Lodi, California: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes come from Lodi, according to the Lodi Winegrape Commission. Wine tasting opportunities abound, including right here on the grounds of Wine & Roses.
True wine lovers know that Lodi, California is a leading producer of some of America’s favorite grapes. But did you know that it’s also a prime destination for outdoor recreation, temperate weather, fewer crowds, and natural beauty?
Start your trip by checking into Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel with rooms nestled into jungle-like surroundings. Upon arrival, you’ll fling open your double doors to the sounds of a waterfall and birdcalls, settle into your surroundings, and have everything you need.
On the grounds, which are stunningly beautiful, with overflowing hydrangeas in every hue, canopies of trees, leafy ferns, and fountains, you will find the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving your resort.
You don’t have far to go to find excellent food. Steps outside of your room, grab a coffee and fresh pastries and sandwiches at Towne Corner Café & Market. The resort’s Towne House Restaurant is open for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner and, along with the adjoining bar, offers fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails.
The sounds as you tour the property are unforgettable, from the parrots that say hello as you walk by, to the splash of water just outside your spa treatment room, to the live music serving as a backdrop to the spirited atmosphere in the bar. The resort offers special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off spring in style.
A stroll around the gardens of Wine & Roses, a resort hotel just a short drive from all Lodi has to offer, is a study in beauty and tranquility.
Wine & Rose’s central location makes it easy to get to everything you want, from wine to cycling to kayaking. Just a short drive will take you to your choice of outdoor recreation.
Dip your toes and your paddles into picturesque Lodi Lake, where you can kayak or paddleboard your way through beautiful lagoons. Headwaters Kayak will hook you up with classes and everything you need to see the waterbird life, tall grasses, turtles sunning on rocks, and beautiful resident homes that pop up at various portions of the lake and its lagoons.
On April 15, don’t miss the 8th annual Paddlefest where you can bring the whole family to enjoy food trucks, live music, and all the watersports you can handle.
Cycling through Lodi’s quaint town and out into the vineyards is a joy in and of itself – but the wine that awaits you is an extra treat. Rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery and choose your route, set your course, and get some exercise while soaking up this beautiful part of California.
You can even bike through wine country, arriving 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 ask for the estate grown Fiano.
For a little peace and tranquility, or to recharge your batteries before your next winery, visit the completely unexpected and incredibly impressive Micke Grove Japanese Garden. Dedicated by the Joaquin County residents of Japanese ancestry, this secret hideaway beckons you across its red arched bridge to meander along a babbling brook, where waterfalls splash into a koi fish pond. 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 sea of lush, green landscape.
To sample a variety of grapes, belly up to the tasting bar at 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, made an Alberiño lover out of me. Lodi marries wine with the great outdoors, and I consider it one of California’s hidden gems. Get there before everyone else discovers it, and check out these upcoming wine events when making your plans.
In conclusion, Lodi, California is a prime destination for wine lovers who want to experience outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and excellent food. With a central location, stunning accommodations, and a variety of wineries and outdoor activities to explore, Lodi is truly California’s hidden gem. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Lodi today and experience all that it has to offer!
