AJ Wiechmann: Trucker, Pilot, Wine Talk
In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we feature two compelling conversations highlighting innovation in both viticulture and ag logistics. First, we sit down with two third-generation Sonoma farmers from the renowned Sangiacomo family, who have been growing premium wine grapes since 1969. Their commitment to quality and sustainability shines through in every bottle of Sangiacomo Wines, known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown across 1,600 acres and 15 distinct vineyards in California’s wine country. Their story blends heritage farming, vineyard management, and a deep respect for terroir and regional expression.
Next, we shift gears—literally—with a unique mid-flight conversation featuring AJ Wiechmann, a successful trucking company owner and skilled pilot. From the cockpit, AJ shares insights into running a modern ag transportation business, balancing life on the road and in the air. Whether you're passionate about winemaking, ag entrepreneurship, or just love a good story from a plane, this episode delivers fresh perspectives from both the ground and the sky.
Wine Growers Bios
Steve Sangiacomo is a third-generation partner at Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, located in Sonoma, California
where his family has farmed since 1927. He grew up on the ranch and began learning the ropes from his father and
extended family at a young age. As far back as he can remember, he clamored to tag along with his father and
uncles during early morning frost protection after which he enjoyed a special treat — doughnuts. He took to the
fields early and recalls jumping off a tractor to race to seventh-grade orientation. In his early 20s, he began
learning the family business from the ground up and in his 30s he and his brother Mike took over the reins.
Mike Sangiacomo is a third-generation partner at Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, located in Sonoma, California,
where his family has farmed since 1927. He has lived and breathed agriculture from the day he was born. His
grandfather taught him how to prune fruit trees from the ground up when he was eight years old and was too
short to climb the ladder. Later he was thrilled when, at age 12, his uncle Buck let him drive the fork lift during
harvest. Shortly thereafter he began assisting at the inspection station for pears as they were sorted for the
canneries. When the family business transitioned from orchards to vineyards he began learning the intricacies of
grapegrowing and has never looked back.
About Sangiacomo Wines:
Farming is in our blood. As third-generation farmers in Sonoma, we’ve upheld our family’s tradition of growing
premium grapes since planting our first vines in 1969. Our Sangiacomo wines reflect our passion for the region,
focusing on complexity, freshness, and terroir. We farm over 1600 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay across 15
vineyards in four AVAs: Carneros, Sonoma Coast, Petaluma Gap, and Sonoma Valley, with additional Cabernet
Sauvignon in Oakville, Napa Valley. Each vineyard block is farmed with an artisanal approach, highlighting the
unique microclimates and soil diversity of our land.
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