Lodi, within the larger Central Valley wine region of California, is located directly east of San Francisco, between the cities of Sacramento and Stockton whose County lines pass through the very heart of the AVA. The western part of the region is near the Delta area while to the east the boundary runs parallel with the Sierra Foothills. The moderating effects of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay influence the region by creating a Mediterranean climate. Wind and fog enter the district via the Delta area and through a gap in the Coastal Range. Parts of the region that are closer to the Delta are noticeably cooler while the majority of Lodi AVA is warm, suiting red wine production. (© All rights reserved, Wine-Searcher) Mineral rich, free draining sandy clay soils contribute to the region’s ability to produce quality wines, not just the jug wines that most of the Central Valley is known for.
Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc are some of the most widely planted varieties but as the region has developed, several sub AVAs have been created to truly reflect the diversity of the region. Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Graciano, Viognier, Riesling and even the Spanish white grape Albariño are now widely planted. One of the old timers of the region is Flame Tokay that was once used to make fortified wines and for decades has been a popular table grape only to fall out of favor as seedless varieties became available. It is still an important grape used in Lodi for brandy production. (© Proprietary Content, Wine-Searcher)
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