Without a doubt, Northern California is the most acclaimed wine-growing region in the country, its viticulture on par with the likes of France, Italy, Spain, and Australia. California’s Napa Valley, more specifically, is the pinnacle of American viticulture. This nearly 800-square-mile expanse in Northern California is home to literally hundreds (and hundreds) of vineyards, and Napa Valley is celebrated as one of the best wine-growing regions and destinations in the world.
It's not just grapes that thrive in this region; Northern California's soil, temperature, and climate create an ideal place for hops -- and, by extension, craft breweries -- to grow. But why choose between these two very different, often polarizing, libations? California is, after all, a place of sunshine and positivity. This brings us to Woodbridge Uncorked, a brewery *and* winery in Northern California that's the perfect marriage of grapes and hops, featuring a tasting room and tap house boasting a robust array of craft brews and local wines, and most importantly, the "all are welcome" good vibes for which the Golden State is known.
Interested to learn about other unique American small businesses? Our Small Business Spotlight series highlights the often-overlooked work of small business owners across the country, from Maine to Southern California.
Beer... wine... why choose? Decisions can be polarizing. They can cause conflict and strife. Why can't we all just get along... together? At Woodbridge Uncorked, a delightful neighborhood tap and tasting room in Northern California, you'll find both local brews and wines on the menu, with that all-important side of California sunshine and positivity.
Woodbridge Uncorked has been a local wine and craft beer tasting room in Woodbridge, California, since 2012. The business has changed hands a few times since opening, but the commitment to serving the community has remained the same.
"The most recent owners, before our current owners, faced a very difficult decision of having to shut the doors permanently," explains Liana Roman, Woodbridge's Tasting Room Manager. "Between struggling to survive COVID and then a small electrical fire in our downstairs Speakeasy, the odds of keeping Woodbridge Uncorked open did not look good."
That's when Woodbridge Uncorked's current owners stepped in: two local couples, the Weisenbergs and the Brias, who frequented the local spot and were wholly invested in its continued success and presence in the community.
"They teamed up to purchase the bar and keep it open," explains Roman, "and we have been up and running under their ownership for two years now."
Under the new business owners, Woodbridge has managed to both continue the legacy started by its founders *and* steer the ship boldly into the future.
"We have created a space that offers quality products, sincere service, and a familiar environment that keeps our customers coming back," says Roman. "We have a space where even our staff like to come on their days off, to spend their time and enjoy a drink with their regulars."Co-owner Steve Bria enjoys taking the baton of such a successful business -- and running with it. A seasoned pro with nearly two decades of experience running another NorCal business, Bria says his favorite part of owning [Woodbridge Uncorked] is that the success of the business depends entirely on himself and the team he has hired and maintains.
Of course, Woodbridge's products certainly stand on their own. Here, beer enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of locally produced craft beers and IPAs.
The first Monday of the month is dedicated to this hoppin' libation, with "Tap Take Overs" attracting craft beer drinkers from across Northern California.
Wine is an equally essential part of the equation, of course.
Explains Roman, "We represent six local winemakers who do not have their own tasting room. In an area where there are over 90 winemakers/wineries, we are so proud to represent Michael Klouda Wines, Burlington Chandler Wines, Maley Brothers Vineyards, Hook or Crook Cellars, Grady Family Vineyards, and Hunter's Oak Vineyards, and give them all a chance to have their wines featured in town." Providing a platform for lesser-known and up-and-coming wineries is one of the many perks of being a small business proprietor. For co-owner Bob Weisenberg, it's the people -- customers, staff, and vendors -- that make coming to work such a pleasure.
In fact, Weisenberg is definitely a "jump in and help" kind of small business owner. In addition to working behind the bar on Monday nights, Bob can be found at Woodbridge Uncorked most days helping out the staff, taking care of things around the bar, and socializing with the regulars.
Because at the end of the day, it's all about the people. "Woodbridge Uncorked is a place where people can come out with friends, or even to pop by solo, knowing that there is always someone familiar in the crowd," says Roman.
She adds that Woodbridge Uncorked is affectionally called the "Cheers of Woodbridge and Lodi," which, if you ask us, is the highest praise and certainly the most compelling reason to seek out this delightful Northern California destination.
Many thanks to Bob Weisenberg, Steve Bria, and Liana Roman for sharing the story of this beloved taproom in Woodbridge, California. Learn more about Woodbridge Uncorked at its website, Facebook, and Instagram pages.
Of course, Woodbridge Uncorked is just one of many wonderful local businesses in Northern California; please nominate your favorite attractions and businesses for a chance to be featured in an upcoming Only In Northern California article. And be sure to follow Only In Northern California on Facebook and Instagram to learn about this region of the Golden State’s most incredible places, attractions, and events.
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