MEET OUR PEOPLE

Heather Panella

Oak Farm Vineyards / Owner & General Manager

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN FARMING?
We have been farming winegrapes since 2004. My family farmed almonds and I grew up helping them farm.

HOW MANY ACRES DO YOU FARM AND WHAT VARIETIES DO YOU GROW?
We farm 80 acres planted to Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño, Fiano, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Sangiovese, Barbera, Zinfandel, Primitivo, Cabernet Franc, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.

WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
Wearing so many hats. I am a person who enjoys staying busy, so I enjoy the challenge.

WHAT IS ONE ASPECT OF YOUR CAREER WHICH MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE?
I have a degree in Landscape Architecture and Ornamental Horticulture.

HOW HAS THE LODI WINE REGION CHANGED OVER THE YEARS OR SINCE YOU’VE BEEN HERE?
I started spending time in Lodi in 2013. From then to now, the dynamic has shifted positively with regards to growth; new companies have come along and many wineries are thriving now. It’s rewarding to hear and see that Lodi is being recognized as a destination by people I meet while traveling.