In his lifetime, John Kautz has made a commitment to involvement and quality, pouring himself into everything that he...
THE KAUTZ FAMILY
Meet the members of the fourth-generation family of growers.
OUR HISTORY
Explore the humble beginnings for what has now become California’s largest winery entertainment complex
FAMILY OF BRANDS
Discover our collection of well-crafted, California wine.
The Kautz Family
A Fourth-Generation Family of Growers
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Gail Kautz, born and raised in Oakland, California attended Anna Heads School in Berkeley before moving to Columbia, Missouri...
Stephen Kautz, the oldest of John & Gail’s four children is a third generation California farmer. Growing up in...
Growing up, Kurt Kautz and his siblings were encouraged to learn all aspects of the family farming business. Kurt...
Since 1993, Joan has held the position of Vice President of International Operations for the family’s wine portfolio. Equipped...
Jack Kautz has been actively involved with operations at the farm since he was very young. He started working...
Steve Millier has been involved in the wine industry for over 30 years. In 1975, Steve graduated from California...
Historical Timeline
And So It Begins
Starting in Nebraska in 1915 and later moving into Colorado, John Kautz’ German-born parents, Fred and Marie, topped sugar beets by lantern “because there wasn’t enough daylight” and slept in mud huts. Eventually settling in Lodi, CA, the Kautz family began farming there in 1926.
Small Steps, Big Vision
John Kautz is named “National Outstanding Young Farmer” at the age of 35. During that time he has established John Kautz Farms for the purpose of growing vegetables. “We’re really just dirt farmers,” recalls John. “We’re farmers, and when you grow a crop, you’d better get into the program all the way.”
The Sky's the Limit
John Kautz establishes Bear Creek Winery and the family’s first wine grapes are planted in 1968, in the Lodi area. Over the next 20 years the family vineyards will expand to the current holding of 5000 acres.
Building on a Foundation
The development and building of Ironstone Vineyards begins. Ten thousand square feet of underground caves are blasted from solid rock.
Dreams Realized
The building of the winery is completed and the Tasting Room is opened. Ironstone Vineyards is officially on the map.
