09/04/2026
LVVR Sparking Cellars and the San Joaquin County Historical Museum are proud to announce the completion of the inaugural vintage of “Legacy” sparkling Flame Tokay w**e.
In 1922, William G. Micke planted 400 acres of Flame Tokay vines south of Lodi along Armstrong Road. A farmer and philanthropist, Micke helped establish Lodi as the “Tokay Capital of the World” and championed the grapes that built the region. His vineyards, later donated for public use, formed the foundation of San Joaquin County’s Regional Park system. Today, ninety-one remaining vines constitute the historic William G. Micke Vineyard. Under the care of the San Joaquin County Historical Society & Museum, the vineyard is a living monument to the legacy of the Flame Tokay grape, of Lodi, and of Mr. Micke himself.
In 2025, LVVR Sparkling Cellars and the San Joaquin County Historical Museum partnered together to produce the first vintage from the Certified Historic William G. Micke Vineyard. The label, created by local graphic designer Joshua Norris, evokes the artistic tradition of the intricate, eye-catching fruit crate labels which advertised Lodi far and wide during the golden age of the Flame Tokay. In every way, this w**e is history in a bottle.
This first vintage of “Legacy” celebrates the unique characteristics of the Flame Tokay grape, offering a subtle and sophisticated experience that blends traditional flavors with modern expression – a reminder that legends never die, they’re simply reborn.
Beginning September 12, “Legacy” will be available for purchase at the LVVR Sparkling Cellars tasting room, located at 17036 North Locust Tree Road in Lodi. Quantities are extremely limited. For more information, call (209) 727-6062 or visit
www.emdw**emaking.com.