MEET OUR PEOPLE

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Jason Mikami

Mikami Vineyards / Owner, Grower & Winemaker

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HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN FARMING? HOW MANY YEARS HAS YOUR FAMILY BEEN FARMING?
120+ years. I am a third-generation grower. My grandfather started farming here in Lodi shortly after coming to the United States in 1896.

I FARM BECAUSE...
It honors my father and grandfather who toiled in the vineyards for many years. My father single-handedly managed our 15 acres, taking care of all aspects (pruning, irrigation, fi eldwork, etc.) before passing on in 2005. Unfortunately, he never saw the release of our wines, but we continue to honor him with our efforts in the vineyard.

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING WINE?
13 years. Our inaugural vintage was 2008.

FARMING IN LODI IS…
Tradition, camaraderie, family, and hard work.

WHAT IS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ?
Moonwalking with Einstein. It is a fascinating look at memory competitions and helped me memorize all of the US Presidents.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOT OR SPOTS IN LODI?
Dumpling House – a hole in the wall takeout for delicious dumplings!

IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE ANOTHER CAREER OR START OVER, WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
An NBA basketball player.