Occasio Winery

September Release Reception
2025-09-13 12:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us on Saturday, September 13, from noon to 3 PM at Sidewinder for a festive harvest reception celebrating the release of our newest wines, including the much-anticipated vintage of our Cabernet Sauvignon. Savor expertly paired small bites from Sabio on Main—our local Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant—while enjoying live music from the Whiskey Refugees, whose soulful energy sets the perfect backdrop for the afternoon. This is a chance to taste, mingle, and soak in the warmth of the season as we raise a glass to the joys of harvest and the arrival of fall.

MENU

Pan Con Tomate
Livermore’s Crossroad Growers Tomatoes, garlic rubbed toast, Jamon Iberia de Bellota
Rosé of Grenace

Wagyu Oxtail Empanada
Currents, olives, and Romesco
Pairing – 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon

TICKETS

Here are some scenes from last year’s Harvest Release –

Riesling Rediscovered: A Guided Tasting and Exploration
2025-10-19 12:00 - 14:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Riesling is one of the world’s most expressive grapes—capable of producing everything from bone-dry, mineral-driven wines to some of the most luxurious dessert wines ever made. This fall, join us for a guided tasting and discussion exploring what makes Riesling so compelling, versatile, and age-worthy.
We’ll explore where Riesling thrives—from Germany’s Mosel and Rheingau to Alsace, Austria, Oregon, Washington, and California—tasting a curated lineup of wines that highlight how climate, soil, and winemaking shape Riesling’s many expressions. Along the way, we’ll introduce the traditional German classification system (Prädikatswein), which ranks wines by grape ripeness at harvest.
Whether you’re a devoted fan or just Riesling-curious, this class is your chance to discover why this grape is treasured by sommeliers and collectors worldwide.
SOLD OUT

Murder at the Blood Ball
2025-10-22 18:00 - 22:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Blood Ball, hosted by the enigmatic Count at the exclusive Sidewinder Spirits on October 22. This immersive murder mystery party invites night walkers, blood drinkers, and enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the immortal life in a thrilling vampire-themed atmosphere.
Just after midnight, the Count stumbles upon a body drained of blood, sparking a web of suspicion. Was the culprit one of the invited guests, a sneaky party crasher who slipped past security, or driven by passion or hatred? It’s up to you and your fellow detectives to unravel the clues and solve the chilling crime!
SOLD OUT

Rich Pours: Mastering Fat-Infused Cocktail Artistry
2025-11-15 13:00 - 14:30 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Get ready to transform your cocktails with one of mixology’s most intriguing techniques—fat washing. In this intimate, hands-on 90-minute class, you’ll learn how to infuse spirits with the rich flavors of smoky Benton’s bacon, nutty browned butter, tropical coconut, and savory olive oil. Our team will guide you through tastings, demos, and cocktail building as you explore how bourbon, rye, gin, and rum take on bold new personalities through this process.
With limited seats available, this class is designed for curious sippers and cocktail enthusiasts who want to elevate their home bar with professional tricks. You’ll leave with recipes, inspiration, and the know-how to create unforgettable drinks that truly impress.
TICKETS

November Release Reception
2025-11-16 12:00 - 14:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Mark your calendars and clear your palates—Occasio Winery is unleashing our most anticipated release yet, and you’re invited to taste history in the making.
For the first time ever, we’re proud to unveil our inaugural Pinot Noir from the fog-kissed hills of Russian River Valley—a silky, cherry-laced beauty that’s been whispered about in the cellar for months. Joining it on stage: an exciting new Chardonnay that’s ready to steal the spotlight.
This isn’t just a tasting. It’s a celebration.
Each wine will be perfectly paired with a masterpiece from On the Vine Catering—think savory, seasonal brilliance.
Your hosts? Winemaker Dave Hendrickson & owner John Kinney, pouring, storytelling, and answering every burning question (yes, even that one about the 3 a.m. punch-downs).
Complimentary for active Wine Club members + one guest (2 tickets total)
Extra guests? $20 each (minus your member discount)
Note: This exclusive reception is reserved for members with a current shipment ready for pickup.
THIS EVENT IS CLOSED
MENU
Curried Carrot Soup Shooter with Mini Grilled Gruyere Cheese
2024 Sunol Highlands Heritage Chardonnay

