Fourth generation farmer, Sam Gotelli, has been passionate about farming from a very young age. Some of his early jobs included watering young trees in the orchard, putting cartons on young trees to prevent damage, and slowly but surely learning to drive a tractor. All of these smaller jobs slowly taught him the little details that go into the bigger picture of the farming of an orchard. As Sam learned more about how the small jobs played a part in the overall picture, he grew more and more interested in farming.

Now, Sam farms numerous cherry and walnut orchards throughout the Central Valley. He enjoys the unpredictability and variability of farming, as well as being able to watch a crop grow. At times the work can be challenging, but the overall sense of ownership and involvement in growing cherries and walnuts make it a lifestyle for Sam. “It is rewarding to know that the work throughout the year results in something you can grow and eat when you harvest the crop. I’m playing a small part in a big picture,” Sam says. “Just like anyone else contributes with their line of work, it is rewarding to know that I am doing my part in the community through providing produce.”

COMMODITY/VARIETY

Sweet Cherries

The variety "Sweet cherries" is used to consolidate many of the lesser known varieties. This variety includes: Lambert, Gibralter, Skeena, Van, and many other varieties. These varieties are traditionally used as a pollinator in different orchards.

SIZE & GRADE

Premium / Extra Large