Cattle Traders, Agave & Coming Home with Katie Herzog

What do Jewish cattle traders in rural Germany, California ranching, and agave spirits have in common?

In this episode of Jews in the Field, we sit down with Katie Herzog, an artist, agave farmer, and owner of Reverie Ranch in Monterey County, California. Katie is also part owner of Rosenberg Family Ranch, which has been in her family since 1871.

Katie takes us on a journey through her family's remarkable agricultural history, beginning with Jewish cattle traders in Germany who developed a secret Hebrew-infused jargon known as Lukodesh. Following her ancestors' migration to California during the Gold Rush, she traces the family's transition from cattle trading to ranching and walnut farming, and shares how uncovering this history inspired her artwork.

We also dive into Katie's adventures growing agave, building community among women agave farmers, and launching a spirits company featuring California-grown agave. Along the way, we explore the ecological complexities of agave production, her experience with kosher slaughter, and how reconnecting with her agricultural roots has opened new pathways into Jewish learning and practice.

From raising the next generation of Jewish ranch kids to sharing land with others, Katie reflects on what it means to inherit a relationship with land—and how farming and Judaism can grow side by side.