Robert Smerling

Robert Smerling, the visionary behind Risk Wines, brings over 35 years of expertise in winemaking, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. Rooted in a passion for viticulture, he emphasizes small-lot fermentation and French oak aging to craft complex, elegant wines. As the founder of Cabana Winery and Risk Wines, Smerling has built a reputation for producing bold, expressive wines from premium California vineyards, particularly in Lodi and Napa Valley. His meticulous approach has earned critical acclaim, including 90+ point ratings and gold medals. Dedicated to quality and authenticity, Smerling continues to push the boundaries of handcrafted winemaking.

The Central Valley of California is a vast, fertile region stretching approximately 450 miles from north to south, encompassing some of the most productive agricultural land in the United States. Flanked by the Sierra Nevada to the east and the Coastal Ranges to the west, it enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it ideal for diverse crops, including wine grapes. The valley is divided into the Sacramento Valley in the north and the San Joaquin Valley in the south, with the Lodi AVA serving as a prominent wine-producing area, known for its old-vine Zinfandel and sustainable viticulture. While it is often overshadowed by Napa and Sonoma, the Central Valley plays a crucial role in California's wine industry, offering high-quality, affordable wines and a rapidly growing reputation for innovation and sustainability.