Lodi, CA, March 21, 2021 – The Lodi Winegrape Commission, which represents more than 750 winegrape growers and 85 wineries in the Lodi American Viticulture Area (AVA), announced today the appointment of Paul R. Marsh to Lodi Visitor Center Manager and Wine Club Director.
Marsh, a certified sommelier, joins the California winegrower association with an impressive track record spanning nearly two decades in the wine and beverage and retail sales spaces. Until 2018, Marsh owned and managed Mile Wine Company – a celebrated upscale wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Stockton’s “Miracle Mile” district. There, he managed all aspects of the business including income and expenditure, inventory, media and vendor relations, and food and beverage programming, as well as a hospitality staff of 15-20.
Marsh’s key accomplishments stretch from optimizing profits to securing ongoing recognition of businesses managed including awards for #1 Wine Bar in San Joaquin County – Mile Wine Company (Stockton Record, 2015), “Best Of” – Mile Wine Company (Stockton Record, 2015-2017), The Best of San Joaquin Magazine – Mile Wine Company (2015 and 2016), Unique Distinction – The Firehouse Restaurant (Wine Enthusiast), Best of Grand – The Firehouse Restaurant (Wine Spectator, four years), and Best of California Wine List – The Firehouse Restaurant (California Restaurant Association).
“We are delighted to have Paul join our team at the Lodi Winegrape Commission,” says Stuart Spencer, Executive Director. “His experience, professionalism, and passion for wine will be a great asset to the Lodi community. We look forward to Paul’s customer-centric approach in creating innovative wine programs for the Lodi Wine Visitor Center.”
At the Lodi Winegrape Commission, Marsh will hold responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the Lodi Wine Visitor Center – one of the industry’s original regional wine education and tasting centers. There, he will manage a 2,000 plus-bottle wine inventory of more than 100 brands and will continue to develop and refine tasting and by-the-glass programs. Marsh will also create guest and member experiences with intent to provide exceptional service and education and will be tasked with driving general sales as well as membership and sales for the 472-member Lodi Wine Club.
Preceding his role with Mile Wine Company, Marsh served as wine buyer, certified sommelier, and dining room manager for The Firehouse Restaurant in Old Sacramento for five years. In his multi-role position, Marsh oversaw a 25,000-bottle, 2,700-selection wine program in addition to managing front of house staff and business operations. There, his efforts drove average wine profits up to $650,000, +$255,000 prior to his employment. While there, Marsh co-created and launched the successful 2007 Firehouse No. 3 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley wine.
“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to put my experience and passion for education to work in my new role as manager and wine club director for the Lodi Wine Visitor Center,” states Marsh. “I’m looking forward to working with the Lodi community to create a space and programs they love.”
Marsh studied Business Management at Eastern Florida State College and has completed the Certificate Program in Winery & Vineyard Management from UC Davis as well as studies in viticulture, world wines, and sensory perception. Marsh is an active member of the community, currently serving as trustee of the Water Reclamation District No. 828, Weber Tract, San Joaquin County, and member of Rotary Club of Stockton. In his past, Marsh served as a member of the board for Miracle Mile Improvement District (MMID), Stockton.
For additional information, please contact Katie Calhoun at Calhoun & Company Communications at 415-346-2929 or katie@calhounwine.com.
About the Lodi Winegrape Commission
Established in 1991, the Lodi Winegrape Commission represents the common interests of Lodi winegrowers with programs in marketing, education, research, and sustainable viticulture. The Commission collectively and effectively promotes Lodi’s vibrant, multi-generational farming community and California’s most dynamic wine region. Comprised of nine commissioners and nine alternates, the board of directors provides direction and input on behalf of the region’s 750 winegrowers. For more information about the Lodi Winegrape Commission, visit lodigrowers.com.
About the Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA)
A historic winegrowing region since the 1850s, Lodi is perfectly situated 40 miles south of Sacramento and 90 miles east of San Francisco. Lodi’s Mediterranean climate and distinct soils allow its growers to cultivate 125 winegrape varieties, making Lodi the most diverse winegrowing region in the United States. The region also serves as home to 85 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.
Lodi is naturally a leader in sustainable viticulture. Created by California farmers and accredited by world-renowned scientists, LODI RULES is America’s original sustainable winegrowing program. Held to a high standard of scientific rigor and excellence, the program emphasizes environmentally and socially responsible practices, while keeping economic feasibility in mind for long-term business success. Today, there are more than 51,000 acres certified throughout California and Israel. For more information about the Lodi AVA or LODI RULES, visit lodiwine.com and lodirules.org.
