Lodi: The Best Wine Country You’ve Never Heard Of

Sonoma, Napa, Russian River Valley. All of these names likely come to mind when you think of California wine country. But where the hell is Lodi? I wasn’t sure myself before I went, flying into Sacramento and then driving the hour through fields lined with grapes and rose bushes. 

The San Joaquin Valley town is the hardest working region in the state. In fact, you’ve likely been drinking Lodi wines for years without realizing it. Hundreds of vineyards are located in the small town, some of which operate only for others while some sell to consumers. 

This wasn’t my first time visiting a wine country. There was the day trip to the Hunter Valley when I lived in Sydney as well as an excursion to a cellar door on a visit to Port Macquarie. And this year’s birthday visit to Georgia’s wine country (yes, we have one!) was also memorable.

But on this trip, I wanted to find out what there was to do beyond the vines. Because as much fun as drinking your weight in wine is, most don’t open until at least 10 am. You’ve got to fill your time somehow! I found a few for myself in Lodi.

World-Class Accommodations

The first order of business was to check into Wine & Roses, a resort that draws inspiration from its surroundings. The property’s name evokes appropriately romantic images for its garden rooms. But roses are also an important part of the local wine industry.

You’ll see rose bushes at the ends of rose of grapes as you drive through town, ready to alert grape growers of issues with the plants, much like the canary in the coal mines. The original home on the property dates back to 1902 and now serves as the restaurant with a few upstairs rooms.

The lavish gardens make it a popular wedding venue and a scenic overlook from my balcony room, the perfect spot to enjoy my morning cup of tea. They also have a spa, making it the perfect place for a girlfriends getaway, romantic weekend, or “treat yourself” trip. 

Food to Write Home About

Where there’s good wine, there’s good wine, there’s also good food and Lodi is no different. In fact, I’m not sure what I expected from this area. Visitors can take cooking classes at Cheese Central or visit the 100-year-old olive trees at Cecchetti Olive Oil Co, a local olive oil farm.

Dine on Italian fare at Pietro’s, named for the chef who studied in Italy before coming to work at the restaurant. The Dancing Fox and Zin Bistro come highly recommended. I also got to experience a chef’s dinner at Wine and Roses and one of the stunning dishes is pictured above.

See also SF Gate’s Insider Guide to the Best Lodi Restaurants. 

More Than Just Wine

If you tire of wine, you’ll find more options in downtown Lodi. Lodi Beer Company is located inside a stunning historic building, offering housemade brews like barrel aged sours and elevated pub fare.

Scotto Family Cellars, a local winery, recently opened a downtown tasting room that serves both their wines and ciders, including one variety made with pinot grigio. And you’ll eventually need coffee, or end up passed out on a park bench, so stop by School Grounds Coffee for a pick me up. 

Outdoor Pursuits

Beyond the vines, Lodi has a number of active adventures to provide you with a much-needed detox. Rent a kayak or paddleboard on Lodi Lake with Headwaters Kayaks, where you’ll spot wildlife, or cycle between the cellar doors with Downtown Bicycles Lodi. Lodi Lake also has walking trails for those less athletically inclined. And if you’re craving the ultimate adrenaline rush, you can even go sky diving over wine country.

Perusing the Historic Downtown

You can’t go to Lodi without taking a picture of the arch that features a golden bear on top. Also known as the Mission Arch, the 1907 landmark is the most well-known structure in town. Wander the shops downtown, where you’ll find everything from clothing to art galleries to antiques. And take the time to appreciate the murals that cover buildings, detailing significant events in the area’s history.

And the Real Reason You Came to Lodi

Start your visit at the Lodi Visitor’s Center, where you can pick up a map of all the local wineries. >Choose from the larger production wineries, like Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi and Michael David Winery, and family-run establishments like Hamlin Lane, Bokisch Vineyards Tasting Room, and Acquiesce Winery. Or do as I did and visit some of each.

I could have easily spent another week in Lodi, sipping my way through the vineyards, but my liver was politely asking me not to. 

Have you ever been to Lodi, California?

My visit to Lodi was coordinated by Visit Lodi and Geiger Public Relations.