Oak Ridge Winery, the oldest continuously operating winery in California’s Lodi winegrowing region, announces the debut of East Side Crossing. The East Side Crossing collection features two estate-grown wines, East Side Crossing 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon and East Side Crossing 2023 Sauvignon Blanc. Both are Certified Green under the LODI RULES Sustainable Winegrowing Program.
Oak Ridge Winery was established in 2002 by third-generation winegrower Rudy Maggio. It was founded on the site of one of Lodi’s historic old wine cooperatives, . The original facility, built in 1934 on the east side of Lodi, was named East-Side Winery. Specializing in bulk wines, fortified wines, and brandy, it reflected the industrial nature of early wineries. Today, the facility still stands at railroad crossing #842837B, with vibrant graffiti contrasting the steel trains and concrete building.
“East Side Crossing is a love letter to the history of Oak Ridge Winery and Lodi,” said Emily Styron, Director of Marketing at Oak Ridge Winery. The brand blends black and white photography with bright, custom graffiti art by local artist Gabriel Lopez, aka GsUltimatic. This mix of styles represents the past, present, and future, capturing the winery’s eclectic blend of history and innovation.
True Lodi Character
The wines themselves reflect a sense of place and authenticity, showcasing the true, approachable character of Lodi. Sourced from the estate vineyards of the Maggio family, these wines present a food-friendly profile with an elevated sophistication. Laura Durham, Chief Winemaker at Oak Ridge Winery, expressed pride in the wines, stating, “Our wines always over-deliver for the price point, and these are no exception. We are so proud to present these varietals that are approachable yet complex, and be part of changing the narrative about wines that come out of Lodi.”
East Side Crossing will be available nationwide beginning June 2024. East Side Crossing 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi, has an ABV at 14.5% and an SRP of $19.99. This wine features a deep ruby color with a purplish edge, black currant, and delicate bramble notes. Sweet cedar and warm baking spice lift the intense boysenberry fruit, balanced with bright acidity and velvety tannins. East Side Crossing 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Lodi has an ABV at 13.0% ABV and SRP of $17.99. Jasmine, white peach, and citrus notes give way to subtle hints of pie crust and spiced whipped cream. It has a rounded, creamy palate weight supported by refreshing acidity and a medium finish.
Honoring Heritage and Place
Originally built in 1934, Oak Ridge Winery operated for many years as a winemaking cooperative named East-Side Winery. In 2002, Rudy Maggio, a third-generation winegrower, purchased the facility to expand his family’s long history of grape growing by producing quality wines. The Maggio family transformed it into a modern winery capable of meeting the quality, style, and volume demands of an evolving marketplace. Rudy’s three daughters, each winegrowers, now oversee operations at Oak Ridge Winery. Their 2,500 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards in the Lodi appellation serve as the foundation for a portfolio of recognizable brands. These include OZV Zinfandel, Old Soul, Maggio Family Vineyards, and Moss Roxx. For more information, visit oakridgewinery.com.
