We took a scenic detour through one of California’s most underrated wine regions – Lodi and the Central Valley. Known for its sun-drenched vineyards, centuries-old vines, and welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere, this area offers a completely different flavor of wine country magic. We spent the day sipping bold Zinfandels at legendary estates like Michael David Winery, discovering historic gems like Oak Ridge Winery, and relaxing with boutique tastings at Delicato. With laid-back vibes, rustic charm, and surprisingly elegant wines, Lodi captured the spirit of California winemaking at its most authentic – unpretentious, vibrant, and filled with hidden treasures waiting to be uncorked. Our final destination, Papillon Cellars B&B, provided the perfect peaceful retreat to unwind, reflect, and toast to a day full of unexpected discoveries and unforgettable pours.

Lodi Winery Itinerary

This itinerary is based on a visit on August 9, 2019.

• 🚗 9:00 AM – Drive (1 hr) to Lodi from San Francisco
• 🍷 10:00 AM – Tasting at Michael David Winery (Opens 10 AM; bold reds and the iconic 7 Deadly Zins)
• 🍷 11:00 AM – Tasting at Oak Ridge Winery (Open 10 AM – 5 PM; classic Lodi varietals at one of the region’s oldest wineries)
• 🍷 12:30 PM – Tasting at Delicato Family Vineyards (Open 9 AM – 5 PM; award-winning family-run estate)
• 🍴 3:30 PM – Late lunch/snacks at Vista Ranch (Open 9 AM – 6 PM; gardens, picnic areas, and a tasting room)
• Optional if time:
  • Lucca Winery (Opens at 12:00 PM; boutique small-batch wines in a laid-back setting)
• 🚗 5:30 PM – Continue drive to Papillon Cellars B&B for check-in
• Dinner @ Charles Street Dinner House

For more pictures & tips on other wine region and baseball stadium visits on this trip, check out our blogs:

• 🍷 A Day in Napa: Crafting, Tasting & Savoring Wine Country
• 🍇 An Afternoon at Livermore Valley Wineries
• ⚾️ San Francisco Giants Oracle Park
• ⚾️ Oakland Athletics Alameda County Coliseum

🎪 Michael David Winery

Our day began at the lively and legendary Michael David Winery, home to the iconic 7 Deadly Zins and the wildly entertaining Freakshow lineup, which we quickly fell in love with. This bold, colorful estate perfectly captured the spirit of Lodi with its playful atmosphere, quirky gardens, and powerful red blends. Known for producing wines with big flavors and even bigger personalities, Michael David offered a vibrant start to our tasting adventure – where every pour was full of character, creativity, and a little bit of theatrical flair.

🛢️ Oak Ridge Winery

Next, we stepped back into Lodi’s history at Oak Ridge Winery, the oldest operating winery in the region. Set inside a beautifully restored 50,000-gallon redwood tank, the tasting room itself was a charming reminder of California’s winemaking roots. With a lineup of easy-drinking, classic varietals, playful wine slushies, and standout bottles like their now-beloved OZV Zinfandel, Oak Ridge felt like a perfect bridge between past and present – a relaxed, welcoming stop where tradition and fun flowed freely.

💕 Delicato Family Vineyards

At Delicato Family Vineyards, we found a true taste of family craftsmanship. Owned and operated by the third generation of the Indelicato family, this award-winning estate was a celebration of heritage and heart. We sampled a diverse range of approachable wines while learning about the vineyard’s deep agricultural roots, making it a relaxed and enriching stop on our journey through California’s central valley.

🧺 Vista Ranch

We paused for a late lunch at the scenic Vista Ranch, where vineyards, gardens, and sprawling picnic areas created the perfect setting to unwind. Over fresh bites and glasses of wine, we soaked up the easygoing Central Valley atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of orchards and wildflowers. Vista Ranch offered a peaceful interlude – a delicious reminder that great wine country moments aren’t just about the tastings, but the places in between.

🍇 Papillon Cellars

Finally, we arrived at Papillon Cellars, a tranquil retreat nestled among the vines. With its rustic elegance and relaxed atmosphere, Papillon felt like a secret escape – the perfect ending to a day full of rich flavors and unforgettable memories. Here, surrounded by sweeping vineyard views and golden sunsets, we raised our glasses one last time to a day of discovery, laughter, and the simple luxury of California wine country living.