If you are a true wine lover, then you must have heard of Lodi, California, which is known for producing some of the best grapes in America. But did you know that Lodi is not only a top destination for wine tasting, but it also offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and fewer crowds? If you are planning a trip to Lodi, then start your journey by checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel that offers rooms nestled into lush jungle-like surroundings.
As soon as you arrive at Wine & Roses, you will be greeted by the sounds of a waterfall and birds chirping, which will soothe your soul after a long journey. You can settle into your cozy surroundings and enjoy all the amenities that this beautiful hotel has to offer. On the grounds of Wine & Roses, you will find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, where you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
If you are a foodie, then you won’t be disappointed either. Steps outside of your room, you can grab a delicious cup of coffee, fresh pastries, and sandwiches at Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant serves fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and the adjoining bar offers live music and a lively atmosphere.
Wine & Roses offers special events throughout the year, such as Easter Brunch, which kicks off spring in style. A stroll around the beautiful gardens of Wine & Roses is a perfect way to recharge and appreciate the natural beauty of Lodi.
Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to get to everything you want, from wine tasting to kayaking and cycling. Lodi Lake is just a short drive away, where you can kayak or paddleboard through picturesque lagoons. Headwaters Kayak offers classes and provides everything you need to witness waterbird life, tall grasses, and turtles sunning on rocks.
If you prefer cycling, then you’re in luck because Lodi’s flat terrain and comfortable weather make it ideal for cycling. Rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery and choose from different routes that can challenge or provide a gentle breeze as you soak up the beautiful scenery. You can even bike through wine country and arrive at Oak Farm Vineyards, a truly gorgeous estate. Take a stroll around the grounds to see the restored white colonial home built in 1876 and surrounded by ancient oak trees. Then step into the breathtaking tasting room and sample the estate-grown Fiano.
If you need a break from all the outdoor activities, then Micke Grove Japanese Garden is the perfect place to recharge and get centered. This tranquil and serene hideaway reflects Japanese culture and offers a soothing and peaceful atmosphere for unwinding. Follow the stepping stones around the stone lanterns that rise up out of the landscape, and stop to appreciate the maple trees bursting through the lush green landscape.
Finally, no visit to Lodi would be complete without sampling some of the best wines that the region has to offer. To sample a variety of grapes, head to the eclectic Michael David Winery, which offers wine for varying tastes. Sip their popular Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered, pond-side cabana and hear the story of how their whimsical labels were designed. Grab some lunch at the on-site farmstand Cafe & Bakery, where the locals flock for homemade pies and meat sourced from the local 4H program. If white wine is more your speed, Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards is for you. Their small-batch productions of Roussanne 2020 and Grenache Blanc 20202 have won Best of Class awards, and their Clairette Blanche and double gold medal 2021 Belle Blanc are divine. Bokisch Vineyards, with hilltop views of the vines and the sunset, is another must-visit winery that is sure to please any wine lover.
In conclusion, Lodi, California, offers an excellent destination for wine tasting and outdoor recreation, which is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Start your trip by checking into Wine & Roses, explore the beautiful gardens, enjoy the fabulous food and wine, and soak up the natural beauty of Lodi.
