Tempranillo is often referred to as the “Cabernet” of Spain due to its widespread planting and its noble status as the backbone of Spanish reds. It is actually the 4th most planted wine grape in the world yet less than 1000 acres of Tempranillo are planted in California. Enter the Lodi Wine Region of California, where the Tempranillo grape is gaining much acclaim. In fact, there are already 10 different wineries in Lodi that specialize in making wine from the Tempranillo grape.
The taste of Tempranillo wine is quite tantalizing, with notes of dried red cherry, tobacco, vanilla and fig. As it ages it takes on more complex notes of dried leaves, leather, dark red fruit and cedar. It can be quite sophisicated, or simple and cheerful. Tempranillo pairs well with hard cheeses, salami, roast pork, BBQ chicken, grilled veggies, and many other dishes.
Each year in Lodi, California – located only 36 miles from Sacramento – they celebrate International Tempranillo Day. Visitors can sign up to go on a Lodi Tour of Tempranillo, or make appointments with individual wineries. The Lodi Wine Region has been recognized for a culture of diversity and experimentation, and has some of the oldest vineyards in California.
The 10 wineries that specialize in making delicisious tempranillo wines in Lodi are:
Anaya – The Lounge at Lodi Crush – 21 East Elm Street, Lodi CA
Bokisch Vineyards – 18921 Atkins Road, Lodi CA
Drava Wines – 1378 East Turner Road, Lodi CA
Fields Family Wines – 3803 East Woodbridge Road, Acampo CA
Heritage Oak – 10112 East Woodbridge Road, Acampo CA
Jeremy Wine Company – 16750 CA-88, Lockeford CA
McConnell Estates Winery – 10686 West Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove CA
Riaza Wine – 2441 South Stockton Street, Lodi CA
Twisted Barrel Winery – 1376 East Turner Road, Lodi CA
Van Ruiten Family Winery – 340 West Highway 12, Lodi CA
