Our father was born one half mile south on Locust Tree Road in 1916, and our parents were lifelong farmers. We grew up on the farm surrounded by vineyards, fruits trees and wild life. While visiting, you will see numerous bird species and possibly cotton tail rabbits in the yard. We have resident Mocking Birds and Scrub Jays along with many other species that visit daily. Keep and eye out for the Killdeer bird eggs camouflaged to look like rocks on the ground at the vineyard's edge. To the south Red Tail Hawks and Great Horned Owls often nest in the tall Deodar Cedar. Bring binoculars if you enjoy bird watching.
While much has not changed in the surrounding community and many of the farms have been in the same families for generations, we have also seen many changes. Local families have started wineries and offer tastings of prize-winning wines made from grapes produced in their own vineyards. They grow grapes in compliance with Lodi Rules for sustainable management of the environment and customize vineyard farming practices with a focus on producing grapes that will make the best wines. We think you will agree when you visit nearby wineries.
We chose the house name based on the Alicante Bouchet grape, a red variety we grow a country block to the south. Today this grape is relatively rare in California, but has a strong history, being widely cultivated since 1866. Although our careers took us off the farm, our roots are here and we hope you enjoy your visit.