MEET OUR PEOPLE

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Susan Lambie

Ripken Vineyards & Winery / Owner, Winemaker & Grower

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HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING WINE?
I started making wine in 2008 in New Zealand. I returned home to assist as winemaker at my family’s winery, Ripken Vineyards & Winery, and it stuck. Now I’m the winemaker, owner, grower, treasurer, and everything in between!

HOW MANY ACRES DO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FARM AND WHICH VARIETIES DO YOU GROW?
We farm approximately 1,000 acres planted to more than 50 varieties – most of them obscure!

WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT OF FARMING WINEGRAPES?
Regulations and grape pricing. 

I FARM BECAUSE…
I was born into it. I love the day-to-day operations; the work hard to play hard sentiment. I enjoy sharing this life with my children and teaching them about farming. 

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU’D LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT LODI?
Two things: 1) We grow quality grapes; and 2) we have an outstanding community.

WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN YOUR CAREER?
My dad, the late Richard “Rip” Ripken. 

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU HAVE READ?
How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk. (We’re going through the terrible twos!)

WHAT CHORE DO YOU ABSOLUTELY HATE DOING?
Laundry.

Pictured: Susan Lambie and daughter, Ripley Rue