BOKISCH VINEYARDS

Bokisch Vineyards – Money Prize

PEOPLE

Liz and Markus Bokisch have followed a circuitous path to becoming Lodi wine-growing pioneers. From California’s inner heartland to stints in Catalonia and the Napa Valley, the couple finally settled in Lodi in the late 90s and immediately planted vines from budwood imported from their travels. Drawing inspiration from the Iberian winemaking tradition and Markus’ Spanish roots, they decided on the iconic grapes of Albariño, Tempranillo, and Graciano. Over the course of 20 years, their little experiment has grown prodigiously to include Verdejo, Garnacha, old vine Zinfandel, and a Gran Reserva aging program.

VINEYARDS

In addition to their winery, the Bokischs also run a large farm management company, tending to thousands of vineyards in a sustainable manner throughout the Lodi area. 400 of those are certified organic including their own Terra Alta and Las Cerezas designates, with a converting Vista Luna vineyard not far behind. Markus also spearheaded the implementation of the seven Lodi AVAs and was instrumental in the creation of Lodi Rules Sustainable Winegrowing project, with more than 60 producers committed to sustainable soil, water, ecosystem, and pest management.

WINES

Bursting with late season orchard fruits, quince honey, and white flowers, the rich, textured Terra Alta Albariño 2016 is sharpened by a streak of freshness and spark of minerality. The Tempranillo 2014  offers all the power of its Spanish brethren with opulent dark fruit and notable oak aromas. Gushing fruit in the Graciano 2016 (Everyday wine) is met by commensurate spices, florals, and tertiaries in the form of tobacco, leather, juniper, dried rose, and black pepper. The wispy, energetic mouthfeel is adorned by a soft gentle tannin and long finish, truly a fantastic wine for the price.

FERTILIZERS compost

PLANT PROTECTION copper and sulfur

WEED CONTROL mechanical, mowing

YEASTS commercial cultured yeasts

GRAPES 100% estate-grown

CERTIFICATION organic