Raspberry Braised Duck Tacos with Cilantro and Pickled Onions
2022 Lineage Estate Heritage Pinot Noir

The Alchemy of Indulgence: A Chocolate & Cocktail Affair
2025-12-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us at Sidewinder Spirits Co. for an evening where indulgence meets imagination. We’re teaming up with Bluebirds Chocolate to present a decadent pairing experience—each handcrafted chocolate creation matched to one of our signature cocktails.
Sip, savor, and explore how rich cacao and fine spirits intertwine in perfect harmony, all against the seductive glow of Sidewinder Lounge. Every bite and every sip tells a story of craft, creativity, and place.
Stay tuned—pairing details will be released soon. Get your tickets now for this rare chance to experience Livermore’s finest chocolates elevated by innovative mixology.

TICKETS

Holiday in the Vineyards
2025-12-06 12:00 - 2025-12-07 16:30
OUR ELVES ARE BACK! Holiday in the Vineyards returns the first weekend of December – and what a fun time we will have. Join us on Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, from noon to 4:30 for a festive celebration featuring a wide selection of local vendors, holiday music, and, of course, our finest wines. No reservations required, so gather your friends and family and get into the holiday spirit with us!
PARTIAL LIST OF VENDORS
WINERY
Cita Island (Arbonne) (Saturday & Sunday)
Pepper Pet Design (Saturday only)
Owlistik Jewelry (Saturday & Sunday)
Forge Cuts Creations (Saturday & Sunday)
Bluebirds Chocolates (Sunday only)
Handmade Gracefully (Sunday only)
Bangles and Bovines Cards and Tags (Saturday & Sunday)

SIDEWINDER
Blissful Bakes (Saturday only)
Papa T’s Spices (Saturday & Sunday)
The Grazing Cart by Mrs. B (Saturday & Sunday)
The Succulent Experience (Saturday only)
Touchstone Jewelry (Saturday & Sunday)

Eat, Drink & Be Marley: A Dickens Holiday Feast
2025-12-10 18:30 - 22:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Enter the world of A Christmas Carol this December 10th, as Sidewinder Spirits and Occasio Winery host an intimate Dickensian feast steeped in holiday warmth and charm. Limited to just 20 guests, this four-course dinner reimagines the flavors of Victorian England with modern elegance. From the Cratchit Family Roast to Mrs. Fezziwig’s epiphany-worthy dessert, each dish is paired with exceptional Occasio wines and Sidewinder’s handcrafted spirits. And, at the end, we’ll raise a glass of Scrooge’s Farewell Negus to celebrate the joy, generosity, and fellowship at the heart of the season. Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, storytelling, and holiday cheer in our cozy, candlelit distillery.
SOLD OUT

Rushmore Rocks: Cocktails with the Commanders-in-Chief
2026-02-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Raise a glass to the legends of Liberty! Join us at Sidewinder Spirits on Saturday, February 14, from 1–3 PM for a Presidents Day celebration like no other. We’re mixing history with high spirits as we honor the Mount Rushmore Four—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt—with cocktails inspired by their favorite tipples. From colonial-style rye to wine-soaked revolution, it’s an afternoon of bold flavors, fascinating anecdotes, and patriotic fun. Whether you’re a history buff, cocktail lover, or just in it for the Roosevelt punch, this is one presidential toast you won’t want to miss.
SOLD OUT

