MEET OUR PEOPLE
Ben Kolber
KG Vineyard Management, LLC / Owner & Grower
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY BEEN FARMING WINEGRAPES?
I am a first-generation farmer. I started farming winegrapes in 2003 with the formation of KG Vineyard Management. We specialize in custom grape harvesting.
HOW MANY ACRES DO YOU FARM AND WHICH VARIETIES DO YOU GROW?
We farm over 1500 acres of winegrapes planted to more than 40 varieties in the Lodi appellation and surrounding areas. Also, I am a new almond grower. Diversification is key in agriculture!
FARMING IN LODI IS…
Life
Livelihood
Long days and nights
Mud on my boots
My family
Work family
Diversity of employees
Phone calls all day
Problem solving
Connections – it takes a whole community of committed individuals to farm
WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MENTOR IN YOUR CAREER?
My parents – they have always encouraged me to follow my passions, although each had a different approach. My dad has always encouraged me to be professional and to follow through with life’s tasks. My mom's approach could be summarized as "work hard and play hard too!"
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I have a bachelor’s degree in music from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. I played and still play the drums.
WHAT ITEMS ARE CURRENTLY IN THE CENTER CONSOLE OR GLOVEBOX OF YOUR TRUCK OR CAR?
Cup of coffee, business cards, pruning shears, tie tape, and peanut butter dog treats.
CURRENTLY, WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO DRINK?
Arnold Palmer – heavy on the iced tea.
