MEET OUR PEOPLE

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Elyse Perry

BOKISCH VINEYARDS / WINEMAKER

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WHERE WERE YOUR BORN AND RAISED?
Highland Mills, New York.

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING WINE?
I’ve been making wine for nine years.

WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT OF MAKING WINE?
Harvest. It is the busiest time of the year and requires long hours and a lot of physical labor. There is always a constant stream of work, whether it’s checking grape maturity in the vineyards in early morning or working in the cellar to ensure everything is going smoothly with the ferments.The most difficult thing for me during this time of year is taking the time to rest and relax. 

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU’D LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT LODI?
We are capable of making white wines with beautiful, bright acidity. Our hot summer days lead into cooler nights with the Delta breeze, which helps us maintain great acidity, aromas and flavors.

WHERE DO YOU SEE, OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE, LODI AS A WINE REGION IN 10 YEARS?
I would like to see Lodi continue to get the recognition it deserves as a destination wine region.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOT IN LODI?
Idol Beer Works. Like many winemakers, I enjoy really good beer and Grant at Idol is making some incredible beers. The outdoor area has a great vibe and is the perfect place to hang out whether after a long day at the winery or a weekend afternoon.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
In my youth I was a dancer. I danced ballet and tap for 15 years.

WHAT CHORE DO YOU ABSOLUTELY HATE DOING?
Cleaning the bathroom.