Winter 2026 Wine Release Party
2026-02-21 11:00 - 15:30 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for an intimate seated tasting of our latest releases to kick off the new year. This special event offers a guided exploration of our new wines, direct conversation with the winemaker and owner about these releases, and a preview of what’s ahead for the coming year.
Highlights:
Our 2023 Petite Sirah — the first in a decade from the renowned Casa de Vinas vineyard in Livermore Valley. This bold, gold medal-winning beauty delivers lush notes of red fruit with a hint of black cherry, cocoa, and a touch of black pepper. The wine is rich in color, with firm tannins and impressive depth.
Our exciting new release: Rosé – élevé — a vibrant, fruit-forward rosé from Fong Vineyard, gently barrel-aged (élevé) for added roundness and complexity while preserving its fresh charm.
Light snacks from the cheese parlor will be provided to complement the tasting. This is a relaxed, educational experience — no music or full catered pairings, just focused time with the wines and our team.
The event is complimentary for wine club members.
We offer three limited seatings to ensure an intimate setting:
11:00 AM
12:30 PM
2:00 PM
Select your preferred time when reserving. Tickets are available only to logged-in wine club members via your account on our website. If you’d prefer to sign up in person at the winery, you’re welcome to do so during open hours. Need assistance logging in or reserving? Give us a call during business hours or send an email — we’re happy to help!
We look forward to sharing these special wines with you and toasting to the year ahead.
SOLD OUT

Cocktails on the Red Carpet
2026-03-15 12:00 - 14:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for an elegant early afternoon cocktail class celebrating the magic of cinema just before the 2026 Oscars broadcast! In this 1-2 hour hands-on session, you’ll learn to craft signature drinks inspired by timeless classics, including the signature cocktail from the greatest film never to take home a prize. Perfect for film buffs and cocktail enthusiasts alike—raise a glass to Hollywood’s golden age!

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Alameda Whiskey Stroll
2026-03-27 18:00 - 21:00
We’re delighted to be pouring at Downtown Alameda’s 8th Annual Whiskey Stroll — an evening dedicated to craft, character, and community.
Sip and stroll through Alameda’s charming historic downtown district while sampling premium local and international whiskeys at curated host locations. Along the way, enjoy thoughtfully paired bites, live entertainment, and the opportunity to connect with the makers and ambassadors behind the bottles. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply whiskey-curious, this is a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation for the spirit in an engaging, walkable setting.
Tickets include a collectible tasting glass, premium whiskey tastings at participating downtown venues, small bites at select locations, and a commemorative event guide.
We hope you’ll join us for this spirited evening.
For tickets and event details, visit AlamedaStrolls.com.

Terroir Through Time: An Occasio Vintage Retrospective
2026-04-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for a rare and intimate seated tasting as we explore the early chapters of Occasio Winery and trace the evolution of our wines over time.
This two-hour retrospective will feature selections from our earliest vintages—including our inaugural 2008 Petite Sirah, the wine that founded our tasting room—alongside early Cabernet Sauvignon releases and more recent vintages for comparison.
Together, we’ll examine how these wines have aged, how vineyard expression has revealed itself over the years, and how we have refined our interpretation of Livermore Valley terroir vintage after vintage.
With just 16 seats available, this first-come, first-served experience offers a thoughtful, in-depth look at where we began and where we are headed.
SOLD OUT

Spring 2026 Release Party
2026-05-17 12:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Our spring wine club release will be on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from noon to 2 at Sidewinder. Enjoy sampling our two new wines along with these food pairings from On the Vine Catering.

MENU
Traditional Spanish Paella with Chicken and Chorizo
2025 Highlands Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Beef Bulgogi Taco with Pickled Pear and Cotija Cheese
2023 Lineage Estate Pinot Noir

SOLD OUT

THE WINES
2025 Sauvignon Blanc — Sunol Highlands, Livermore Valley
96 cases produced · 13.2% ABV
We are excited to present our 2025 Sauvignon Blanc from Sunol Highlands, a remarkable high-elevation site nestled in the coastal hills above Calaveras Reservoir. Perched where marine influence meets inland warmth, this vineyard consistently delivers wines of clarity, energy, and precision. This limited release—just 96 cases—captures the distinctive character of one of Livermore Valley’s most compelling sites.
In the glass, the wine opens with bright aromatics of citrus blossom, lime zest, and fresh-cut herbs, layered with notes of green apple and a subtle mineral edge. The palate is vibrant and focused—crisp acidity, a clean mid-palate, and a refreshing lift that carries through a long, mouthwatering finish.
At 13.2% alcohol, the wine leans into freshness and restraint, highlighting the natural balance achieved at elevation. This is Sauvignon Blanc shaped by place—cool nights, coastal winds, and a patient approach to farming and winemaking that preserves both purity and expression.
Beautifully expressive in its youth, this wine offers immediate appeal while maintaining the structure to evolve gracefully over the near term—an authentic reflection of Sunol Highlands and the Livermore Valley.

