Appellation, a new hospitality brand focused on culinary experiences, has launched its first operational hotel with the transformation of Wine & Roses in Lodi, California. Appellation Lodi – Wine & Roses Resort and Spa officially opened in late June, following a phased renovation of the 66-key boutique property.
The brand represents a partnership between operating owners Russ and Kathryn Munson and Appellation, the culinary-first hospitality company co-founded by chef Charlie Palmer and luxury hospitality veteran Christopher Hunsberger. Palmer is a Michelin-starred chef, while Hunsberger served as a 30-year veteran and former president of North Americas for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
"Our beloved, historic estate has seen many lives, starting as a working ranch more than a century ago and transitioning to a 10-room bed and breakfast, which evolved into today's 66-key boutique hotel," Russ Munson said. "Our newfound partnership with Appellation marks an exciting evolution for the hotel and Lodi hospitality, as we continue to elevate the guest experience together."
Guestrooms have been redesigned with a sense of place.
Credit: 2025 Appellation
The renovation incorporates Appellation's philosophy of infusing culinary artistry throughout the guest experience, extending beyond dining venues to design, gardens and programming. Guestrooms feature light oak furnishings; handcrafted textures inspired by vineyards and grain fields; and a color palette of harvest and eucalyptus greens, cognac and honeyed oranges and yellows.
Two new Charlie Palmer dining concepts anchor the culinary program. Maison Lodi, which debuted in February, serves French bakery and care offerings including breads, pastries and rotisserie chicken created in collaboration with Healdsburg's Quail & Condor Bakery. Americana House, featuring Palmer's signature “progressive American cooking,” focuses on seasonal produce in a refined, yet approachable setting. The restaurant’s unique features include a cheese-aging cabinet, allowing it to mature its own house-made cheese products, a wine decanter station and a culinary counter where guests can engage with chefs.
Maison Lodi features French bakery and cafe fare.
Credit: 2025 Appellation"With more than 85 boutique wineries, Lodi is home to a vibrant wine and dining scene,” Palmer said. “Appellation Lodi – Wine & Roses Resort and Spa will serve as an anchor for discovering the destination and its vibrant offerings. Our hope is to shine a much-deserved light on Lodi with the reinvigoration of this landmark hotel, while continuing to preserve its beloved spaces like the tasting room operated by the Lodi Winegrape Commission, representing more than 750 growers."
Additional features include expanded culinary gardens, hands-on classes with local artisans, an annual food and wine event, a rebranded spa and daily wellness programming.
Several newbuild Appellation properties are also in development for the brand.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Appellation. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.