In late March of 2011 about 2200 ancient vines were transplanted from the DuPont property along Bridgehead Road to the property often referred to as the “Legless Lizard Parcels” located between the BNSF rail line and Walnut Meadows Drive. The Alicante Bouschet varietal vines, planted in Oakley over 100 years ago, were removed from the DuPont property to make way for the anticipated power plant. Using a backhoe the vines were uprooted and then replanted in holes dug by hand on the 5.7 acres of land the City leased to Alan Lucchesi, Mulehead Growers, Inc.
Although there was a small harvest in the first year, about 2 tons, this year’s bounty was around 9 tons. The grape is unusual because when it’s crushed it produces a blood red juice. Most grapes when crushed create a clear juice and the color in the wine comes from the skin on the grape. This variety is blended with other grapes to enhance the color of the wine.
Romick in Oakley 