2023 Pinot Noir — Lineage Estate, Green Valley (Russian River Valley)
82 cases produced · 14.3% ABV
We are proud to introduce our 2023 Pinot Noir from Lineage Estate, rooted in the cool, fog-laced Green Valley of the Russian River Valley. This limited release—just 82 cases—brings together an equal blend of Martini, Pommard, and Dijon 777 clones, each contributing its own voice to a seamless whole.
In the glass, the wine opens with lifted aromatics of red cherry, wild strawberry, and rose petal, layered with subtle notes of forest floor and baking spice. The palate is defined by precision and restraint—bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and a silken texture that carries through a long, nuanced finish.
At 14.3% alcohol, the wine strikes a compelling balance between ripeness and freshness, capturing the natural tension that defines Green Valley Pinot Noir. This is a wine shaped by place—coastal influence, thoughtful farming, and a careful blending of heritage and modern clonal selections.
Beautifully expressive now, it will continue to evolve with grace over the coming years, offering a pure and focused expression of the Lineage Estate vineyard.

Wine Wednesday on the Patio
2026-05-27 17:00 - 20:00 | Occasio Winery, 2245B South Vasco Road, Livermore, CA, CA, United States
Shake up the middle of your week with an evening of wine, live music, and incredible food at Occasio Winery on Wednesday, May 27 from 5–8 PM.
Join us on the patio as we welcome Pacific Drip Kitchen, serving up bold, flavor-packed street food, alongside live music from Randy and Jenny, whose laid-back acoustic style is the perfect soundtrack for a warm Livermore evening.
We’ll be offering a curated selection of Occasio favorites and current releases, all available with special Wine Wednesday pricing by the glass and bottle. Grab a seat, order a bite, sip something delicious, and settle into a relaxed evening on the patio.
Whether you’re meeting friends after work, planning a casual date night, or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy great wine outdoors, Wine Wednesday is all about slowing down, connecting, and enjoying the best parts of wine country—without the weekend crowds.
No reservations required. First come, first served seating.

4th Annual CabFranc-A-Palooza Festival
2026-05-31 12:00 - 16:00 | PURPLE ORCHID, 4549 Cross Road, LIVERMORE, CA, 94550, United States
Cabernet Franc lovers, this one is for you. We’re excited to be participating in the 4th Annual CabFranc-a-Palooza Festival, a celebration dedicated entirely to one of the wine world’s most expressive and food-friendly varietals. Join us as we pour our Occasio Cabernet Franc alongside an incredible lineup of wineries showcasing the depth, versatility, and character of this remarkable grape. In true Occasio fashion, we’ll be bringing our “Wine Without Rules” spirit to the event—focusing on authenticity, creativity, and wines meant to be enjoyed without pretense. If you appreciate bold aromatics, vibrant structure, and wines that blur the line between elegance and energy, this is a festival you won’t want to miss.
TICKETS

The Flavor Lab
2026-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Flavor is at the heart of everything we enjoy—whether it’s a memorable cocktail, a perfectly balanced sauce, a refreshing summer beverage, or an unforgettable dessert. Join us for an immersive exploration of syrups, tinctures, extracts, oleo saccharums, and other techniques used to capture, preserve, and enhance flavor in both the bar and the kitchen.
Through demonstrations, tastings, and practical examples, we’ll explore a variety of methods for extracting flavor from fruits, herbs, spices, and botanicals. Learn how different approaches—from traditional simmered syrups to sous vide infusions and concentrated extracts—can create dramatically different results. We’ll discuss how these ingredients can be used in cocktails, mocktails, sodas, teas, desserts, marinades, sauces, and other culinary creations.
Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, passionate home cook, gardener looking for new ways to use seasonal ingredients, or simply curious about the science of flavor, this hands-on class will provide plenty of inspiration and practical techniques you can use at home.
TICKETS

