Cycles Gladiator - now the oldest winery in Lodi
Wondering where the name and label comes from? Well, it’s actually a tribute to the free spirited era of 1890’s France. Bicycles were in serious fashion and the French, never ashamed of their women or their bodies were quick to fashion this art form. First painted by G. Massais, these “nymphs on bikes” were soon the rage in France and posters depicting them were everywhere. And they sold a lot of bicycles not just in France, but throughout the world. In fact these posters of “nymphs on bikes” helped spurn the bicycle revolution. Bicycles were actually considered the first democratic mode of transportation.
But what do they have to do with wine? Well, the Hahn family loves the freedom and beauty they represent and believes they really capture the essence of their classic wines. The new Cycles Gladiator winery is also rooted in history. It’s deep in California’s Delta region in the famed Lodi appellation and is also the oldest continually operating winery in Lodi. We are excited to represent Cycles Gladiator as it enters a new chapter in its history "riding" strongly into the future.
The Mediterranean like climate is perfect for growing the Cabernet, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah grapes that have put the region on the "wine map" as a region worth watching because of its value. Winemaker Juan Jose Verdina Busch has experience with big, inky reds from his native Chile. First coming to Hahn Winery in 2002, Juan Jose's energy and talent led first to his promotion to enologist and then to head winemaker for Copa Del Rey, a line of Chilean wines imported by Hahn. In 2011, he became winemaker and head of operations for Cycles Gladiator Winery in Lodi. During his time off, he enjoys playing soccer, mountain biking, and extreme sports.
