Grape Vines Viaggio Estate and Winery Lodi California Wine Country things to do three day itinerary

Loving Lodi California Wine Country

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Loving Lodi California Wine Country

Lodi California Wine Country is 1.5 hours east of San Francisco in the San Joaquin Valley. Credence Clearwater Rival wrote a song about Lodi and Sons of Anarchy referenced the town often, but did you know Lodi is a major player in California’s wine industry? It’s True! In fact, Wine Enthusiast named it the Wine Region of the year in 2015. The area has a Mediterranean climate and is situated geographically for natural temperature control.

Read Things to Do in San Francisco

Viaggio Estate and Winery Lodi California Wine Country
Viaggio Estate and Winery

Lodi produces 600,000 tons of wine grapes each year. It is the Zin Capital of the World and produces 40% of California’s Zinfandel. 75 varietals are grown in Lodi California Wine Country, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc.  There are 85+ Wineries and 70+ Tasting Rooms. These are 4th and 5th generation family winemakers. They care deeply and participate in sustainability programs. Lodi California is a small town of 60,000, it is comfortable and relaxed. Lodi is very much a community. Everyone is connected, they know and support one another.  Lodi California Wine Country is a must-visit for wine lovers!

Behind the Wine in Lodi California Wine Country

I winery hopped via Sip and Shuttle and it was so much fun! While I ‘sipped back and enjoyed the ride’, I learned all about the geography of the area, the grapes, and the community. We also played trivia games to win free wine tastings.  For example, if you were asked: What country produces the most wine? and excitedly answered: France, you would get a free tasting card. You’re welcome!

Lodi Visitor Center Lodi California Wine Country things to do three day itinerary
Lodi Visitor Center

Our first stop was the Lodi Visitor Center. This is a must-stop in the area. You will be educated about the wine and can partake in tastings. You will then be referred to wineries in the area based on your preferences. They will even give you a map.

Next, we visited Acquiesce for a tasting of premium white wines. Not only was the wine superb, but the pairings were also amazing! Do not miss the 2016 Grenache Blanc paired with Gouda Thyme Cracker with Violet Flower Confit… HEAVEN! They even make their own crackers… and will share the recipe! Have I mentioned yet that I love Lodi?

The final Sip and Shuttle stop was M2 Wines. Their tagline is: intelligent. accessible. slightly outspoken. First, their wine is amazing. Then there’s the owner, you NEED to spend some time with the owner, preferably after a couple glasses of wine. He summed M2 up best when he stated he “didn’t want to make a fake Italian Villa with a parking lot. This place is young, artsy, and full of energy”.

I was lucky to spend the evening with the owners of Viaggio Estate and Winery. Of course, there was more wine and only praise to be given. I was served a fabulous dinner any food blogger would die for and took a tour of the grounds. If I lived in the area I would spend lazy afternoons on their patio, next to the river, sipping wine and eating wood-fired pizza FOR SURE. And, if you are ever looking to hold an event in Lodi California Wine Country, check this place out and look no further.

Behind the Vineyard Lodi California Wine Country

Sons of Anarchy was set in a fictional town between Lodi and Stockton; the town’s name was Charming. I have a theory the producers came up with the name after spending some time in Lodi because it is CHARMING!  Downtown Lodi is four tree-lined blocks of boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and tasting rooms. Stop in the visitor center for more information and current events.

Main Street Lodi California Wine Country things to do three day itinerary
Main Street

Grab a coffee or gelato at School Grounds and go explore Lodi’s history through murals, you can pick up a free map at the visitors center.

Stop in Cheese Central for a picnic lunch, Cindy knows her cheese and creates AMAZING pairings.

Spend some time on the water and go kayaking on Lodi Lake. Or fish. Or paddleboard. You can even inner tube down the river.

Check out Lodi’s food truck scene, I highly recommend the Cajun Shrimp Sandwich and Pesto Fries from A Movable Feast.

Enjoy a root beer float at the birthplace of A&W Root Beer while exploring memorabilia.

Have dinner at the Dancing Fox. This is a family-run winery, restaurant, bakery, and brewery. Ask them to tell you the story behind their labeling. I highly recommend the Mandarin Almond Salad and Veggie Twist Wood Fired Pizza.

Listen to music at Scotto’s Wine and Cider. While you are there try a flight of Cider, you won’t be disappointed.

Visit Olive Drop for a tasting. I fell in love with the owner, the grounds, and the product. This is a must-stop, everything I tasted was outstanding and I brought three home.

Pick blueberries at K&S Blueberries, they are soo good.

Be sure to check the Lodi Wine Country website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Bookmark and Pin Lodi California Wine Country

A huge thank you to Lodi Conference & Visitors Bureau for hosting me in Lodi. As always, all opinions are my own.

Plan Your Trip to Lodi California Wine Country

Northern California Travel Guide

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Lodi California Attractions and Day Tours

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Have a great vacation!

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