Weekend At A Winery: Add Big White House To Must-Visit List

LIVERMORE, CA —Big White House Winery and John Evan Cellars is a smaller venue in the Livermore Valley wine region, but one that should not be missed by vino aficionados (AKA: "wine nerds"), whether locals or visiting out-of-towners.

"We are HUGE wine nerds," said Jessica Carroll, the vineyard's winemaker and general manager. "We love everything that's involved in our craft: It starts in the vineyard, goes to harvest, on to cellaring, and finishes with sharing bottled wines."

Known for its Syrahs, Petite Sirahs and such uncommon varieties as Teroldego and Montepulciano, Big White House launched in 1998, after years as a backyard, grape-growing hobby of former Lawrence Livermore National Lab scientist and engineer John Marion II and his group of friends.

Since then, the son of John "The Elder" — John Evan Marion III — a Livermore native, took over as owner, running the eclectic, boutique winery, located at 6800 Greenville Road in Livermore.

Adding to the all-in-the-family twist, don't overlook the unique, art-forward, wine bottle labels, designed by artist Laura Marion, John III's sister.

"In 2005, she created a painting that we thought would fit on a label," said owner John Marion III. "It was a hit, and we decided that all labels would have unique paintings for each wine."

Los Angeles-based artist and musician Laura's work now also is displayed throughout the Big White House tasting room.

Visitors who swing by for a tasting can expect a seated visit, hosted by staff, amid a peaceful backdrop and vineyard views, including a garden planted with rotating edible plants. Reservations are recommended: Visit website here to book.

"We are passionate about what we do and truly enjoying educating anyone interested in learning more about wine," Carroll added. "As we're at the end of the Greenville Road, it is quite peaceful and a great spot to spend an afternoon."

Also on calendars: "Geek Out With Wine Nerds" sessions. Info here.

Big White House wines are available at regional restaurants and wine shops, on-site and online here.

For visitors seeking hotel suggestions in the wine region, follow this link.

See Also:

• 5 Napa Valley Wineries To Visit On A Weekend