Dublin Aims to Join Local Wine Industry

If you're in the mood to visit a local winery, chances are you're going to head to nearby Livermore or Pleasanton. Dublin officials want to change that.

"I think that we could complement and support the region," said Councilman Eric Swalwell. "I think we're positioned favorably as a gateway."

The City Council voted this month to set aside money for a staff member to work on ways that the city can better connect with the local wine region.

"For the first time ever, Dublin as a city has committed itself to connecting with the Livermore Valley wine region," said Swalwell.

"This commitment will benefit Dublin's residents, providing more future recreation and entertainment opportunities that will be just minutes away." 

Mayor Tim Sbranti said this is an exciting opportunity for the city.

"This is not only a good thing for Dublin, but for the region as a whole," he said. 

There are more than 50 wineries in Livermore and Pleasanton.

Swalwell said he believes that the city should work with local wine organizations to see how Dublin can join the team, possibly by featuring local wineries or creating a tasting room. The room would mean more exposure for wineries in surrounding cities.

Sbranti and Swalwell say work will be done over the next year to find the best role for the city to play in the wine region.

Cooperation already has begun — Livermore wineries will participate in the first  next month.

"Dublin's geographic position to the region makes us a fitting starting or ending point for people visiting the region," said Swalwell.