Do you enjoy wine, touring the wine country, tasting before you buy?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, do you realize how lucky we, Elk Grove residents are to live virtually in the middle of wine country? In fact, Elk Grove has it’s own winery, McConnell Estates Winery.

Less than 30 miles from Elk Grove is the Lodi Wine Appellation. For many years, the Lodi area supplied wine grapes to wineries across the state. Today, the Lodi Appellation is home to over 80 wineries. Not all of the wineries have tasting rooms open to the public, but many do, and new tasting rooms are opening all the time.

Lodi wineries have won many awards for their fabulous wines. Lodi is predominately a red wine producer, known for it's Zinfandel, Old Vine Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. You will also find Petite Sirah, Syrah, Viognier, and many other varietals in Lodi.

The wineries and tasting rooms are varied and great fun to visit. You will find whatever venue you are looking for, from hip tasting bars in town to laid back country picnic perfect locations. More often than not, you will be greeted by the owner, vintner, farmer, and sometimes the winery is located on their homestead. These wonderful people love sharing their passion, wine, and occasionally a story or two. 

If you haven't toured and tasted Lodi, you owe it to yourself to plan a visit. For inspiration and winery reviews, check out Sip California.com. Cheers!