A Life Poured into Tradition and Craft
It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we share the passing of John Concannon, a beloved vintner, leader, and steward of California winemaking history. John left this world in 2025 at the age of 64, leaving behind not just a vineyard, but a living legacy of dedication, tradition, and family pride that spanned more than a century.
As the fourth-generation leader of Concannon Vineyard, John carried forward the dreams planted by his great-grandfather in the Livermore Valley over 140 years ago. To walk the rows of vines with John was to feel history beneath your feet and hear the future in his voice. His passion for sustainable farming, quality winemaking, and preserving his family’s heritage was unmatched. But more than a winemaker, John was a storyteller, a guardian of legacy, and a deeply humble soul who believed that wine was about more than bottles—it was about bringing people together.
The Heart Behind the Harvest
Those who knew John will remember his quiet wisdom, gentle humor, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. He was often seen walking the vineyards at dawn, hand-checking the soil, talking softly to the vines, and greeting longtime workers by name. He had an unmatched reverence for the land, understanding that each harvest told a new story and that good wine came not only from science and skill—but from soul.
John’s approach to winemaking was deeply human. He believed in balance—of the vine, of the barrel, and of life. Under his guidance, Concannon Vineyard blossomed into a world-renowned estate, known not just for its exceptional Petite Sirah, but for its warmth, hospitality, and generosity of spirit. His initiatives in sustainability and heritage preservation earned him accolades, but he always credited the team and his ancestors before him.
He was a mentor to young vintners, a pillar of the Livermore Valley, and a man who lived in quiet service to something larger than himself.
A Farewell Felt Across Generations
The news of John’s passing has sent ripples of grief through the wine industry and beyond. Colleagues, friends, and fellow vintners are mourning the loss of not just a remarkable winemaker, but a truly irreplaceable human being. His legacy is etched into the sunlit rows of vines, the community events he never missed, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and wisdom.
In the coming days, a memorial celebration will be held at the vineyard he so loved—a place where laughter once rose over tasting tables and family stories echoed among the barrels. It will be a time to remember, to grieve, and to give thanks for a life so beautifully lived.
John Concannon is survived by his loving family, devoted vineyard staff, and a legacy that will live on in every glass poured from the vines he tended with heart and soul.
Rest in peace, John. Your light will forever shine through the vines.
