“ZIN CITY”
Lodi, CA - USA

“Let’s go tasting now, everyone’s learning how, come on a safari with me”.

We all know that’s not exactly how the classic Beach Boys surf song goes but it is the theme for Lodi’s wine enthusiasts. Southern California may have its Surf- City- USA but in Lodi it’s Zin City- USA.

The Zinfandel grape is California’s contribution to the world of fine wines producing big, rich, luscious styles of red wine and has a large, loyal, even fanatical following in California and around the world.

This grape grown predominately in California has acquired an almost mythic status – in part because of its caliber of wines and in part because of the mystery surrounding its origins. Scientific DNA evidence has demonstrated an overwhelming probability that Zinfandel has its origins in Croatia, arriving in the United States as a table grape in the 1820’s.

Although Cabernet Sauvignon has now surpassed Zinfandel in production, the Golden State continues to be the largest producer of Zinfandel in the world and with Lodi, producing 42% of California’s Zinfandel, it has gained worldwide recognition, as the self proclaimed Zinfandel capitol of the world. Lodi is currently home to over 75,000 Zinfandel acres producing more Zinfandel than any other wine district in California with many of these coming from century old vineyards.

When I think of California originals, the Beach Boys, surfing, and Lodi Zinfandel automatically come to mind. And with all the recognition our Lodi wines are getting, it’s not hard to find one that will impress. Two of the most widely known are Seven Deadly Zins from Michael David Winery and Earth, Zin and Fire from Jessie’s Grove Winery but with over 60 wineries to choose from you’re bound to enjoy many more. Get out their and catch the Zinfandel wave!

Happy Tasting!
Brian