Karen Birmingham is a renowned winemaker recognized for her expertise in crafting exceptional wines in California. With a deep passion for viticulture and oenology, Karen has spent over two decades honing her craft, focusing primarily on sustainable and organic farming practices. She began her career in the wine industry working at various esteemed wineries in California, where she developed her signature style of winemaking, which emphasizes balance, elegance, and the expression of the vineyard’s terroir.
Karen’s work gained significant attention when she joined LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards, where she became the head winemaker. Here, she was instrumental in developing a range of award-winning wines that showcase the unique qualities of the Lodi appellation. Her commitment to sustainability and innovation has made her a respected figure in the wine community. Today, Karen Birmingham continues to create wines that are celebrated for their quality and character, earning her a loyal following among wine enthusiasts and critics alike.
When we are using a red one we use Karen’s Birmingham’s Lodi Zinfandel as it is a stellar representation of the richness and depth that Lodi wines are known for. This Zinfandel greets you with an inviting bouquet of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and subtle notes of spice and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with a perfect balance of fruit and spice. The lush flavors of blackberry and plum are complemented by hints of black pepper, chocolate, and a touch of oak, giving it a layered complexity that makes each sip more enjoyable than the last.
The tannins are smooth and well-integrated, providing a velvety mouthfeel that lingers beautifully. What sets this Zinfandel apart is its impeccable balance—neither too jammy nor too tannic—making it incredibly versatile, whether paired with food or enjoyed on its own. Karen Birmingham’s attention to detail and commitment to quality shine through in this wine, making it a standout choice for any Zinfandel lover. Overall, this Lodi Zinfandel is both approachable and sophisticated, offering excellent value for its price.
We only discovered Karen Birmingham’s Lodi Sangiovese Rosé this year as it was gifted to us by Naked Wines. It is a delightful expression of elegance and refreshment, capturing the vibrant essence of Sangiovese in a beautifully crafted rosé. The wine pours a delicate, pale pink hue, hinting at the freshness that awaits. On the nose, it offers an inviting bouquet of strawberries, watermelon, and a touch of citrus zest, all harmoniously blended with subtle floral notes.
The palate is light and crisp, yet full of flavor, with ripe red berries, hints of peach, and a refreshing acidity that makes it wonderfully balanced and easy to drink. What stands out in this rosé is its clean finish, leaving a lingering impression of fresh fruit and a slight mineral edge. It’s a versatile wine, perfect for sipping on a warm day or pairing with a variety of dishes, from light salads to seafood.
Karen Birmingham’s attention to detail is evident in this Sangiovese Rosé, making it a standout in the category. It offers an excellent balance of fruitiness and acidity, ensuring that each glass is as enjoyable as the last. This wine is a perfect choice for those seeking a rosé that combines finesse with a touch of vibrant character.
For white wine, we always go with Karen Birmingham’s California Pinot Grigio, a refreshing and vibrant wine that perfectly captures the essence of this popular varietal. It pours a bright, pale straw color, setting the stage for a crisp and lively experience. On the nose, the wine offers a delightful mix of citrus notes—lemon and lime—accompanied by green apple and subtle hints of pear. There’s also a touch of floral aroma, adding a layer of elegance to the bouquet.
This Pinot Grigio is light-bodied and beautifully balanced on the palate, with a clean and zesty profile. The citrus flavors take center stage, complemented by a refreshing minerality that adds depth and complexity. The acidity is perfectly tuned, giving the wine a crisp, invigorating finish that lingers pleasantly. This wine is versatile and food-friendly, making it an excellent choice for pairing with seafood, light pasta dishes, or simply enjoying on its own on a warm day.
Karen Birmingham has crafted a Pinot Grigio that is both approachable and sophisticated, making it an excellent addition to any white wine lover’s collection. Its bright, fresh character and well-rounded profile make it a standout among California Pinot Grigios.
Karen Birmingham is available through Naked Wines, a unique online wine retailer that connects customers directly with independent winemakers, offering a subscription model that allows members, known as “Angels,” to support small producers in exchange for exclusive access to high-quality wines at affordable prices. Founded in the UK in 2008, Naked Wines was created to disrupt the traditional wine distribution model by eliminating middlemen, enabling winemakers to focus on their craft while customers enjoy curated selections tailored to their preferences.
The company operates on a crowdfunding principle, where members’ monthly contributions are used to fund winemakers upfront, giving them the financial stability to create exceptional wines. This approach has garnered a loyal following, with Angels benefiting from insider pricing and the satisfaction of supporting artisanal winemaking. Naked Wines has expanded its reach to the United States and Australia, growing its winemakers and wine lovers community. It is celebrated for its innovative model, commitment to quality, and fostering a personal connection between winemakers and consumers.
Discover Karen Birmingham’s world of exceptional, handcrafted wines with Naked Wines! Join a community that supports talented, independent winemakers from around the globe, allowing them to focus on what they do best—creating delicious, unique wines just for you. As a member, you’ll enjoy insider access to exclusive selections at unbeatable prices, all delivered straight to your door. And now, for a limited time, you can elevate your wine experience with $100 off your first case. There’s never been a better time to uncork something new and exciting. Cheers to great taste and supporting passionate artisans!
