We are happy to announce our recipient for the 2019 Vineyard Worker of the Year Award. This award spotlights a vineyard or cellar team member who has contributed the most to helping their team harvest and/or produce exceptional Paso Robles wine.

Applause for this year’s winner- Felipe of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines!

Felipe Meraz has been a full-time employee at J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines since March 1989. Although starting as one of the field crew, Felipe quickly demonstrated his prowess at managing various vineyard equipment along with directing his fellow employees. Felipe now manages multiple crews along with all of the special projects.

Felipe unintentionally makes everyone he works with better at what they do. He leads by example with his diligence, attention to detail, work ethic, but most importantly his positive attitude. His 30+ years of vineyard experience shows up every day because he pays attention to scenarios and learns from them. He is well respected by all of his coworkers and it shows in the way they seek his guidance and follow his lead.

“Even though I am his manager, I have learned many valuable lessons from him within the work setting and out,” said John Pierini, Vineyard Manager, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines. “He takes on all of the jobs that require the greatest responsibility because of the high risk involved. He works safely and demands the same from his tractor operator crews, which leads to fewer accidents and a safe, confident work environment.”

Congratulations again to Felipe Meraz on earning the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance 2019 Vineyard Worker of the Year Award!