Discovering Hidden Wineries: Lodi Wineries

By Philip David


Lodi wineries are home to large and beautiful tracks of major wineries especially wine grapes. The Lodi wine country produces several thousands of wine cases annually including bulk wines that are unbranded. Vineyards in Lodi country cover over 75, 000 acres and there are nearly 60 great wineries, leaders of grape production with premium wine grapes like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. The history of grape growing in Lodi vineyards dates in the 1800's after gold miners became farmers after which they discovered that the region was capable of supporting wine vineyards. Presently, Lodi Wineries are well developed and among the leading wine touring destinations in the nation. 36 wineries in the country have their own tasting rooms and offer wine lovers outstanding experiences.

The signature wine varietals at Abundance Vineyards include the Cabernet Sauvignon, Dessert wine, Chardonnay, Merlot, Red Blends, Petite Sirah, Sparkling wine, White Blends, Syrah and Zinfandel among others. The amenities in the winery include a picnic area, performances and concerts which visitors can enjoy as they go for wine visiting tours. Mencarinin Brothers own the winery and Jim Yerkes is the head winemaker and guarantees visitors of the best wine tasting experience ever.

If you are wishing for a more sophisticated day at the Lodi wineries, D'art Wines is the ideal place to go. Their tasting areas are very refined and well-kept. No matter how big or small your family or group is, they can easily entertain all of you. Visitors can just go in and avail of their free tasting of wines with delectable food such as their wonderful chocolate chips and chili.

The boutique winery of Duckhorn Vineyards is among the top rated in Lodi wineries and specializes in production of premium Merlot wines. It was founded by Dan Duckhorn in 1976 and over time, their annual production has been increasing significantly to its current standing of more than 20, 000 cases. The vineyard produces limited single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots alongside the less expensive but highly regarded Sauvignon Blanc. Dan Duckhorn was claimed as the 'Winemaker of the Year' by San Francisco Chronicle in 2005. Still, the company has been labeling its wines under different names such as 'Migration' and 'Decoy'.

Van Ruiten Family Winery is located at the mid-way between San Francisco Bay Delta and Sierra Foothills and is owned by Van Ruiten family. The unique climate influenced by the delta characterized by a cool afternoon breeze has been notable in spearheading success of many Lodi wineries including Van Ruiten Family Winery. They produced their first variety of Van Ruiten wine in 1999 and the rest has been history.

Right in the middle of the base of Sierra Nevada and Sacramento- San Joaquin Delta, you can find the marvelous Jessie's Grove Winery. Unlike most wineries in the Lodi wine country, they take advantage of their location and are a spearhead in promoting the development of wine grapes of excellent quality and its production into premium wine varietals. Just some of the more distinguished wine blends include the 2010 Jessence Blanc, 2011 Muscat Blanc, 2012 Chardonnay, 2010 Dry rose and other classic varietals.




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