winemakers

Husband and wife team, Tim and Lani Holdener, who started the operation in the Lodi Appellation more than several years ago, have scoured California's premium vineyards to find the best grapes for over seven Zinfandels bottled and a handful of promising Italian varietals offered by Macchia.

It is a tried and true strategy for making exceptional wines that Tim Holdener says is at the heart of his winemaking philosophy.

"Winemaking technology has improved dramatically in the last two decades," Holdener explained. "But it is still the quality of the fruit you start with that ultimately determines how good your wine will turn out." We are passionate about our vineyards, "Remember, it's all about the grape!"

Well aware of the potential for quality that was long ignored by many winemakers outside of the Lodi area, the Holdeners make a variety of different Zins, each sporting its own distinctive qualities.

In addition, Macchia offers such favorite Italian varietals as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Barbera - which have been turning the heads of a growing contingent of fanciers over several years; prices range from $18 to $38, which appeals to many who are just discovering the value of Lodi wines.

"For what you're getting, this is really a tremendous value," said Sacramento's Jerry Baker, a recent first time visitor to Macchia who said he was highly impressed with the value embodied by the winery's offerings.  "This Zin would cost $75 if it was made in the Russian River Valley," said Baker, holding up one of his purchases, a Linsteadt Vineyard Zinfandel ($26).

Tim Holdener, who spent more than a decade as an amateur winemaker, was mentioned by vintner Gordon Binz of Villa Toscano. He said that knowledge had been instrumental in allowing him to step up the quality of his product and became a professional. You never know where your passion may lead you!

This passion has been drawing growing crowds to Macchia. Commonly attracting as many as 100 visitors on a typical weekend, according to Lani Holdener, adding the winery has been working to streamline its checkout process, particularly at large tasting events.

Aficionados of Macchia's offerings can join the winery's "Club Red" to receive deep discounts on quarterly shipments, reorders, case shipments, club specials, and anything in the tasting room. Members also get the opportunity of purchasing Library and Award-Winning wines which can be found nowhere else.

Despite the long hours and hard work that come along with the romance of the wine business, the Holdeners say the venture remains a labor of love - and many fanciers say it shows in the wine.

"Even if we had won the lottery, we would still be making wine," says Tim Holdener. "This is something we would be doing whether we got paid or not."