When you think Lodi you think all things Zinfandel. Did you know there is a German side to Lodi where there are 51 varieties of German and Austrian grapes planted? While I was in Lodi we met the Koth family, third generation grape growers. They grow the German-Austrian Collection. You may wonder why German grapes? In the 1990's Bob’s daughter Ann-Marie was in college studying in Germany. This led Bob and Marylou to visit where they fell in love with the German varieties. Upon his return, he studied the German varietals and now grows 51 of them at his Mokelumne Glen Vineyards called “The German Austrian Collection.” The vineyard is located on the banks of the east side of the Mokelumne River. The rivers sandy loam, crushed granite soil lends itself to give the grapes the natural acidity needed as if in a Mediterranean climate. The German Austrian Collection is gaining popularity with-in California. There are nine wineries that currently purchase grapes from the Mokelumne Glen Vineyards with interest from neighboring wineries in Napa and Sonoma. All the wines that we tasted were very good, but the one standout for me was the Trailmarker Wine Company 2017 Lodi Blaufrankisch. The fresh expression of the fruit and bright acidity won my palate, I’d say blew me away. I am not a Blaufrankisch fan but the way this wine is produced makes if light, fun and enjoyable. I can even see it slightly chilled on a summers evening. Listen to the podcast of our tasting of the German-Austrian Collection. You’ll hear from the owners of Mokelumne Glen Vineyards along with a few of the wineries that produce wine from purchasing their grapes. You’ll get a feel of the winemakers and owners and the passion they have for what they do.
