Julie LePla Winery opened in 2006. The name is derived from Julie’s first and middle names, family names from Julie and Harry LePla, her grandparents.
And Red Bud Ranch? One spring afternoon soon after Julie moved to the property, her
mom, Alice Spear, was visiting and told her about the beautiful tree blooming down the lane. It was Julie’s first introduction to the California Red Bud. Now they dot the ranch and provide magnificent color each
Spring.
Always looking for a new challenge, the vineyard and winery are the latest in a list of professions for Julie which include nursing and information services consulting. When plans for the vineyard were finalized in 2003, friends and family helped lay out the rows and plant the vines. Additional vines were added in 2005.
From the pruning in winter, to pest and disease control, thinning, canopy management and irrigation during the growing season, Julie tends the vines personally. Family and friends pitch in to help because, in spite of the hard work of farming, everyone enjoys the satisfaction of seeing those beautiful grapes develop.
Winemaking classes at UC Davis have unlocked some, but not all mysteries of
wine-making for Julie. Like many winemakers, she has come to realize that there
are keys to success. First, Julie-the-winemaker depends on Julie-the-grower to
produce high quality grapes.
Second, one can’t underestimate the importance of sanitation–not exactly the romantic thought that comes to mind when you experience a good wine.
Third, just like any other profession, when one has questions, having good resources to go to
for answers is essential.
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