It's often said that to truly understand a wine, one must walk the land from which it springs. On our recent trip to California, our dedicated team embarked on a journey to do just that, touring the captivating vineyards of Lodi to deepen our connection with the very grapes that shape our bottles.

Lodi, with its rich history and diverse terroir, is a wine lover’s paradise. Its vineyards stretch across a landscape dotted with ancient oaks, painting a picture of timeless beauty. But as we discovered, there’s more to this region than meets the eye.

Our tour began at sunrise, with the morning mist lifting off rows of vines, each droplet reflecting the golden rays. With every step, the soft crunch of the soil beneath our feet echoed the stories of generations of vintners who cultivated this land.

Guided by local grape growers, we delved deep into the intricacies of each grape varietal. From the robust Zinfandel, Lodi's flagship grape, to the delicate notes of Chardonnay and the rich undertones of Cabernet Sauvignon. We learned about the unique climate of Lodi, which combines warm days and cool nights, creating an ideal environment for grape maturation.

As we strolled through the vineyards, we couldn't help but pluck a grape or two, tasting the very essence of our upcoming vintages. Each grape, with its burst of flavor, told a tale of meticulous care, from pruning to harvesting.

But beyond the technicalities and the tasting notes, what truly stood out was the passion of the people of Lodi. Their dedication to the land, their reverence for the vines, and their unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines was evident in every conversation, every gesture.

As the day drew to a close, and the sun set over the sprawling vineyards, casting long shadows and bathing the vines in a warm glow, we left with a renewed sense of purpose. We weren’t just bottling wine; we were bottling stories, memories, and the very soul of Lodi.