The Green Hour
2026-08-12 18:30 - 20:30 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for an intimate evening celebrating the arrival of Sidewinder Absinthe Supérieure.
Join us for an intimate evening celebrating the arrival of our first bottles of Sidewinder Absinthe Supérieure. This exclusive preview explores the spirit’s rich history, the traditional absinthe ritual, and the careful craft behind our naturally green expression. Our distiller will share the story and lead live demonstrations of the classic louche, aromatic service, and modern cocktail applications.
Each ticket includes one of the first bottles of Sidewinder Absinthe Supérieure to take home.
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 | 6:30–8:30 PM
SOLD OUT

Sangria and Beyond
2026-08-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
One of our favorite summer traditions returns with a fresh twist. Here we celebrate the creativity, fun, and endless possibilities of wine refreshers. We’ll begin with a look at the colorful history of sangria before exploring a lineup of classic and modern creations—from traditional red and white sangrias to sparkling spritzes, wine-based cocktails, and a few experimental surprises from the Occasio laboratory. Along the way, we’ll discover how fruit, herbs, spices, and innovative techniques can transform wine into something entirely unexpected while still respecting the character of the wine itself.
Whether you’re a devoted wine lover, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking for the perfect summer afternoon, this lively and interactive tasting experience is a celebration of creativity, community, and the spirit of Wine Without Rules.
SOLD OUT

Harvest Release Reception
2026-09-12 12:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
Join us for an afternoon that brings two chapters of Occasio to the same table.
We’ll pour the newly released 2025 Riesling—bright, aromatic, and alive with energy—alongside the 2018 Still Point, a mature Cabernet Sauvignon from the Occasio Heritage Collection that has spent years quietly deepening in bottle. One wine is just beginning its story; the other has been shaped by time into something layered and graceful. The contrast is the point.
Live music by Jim Remy of Road Runner will set the tone. Chef Francis Hogan of Sabio on Main has created pairings that let both wines show their best. And you’ll be among fellow members and friends who understand why these moments matter.
Tickets are available now. We hope you’ll join us.
TICKETS

Preview the new wines before purchase beginning August 22 at the winery.

Murder at the Winery
2026-10-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Occasio Winery, 2245B South Vasco Road, Livermore, CA, CA, United States
Something is amiss at Occasio Winery—and before the evening is over, everyone will have a motive.
Join us Saturday, October 24, for Murder at the Winery, an immersive evening of wine, mystery, clues, and unexpected turns. Guests will step into the story, follow the evidence, question the suspects, and see whether they can uncover the truth before the final glass is poured.
Full details and tickets will be released in September.

At the Harvest Table
2026-11-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Sidewinder Spirits Company, 2405 Research Dr, Livermore
As harvest draws to a close and the cellar settles into its quieter rhythm, we invite you to gather with us at the table. This intimate afternoon is a chance to slow down together—to look back on the 2026 vintage, trace the quiet work of time as wine moves from vineyard to bottle, and taste a thoughtful selection of current, developing, and library wines alongside the flavors of the season.
Come share conversation, good food, and the simple pleasure of a harvest well done.
Tickets will become available in September.

Building the Holiday Bar
2026-11-07 13:00 - 15:00
A better holiday bar is not about owning more bottles or mastering dozens of complicated recipes. It is about thoughtful preparation, versatile ingredients, and a few dependable techniques that allow you to serve memorable drinks without spending the entire party behind the bar.
In this lively, interactive afternoon, we will build four distinctive drinks around four practical techniques—exploring structure, balance, preparation, and presentation along the way. We will look at what can be prepared ahead, how individual components can work across several drinks, and how each idea can be adapted for different guests, gatherings, and occasions.
Come taste, learn, and leave with a more confident approach to holiday entertaining—and a collection of useful ideas that will serve you long after the season is over.
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