5 Reasons To Skip Napa And Go To This California Wine Region Instead

by Heide Brandes – Travel Awaits

When it comes to California Wine Country, Napa and Sonoma steal the spotlight as the “it” destinations for wine vacations, but just to the south, the understated wine region of Lodi is quietly becoming an alternative destination for those looking for fewer crowds, more affordable experiences, and quality, surprising old-vine zinfandels and family wines.

In the heat of early summer, the charming downtown area of Lodi teemed with people sipping pinot grigio on wrought-iron wrapped patios, and at Lodi Lake, kayakers sailed through the soft, calm waters into the Mokelumne River.

Once thought of as just a flat agricultural area that lacked the panache of wine country’s more sophisticated areas, Lodi is becoming a destination itself for outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and incredible… READ MORE