MEET OUR PEOPLE
Diego Olagaray
Olagaray Brothers & Twin Vines / Co-Owner & Grower
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY BEEN FARMING WINEGRAPES?
My father immigrated to the United States from Spain in 1951 and became involved in agriculture as a shepherd. Eventually, he was able to purchase his own flock of sheep and farmland. In addition to raising livestock, my family farmed wheat and corn. I’ve been farming for 42 years with my family, and I’ve been farming winegrapes since 1990 – more than 30 years.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU’D LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT LODI?
Lodi’s wine community is authentic and innovative. Most of our community are farmers with boots-on-the-ground experience who are involved in the everyday operation of their businesses. I strongly believe this fact sets us apart from our competition. We care deeply about the environment and are utilizing cutting-edge technology in our sustainable certification program, Lodi Rules – a program which continues to be adopted by winegrowers around the globe.
WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT OF FARMING GRAPES?
Mother Nature. Unpredictable weather conditions create the greatest risk for my grapes; it always keeps me on my toes!
WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MENTOR IN YOUR CAREER?
My father. He immigrated to this country to build a better life, and he did just that. But it required grit, hard work, and strategic thinking – each of which he made certain I learned as I grew up. I still follow these principles today, and they continue to assist me in everything I do.
IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE ANOTHER CAREER OR START OVER, WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
I would be an architect. Creativity, strategic planning, and resourcefulness are of the utmost importance to me.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOT OR SPOTS IN LODI?
While it’s on the outskirts of town, the California Delta is my favorite local spot in our community. In addition to these waterways being vital for my farming operations, they are the perfect place for recreational activities such as boating and cycling. For example, I organize a weekly gravel bike ride for my buddies and I on the levees. It’s always a fun time.
