Fear the self-anointed

Recently, the Lodi-Woodbridge winegrowers implemented a certification program for its members. The idea being that certification of its Members who employ the organizations long proscribed cultural practices would provide added value to its members and their customers. While the commission has done much to improve the district's quality, image and presence in the marketplace, this latest effort is off-the-mark.

Unfortunately, it appears the members have forgotten the business their in. While some of the Members are producing their own wines and the certification will assist their respective marketing efforts. The bulk of the acreage, and the large proportion of the wine volume will only benefit if the program is mandatory and the winegrape buyers mandate compliance and reward the growers for their additional efforts.

The large proportion of the annual production is utilized in large volume brands with California appellation or Lodi if we are lucky. For a Gallo or Constellation is extract value from this certification on their label, they have to guarantee all of the wine in the bottle was produced under the certificates requirements. Given the complexities of blending, flavoring, sourcing and input cost considerations, the value proposition will be difficult to understand and may tie their hands rather than provide value.

The certification process does assist local growers who bottle their own wines and want to add value for their customers, differentiate their product and gain credibility with their consumers. Towards that end, the Commission is to be applauded. However, it appears this is an effort to use the power and weight of the group to the benefit of a few.

I would remind the Commission they have an obligation to the majority of their producers and every action should be measured by the value it will impart on the majority and the district. This is particularly true in view of the limited resources available and the multiple priorities already in place. Administering this kind of program will be time consuming and costly. The resources needed to administer the program no longer available to market the area.