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The Lodi AVA, part of the larger Central Valley wine region of California, is located directly east of San Francisco Bay, between the cities of Sacramento and Stockton. The west of the region lies close to the edge of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, while its eastern boundary runs parallel with the Sierra Foothills. The moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay help to create a classic Mediterranean climate, with wind and fog flowing in through the Delta and via a gap in the Coastal Ranges.
Those parts of the region which are closer to the Delta are noticeably cooler, although most of Lodi enjoys warm days and is suited to the production of full-flavored red wines. (© All rights reserved, Wine-Searcher.) Mineral-rich, free-draining, sandy clay soils help in the production of quality wines, not just the bulk wine which is common in the Central Valley.
California's favourite varieties, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc, are the most widely planted grapes here, although Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Graciano, Viognier, Riesling and even the Spanish white grape Albariño also make an appearance. One of Lodi's old timers is Flame Tokay, once used to make fortified wines. For decades it was a popular table grape, only to fall out of favor as seedless varieties became available. It is still an important grape for brandy production in Lodi.
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