.
The soirée on Friday (May 1) is scheduled to run from 5-7 p.m. on the estate’s Main Lawn.
Concannon is also scheduled to host a Mother’s Day celebration May 10 from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The family-friendly event will feature food trucks and Verace Gelato.
On May 29, Concannon is set to host a comedy night dubbed The Late Pour from 7:30-9 p.m.
