Karl Antink

Karl Antink

Assistant Winemaker
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

As the assistant winemaker for J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Karl Antink combines a commitment to the hands-on approach that defines great winemaking, with a comprehensive understanding of viticulture and fermentation science.

Raised in Pleasant Hill, California, Karl’s road to becoming a winemaker grew from a simple interest in home beer brewing. In 1993, after graduating from the U.C. Davis Master Brewers Extension Program, Karl decided to combine his passion for the art of fermentation with his growing love of wine. After pursuing additional studies at Diablo Valley College, Karl earned a degree in fermentation science from U.C. Davis.

In 1997, Karl began his career in the wine industry as the enologist for St. Helena’s Folie à Deux, where he worked with an array of varietals, and in January of 1999, was promoted to assistant winemaker. In this role, Karl supervised all of the winery’s day-to-day operations. Following his time at Folie à Deux, Karl was named winemaker for the family-owned Von Strasser Winery in Calistoga. As Von Strasser’s winemaker for the next five years, Karl guided production of the winery’s esteemed portfolio of premium wines, while managing both the vineyard and winery crews.

Eager to pursue new challenges, Karl joined J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines as assistant winemaker in 2006. Working alongside Senior Vice President of Winemaking Jeff Meier, Karl focuses on the winery’s white wine portfolio, and actively contributes to every aspect of the winemaking process from vineyard development through final blending. According to Jeff, “Karl is a perfect fit. He is a talented winemaker and a confident decision maker who understands J. Lohr’s quality focus, and believes in the small details that lead to excellence.”