“It is an honor to recognize J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines and Jeff Bitter for their outstanding contributions to California’s winegrape industry,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “Both have a long history of investment in California winegrape growing and engagement across the broader industry. They lead by example, bring tremendous experience to the table, and have demonstrated a deep commitment to the long-term strength of our industry.”

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines will receive CAWG’s Grower of the Year Award, recognizing the company’s leadership in winegrowing, sustainability, and innovation. Founded by Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr has grown into a multigenerational, family-owned and operated winegrowing business, with vineyards in Paso Robles, Arroyo Seco in Monterey County, and St. Helena in Napa Valley. Today, Jerry’s children, Steve, Cynthia, and Lawrence, are actively involved in the ownership and daily operations of the vineyards and winery.

“The Lohr family are thoughtful leaders who continually put California first,” Collins said. “They have spent decades investing not only in their own vineyards and wines, but in the future of California agriculture. Their approach to sustainability, innovation and industry involvement reflects the kind of leadership that has made a lasting impact on California winegrowing.”

Jeff Bitter will receive CAWG’s Leader of the Year Award, recognizing his leadership and advocacy on behalf of California winegrape growers. A grower himself and president of Allied Grape Growers, Bitter is one of the industry’s most recognizable voices and a longtime partner to CAWG. He previously served on CAWG’s board of directors and has joined the association in advocacy efforts in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. He also encourages his team at Allied to be actively engaged in the issues affecting growers.

“Jeff is someone whose opinion I trust and respect, particularly when our industry is facing difficult issues,” Collins said. “He is thoughtful, candid and always willing to engage, and his commitment to growers goes far beyond his role at Allied. He genuinely cares about the future of this industry and is willing to put in the time and work to make it stronger.”

CAWG will honor both recipients at its Awards of Excellence Reception on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2027, at 6 p.m. during the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium. The reception will immediately follow the welcome reception at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Sacramento and is open to all attendees. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Mindy DeRohan for more information.