Lodi Winegrape Commission Hosts Successful Field Blends Trip to Elevate Local Wine Tourism
June 7—The Lodi Winegrape Commission and Visit Lodi are striving to establish the city as a premier wine destination, and recent efforts have made significant strides. This week, a select group of 12 wine enthusiasts and experts gathered in Lodi for an immersive experience, part of the annual Field Blends program founded by industry professional Maryam Ahmed.
Ahmed initiated Field Blends to create deeper connections between participants and the regions they explore, departing from the traditional, fast-paced wine tours. "The goal is to delve into the local culture, land, and people shaping the vineyard landscape," she stated.
The program, now in its fourth year, includes visits to local wineries and cultural sites. Participants toured LangeTwins winery to understand grape cultivation and attended the San Joaquin Historical Museum to gain insights into Lodi’s rich history. Many attendees hailed from diverse locations including Jackson, Miss., and New York, with over 80% experiencing Lodi for the first time.
The group’s perspectives on Lodi’s wine production varied, with participants noting the versatility of grapes grown in the region. Krishna Chapatwala, an Atlanta-based wine shop owner, emphasized her desire to introduce Lodi wines to Georgia after her visit. "Lodi is amazing, and it’s clear that the region has the potential to grow a wide variety of grapes," she remarked.
Luis Gomez, a restaurant worker from Brooklyn, expressed his enthusiasm for Lodi’s blend of urban and rural charm and the community dynamic within the wineries. "The close-knit community here is inspiring," he said, reflecting on the family-oriented atmosphere he witnessed.
Support from local leaders like Stuart Spencer and Gerardo Espinosa has been crucial to the program’s success. As Field Blends continues to gain traction, organizers hope to further promote Lodi as a vital component of California’s wine narrative. For more on Field Blends, visit www.maryamandcompany.com.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
