Enjoy a new way to experience the wonderful wines of Lodi by boarding the Vine to Wine Tours Shuttle. Your hosts April Meyers, Jonathan Treadway, Terry Treadway will help you to discover Lodi wine tasting with a twist. When April, Jonathan and Terry were asked, “Why did you select Lodi for this venture”, April, replied these wineries, their surroundings, history, and passion for what they do inspired us to start the company.

We began our trip boarding the intimate shuttle for 12 people or less that is comfortable, stylish, relaxing and fun! In the shuttle we experienced the peace of mind that comes from knowing that we were in the safety of an experienced driver. We quickly discovered that our hosts would entertain us with information about the wineries, the winemakers, a bit of Lodi history and even some legends that have sprung up over the years.

The tour includes an expertly guided tour aboard a charming shuttle, souvenir glass, tasting at 4 or 5 wineries, a gourmet lunch at a winery, (Each person selects their lunch from a menu prior to the trip) specialty tour and wine education presented by one or more of the wineries. For your added convenience you’ll be picked up and dropped off at a local location. (Call for additional information and details about this service)

On our trip the day’s itinerary included visits to Jessie’s Grove Winery, Berghold Vineyard, d’Art Wines and Heritage Oak Winery. At all of these wineries we received in-depth knowledge about the wines we sampled, the history of the winery and yummy treats that you don’t normally get while tasting on your own. On our way to Jessie’s Grove our tour leader April Meyers shared some fun facts about Lodi.

One of these factoids was that Robert Mondovi who was a resident of Lodi in his teen years attended Lodi High School. (NOTE) The old Lodi High Campus that Robert attended was destroyed by fire and the property where the school once resided has now become the home of Hutchins Street Square.) This is just one example of the historic and fun information shared with all of us who participated in this adventure.

Our wine tasting began at Jessie’s Grove Winery. Jessie’s Grove Winery is known for its high quality wine and its “In the Grove Summer Concert Series” but it is also famous for the family heritage that made this all possible. It is here that the Joseph Spenker father of Jessie settled in 1868. When you visit Jessie’s Grove you will be delighted to discover what life was like in the old west.

On the way to Berghold Vineyards we went under the famous Lodi Arch and I found out that the bear didn’t always face the direction it is today.

It is rumored that in 1909 when the bear was placed atop the arch, Lodi had issues with the politics in the Capitol City and chose to face the rear end towards the Capitol. Fact or Fiction, you decide!

When we arrived at Berghold Vineyards we met Joe’s wife, Kay who was gracious enough to be our host. She told us about all of the great antiques that can be found throughout the tasting room from the clock, to the stained glass window and even her own family heirlooms she brought in to add to the décor. When asked about the possible expansion of the property Kay compared her husband to Sarah Winchester” (of the Winchester Mystery House) and that “he may never be done building.”

At the third winery, d’Art Wines,we were greeted by Dave and Helen Dart. After a quick trip into the tasting room to fill up our glasses we heading out to the vineyard. Dave gave us a lesson on how he tends to his vines and pointed out points of interest on how properly pruned and cared for vines create great fruit.

After instruction in the vineyard, our group was directed to a picnic area where we gathered to enjoy lunch accompanied by a flight of d’Art Wines. Lunch baskets awaited each one of us according to what we had ordered. The lunch was wonderful and we certainly enjoyed the D’art Wines. After lunch, we met Dave in the barrel room to taste some of his upcoming premium wines. He also gave us an education on the character and use of wine barrels.

Heritage Oak Winery was our last stop. Tom Hoffman, Owner and Vintner was there waiting with a smile on his face and a bottle in his hand. Immediately we were guided to an old Oak tree next to the vineyard where Tom shared his wonderful Sauvignon Blanc while telling us the story of the old oak. The story tells of how a tool became stuck in the tree years ago and continued to grow to the required circumference. Thus it is deemed to be a “Heritage Oak”, hence the name of the winery.

Inside the tasting room we had the pleasure of meeting Tom’s Mother Joanne; she was terrific, sharing the family’s background and the family’s passion for the winery. Tom even shared some of his idea’s he has planned for the future of the winery and played a tune or two for us on his piano. The day was finished off by taking a group photo in front of the bus. I didn’t know many of the people on the bus in the beginning but by the end of it we were all good friends.

This was a wondrous adventure and so much more could be said but you will have to experience this to first-hand to appreciate the experience.

For more information on Vine to Wine Tours and to book your own trip go to www.VineToWineTours.com or call 916-777-6747.