Celebrate National Zinfandel Day in Lodi, California

Celebrate National Zinfandel Day in Lodi, California. Every third Wednesday of November, wine lovers celebrate National Zinfandel Day, which is dedicated to exploring the unique flavors, history, and versatility of the Zinfandel Grape. As the Zinfandel Capital of the World, Lodi is the ultimate playground for Zin lovers—where you can sip history in every glass, discover century-old vines, and dive into the story behind Zinfandel in Lodi.

The History of Zinfandel in Lodi, California

Lodi’s Zinfandel roots run deep. While Zinfandel grapes originated in Croatia, they found a second home in California during the 19th century, thriving in Lodi’s climate. Some of Lodi’s vines date back over a century, making them some of the oldest producing Zinfandel vines in the country. These old vines are renowned for producing wines with intense flavors and complexity, embodying the very essence of Lodi’s terroir. To taste some of the oldest vines in the country, check out Harney Lane Winery, Jessie’s Grove Winery, and Klinker Brick.

What Makes Zinfandel unique in Lodi, California?

Lodi Zinfandel isn’t just a wine; it’s an experience. The unique combination of warm, sunny days and cool evenings creates a Zinfandel that’s rich with flavors of blackberry, cherry, and spice. It creates a balance of fruitiness and acidity that Zinfandel lovers appreciate. The region’s unique soil, climate, and farming traditions make Lodi Zinfandel a standout among wine varieties. For a guided tasting experience, check out Lucas Family Winery and Field’s Family Winery.

Pairing tips for Zinfandel Lovers

Zinfandel’s bold, fruity profile makes a perfect pairing with various options. It is incredibly versatile! Try a glass of Lodi Zinfandel with BBQ, hearty pasta dishes, or even spicy cuisine to complement its rich flavors. What’s a glass of wine without cheese? Cheese Central in downtown Lodi can help you pick a few cheeses for your tastings. Zinfandel pairs wonderfully with Manchego, cheddar, or a good ol’ aged gouda. Got a sweet tooth? Sip on your Lodi Zin with dark chocolate to complement the bold, spicy notes in Zinfandel. For a full spread of snacks that you can pair with your wine, visit Delicious Boards.

Serving and Tasting Tips

For those who are new to wine tasting or looking to expand your knowledge, serving and tasting Zinfandel can be a such a fun experience. Serve Zinfandel at room temperature or even slightly cooler to allow the bold flavors to shine. Use a glass with a larger bowl to swirl and release its aromas. Get out of your comfort zone and use your nose! Try to pinpoint any key aromas that you smell. This wine is known for its fruit-forward notes, often featuring blackberry, cherry, and plum with hints of spice.

While tasting, pay attention to zinfandel’s body, which can vary from medium to full-bodied, depending on the age of the vines. Start by taking a small sip, noting the initial flavors, then see how it develops with your food pairings. Lastly, have fun! There is no “right” answer to the flavors you detect in wine. The more you explore different wines, the better you’ll become at identifying the elements you enjoy most.

How to Celebrate National Zinfandel Day

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are many ways to celebrate:

• Tastings: Visit a Lodi tasting room or grab a bottle of Lodi Zinfandel to-go! Check out the Lodi Wine Grape Commission’s winery page for a list of wineries that carry Lodi Zinfandel.
• Virtual Tastings: Can’t make it out to Lodi? Get your wines shipped to you directly to your door. Cozy up in your own living area and enjoy Lodi Zinfandel solo or plan a virtual tasting. Harney Lane currently offers a virtual tasting that is specially curated for your own digital tasting experience. Plan by purchasing your wines in advance!
• Share the Love: Raise a glass and share your Zin celebrations on social media with the hashtag #LodiZinfandel and #visitlodi

Explore Lodi’s Wine Country Year-Round

While National Zinfandel Day shines a spotlight on this specific grape, Lodi’s wine scene thrives all year. Plan your next trip to experience the vineyards, tasting rooms, and local charm that make Lodi a premier destination for wine enthusiasts. There’s no better place to celebrate National Zinfandel Day than Lodi, California.