In a concerning development for California’s wine industry, Bronco Wine Co. in Stanislaus County has announced that it will be laying off at least 80 employees in the coming weeks. This is the latest blow in a larger downturn affecting the state’s winegrape market, signaling the ongoing challenges that wine producers face in this difficult economic climate.
The layoffs come as part of a series of adjustments within the industry, which has struggled with declining wine sales over the past few years.
Lodi’s Wine and Chocolate Weekend Draws Strong Community Support Amidst Industry Challenges
Despite the turmoil in the local wine industry, Lodi’s annual Wine and Chocolate Weekend proceeded as scheduled, providing a much-needed boost to the region. The event highlighted the unique wines of the area, with over 20 wineries participating in the Winemakers Toast, a food, wine, and chocolate pairing event.
Winery owners, such as Eric Donaldson of LVVR Sparkling Cellars, used the event as an opportunity to engage with potential new customers, showcasing their wines to attendees. The turnout at the event suggested that there was still strong interest in local wines, even amidst broader industry struggles.
Event-goers expressed their enthusiasm for Lodi wines, with some, like Turlock resident Kam Dhesi, eager to sample offerings from every participating booth. The event demonstrated the support that local wineries continue to receive from consumers.
Maricella Flores, who attended the event from Mountain House, noted that she wasn’t aware of the challenges facing the local winegrape industry, highlighting that, to many, the vibrant atmosphere at the event felt disconnected from the struggles behind the scenes. The strong community support was seen as a key factor in helping wineries weather these difficult times.
Struggling Vineyards and the Impact of Foreign Imports on Local Winegrowers’ Challenges
Despite the positive atmosphere at the Wine and Chocolate Weekend, signs of the industry’s struggles were visible nearby. In some local vineyards, entire bunches of grapes were left unharvested after the season had ended, and many of these vineyards are now being removed.
Stuart Spencer, executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, acknowledged that wine sales have been down in recent years, with the latest Grape Crush Report from California’s Department of Food and Agriculture revealing a 20-year low in production. Spencer also criticized the influx of cheap foreign wine, supported by federal subsidies, which has further complicated the challenges faced by local winegrowers.
To help counteract the negative impacts of foreign imports, Spencer advised consumers to pay close attention to the labels on bottles they purchase. Wines labeled as “Made in America” or “American wine” can contain up to 25% foreign wine, which undercuts California growers.
Spencer emphasized the importance of buying local and supporting California wines, particularly those labeled with “Lodi” or “California” on the front. Event attendees like Flores appreciated the opportunity to support local producers, and winery owners like Donaldson stressed that even small actions, such as purchasing a bottle from a tasting room or a local grocery store, could make a significant difference in supporting the industry.