Stockton, California

The Lodi Chamber of Commerce announces its 17th annual School Street Wine Stroll on Friday, April 16, 2010, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Over 26 Lodi wineries will be pouring their wines in shops and boutiques throughout downtown Lodi. Local proprietors will be providing hors d’oeurves at each tasting stop along with entertainment throughout the venue. The Lodi region is thrilled to showcase its finest in cuisine, wine, activities and hospitality.

New this year will be live chef demonstrations by local celebrity chefs. Among a few will be Michael Warren with Crush Kitchen & Bar, Julio Camberos with Califas Café & Bistro and Gary DeGrande from DeGrande’s Café & Restaurant. Vintners will also be on hand to pour a myriad of varietals and vintages from the Lodi Appellation. The Lodi wine region boasts 75 wineries, 60 varietals and grows 100,000 acres of wine grapes. Wineries will be showcasing not only the well know varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay, but also many unique varietals such as Verdelho, Carignan and Nebbiolo.

“The Wine Stroll is an enjoyable event because of the combined ingredients to showcase Lodi – fine wines, unique shops, wonderful cuisine, the historic charm of downtown Lodi and great people,” says Pat Patrick, President and CEO of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce. Assisting in the ‘economic recovery,’ Lodi hotels are offering special discounts for overnight visits. The hotel packages begin at $130 which includes: two Wine Stroll tickets, hotel for one night (double occupancy), transportation to and from hotels, and breakfast.

Tickets for the Wine Stroll are $30 in advance or $35 at the event. Designated driver tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the event. To purchase tickets or for additional information call the Lodi Chamber at (209) 367-7840 x 100 or visit www.lodichamber.com.

Profits from the event are shared between the Chamber and Lodi-Adopt-A-Child, a 501(c)( 3) organization that provides back-to-school clothes and Christmas presents for children who otherwise might not be receiving these gifts and necessities. ###