Marsh to oversee Lodi Visitor Center and Wine Club
The Lodi Winegrape Commission, which represents more than 750 winegrape growers and 85 wineries in the Lodi American Viticulture Area (AVA), announced today the appointment of Paul R. Marsh to Lodi Visitor Center manager and Wine Club director.
Marsh, a certified sommelier, joins the California winegrower association with an impressive track record spanning nearly two decades in the wine and beverage and retail sales spaces. Until 2018, Marsh owned and managed Mile Wine Company — a celebrated upscale wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Stockton’s Miracle Mile district. There, he managed all aspects of the business including income and expenditure, inventory, media and vendor relations, and food and beverage programming, as well as a hospitality staff of 15-20.
“We are delighted to have Paul join our team at the Lodi Winegrape Commission,” says Stuart Spencer, executive director. “His experience, professionalism, and passion for wine will be a great asset to the Lodi community. We look forward to Paul’s customer-centric approach in creating innovative wine programs for the Lodi Wine Visitor Center.”
At the Lodi Winegrape Commission,
Marsh will hold responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the visitor center — one of the industry’s original regional wine education and tasting centers. There, he will manage a 2,000 plus-bottle wine inventory of more than 100 brands and will continue to develop and refine tasting and bythe-glass programs. Marsh will also create guest and member experiences with intent to provide exceptional service and education and will be tasked with driving general sales as well as membership and sales for the 472-member Lodi Wine Club.
Preceding his role with Mile Wine Company, Marsh served as wine buyer, certified sommelier, and dining room manager for The Firehouse Restaurant in Old Sacramento for five years. In his multi-role position, Marsh oversaw a 25,000bottle, 2,700-selection wine program in addition to managing front of house staff and business operations. While there, Marsh co-created and launched the successful 2007 Firehouse No. 3 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley wine.
“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to put my experience and passion for education to work in my new role as manager and wine club director for the Lodi Wine Visitor Center,” Marsh said. “I’m looking forward to working with the Lodi community to create a space and programs they love.”
Marsh studied business management at Eastern Florida State College and has completed the certificate program in Winery & Vineyard Management from UC Davis as well as studies in viticulture, world wines, and sensory perception. Marsh is an active member of the community, currently serving as trustee of the Water Reclamation District No. 828, Weber Tract, San Joaquin County, and member of Rotary Club of Stockton. In his past, Marsh served as a member of the board for Miracle Mile Improvement District (MMID) in Stockton.