One of the historic vineyards located in Lodi has recently been awarded a prestigious accolade from the California State Fair. Marian’s Vineyard, a part of Mohr-Fry Ranches, has been recognized as the 2025 Vineyard of the Year by the State Fair Wine Industry Task Force. This acknowledgment celebrates the vineyard’s significant contributions to the wine industry.
Established in 1901, Marian’s Vineyard spans 8.3 acres of Zinfandel grapes. The vineyard is part of a larger 225-acre farm owned by the Mohr-Fry family, situated west of West Lane between Harney Lane and Armstrong Road. Originally named West Lane Ranch, the property included Zinfandel, Flame Tokay, Alicante Bouschet, and Palomino grapes, as well as almond and cherry trees, when purchased by the Mohr-Fry family in 1965. The vineyard was later renamed to honor a family matriarch, and more than 90% of its vines are those planted initially in 1901.
In the 1990s, the vineyard’s old vine Zinfandel was brought into the spotlight when St. Amant Winery founder Tim Spencer collaborated with the Mohr-Fry family, leading to the winery’s 2001 Marian’s Vineyard varietal being named Best Zinfandel in California at the State Fair. Currently, St. Amant Winery bottles Marian’s Vineyard Zinfandel as a “Reserve” wine, and the grapes are also utilized by Monte Rio Cellars in Sonoma County.
Marian’s Vineyard becomes the second vineyard in Lodi to receive such honors from the State Fair, following Bechthold Vineyard, which was planted in 1886. The formal presentation of the “Vineyard of the Year” award will take place on April 16 during the California State Fair Wine Judges Dinner at the Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg.
The Tangible Impact
This recognition of Marian’s Vineyard underscores the enduring legacy and quality of old vine Zinfandels, especially amid the current uncertainties within the wine industry. For the Mohr-Fry family, this award not only highlights their dedication to maintaining heritage vines but also reinforces the vineyard’s role in producing exceptional wines that stand the test of time.
For wine enthusiasts and consumers, the accolade brings attention to the unique offerings of Marian’s Vineyard, potentially increasing interest and demand for wines originating from this historic site. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving and celebrating traditional viticulture practices that contribute to the rich diversity of the California wine landscape.