Happy trails in Stockton’s wine country

Everyone knows that Robert Mondavi is one the most influential people in the American wine industry. But what many don’t know is that he grew up in Lodi, just 20 minutes north of Stockton, California. Known for bringing fame to wines in Napa Valley, Mondavi helped develop the northern portion of California’s Central Valley and the heart of California’s Zinfandel production.

Stockton has capitalized on the grapes specific to this area, forging its very own wine trail in the agricultural capital of the world. And as Stockton’s wine economy continues to grow, family-owned and boutique wineries are offering locals and visitors a tasting perspective that reflects the rich soil, artistic styling and ranching history known throughout Stockton. In fact, winemaking has become such an integral part of the culture here, it’s celebrated in a variety of events throughout the year. In addition to tasting quality wines, explore more history on Stockton’s wine trail by discovering some of these local wineries and tasting rooms.

Berghold Estate Winery

17343 N. Cherry Rd
Lodi, CA 95240
Phone: 209-333-9291
The grounds of this winery are immaculate and regal—an impressive 85 acres of wine grapes, producing Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Syrah. The Mediterranean microclimate found in this area of the Lodi appellation is ideal for these grapes and the old-world style of production. Since 1986, the family’s namesake has been handcrafting artisan wines that speak to its personal history, which is especially prominent in the tasting room—through ornamental touches of Victorian art and design, personally collected by the family.

Delicato Tasting Room

12001 South Highway 99
Manteca, CA 95336
Phone: 888-599-4637
Located just south of Stockton in Manteca, Delicato is a great place to experience a wide range of varietals and flavors while enjoying the natural beauty of rolling vineyards. Delicato’s wines are premium combinations sourced from growing regions throughout California including Napa, Lodi, Monterey, and Sonoma. The Indelicato family offers a tasting menu featuring a variety of red and white wines from several nationally distributed brands and some limited-release wines. This is a great place to experiences several different wines and styles along your wine-trail adventure.

Gnekow Family Winery

17347 E. Gawne Road
Collegeville, CA 95215
Phone: 209-463-0697
This winery made its film debut in 2011, setting the scene for The Chateau Meroux, a romance starring Marla Sokoloff and Barry Watson. This impressive family winery blends old- and new-world techniques in a state-of-the-art facility. In addition to its own wines, Gnekow has produced wines for notable wineries including Kendall Jackson, Hess and Bogle. And despite its large production (more than 100,000 cases in 2014), this winery still employs the traditions that make family-owned wineries so special.

The Chateau Six-Pack Sampler is a collection of wines featured in the film and a great purchase for visiting guests. Also, don’t miss the award-winning 2011 Old Vine Zinfandel or the unexpected flavors of the 2013 White Zinfandel. Other featured varietals include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Sorelle Winery

9599 N Hwy 88
Stockton, CA 95212
Phone: 209-931-4350
This winery is located at The Dodge House, a property with historical significance dating back to 1776. Family ownership changed hands during the California Gold Rush, which resulted in the current home on the property being built in 1866, as well as some of the first vineyards planted in the county.

In 2007, the property was acquired by new owners, and with dedication to preserve and restore this slice of Stockton wine history, the vineyards have been replanted and reserved for the exclusive blends now produced under the new family’s insignia.

This winery produces a wide range of varietals including Pinot Grigio, Muscat Canelli, Sangiovese and Sparkling Almond wine. In addition to sampling these wines, visitors can explore the ranching history of this area and learn more from the family now homesteading the property.

Woodbridge Winery
5950 East Woodbridge Road
Acampo, CA 95220
Phone: 209-365-8139
After returning from Napa, Mondavi acquired a local cooperative of grape growers, and named the winery after the nearby town of Woodbridge. His vision with Woodbridge was to create affordable, quality wines. The winery offers a free daily tour, complimentary tastings and incredible views of the surrounding vineyards. The estate also features special outdoor performances, which will celebrate its 46th season this year. Grammy- and Academy Award-winning Melissa Etheridge is scheduled to perform in July.

Most of the wineries and vineyards you’ll discover along the Stockton wine trail are family owned and operated. Each has a unique story to share and exclusive blends of grapes harvested from the surrounding soil.

It’s easy to enjoy the Stockton wine trail; after all, wine tasting is a chance to learn from growers and engage in earthly conversations. Don’t miss an opportunity to meet the winemakers and families along the Stockton wine trail on your next visit.

Discover more of the Central Valley’s rich agricultural offerings with the help of the San Joaquin County Farm Guide & Map. Request your free copy today!