Beyond Zinfandel: Explore a World of Wine in Lodi

Lodi is known as Zinfandel country, where bold, jammy reds reign supreme.

But don't let the "Zinfandel Capital" hat fool you. Our region is home to over 135 varietals that thrive in our AVA, making Lodi the most diverse wine growing region in the United States. Let's take a trip around the world and discover interesting wine grapes grown in our backyard for you to try!

Bokisch Winery Markus and Liz

A Taste of Spain at Bokisch Vineyards

In Lodi, you can experience the magic of the Iberian Peninsula — no passport required! Several local wineries showcase Spanish and Portuguese varietals, offering you the flavors of Europe without the 12-hour flight. At Bokisch Vineyards, unwind with a crisp glass of Albariño or savor a bold, rich Tempranillo as you gaze over the rolling hills of the Lodi AVA. Even more exciting, Bokisch Vineyards made history by releasing the first Cava style wine produced in the United States — a true sip of Spain, right here at home.

Fun Fact: Markus Bokisch of Bokisch Vineyards was the first vintner to introduce the Spanish varietal Albariño to California.

Savor the Rich Flavors of Portugal at St. Jorge Winery

Looking for something to enjoy after dinner? Explore the wide selection of Portuguese Port-style wines at St. Jorge Winery that will transport you to Portugal! Located on a European villa-style property, St. Jorge Winery celebrates the heritage of the Vierra family, bringing their old-world blends to Lodi.

Southern Italy Meets Lodi

Italian varietals thrive in Lodi’s Mediterranean-like climate. At Oak Farm Vineyards, experience Fiano, a southern Italian varietal you might not have heard of before. An homage to the Panella family’s roots, this varietal shines in more ways than one. Discover why Oak Farm's Fiano has taken home top honors at the California State Fair Wine Competition — a Double Gold winner that has put this Italian varietal firmly on the Lodi map.

A Taste of the Mediterranean with Perlegos Family Wine Co.

Dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway? Perlegos Family Wine Co. brings those sunny, seaside flavors home with their Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine originally from Greece. Thanks to Lodi’s Mediterranean-like climate, this bright and refreshing wine thrives here, offering a splash of sunshine in every glass.

Rhône-Style Whites at Acquiesce Winery

At Acquiesce Winery, owner Susan Tipton has created a one-of-a-kind experience, focusing on white wines from the Rhône Valley in France. Some varietals to expect to find on the menu include Picpoul Blanc, Clairette Blanche, and Roussanne.

Hot tip: these wines are always paired with delicious bites prepared on-site for an unforgettable tasting.

Central European Varietals at Markus Wine Co.

Ready for something a little off the beaten path? Markus Wine Co. brings bold flavors from Central Europe right to Lodi. You’ll find wines made with varieties like Grüner Veltliner — a fresh, vibrant white wine originally from Austria — along with other German-inspired favorites, like a sparkling Bacchus.

Plan Your Visit

These varietals are just a taste of the more than 135 grapes that thrive in the Lodi AVA. Ready to sip your way through it all? Discover a full list of Lodi’s wineries and tasting rooms – no passport required!

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Let Lodi be your next adventure! Browse the full lineup of Lodi wineries and start mapping out your dream tasting adventure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Getting HereWhat wine varietals are grown in Lodi, California?

Lodi grows over 135 grape varietals, making it the most diverse wine-growing region in the United States. While Zinfandel is the most famous, Lodi also produces a remarkable range of international varieties including Spanish Albariño, Tempranillo, and Garnacha at Bokisch Vineyards; Portuguese Port-style wines at St. Jorge Winery; Italian Fiano at Oak Farm Vineyards; Greek Assyrtiko at Perlegos Family Wine Co.; Rhône whites like Picpoul Blanc, Clairette Blanche, and Roussanne at Acquiesce Winery; and Austrian Grüner Veltliner at Markus Wine Co.

What is the most diverse wine region in California?

Lodi is widely considered the most diverse wine-growing region in the United States, with over 135 grape varietals produced in the Lodi AVA. This diversity is driven by Lodi's Mediterranean-like climate — warm days, cool Delta breezes at night, and a range of soil types that allow both bold reds and delicate whites to thrive.

Where can I try Albariño wine in Lodi?

Bokisch Vineyards is the top destination for Albariño in Lodi. Markus Bokisch was the first vintner to introduce the Spanish varietal to California, and the vineyard continues to be the benchmark for Albariño in the Lodi AVA. Oak Farm Vineyards also produces an Albariño worth trying.

Where can I try unusual or rare wine varieties in Lodi?

Several Lodi wineries specialize in rare and lesser-known varietals. Acquiesce Winery focuses exclusively on Rhône-style white wines including Picpoul Blanc, Clairette Blanche, and Roussanne — all quite rare in California. Markus Wine Co. produces Grüner Veltliner and sparkling Bacchus from Central European varieties. Perlegos Family Wine Co. makes Assyrtiko, a Greek white that is virtually unique to the region. The Lodi Wine & Visitor Center is a great first stop to sample a wide range of unusual varietals in one place.

Do Lodi wineries require reservations for tasting?

Most Lodi tasting rooms welcome walk-ins, which is one of the region's biggest advantages for visitors who want to explore different varietals at their own pace. Some wineries offering food-paired or elevated experiences — like Acquiesce Winery — recommend reservations, especially on weekends. Overall, Lodi's tasting culture is refreshingly flexible compared to other California wine regions.

How far is Lodi Wine Country from Sacramento and San Francisco?

Lodi is approximately 35 miles south of Sacramento — about a 35-minute drive. From San Francisco and the Bay Area it's roughly 90 minutes. It's close enough for an easy day trip to explore international varietals across several tasting rooms without a long commute in either direction.

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Natalie Morlino

Author

Natalie Morlino

Community Engagement & Communications Manager

Natalie is a natural storyteller eager to make authentic connections with her community. An avid world traveler, she’s always ready to pull up a barstool at a cozy restaurant, meet new people, and spot a Lodi wine on the menu. Since trading city life for wine country, you’ll find her in Lodi shopping the farmers market, hunting for antiques, or exploring a new winery with her fiancé, son, and their pug — glass of Zin in hand, of course.

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