Occasio Winery - John Kinney

Occasio Winery, founded in 2008 by John Kinney, is a boutique winery in Livermore Valley, California, a historic wine region with roots dating back to the 19th century. Named after the Latin word for “opportunity,” Occasio was born from a passion to revive Livermore’s winemaking legacy while showcasing its unique terroir. Starting with small-lot productions, the winery quickly gained recognition for crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines that honor heritage varietals and the region’s gravelly soils and microclimate. Today, Occasio remains a family-run operation, dedicated to quality and sustainability, with a tasting room at 2245B S Vasco Rd, Livermore, welcoming visitors to experience its story firsthand. Occasio specializes in small-lot wines, focusing on Rhone (Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah, and Petite Sirah), Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc), and Burgundy (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) varietals. Its winemaking emphasizes minimal intervention to let Livermore’s terroir shine, blending traditional techniques with modern precision. For example, the Cabernet Sauvignon showcases intense black fruit and structured tannins, reflecting Livermore’s Bordeaux-like conditions, while Grenache provides vibrant, fruit-forward excitement, broadening the portfolio’s appeal. Occasio’s commitment to heritage grapes sets it apart in a region often dominated by Cabernet, while the sustainable vineyard practices of its growers ensure long-term environmental stewardship. Occasio is exploring ways to deepen its connection to Livermore Valley’s heritage while embracing innovation. One such innovation was a return to crafting aromatized wines like vermouth. Plans include expanding small-lot experiments with lesser-known varietals, especially aromatic white wines, highlight the region’s diversity. The winery aims to grow its tasting room experiences, offering more events like wine-and-food pairings and educational classes to engage visitors.