Alum Uses Oak as a Key Ingredient to Revolutionize Wine Production

David Llodra ’01, Ph.D. ’13, grew up in Valencia, Spain, a European city renowned for its fresh food and local wines. It was in this vibrant setting that Llodra discovered his passion for winemaking, leading him on a transformative journey across the globe to pursue his dreams.

While working in the food industry in Valencia, Llodra encountered a vintner who pointed him towards UC Davis for a winemaking education. This encounter marked a turning point in Llodra’s life, prompting him to move to California in his early 30s to embark on a second career that he knew would shape his future.

Combining his expertise in winemaking, chemistry, and agricultural engineering, Llodra has made significant contributions to the wine and spirits industry. His innovative approaches to utilizing oak have set new benchmarks globally, revolutionizing the market with unconventional methods that have garnered widespread acclaim.

Currently serving as the Director of Research and Development at Independent Stave Company, Llodra maintains a strong connection with UC Davis. His employer frequently donates French and American oak barrels to the university for educational and research purposes, underscoring his commitment to giving back to the institution that played a pivotal role in his professional journey.

Llodra’s impact on the industry has been profound, with colleagues describing him as a “driving force” in reshaping the utilization of oak in winemaking. His advancements have enabled a more precise and reproducible approach to enhancing wine flavors, akin to using oak as a versatile spice rack to elevate and complement wine profiles effectively.

Under the mentorship of UC Davis Professor David Block and sensory chemist Ann C. Noble, Llodra honed his skills and pursued a Ph.D. program focused on oak research. Their guidance and support were instrumental in shaping his career trajectory, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the power of education and mentorship in fostering professional growth.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Llodra actively engages with UC Davis students as a guest lecturer, sharing his wealth of knowledge and industry insights. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of winemakers underscores his belief in the transformative potential of education and mentorship in shaping future industry leaders.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Llodra’s love for his family shines through as a central pillar of his life. A devoted husband and father of three, he cherishes the time spent with his loved ones, finding solace and joy in their company amidst life’s challenges. Despite facing personal health struggles, Llodra remains resilient, prioritizing quality time with his family and savoring life’s simple pleasures, such as exploring new destinations and savoring local wines with loved ones.

As he continues to push the boundaries of winemaking innovation and sustainability, Llodra’s unwavering dedication to his craft, commitment to education, and profound love for his family serve as a testament to his enduring legacy in the wine industry and beyond.