Lodi’s Most Popular Grape Varietals Are Plenty

The Lodi wine region, located in California’s Central Valley, is known for its diverse grape growing. Over 100 different grape varieties are grown in Lodi, including both traditional and lesser-known varietals.

One of the most widely grown varietals in Lodi is Zinfandel. This grape is known for its high sugar content and robust flavor, and is often used to make bold, full-bodied red wines. Other popular red varietals grown in Lodi include Petite Sirah, which is known for its intense tannins and dark fruit flavors, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor profile.

Lodi is also known for its production of white wines, with Chardonnay being one of the most widely grown varietals. This grape is known for its crisp acidity and tropical fruit flavors, and is often used to make unoaked or lightly oaked wines. Other popular white varietals grown in Lodi include Riesling, which is known for its high acidity and floral aromatics, and Sauvignon Blanc, which is known for its bright acidity and grassy flavors.

In addition to these more traditional varietals, Lodi is also home to a number of lesser-known grape varieties. For example, the region is known for its production of Albarino, a white grape variety that is grown in Spain, which is known for its high acidity and floral aromatics. Cinsault, a red grape variety that is grown in France, known for its soft tannins and fruity flavors, it’s also grown in Lodi.

Lodi also boasts a number of vineyards dedicated to growing heritage varietals, such as Carignane, a red grape variety which is known for its robust tannins and dark fruit flavors. Another example of heritage varietals grown in Lodi is Graciano, a red grape variety that is known for its high acidity and complex tannins, which is often blended with Tempranillo to make Rioja in Spain.

In recent years, Lodi has also become known for its production of Mediterranean varietals such as Tempranillo, a red grape variety that is known for its high acidity and complex tannins, which is often blended with Graciano to make Rioja in Spain.

Overall, the Lodi wine region offers a wide variety of grape varietals, from traditional to lesser-known, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profile. This diversity allows for a wide range of wine styles to be produced in the region, making it a destination for wine lovers and wine makers alike.