Creating Approachable Wines in an Inviting Atmosphere
By Melissa Hutsell
Twisted Barrel Winery offers a new take on an old art. As one of the region’s newest wineries, the boutique winery is creating small lot, quality wines that specialize in Italian and Spanish varietals. The winery combines family, friendship and an open door policy to raise the bar and create an all-inclusive wine tasting experience for all to enjoy.
Twisted Barrel Winery officially opened its door to the public in 2014, but owners Mark Tanner, Verl Tanner, and Mike Salimbeni aren’t new to the winemaking industry. In 1990, the family and close friends (or “framily” as it’s now known) embarked on a hobby that quickly became their passion: perfecting wines that reflect their individual style and appeal to a broad range of palates. After nearly 25 years, the Tanner “framily” took the natural step to a commercial winery.
Mark Tanner, co-owner of Twister Barrel Winery, says that the venture is entirely family-focused, with each glass or bottle intended to be enjoyed with old and new friends. With each visit, visitors can get to know the wine-makers and owners themselves – something the Twisted Barrel family takes pride in. In addition to their wine club, Twisted Barrel provides opportunities for complimentary wine tasting celebrations, complete with “music, food, and fun,” promises Mark.
A visit to the tasting room will find that they hold true to their mission, and invite the community to experience their winemaking process. “We want people to see how our wine is made,” adds Mark, “Our goal is really to be a nice, small, winery that is family oriented, really open, and has a lot of personality.” He adds that drinkability and reasonably priced wines are key to their family, customers and tasting experience. “We are just trying to give the public somewhere they can come have fun in a great atmosphere,” says Mark. “Our goal to keep achieving that. Have a good time, make good wine, and meet new people.”
The winery’s name mirrors its mission to craft exclusive blends that are slightly twisted and adventurous while also staying true to traditional favorites such as Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Malbec, and Barbera, among others. “We like to live a little bit outside the box, a little different. We want to take a chance, and do something twisted,” adds Mark, who makes a commitment to innovation and a hands-on winemaking process.
Above all, the family and friends that make up Twisted Barrel Winery, aim for long-term consistency in their creations. “We strive to provide different types of wines that people don’t see everyday,” says Mark.
For More Information:
Twisted Barrel Winery
1376 E. Turner Rd., Lodi
(209) 334-2554
TwistedBarrel.net