Team

President

Allen Lombardi

An ambitious and fearless leader, Allen boldly moved the Lombardis from New Jersey to California to pursue their dream of a family wine business. Now, he’s the new Italian in Lodi, charting his own course.

Head Winemaker

Noel Basso

A California native, Noel has nearly two decades of experience with grape varietals and oak character, working for both large and small wineries. A magician or perfectionist when it comes to blending, aging and fining? We say both!

Director of Sales & Marketing

Marc Lohnes

For 40 years, Marc has been making it rain in the wine and spirits world. When it comes to distributors and retailers, he knows them well, and has a story on just about everyone to share.

Director of Operations

Amy Aguilera

Amy had her career calling in high school when her eyes were opened to agriculture’s endless impacts on our world. Now, she’s making her own contributions to the industry, ensuring the complicated logistics of running a winery look smooth.  

Director of Marketing

Elizabeth Cornelius

Building consumer brands with meaningful, engaging content is what drives Elizabeth. From PR to POS, she’s the brand cheerleader who never shies away from pursuing a big idea. 

National Sales Manager

John White

John is well versed in wine sales, having spent time on both the distributorship and producer sides. He’s fair and honest and knows the rules. And in his spare time, he uses these same skills to referee high school basketball games.

International Sales Manager

Steve Merritt

Between his time in the Air Force and time selling wine internationally, Steve has some impressive mileage logged, and even more impressive lessons on international trade and regional cuisine.

Sales Manager

AJ Lombardi

AJ has grown up around entrepreneurialism, critical analysis and Lombardi stamina. He brings these skills plus on-the-floor wine production experience to the Hook Or Crook family.