Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy your grapes and/or juice?
We have distributors located mostly in the Upper Midwest, East Coast and Canada. Call us at 209-334-1023 for assistance in finding the best solution for your needs.
What’s the difference between your various grape labels?
Our gold series (i.e. Napa Gold, Sierra Gold, Paso Robles Gold) labels denote premium grapes packed in rpc containers and sourced from widely recognized AVA regions. The Lodi Gold label is used to denote our hometown grapes as well as some of the traditional varieties (i.e. Alicante, Muscato) grown nearby. Nearly all of our famous Lodi Zins are shipped in the Valley Beauty label. The Helena label was our first label used for shipping Northern grapes in the rpc container.
How many full pallets can be shipped in a truck?
A truck with a 53’ reefer van can usually take 21 pallets of grapes or 20 pallets of juice.
How much does a full pallet weigh?
Grape box pallets are approx 1750# . Bulk grape bins are approx 900# each. Juice pallets are approx 2100#. This includes the weight of the container (i.e. box, bin pail, drum) and wood pallet.
How many containers are on each pallet?
There are 54 boxes on each pallet of 36# grapes. For 42# grape lugs, there are 48 on each pallet. Juice pails are stacked 36 to a pallet. The 55-gal plastic drums are shipped 4 to a pallet.
Do you sell used wine barrels?
Yes, we buy used wine barrels (both French and American Oak) from local wineries. We pressure wash, sanitize and cap each barrel, so they’re ready to use when you get them.
What are your shipping/loading hours?
During the busy Sept/Oct harvest season, our extended hours are typically 8am-10pm M-Sat. If you prefer to make an appointment, call our Shipping Dept 209-334-1023
Where is Lodi?
Lodi Wine Country, home to 5 major wineries and 70+ “boutique” wineries, is located 100 miles east of San Francisco near the San Joaquin River Delta, south of Sacramento, and west of the Sierra Nevada. Best known for our full-bodied Zinfandels. In addition to Zin, Lodi leads all other California wine districts in the production of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Lodi has over 100,000 acres of premium wine grapes, farmed by over 750 farmers. More than 60 leading California wineries also buy grapes from the region.
How long will the grapes stay fresh after harvest?
Under the right conditions, grapes can stay fresh for 3-4 weeks. We treat our cold rooms at regular intervals with sulfur dioxide gas to prevent mold growth and maintain constant 32˚F temperatures. Of course, due to their popularity, most of our grapes are shipped much sooner than that.
Who buys your grapes and juice?
People of all ages and ethnicity. Those who have the specialized equipment or just want the full experience of making their own wine will begin the process by crushing/destemming grapes. Others, who prefer the convenience, will bypass these first steps, and start their journey with our juice. The common theme amongst all winemakers is having fun, creating something unique, and sharing good times with family and friends.